Funding Opportunities Late June

Grant Deadlines:

The National Forest Foundation is pleased to announce that the Matching Awards Program (MAP) is now accepting applications for Round 2 2025! Through the Matching Awards Program (MAP), the NFF is soliciting proposals to provide funds for projects that directly benefit America’s National Forests and Grasslands. MAP pairs federal funds provided through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Forest Service with non-federal dollars raised by award recipients, multiplying the resources available to benefit the National Forest System. Round 2 Application Deadline: June 27, 2025. Informational Webinar: June 4, 2025, 12:00 - 1:00 pm MDT, register here. Read the full RFP announcement HERE. 

The 2026 Drinking Water and Wastewater State Revolving Fund Eligibility Surveys will open on Thursday, May 1, 2025. The department encourages all municipalities, counties, districts, public water systems, not-for-profit water systems, and other special districts to participate. Please visit the Colorado Environmental Online Services (CEOS) portal to complete the surveys (drinking water and wastewater), but please note that an individual system can only submit one of each type of survey. Submit the drinking water and/or wastewater surveys through the CEOS portal by June 30, 2025 to be added to the 2026 project eligibility lists for SRF and BIL funding. Learn more HERE.

The Women in Water Scholarship is an annual $7,500 gift. Applicants must be a college junior or senior pursuing a Bachelor's degree in any facet of Western water resources. Advanced degree applicants will not be considered. Deadline to apply: June 30. Learn more HERE. 

The Colorado Water Plan Grant Program supports implementation of the Colorado Water Plan.The Partner Actions within the plan offer examples of the types of project level work that CWCB can help support through this grant program. All grant applications will be assessed based on funds available for a particular Water Plan category. Application deadlines are twice per year (July 1 and Dec 1). Colorado Water Plan Grant program multi-benefit funding categories include: Water Storage & Supply; Water Sharing Agreements; Conservation & Land Use Planning; Engagement & Innovation; Agricultural; Watershed Health & Recreation. To learn more or to apply, please contact the CWCB staff person in your basin, listed HERE. 

The National Forest Foundation’s Collaborative Capacity Program financial awards provide resources to support collaborative activities that increase wildfire resilience, recreation opportunities, forest health, and rural economies. Eligible efforts must describe how investments in collaboration will support a long-term strategy for achieving stewardship outcomes and how these outcomes benefit National Forest System lands.In 2025, two funding pathways are offered, based on budget level: the Mini Grants Pathway and the Standard Grants Pathway. The Mini Grants Pathway supports all eligible applicant types requesting $10,000 or less and is designed to allow the program to prioritize smaller requests that can be funded sooner and with a shorter application. In addition to the separate pathways based on budget threshold, Standard Grant applications submitted by federally recognized Tribes or Tribal organizations will be evaluated separately to allow for recognition of matters of sovereignty, and their government-to-government relationship with the U.S. Forest Service. Application Deadlines: Mini Grants: July 25, 2025, Standard Grants (Community Partner Applicants): August 1, 2025, Standard Grants (Tribal Applicants): August 22, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) and Colorado Youth Corps Association (CYCA) are pleased to announce a $1.5 million grant opportunity for open space, local government, and land trusts to hire conservation corps!  Please note: in addition to public parks, open spaces, and private lands protected by conservation easement, projects may occur on federal lands. View details in the Request for Proposals (RFP), which can be found on the homepage of www.cyca.org. The application deadline is Wednesday, July 30th at 4:00 PM; early submissions are strongly encouraged. Successful projects will be announced in December 2025 and crews will complete the proposed work in 2026.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is pleased to announce the 2025 Colorado Wildlife Habitat Program (CWHP) application period is now open through Oct. 9, 2025. The CWHP is a statewide program that offers funding opportunities to landowners who wish to protect wildlife habitat or provide wildlife-related recreational public access on their property. The CWHP is an incentive-based program that funds conservation easements, public access easements, and fee title purchases to accomplish strategic wildlife conservation and public access goals.  Learn more HERE. 

Grant Programs:

The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) Water Project Loan Program provides low-interest loans for the design and construction of agricultural and municipal water collection, storage, and delivery facilities, as well as hydroelectric power generation  projects in Colorado; however, it does not fund drinking water or wastewater treatment projects. A minimum loan request of $100,000 is recommended. Projects financed by the Water Project Loan Program must align with the goals identified in Colorado’s Water Plan and its measurable objectives.

Community Navigator Program - The Watershed Center and Coalitions and Collaboratives, along with several other national and regional nonprofit organizations, are partnering with the US Forest Service on a community navigator initiative, which supports communities in accessing federal funding opportunities, creating partnerships, and building capacity for wildfire risk mitigation and climate resilience. To get in touch with a navigator, fill out a request form here.

Closing America’s Wastewater Access Gap: EPA is offering free technical assistance for communities with failing decentralized (septic) wastewater systems, or communities with no existing wastewater systems at all. Do septic systems back up into homes or cause sewage to pool in yards? Does the town or county struggle to provide adequate sanitation services to its residents? Does the community struggle to rebuild damaged or non-functioning wastewater and septic systems? If any of these conditions apply, then your community may be eligible for assistance through this initiative. Communities – including homeowners and utilities – and all states, Tribes, and territories can request no-cost technical assistance. Technical assistance can help assess current wastewater infrastructure, recommend options, and support development of funding applications for the community. More information can be found HERE.  

IRA Forest Landowner Support - Provides grant opportunities to entities and organizations delivering technical and financial assistance to private forest landowners - including Tribes, underserved landowners, and small-acreage landowners - to participate in emerging private markets for forest resilience and climate mitigation.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants — Rolling application window open — The USDA Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants program supports eligible communities to prepare, or recover from, an emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water. Eligible applicants must show a decline in quantity or quality of water that occurred within two years of the date of the application or that a significant decline in quality or quantity of water is imminent.

FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs are provided to eligible applicant states/tribes/territories that, in turn, provide sub-grants to local governments. The applicant selects and prioritizes applications developed and submitted to them by local jurisdictions to submit to FEMA for grant funds. Prospective sub-applicants should consult the official designated point of contact for their applicant state/tribe/territory for further information regarding specific program and application requirements.

The Colorado Water Plan Grant Program supports implementation of the Colorado Water Plan.The Partner Actions within the plan offer examples of the types of project level work that CWCB can help support through this grant program. All grant applications will be assessed based on funds available for a particular Water Plan category. Application deadlines are twice per year (July 1 and Dec 1). Colorado Water Plan Grant program multi-benefit funding categories include: Water Storage & Supply; Water Sharing Agreements; Conservation & Land Use Planning; Engagement & Innovation; Agricultural; Watershed Health & Recreation. To learn more or to apply, please contact the CWCB staff person in your basin, listed HERE. 

City of Ft. Collins Nature in the City Planning Grants. Have an idea for a nature play area, outdoor gathering space, or pollinator restorations? The Dream it Up Project Planning grants can help you and your community plan out your dream project. Anyone from HOA's, faith-based organizations, affordable housing communities, and even schools are welcome and encouraged to apply. Get started!

Colorado Environmental Justice Grants Program - Community Solutions to Improve Environmental Health. This grant opportunity was created by the Environmental Justice Act to provide funding to communities disproportionately impacted by pollution and climate change. The Environmental Justice Advisory Board oversees the EJ Grants Program and will serve as the selection committee for the grants. You can apply for this grant if you are part of a: non-profit organization, local government, federally-recognized Tribal government, university, other educational institution, for-profit corporation, or grassroots organization.

The Water Supply Reserve Fund (WSRF) Grant Program provides funding to assist Colorado water users in addressing their critical water supply issues and interests through a unique local review process. Requests for funds from the WSRF program must be presented to and recommended by the respective Basin Roundtable prior to submitting a grant application and being considered by the CWCB Board. Deadlines to apply vary based on the respective Basin Roundtable meeting schedule and more information can be found HERE. Eligible projects may include funding for technical assistance regarding permitting, feasibility studies and environmental compliance; studies or analysis of structural, nonstructural, consumptive and nonconsumptive water needs, projects or activities; design of structural projects or activities; infrastructure replacement or maintenance projects.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) - Programs include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), and the Watershed Operations PL-566 Program. 

Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) - CDPHE’s SWAP program's main objective is to minimize potential contaminant threats to public drinking water supplies. To engage in this effort, public water systems and governmental entities can apply for a $5,000 protection planning grant through the SWAP program. The SWAP program also supports Wildland Fire Decision Support System work and post-wildfire recovery efforts. SWAP program staff assisted in the development of the Post Fire Playbook to assist local recovery groups in navigating the complexities surrounding post-wildfire recovery. For more information visit the SWAP page.

Water Quality Grants and Loans Unit - CDPHE’s Grants and Loans Unit offers small community grants and water quality improvement fund grants to protect public health and water quality. They also administer the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program to finance the design and construction of public drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. More information on eligible drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects is available on the water quality grants and loans page.

The Colorado River District’s Community Funding Partnership was created in 2021 to fund multi-purpose water projects on the Western Slope in five project categories: productive agriculture, infrastructure, healthy rivers, watershed health and water quality, and conservation and efficiency. Funding for the program was approved by Western Colorado voters as part of ballot question 7A in November 2020. These funds provide a catalyst for projects that are priorities for residents in the District to receive matching funds from state, federal and private sources. Click HERE for more information and to apply.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the availability of $7.5 billion ofWater Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) funding. The WIFIA program offers long-term loans to help communities implement critical water infrastructure projects, which protect public health, deliver environmental benefits, create over 60,000 good-paying jobs, protect waterways including drinking water sources, and support local economies, at a lower cost. The WIFIA program has funding available on an ongoing basis. Learn moreHERE.

Colorado Water Conservation Board has compiled this database to serve as a tool for people and organizations across Colorado to navigate all available funding opportunities for water projects in a single place.

A list of state, federal and private funding available for a wide variety of wildfire mitigation projects including Watershed Health.

Job Announcements Late June

SWS is seeking a highly organized, capable, and dedicated person to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the organization. Reporting to the Board of Directors (BOD), the ED will be responsible for advancing SWS’ mission and financial objectives, providing leadership in program planning, operations, fundraising, and external relations. This position offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package, and the advantage of a fully remote position, with travel required to conferences and other meetings. Applications are due by July 30th, but earlier applications will be considered first. Learn more or apply HERE.

Biohabitats is seeking a Bioregion Team Leader that will play a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive and engaged work environment, developing business, and ensuring successful project delivery in our Western Bioregions. The ideal candidate will have advanced training and consulting experience in core discipline(s) relevant to landscape ecology and water resources within the diverse western U.S. ecosystems, ranging from rural to urban settings. They will also have the ability and desire to lead, coach, and mentor others; facilitate relationships; and connect team members to project and learning opportunities. Finally, they will have a passion for ecological stewardship, foundational to thriving within a purpose-driven organization. Learn more or apply HERE.

The Colorado Climate Center (CCC) is seeking a motivated and skilled CoAgMET Field Technician to join our team in Grand Junction, Colorado. In this role, you will work closely with the CoAgMET Manager, the Director of the Colorado Climate Center, and other CCC staff to ensure the timely and high-quality collection and distribution of data through the Colorado Agricultural Meteorological Network (CoAgMET). You will be responsible for maintaining the network of meteorological stations across the state, ensuring that stations are properly serviced and adhere to network standards. Your day-to-day tasks will involve installing, repairing, relocating, and modifying CoAgMET stations as needed to maintain optimal operation. You will also perform regular quality control analysis of the data to ensure it is accurate and reliable. In addition to managing the technical aspects of the network, you will be responsible for keeping metadata up to date and engaging with stakeholders to promote the CoAgMET mesonet and raise awareness of its importance for agricultural and environmental monitoring. To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on June 24th, 2025. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Colorado West Land Trust is hiring a Stewardship Coordinator to support the long-term care of conservation landscapes across western Colorado.  As part of our Conservation Team, you’ll be responsible for monitoring properties, ensuring easement compliance, and building strong, lasting relationships with landowners. If you’re detail-oriented, tech-savvy, and passionate about conservation and community, we’d love to hear from you! Learn more or apply HERE.

Northern Water is seeking an Electronic Instrumentation Technician to join our Field Services team. This individual will collect data to support water resources and water quality programs. The ideal candidate will have proficient knowledge of electronics, cellular and radio transmission technology, and will be competent with weather, environmental, water level and water quality sensors. The ability to prioritize, organize and work efficiently is a must. Learn more HERE. 

Are you a strategic thinker and passionate communicator who thrives on building meaningful relationships? Colorado West Land Trust is seeking a Development Director to join our senior management team and lead our fundraising and communications programs. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow programs in an expanding organization. CWLT is a well-respected, mission-driven organization with deep roots in Western Colorado’s communities. If you’re ready to make a difference, have strong leadership skills, a passion for conservation, and a talent for building lasting partnerships, apply with us today! Learn more or apply HERE.

The St. Vrain and Left Hand Water Conservancy District is seeking someone, with two (2) or more years of experience, who embraces the organizational culture, matches the high level of team energy, and derives satisfaction in service to the organization, the team, board members, and District constituents to fill the Water Resources Engineer/Specialist/Scientist/Analyst position. If you, or someone you know, matches that description, is tired of talking and ready to get stuff done, and is craving the opportunity to do cool work, in cool places, with cool people, a resume and cover should arrive to St. Vrain and Left Hand Water Conservancy District by 5:00 PM June 26. Learn more HERE.

Northern Water is seeking a Control Center Operator in Granby on Colorado’s West Slope. This individual will join a team responsible for the monitoring and operations of all pump plants, hydropower plants, water control equipment and facilities, and reservoir elevations within Northern Water’s collection and distribution systems. This individual must be solution oriented and able to remedy situations that are, or may become, safety hazards. This position requires a variable work schedule including days, nights and occasional holidays. Learn more HERE. 

LRE Water is seeking a senior-level Environmental Scientist, Hydrologist, or Water Resources Engineer to join our team of industry-leading professionals. This position is ideal for someone passionate about cross-disciplinary watershed service projects, regulatory navigation, and implementing innovative water resource solutions. The successful candidate will lead complex projects, manage multidisciplinary teams, and develop long-term partnerships that drive measurable environmental outcomes. For a detailed job description and to learn more about this opportunity, please click HERE. 

Pawnee Buttes Seed Inc. in Greeley, CO, is hiring an Inside Sales Representative. In this full-time, in-person role, you'll work closely with the sales team to support customers by providing expert guidance on seed products for pasture, reclamation, turf, and CRP. Ideal candidates should be organized, customer-focused, and able to build strong relationships. While previous sales or agricultural experience is a plus, it is not required. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive training, health insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off. This position is open until filled, with priority given to those with agricultural, rangeland, or NRCS experience. If you have any questions, please call 970-356-7002 and ask for Shawn. Send Resume and Cover Letter HERE. Applicants are also encouraged to drop off their cover letter and resume at our office in Greeley at 605 25th Street. 

The West Region Wildfire Council seeks a dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead our nonprofit organization. This leadership role requires a strong background in fundraising and grants, financial management, and organizational strategy. The CEO is responsible for overseeing programs, ensuring financial stability, leading fundraising, and promoting a strong culture of collaboration and teamwork. The CEO’s responsibilities are carried out in close partnership with the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Learn more or apply HERE.

Conferences & Events Late June

June 17th, 2025 | Water Conditions Monitoring Committee (WCMC) Meeting - The next Water Conditions Monitoring Committee (WCMC) meeting will be on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 from 9:30am to 11am. Please find the meeting agenda here. You can add the meeting to your Google Calendar here. To access past meeting materials, please visit the WCMC website. Join the Zoom meeting HERE.

June 18th, 2025 | Water in the West Series - Join BRWG this summer for our Water in the West speaker series! Each month, local organizations will explore critical water issues impacting our region. Join the conversation and become part of the solution through these free, inspirational, and educational events. HC3 kicks off the series on June 18th with "Climate Change and Water Scarcity" w/Taylor Winchell, Climate Adaptation & Water Resource Planning, Denver Water. This event is free to the public and light apps will be provided. Registration is strongly encouraged to help us plan for food. Learn more HERE. 

June 18th, 2025 | South Metro Water Festival - Join South Metro Water Supply Authority and their members to experience fun for the whole family while learning about our most precious resource - water! Meet your local water providers, agencies and organizations! There will be food trucks, games, science experiments, photo booth, face paint, a foam party and more! Learn more HERE. 

June 20th, 2025 | One Water Day 2025 - This year’s One Water Day theme, Managing Water for Thriving Communities, will focus on stormwater and the urban ecosystem, highlighting the benefits of integrated stormwater management and collaboration across utilities. Learn more or register HERE. 

June 20th, 2025 | Watershed Summit - The Watershed Summit, or “Shed” as it is affectionately known, has become a Colorado tradition. Each June stakeholders gather to discuss current and future water challenges and opportunities facing the state. Shed ’25 is a fully in-person event at Denver Botanic Gardens, concluding with the ever-popular happy hour event. A special add-on morning event will feature a panel and discussion on One Water. Learn more or register HERE. 

June 20th, 2025 | Firefly Viewing Party - Join La Plata Open Space Conservancy for an unforgettable evening beneath the stars at Sunnyside Farms, a privately conserved property, generously hosted by Jerry and Karen Zink. This rare and intimate event offers you the chance to witness one of Colorado’s most magical sights, fireflies! Your admission not only supports our conservation mission, but you are helping to protect rare wetland habitats, raise awareness about the importance of insects in healthy ecosystems, and inspire the next generation of conservation stewards. Learn more HERE. 

June 21st, 2025 | Leave No Trace x Arc'teryx Boulder Creek Clean Up - Leave No Trace and Arc’teryx Boulder are teaming up with the City of Boulder’s Safe and Managed Public Spaces (SAMPS) team for a community cleanup along the Boulder Creek Path. Together, we’ll remove litter and recyclables from the creek banks and bike path to help keep this space clean, safe, and beautiful for all. Learn more or RSVP HERE. 

June 24th, 2025 | Public Stakeholder Meeting & Watershed Tour - Please join the Barr-Milton Watershed Association for our annual watershed tour which will begin at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal and travel to the inlet of the Beebe Pipeline, which empties into Barr Lake. We’ll tour the inlet of the Pipeline and see 1st, 2nd and 3rd Creeks, all of which are monitored by Barr-Milton Watershed Association. Lunch and transportation from Rocky Mountain Arsenal parking will be provided. Spots are limited, Please RSVP by June 17th to Sami at miller.sami@outlook.com.

June 26th, 2025 | 3rd Annual Take me to the River Fundraiser - Join CPRW for the 3rd Annual Take Me to the River fundraiser to support and celebrate the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW), your local watershed group working to improve and maintain the ecological health of the Poudre River through community collaboration. Learn more HERE. 

June 26th, 2025 | Wildflower Hike - Join BWRG on a beautiful guided hike along the Swan River Restoration site. Learn about the history of dredge mining, the restoration project that brought Reach A back to life, and future restoration projects. This hike will be filled with learning, beautiful scenery and great people. Learn more HERE. 

June 27th, 2025 | The Downvalley River Revelers FAC Float - Celebrate the summer season on the water! Join the Middle Colorado Watershed Council for an unforgettable Friday Afternoon Club on the Colorado River. Hosted by Defiance Rafting and Rislende, this professionally guided float features stories of river ecology and geology, spectacular scenery and wildlife, gourmet riverside happy hour food — and a cold beer! Learn more HERE. 

June 28th, 2025 | 17th Annual Ridgway RiverFest - This annual festival offers an afternoon of family-friendly fun and education in celebration of the Uncompahgre River Watershed – free to festivalgoers from near and far with all-age river races, awards and prizes, information about local nature and outdoor recreation, live music, food, and beverages. It is a fundraiser for the Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership, providing awareness and funding for our rivers, water resources, the need for conservation and important water quality and riparian area monitoring and restoration activities. Learn more HERE. 

July 9th, 2025 | A Night for the Rivers - Benefitting the Roaring Fork Conservancy - Save the Date. 

July 10th, 2025 | Headwaters River Journey Tour - Join Colorado WaterWise for a guided tour of the Headwaters River Journey Museum, where you will learn about the critical role the Colorado River headwaters play in our environment, economy, and lifestyle. Headwaters River Journey takes visitors on an informative, insightful, and introspective exploration of the wonders of nature, the importance of water, and our direct impact on them both. Space is limited. Learn more or register HERE. 

July 10th, 2025 | Xeriscape Demo Garden Volunteer Day - Join the City of Fort Collins Thursday morning to meet other volunteers, learn about gardening in Colorado and get your hands dirty. Learn more or register HERE. 

July 12th, 2025 | 2nd Saturdays at CSU Spur: River Festival - Save the date. 

July 12th, 2025 |  CROSSCURRENTS - Join The Greenway Foundation on Saturday, July 12 from 2pm - 10pm at Confluence Park for a FREE riverside festival packed with live music, outdoor adventure, family fun, and community celebration. CROSSCURRENTS is a festival fundraiser for The Greenway Foundation. Learn more HERE. 

July 15th, 2025 | Troutapalooza - Save the Date. 

July 16th, 2025 | RiversEdge West Volunteer Event at Wildlife Area with Bureau of Reclamation - Join RiversEdge West for a volunteer event with the Bureau of Reclamation on July 16, 2025 from 8 am - 10 am. At this event we assist the Bureau of Reclamation with restoration tasks that may include pulling weeds, cutting back invasive plants, planting native species, caging native species. Exact tasks to be determined. Learn more HERE. 

July 26th, 2025 | Front Range Ecology Series: Water -  It’s impossible to ignore the importance of water when we live in such an arid environment. To support the large number of people living in the Front Range, many programs, policies, and constructions have been created to divert and moderate water usage. Join water policy expert Quinn Harper and Natural Resource Specialist Erica Hample to learn about the ecology of water in the arid west and the solutions people have created to live here. Learn more or register HERE. 

August 2nd, 2025 | Sweep the Creek - This event is designed to bring together local rafting companies and non-profit organizations for a day of community engagement, fun, laughter and food. Sweep the Creek will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Twin Tunnels Open Space Park in Idaho Springs. Learn more HERE. 

August 9th, 2025 | Poudre RiverFest - The Poudre RiverFest is a free, family-friendly festival that celebrates the Poudre River, promotes restoration, and educates people about our river corridor, an important natural resource in our community. The festival features activities for children and adults to explore the role of the river as an important habitat for wildlife, a lively recreation area, and a source for clean drinking water. Learn more HERE. 

August 23rd, 2025 | Raft the River - Explore the beauty of our rivers while supporting a great cause. Join RiversEdge West and Rimrock Adventures for a relaxing day on the water during our "Raft the River" fundraiser on August 23rd from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Learn more HERE. 

September 6th, 2025 | Blue River Festival - Spend the weekend showing your appreciation for the water in our lakes and rivers by participating in the Blue River clean-up and fun events of the annual BRWG River Clean-Up Festival. Learn more HERE. 

September 10th, 2025 | Water Education Colorado’s President Reception - Save the Date. Join us for an evening of celebration, community building and recognition as we honor water leadership and raise impactful funds to support WEco's mission at one of the best water events of the year.

September 18th, 2025 | Colorado WaterWise 2025 Annual Water Conservation Symposium - Save the Date. 

September 30th - October 4th, 2025 | The 11th World Conference on Ecological Restoration (SER2025) will be held in person on 30 September – 4 October 2025 in Denver, Colorado, United States. SER’s World Conference is an exciting and inspiring biennial gathering of global experts in restoration, making SER2025 the premier venue for those interested in being active members of the global restoration community. Call for abstracts closes January 30th.  Learn more HERE. 

October 7th - 9th, 2025 | Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference - Save the date. 

October 14th & 15th, 2025 | 2025 Rocky Mountain Groundwater Conference -The objective of this American Ground Water Trust Conference is to discuss groundwater issues specific to Rocky Mountain States (Colorado, Montana, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming), and to facilitate information sharing among landowners, groundwater end-users, regulators, management agencies, scientists, engineers, lawyers and citizens who have economic or environmental interests in water resources. Learn more HERE. 

November 10th - 12th, 2025 | AWRA 2025 Annual Water Resources Conference - The AWRA Annual Water Resources Conference is recognized as one of the most diverse and inclusive gatherings in the field of water resources management. This premier event offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative, practical, and applied solutions to today’s water challenges.

December 2nd, 2025 | Colorado Ag Water Summit - Save the date. 

Trainings & Workshops Late June

June 17th, 2025 | 2025 Fuels Mitigation Grant Workshop - We are excited to announce that Wildfire Partners has teamed up with the Colorado State Forest Service and the Colorado Department of Natural Resources to bring you a free one-day grant workshop designed to build upon your skills in developing and writing successful fuels mitigation grant proposals! The workshop will be held on June 17th from 9:00am – 3:00pm at the SE Boulder County Hub in Lafayette, CO. Workshop capacity is limited and open to participants across the state, register HERE. 

June 17th, 2025 | Wildfire Ready Watersheds: preparing for wildfire/flood events - Join Blue River Watershed Group for a basin-wide stakeholder workshop scheduled to gather community input into the WRAP process. 3:30-6:30pm at the Community & Senior Center in Frisco, public welcome. Learn more HERE. 

June 17th - 26th, 2025 | Who Gets to Tell the Story of Water? Water Equity in Colorado - In this virtual course, students will engage in action research to identify and share solutions for water equity issues in Colorado. Through storytelling and narratives about water in the region, students will explore their personal relationship with water and equity. The course will incorporate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, along with insights from social science, historical perspectives, geographic tools, and diverse viewpoints. This comprehensive approach will enable students to develop a deeper understanding of water issues in Colorado over time. Using this context, students will craft and tell their own unique water stories to share. Learn more HERE. 

June 18th, 2025 | Larimer Conservation District's Annual Local Working Group Meeting 2025 - Join LCD and NRCS to discuss resource concerns within Larimer County. RSVP HERE. 

June 20th, 2025 | Small Acreage Management Webinar Series - Water, irrigation, and more - 12pm - 1pm - Register HERE. 

June 24th, 2025 | Fluvial Futures Webinar Series: FHZ Mapping for Wildfire Ready Action Plans - 10am - 11am - What are FHZs and how are they mapped for WRAPs (and how is this different from a ‘full’ FHZ mapping effort)? Where should you map the FHZ for your WRAP and how can you use it to inform project identification? Register HERE.

June 28th, 2025 | Front Range Drought Workshop - Join CSU Extension to learn tools for ranchers to prepare for and recover from drought at the Southwest Service Center in Weld County. Register HERE. 

July 7th - 11th, 2025 | Summer AgriCULTURE Institutes - Agriculture in the St. Vrain Valley - Explore the diverse and dynamic world of agriculture in the St. Vrain Valley! Based in the Longmont, Mead, and Firestone area, this immersive five-day professional development experience connects educators with local farmers, ranchers, and industry leaders to discover where our food comes from and how agriculture shapes our communities. With hands-on farm tours, classroom-ready resources, and standards-aligned content, this course is perfect for teachers who want to bring real-world learning to life in their classroom. Learn more HERE. 

July 9th, 2025 | State Revolving Fund Workshop: Montrose - The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division’s State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program is coming to you this summer, as we are hosting two regional workshops. The Montrose workshop will occur on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at the Project 7 Water Authority (see below for more details on the location). If you are interested in attending the Montrose workshop, please confirm your participation using this form by Wednesday, June 25, 2025, so we can adequately prepare.

July 12th, 2025 | Front Range Ecology Series - Plants - Beyond simply identifying what plants live here, we will dive into why these plants live here. Every plant – native, introduced, or invasive – has a story. Join Natural Resource Specialist Erica Hample to learn some of their stories! Learn more or register HERE. 

July 15th, 2025 | Fluvial Futures Webinar Series: WRAP Case Study: Lessons Learned - 10am - 11am - Bear River Wildfire Ready Action Plan Case Study:Mapping FHZ for the Upper Yampa Conservation District. Register HERE.

July 15th - 17th, 2025 | Summer AgriCULTURE Institutes  - Steamboat Springs: Public Lands and Agriculture - Discover the powerful connection between public lands and agriculture in the heart of the Yampa Valley! This three-day course based in Steamboat Springs takes educators on an unforgettable journey through mountain ranches, forests, and open range to understand how land management, water, wildlife, and livestock production intersect. Learn from ranchers, land stewards, and conservationists while gaining fresh tools and ideas to spark inquiry and connect your students to Colorado’s natural and agricultural resources. Learn more HERE.

July 19th, 2025 | SLV Farmer-to-Farmer Field Day - We would like to invite you to attend the SLV Farmer-to-Farmer Field Day on Saturday, July 19th from 12:00pm-4:30pm. This is a great time to see some water conservation practices at work and ask questions. Transportation, Spanish interpretation, and lunch will be provided. To register for this event, please send an email to moscahoopercd1@gmail.com or call Marta at (319) 217-0679.

July 25th, 2025 | Colorado’s Wildfire Planning & Recovery Playbook - Join several authors and contributors of the newly updated Playbook as they discuss how to utilize the document, why it was created, and what has changed – while also sharing their outlook and plans for the 2025 Fire Year. The Colorado Wildfire Planning and Recovery Playbook outlines critical and specific steps to take before, during, and immediately after a wildfire to facilitate a smooth recovery process. No single federal, state or local agency has the sole responsibility to complete wildfire planning and recovery actions across all lands. The most robust efforts involve collaboration with multiple entities, including non-governmental partners, counties, tribes, municipalities, and drinking water providers. Learn more or register HERE. 

July 26th, 2025 | Front Range Ecology Series - Water - It’s impossible to ignore the importance of water when we live in such an arid environment. To support the large number of people living in the Front Range, many programs, policies, and constructions have been created to divert and moderate water usage. Join water policy expert Quinn Harper and Natural Resource Specialist Erica Hample to learn about the ecology of water in the arid west and the solutions people have created to live here. Learn more or register HERE. 

July 28th & 29th, 2025 | CSI-MS4 Training - Designed for Municipal personnel (MS4), this course will focus on permit regulations and compliance to restore and maintain the waters of the United States.  Permits require certifying officials to select qualified stormwater personnel. Gain an in-depth understanding of stormwater permits, the six minimum control measures, how to conduct inspections, and the authority, demeanor, and discretion of stormwater inspectors to enhance your credentials of qualified.  Learn more or register HERE.

July 29th, 2025 | State Revolving Fund Workshop: Castle Pines - The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division’s State Revolving Fund (SRF) Program is coming to you this summer, as we are hosting two regional workshops. The Castle Pines workshop will occur on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at the Castle Pines Library (see below for more details on the location). If you are interested in attending the Castle Pines workshop, please confirm your participation using this form by Friday, July 18, 2025, so we can adequately prepare.

July 31st & August 1st, 2025 | Forests to Faucets Teacher Workshop - K–12 teachers—join us for a free, two-day professional development workshop that brings watershed education to life! Forests to Faucets: My Water Comes from the San Juan Mountains is an engaging opportunity for educators to to wear the “student hat”, explore local water and forest resources while learning about interactive, hands-on tools to bring place-based watershed education to students. Learn more or register HERE. 

August 12th, 2025 | Fluvial Futures Webinar Series: Adopting FHZ Maps - 10am - 11am - Community adoption options and examples. Panel discussion with local governments. Lessons learned and Q&A. Register HERE.

September 9th, 2025 | Fluvial Futures Webinar Series: City of Greeley River Management Initiative- 10am - 11am - Greeley is undertaking a planning effort to revitalize & protect the Poudre River Corridor. We will discuss how the FHZ informs that effort and how the city may choose to administer the FHZ in the future. Register HERE.

October 14th, 2025 | Fluvial Futures Webinar Series: The Fluvial Opportunity Zone (FOZ) - 10am - 11am - Explore how FHZ mapping can be used for conservation planning, capitol improvement and land use planning, stream and floodplain restoration, and more! Register HERE.

River Network has launched their Mastering the Grant Lifecycle: From Prospect to Execution learning series. Grants are the backbone of funding for so many nonprofit organizations, but managing them can often feel stressful, reactive, and disorganized. We’ve heard the challenges from across the network, and many of them can be solved with improved processes and more seamless collaboration. If you’ve ever hit a snag in your grant management process and thought there has to be a better way – this series is for you! Watch the episodes HERE. 

Join RiversEdge West for their 2025 Workshop Series, where experts, practitioners, and community members come together to explore innovative approaches to riparian restoration. Each workshop offers a unique focus on the tools, technology, and partnerships driving successful restoration efforts across the Southwest.

The Professional Water Studies Certificate is made up of three courses – Colorado Water and the American West, Water Law, and U.S. Water Concerns. Take just one that you’re interested in or all three to earn the certificate. Each course is four weeks long, online, and self-paced – allowing continuing education to fit within your busy schedule. Learn more or register HERE. 

The Community Wildfire Mitigation Best Practices training is designed to increase the skills of the professional mitigation practitioner and individuals who run mitigation programs. Participation in the 9-week virtual course is not guaranteed as we endeavor to provide training to individuals who lead or have responsibility for community wildfire mitigation programs. Acceptance is on a per person basis and is not transferable to another person. If there are multiple people from an organization signing up please ensure they sign up individually. Please complete this form if you are interested in being considered for the CWMBP training. Application forms are accepted on a rolling basis and added to a review list. As we schedule new classes, we will email next-steps to everyone listed. For questions about upcoming class or for assistance with this form email wendie.warner@co-co.org. Fill out the interest form HERE. 

EPA Office of Water's Understanding Climate Change Impact on Water Resources Module  — The EPA Office of Water has recently updated and relaunched their Understanding Climate Change Impact on Water Resources Module. This module explains the causes of climate change, its potential impacts on water resources, and the challenges water resource managers face. It was produced by EPA’s Watershed Academy, which publishes educational webinars and publications about watershed management. The updated module reflects the findings of the Fifth National Climate Assessment (2023) and Office of Water's Climate Adaptation Implementation Plan (2022). Regional information on climate change impacts in the United States is also provided in the course. To learn more, click HERE.

EPA's Office of Research and Development and Office of Water host this free webinar series to communicate current research, regulatory information, and solutions for challenges facing small drinking water systems. See the upcoming schedule or past recordings HERE.

Webinar Recording: Overview of Prescribed Fire Liability in State Law. Lawyer Sara Clark provides an overview of prescribed fire liability in state law, including definitions of liability and how state laws defining liability interact with certified burn manager programs, tribal sovereignty and cultural burning, and prescribed fire insurance. This webinar is intended for those who are new to the issue of prescribed fire liability or those more experienced who would like an overview of the subject, especially anyone about to engage on similar policy initiatives in their state or jurisdiction.

Online Course: Leave No Trace 101 Course. This is an introduction to Leave No Trace and the actions we can collectively take to protect our planet. In this course we share helpful information with a simple framework of minimum impact practices to apply when spending time outdoors.

Watershed Academy’s new Hazard Mitigation Planning and Water Resource Management Module Ready - The EPA Watershed Academy has released their new Hazard Mitigation Planning and Water Resource Management Module. This module is intended for water quality and hazard mitigation professionals that are interested in integrating water quality issues and/or nature-based solutions into state or local Hazard Mitigation Plans (HMPs) and highlights the benefits of working across water quality and hazard mitigation programs. Modules in this series can be used as training tools to help planners from both worlds explore activities of mutual interest and benefit. Case studies and examples are provided to assist hazard mitigation planners with integrating water resource programs into HMPs and help watershed planners understand the synergies between water resource plans and HMPs. Visit this link to begin the course!

The Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership presents 14 videos to help community members learn about how water is managed, restored and monitored in the upper Uncompahgre River watershed. Take advantage of this education resource to learn about your watershed including mine reclamation, water monitoring, recreational use, water conservation, drinking water and wastewater treatment and distribution, aquatic life, water scarcity, agricultural use, management, infrastructure, and more. Watch the video series HERE.

The American Stormwater Institute, LLC now offers live and online courses that deal with developing the knowledge and skills required to conduct stormwater inspections. Our courses are based on a “Real World” attitude of finding implementable solutions to the challenges that stormwater inspectors face every day. The state and federal regulations require that “QUALIFIED PERSONS” conduct inspections related to stormwater permits. The overarching goal of the ASI classes is to ensure that our students are well qualified to conduct these inspections. For a list of all classes offered click HERE.

Non-standard MS4 Permit PDD Template and Program Strategy Templates. SPLASH members and SEMSWA worked with CP Compliance to create resources to educate permittees. It may also assist permittees with the implementation of the new Non-standard MS4 Permit. Please click HERE to access the material.

Introducing the brand new NRCareers.org: Your ultimate resource for career development in the environmental sector. You may have been familiar with the PDF "A How-To Guide for Pursuing a Career in Natural Resources." This website contains all the same great information from the original PDF, but now you can search the content directly and enjoy quicker updates without needing to download a lengthy guide! The newly redesigned website, developed by CAEE and the Colorado Youth Corps Association, include career possibilities, who hires, how to apply, and career prep.

The Clean Water Certificate (CWC) Training Program is the first in the nation ANAB-accredited green infrastructure and stormwater training program. The CWC Training Program is now being offered through the CWPA Membership Program. The purpose of the training program is to provide high-quality training opportunities that provides job growth in the stormwater industry and delivers industry-specific job-readiness skills for the under- or unemployed , or currently employed adults seeking to expand their skillset. Learn more HERE.

Announcements Late June

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division requests surface water quality data to develop the 2028 303(d) List of Impaired Waters and Monitoring and Evaluation List associated with Regulation 93. This effort requires compiling recent water quality parameters, including biological, physical, chemical, and other related information collected from 2020 to 2024. The division requests data collected in the San Juan River and Dolores River basins (i.e., Regulation 34) and the Gunnison and Lower Dolores River Basins (i.e., Regulation 35). Data from other basins will be requested in subsequent years. Please use this form to submit all data to the division by Monday, Sept. 1, 2025.

Developed in partnership between WaterNow Alliance, One Water Econ, and the Water Center at Penn, the Colorado Wildfire Resilience Financing Dashboard is designed to help Colorado water providers make the best business case for investments in wildfire resilience interventions in their upper watersheds. Learn more HERE. !

TheRio Blanco Water Conservancy District (RBWCD)is interviewing rural landowners and agricultural water users within the RBWCD boundaries and throughout Rio Blanco County. The purpose of gathering information is to assist water users in maximizing their water rights for present and future water needs, the impacts of droughts on their operations, the potential to improve agricultural productivity, and opportunities for water conservation. This is a perfect opportunity to creatively envision your property and how a firm water supply will be beneficial to all water users within our White River community. Please contact Alden Vanden Brink at 2252 East Main Street, Rangely, CO, or call (970) 675-5055 with any questions if you would like to participate. Learn more HERE.