County Council’s unanimous decision to name a tributary trail in Quemazon after beloved Los Alamos resident Satch Cowan clearly pleased the audience at Tuesday ‘s Council meeting. From left, Barbara Calef, Becky Shankland and Barbara Lemmick each spoke to Council about how important Cowan was to promoting local trails and inspiring younger residents to embrace the outdoor activity. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com

By Carol A. Clark

Applause broke out as Los Alamos County Council Tuesday night unanimously approved naming a trail in the Quemazon Nature Trail Complex the “Satch Cowan Canyon Rim Trail” after avid hiker Helen “Satch” Cowan.

Photo: Julie Habiger, Los Alamos County Communications and Public Information Officer presented recommendations to Council Tuesday evening to name a trail after Helen “Satch” Cowan. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com

A citizen petition was circulated to name the trail after Cowan and under County Code, a public hearing was held prior to naming the trail after a deceased person.

Members of the public attended the hearing about this matter in Council Chambers May 29 at which time they had the opportunity to speak for or against the naming of a trail for Satch Cowan.

Those unable to attend the public hearing were able to submit written comments to the County.

An impartial committee considered the request at the public hearing, took public comment, and voted upon recommendations to forward to the Council for further consideration, which occurred at Tuesday’s Council meeting.

Satch and her husband, renowned scientist George Cowan, also deceased, were local philanthropists who contributed much to the quality of life in Los Alamos.