Robin Barnes
General Manager
Hi, my name is Robin Barnes and I have lived in Bayfield for 30+ years. My husband and I have 3 daughters that have gotten the pleasure in being raised in this beautiful area with all of its wonderful benefits of country life.
I love being able to teach my kids to work hard for what they want in life. They have been able to learn how to raise all sorts of animals, along with knowing how to use a shovel and swing a hammer.
I have been part of the retail side of the building industry for over 18 years and have enjoyed every part of it. I enjoy helping contractors get what they need to help their customer and in turn their families if I can save them time and money. I am excited to be working for Studs Lumber and look forward to meeting new contractors and seeing those I already know.
Melissa Roberts
Assistant Manager
Hi y’all, I'm Melissa, a native of one of many of Bayfield, CO’s cattle ranches. I have been here my whole life with no intention to leave this beautiful place. Right now, I'm attending college at Pueblo Community College.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I find joy in the outdoors, engaging in various projects, and cherishing moments with my boyfriend and pets. Building and operating professional RC cars, particularly my 76' Ford Bronco model crawler, rank among my major hobbies.
As of November 2023, I joined Studs, and I'm eager to contribute to community betterment. My aspiration is to actively participate in enhancing Studs and the surrounding areas. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Meet The Team
Russ Gartner
Spend a few minutes speaking with Russ Gartner and you will understand immediately that he has a passion for our local forest and trees. Armed with a forestry degree and 20 years of lumber sales experience he opened Studs Lumber Company in 2014 and was excited to find our community was so receptive to supporting local business, regional products, and renewable resources. Studs Lumber Company quickly grew to a multi-million dollar regional spender that provides a consistent connection with customers money and our economy.
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Russ found that area builders quickly learned that by purchasing material from Studs Lumber it directly impacts our economy. The mission of Studs Lumber Company is to connect the community with our local economy and this has proven successful through a knowledgeable professional team that has helped hundreds of builders complete their projects with local products delivered at competitive prices. Purchase material from Studs and you are effectively employing an army of local tradesman including the forester, logger, skidder, log truck driver, lumber mill personnel, material drivers, and the employees at Studs.
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While Russ endured many challenges the first three years, he feels that working hard and being honest and up front with his customers has gained Studs Lumber Company respect in the community and industry.
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Studs Lumber Company enjoys working with the professional builders in our area and loves to show them how their framing package impacts the Southwest Colorado economy. Studs continues it’s innovative investments in our community daily. Our team of full-time, long term professionals are available to help with your project. They not only supply roof-top delivery of shingles, but rebar, fasteners, hardware, siding, doors, and of course, lumber.
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If you haven’t visited with Russ and his team yet, give them a call at 970-764-7777. They aim to please!
Dave Nielson
Howdy! My name is Dave Nielson. I grew up in Utah. My early years were spent fishing, hunting and spending time at the family cabin.
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I moved to Durango over 25 years ago working in the landscaping, excavation and lumber industries. I came to Studs Lumber Company with my black lab “Duke”. He found me 7 years ago and we have been together since. He likes riding in the lumber truck, playing ball & swimming in the river. We now spend our time prospecting, hunting & camping as much as possible.
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You can find us in the yard. Come say “Hi” and you will be greeted by Duke.
Gannon Harris
​Born and raised in Oklahoma, I moved to Durango in 2017 after graduating from Oklahoma State University. Since living here, I have gained experience working on a variety of jobs from single family to commercial and multifamily. I have recommendations on any scope whether it’s the framing takeoff or the cabinetry rendering. If I’m not at the office or a jobsite I’m most likely fishing, backpacking or ski instructing.
What I enjoy most about Studs is our people, we have a great team that is focused on your satisfaction. We know you have several options when it comes to your material selections, and we appreciate being a part of that process. Let’s talk about your upcoming project!
Quita
The shop Mouser!
Duke
The best yard dog!