Announcements for Early July

Drone flyover at Clear Creek Reservoir, Jacob S. Mohrmann, Colorado Mountain College - Leadville, June 8, 2016

EPA, U.S. Army Move to Rescind 2015 "Waters of the U.S." The Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Army, and Army Corps of Engineers (the agencies) are proposing a rule to rescind the Clean Water Rule and re-codify the regulatory text that existed prior to 2015 defining "waters of the United States" or WOTUS. This action would, when finalized, provide certainty in the interim, pending a second rulemaking in which the agencies will engage in a substantive re-evaluation of the definition of "waters of the United States." The proposed rule would be implemented in accordance with Supreme Court decisions, agency guidance, and longstanding practice.  "We are taking significant action to return power to the states and provide regulatory certainty to our nation's farmers and businesses," said Administrator Scott Pruitt. "This is the first step in the two-step process to redefine 'waters of the U.S.' and we are committed to moving through this re-evaluation to quickly provide regulatory certainty, in a way that is thoughtful, transparent and collaborative with other agencies and the public." This proposed rule follows the February 28, 2017, Presidential Executive Order on "Restoring the Rule of Law, Federalism, and Economic Growth by Reviewing the 'Waters of the United States' Rule." Click HERE for more information.  

Youth and Urban Waters Work: Groundwork’s Approach to Fostering Environmental Careers among Disadvantaged Youth - Youth have been central to Groundwork’s urban waters reclamation efforts. This report details the ways Groundwork youth have engaged with urban waters and reiterates why diversity is essential to future environmental and urban waters work. The report identifies potential environmental/urban waters-related occupations for youth, and provides steps to fill systematic gaps that will allow minority youth to fill green positions. Download a copy of the report here.

US Water Alliance Releases New National Paper on Equitable Water Management - Water challenges are often considered in the context of failing infrastructure or environmental pollution. An Equitable Water Future offers a robust analysis of the often-overlooked human dimension of water management, with a focus on how water can expand opportunity for our nation's most vulnerable people. The report demonstrates how water challenges affect affordability, environmental and social justice, economic development, health, safety, and more. Click here to read the report.

EPA Releases Green Infrastructure in Parks: A Guide to Collaboration, Funding, and Community Engagement. EPA has produced a guide to encourage partnerships between park agencies and stormwater agencies to promote the use of green infrastructure on park lands. The guide is designed to provide a stepwise approach for building relationships with potential partners, and includes information on how to identify and engage partners, build relationships, involve the community, leverage funding opportunities, and identify green infrastructure opportunities. It includes recommendations on the types of projects that are most likely to attract positive attention and funding, and which provide a wide range of benefits. Case studies illustrate the approaches presented in the guide. These real-life examples portray how partnerships between municipal stormwater agencies and parks departments have improved recreational resources in the community, enhanced environmental protection, and reduced risks and burdens. View the guide HERE.

 SAVE THE DATE for the next Watershed Wildfire Protection Group meeting on Friday, July 7th, 2017 from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm MDT at the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Administration Building; Bighorn Room @ 6060 Broadway in Denver. A tentative agenda for the meeting will be available by mid-June. Please also feel free to contact them in the meantime with any concerns, ideas, questions, or suggested agenda items for upcoming meetings, etc. Richard M. Edwards, CF at (970) 491-8036 or Rich.Edwards@colostate.edu.

Funding Opportunities for Late June

Parachute Ponds State Wildlife Area, Kathleen Tadvick, Colorado Division of Wildlife, 11/28/2007

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) seeks applications for wetland and riparian restoration, enhancement, and creation projects to support its Wetlands Program Strategic Plan. The intent of this funding is to support the two primary goals of the program, improve the distribution and abundance of ducks and opportunities for public waterfowl hunting. Applications supporting these goals should seek to clearly address habitat needs of these species. Click HERE for more information.

Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) is pleased to announce the 2017 habitat restoration grant cycle for proposals that seek to improve and restore Colorado's rivers, streams, wetlands, and critical habitat. The GOCO Board has allocated $500,000 for this grant cycle. Please review the information provided here, including the application instructions linked on that page. Applications are available by request. Please contact Chris Yuan-Farrell at cyuanfarrell@goco.org or 303-226-4511 to discuss your project and request an application.

The Colorado Wetlands for Wildlife Program is a voluntary, collaborative, and incentive based program to restore, enhance and create wetlands and riparian areas in Colorado. Funds are allocated annually to the program. The application deadline is Friday, July 14, 2017. Access the Wetlands Funding Request for Applications here.

The Colorado River District has announced an additional funding opportunity to support planning and implementation of irrigation efficiency improvement projects in the Lower Gunnison Project area for qualifying applicants. Applications from landowners that address identified resource concerns within the Bostwick Park, Paonia, Smith Fork, and Uncompahgre project areas will be accepted through July 21, 2017, for funding consideration.This funding opportunity is an expansion of on-going, cooperatively-managed activities made possible by the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for on-farm improvements like conversion to high efficiency systems such as pressure-piped sprinklers. Information HERE.

The Colorado Water Conservation Board Water Supply Reserve Account (WSRA) Program provides grants and loans to assist Colorado water users in addressing their critical water supply issues and interests. The funds help eligible entities complete water activities, which may include competitive grants for: Technical assistance regarding permitting, feasibility studies and environmental compliance; Studies or analysis of structural, nonstructural consumptive and nonconsumptive water needs, projects or activities; and structural and nonstructural water projects or activities. For more information click HERE.

The Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA) helps to connect communities to parks and natural areas by assisting local leaders in protecting special places and creating close-to-home opportunities for the public to enjoy the outdoors. The program works with local partners to develop and carry out a locally led process that encourages developing a common vision, creative planning, and collaborative action from all the participants. In the National Park Service's Intermountain Region, the program is supporting 41 projects in 2017, including neighborhood parks and trails, regional conservation efforts, river and water trail planning, and much more. Visit the website to find your nearest contact, learn more about the program in general, and view the application due June 30th.

The National Park Service works with local leaders to build partnerships, achievable plans, and community support for implementing outdoor recreation and conservation projects. Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance (RTCA) staff can work with you to organize and carry out a planning process that engages partners and the broader community in crafting a well-defined project vision, goals, and actionable strategies for getting things done on the ground. Their assistance is free, but they require a strong commitment from the project partners to lead the effort.  They do not provide grants or direct financial support. Please review the application process and guidelines on their website. If you are interested in assistance, please call or email the National Park Service staff member near you to discuss your idea. They strongly encourage you to consult with their staff to explore and develop your project ideas or review a draft application prior to applying. Applications are due by June 30, 2017 for assistance beginning the following fiscal year (October 1 through September 30). To apply, download the current application and review the guidelines, both available on the RTCA application webpage. 

The National Water Quality Initiative will work in priority watersheds to help farmers, ranchers and forest landowners improve water quality and aquatic habitats in impaired streams. NRCS will help producers implement conservation and management practices through a systems approach to control and trap nutrient and manure runoff. Qualified producers will receive assistance for installing conservation practices such as cover crops, filter strips and terraces. More Details here.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) is a voluntary program intended to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production. Under CIG, Environmental Quality Incentives Program funds are used to award competitive grants to non-Federal governmental or nongovernmental organizations, Tribes, or individuals.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), provided through the Natural Resource Conservation Service, is a voluntary conservation program that helps agricultural producers in a manner that promotes agricultural production and environmental quality as compatible goals. Through EQIP, agricultural producers receive financial and technical assistance to implement structural and management conservation practices that optimize environmental benefits on working agricultural land. EQIP applications are accepted on a continuous basis, however, NRCS establishes application "cut-off" or submission deadline dates for evaluation, ranking and approval of eligible applications. EQIP is open to all eligible agricultural producers and submitted applications may be considered or evaluated in multiple funding pool opportunities. To learn more CLICK HERE.

Colorado Water Conservation Board Water Efficiency Grant Program. The Water Efficiency Grant Program provides financial assistance to communities, water providers and eligible agencies for water conservation-related activities and projects. Eligible entities as well as state and local governments and agencies can receive funding to develop water conservation and drought plans, implement water conservation goals outlined in a water conservation plan and educate the public about water conservation.
Types of Water Efficiency Grants available - Click on the Program below for more information about how to apply:

• Water Conservation Planning Grants: For water providers seeking to develop or update their water conservation plans.
• Water Conservation Implementation Grants: For water providers implementing water conservation plan goals and programs identified in locally adopted and CWCB-approved water conservation plans.
• Drought Mitigation Planning Grants: For water providers or state and local governmental entities developing drought mitigation and response plans.
• Water Resource Conservation Public Education and Outreach Grants: For agencies seeking to promote the benefits of water resource conservation through public education and outreach.

Fish and Wildlife Service Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) Program announced funding available for Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized). This is a competitive funding opportunity for Federally recognized Tribal governments to develop and implement programs for the benefit of wildlife and their habitat, including species of Native American cultural or traditional importance and species that are not hunted or fished. Closing Date for Applications is September 1st, 2017.  For more information go to FWS.gov.

Tamarisk Coalition has a list of riparian restoration funding opportunities maintained by the Tamarisk Coalition.  For list click restoration funding opportunities.  

Job Announcements for Late June

Michael Kohn, USGS Colorado Water Science Center, USGS research vessel,  June 8, 2016

City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks is hiring a Landscape Architect II. Posting closes July 9th at 5pm. This position assists in the development of design and construction priorities, workplan schedules, project implementation and staffing requirements. The person in this position will develop, organize and coordinate a team approach to design and construction projects. APPLY HERE.

Arapahoe County Government is seeking a part-time Horticulture Assistant. The person will have knowledge of volunteer management and a proven track record in working well with people, coordinating volunteers and/or managing volunteer programs, horticulture and related subject matter, event management, database management and organizational skills. Go to their website to APPLY. 

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) invites you to their New Volunteer Leader Open House & Info Session on Thursday, July 13th. Join for a fun and informational evening at the Denver office to speak with VOC Staff and Volunteer Leaders about the variety of exciting volunteer leadership opportunities available with VOC. Whether you want to lead volunteer crews, put your love of good food to use, manage tools or help with logistics, they'll help you find just the right spot to shine. To apply click HERE.

The Colorado State Forest Service is hiring for: Permanent Good Neighbor Assistant District Forester (ADF) positions located in Durango, Grand Junction and Gunnison, Colorado. These positions will be the lead for the Good Neighbor Authority projects on the districts and a permanent Assistant District Forester (ADF) positions in Franktown and Montrose, Colorado. Click HERE to apply.

The Town of Winsdor Colorado is looking for a Seasonal Parks Laborer. Duties include but are not limited to safe operation and maintenance of a variety of commercial mowers, weed trimmers, back pack blowers, etc. to regularly maintain town parks and other properties. All resumes must be accompanied by a Town of Windsor application. For a complete job description and employment application, please visit their website at www.windsorgov.com/jobs. Submit application and resume to jobs@windsorgov.com, fax to 970-674-2496 or mail to Town of Windsor, Attn: Human Resources, 301 Walnut Street, Windsor, CO 80550

Colorado Water Trust is seeking an Executive Director with a high degree of energy, integrity and creativity as well as the analytical, organizational and personal qualities that will garner respect and cooperation from its community partners and other stakeholders. Colorado Water Trust’s mission is to restore flows to Colorado’s rivers in need. They do this by working with willing participants, providing the funds, support, and technical and legal expertise required to put water back in Colorado’s dry rivers. The ideal candidate will (among other things) bring a passion for Western water and healthy rivers, have significant leadership and management experience, and be ready to engage in fundraising. Deadline for applications is Friday, June 30, 2017. For a complete job announcement, including how to apply, please visit www.coloradowatertrust.org.

Jefferson County is currently hiring an Administration & Real Estate Manager with a strong background in annual budget development and administration of related financial planning strategies. This position will play an integral role in maintaining, administering, and coordinating the budget process of the five operating teams and three other Divisions of the Parks Department. This includes forecasting annual Open Space sales tax and all applicable revenue sources, grants program funding, capital projects and operation. Apply HERE.

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado has a new opening for the role of Seasonal Project Manager. They’re looking to hire someone ASAP to help manage their 2017 volunteer outdoor stewardship project season. This is a full-time, term-limited position located in Denver, CO. The Seasonal Project Manager works with the VOC program team to provide professional project management, logistical support and volunteer leadership coordination on VOC volunteer projects administratively and in the field. To view the full description and apply, head to http://www.voc.org/join-our-team.

The Alliance for Sustainable Colorado is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Communications Coordinator. This a full time, exempt position with benefits. The position will be based in the heart of downtown Denver at the Alliance Center.  The Communications Coordinator supports the Alliance's mission to be the hub of the sustainability movement in Colorado. The Alliance for Sustainable Colorado is a non-profit focused on providing the space for organizations focused on sustainability issues to collaborate and inspire one another. To review job details and apply, visit their website.

The Policy and Planning Section at Colorado Parks and Wildlife is seeking a temporary Policy and Planning Assistant (40 hrs/week with a 9-month term) to help with a variety of high priority planning, policy, and public involvement projects. Primary duties include information and data collection and analysis; supporting public involvement, policy, and planning activities; preparing meeting materials, memos, or sections of documents related to a wide variety of state park, wildlife, outdoor recreation, and natural resource issues; and assisting with administrative tasks and other general office duties as assigned. To apply visit their website.

The Colorado River District, based in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is seeking candidates for the General Manager position. The General Manager serves as the chief executive and management official of the organization reporting directly to the District’s 15 member Board of Directors. The General Manager is responsible for all business operations (administrative, financial, technical and external affairs) and manages a team of professionals. The Manager must be able to work and negotiate with other stakeholders throughout Colorado and other Colorado River basin state. To apply go to their website.  

Conferences and Events for Late June

Rafting on the Upper Arkansas River, Michael Seraphin, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, 7/5/2005

 JUNE 24th- 25th, 2017: The Coors Light South Platte RiverFest presented by Elitch Gardens is Denver’s premier urban river celebration featuring standup paddleboard lessons, sports demos, fitness and yoga classes, live music, water stewardship information, a world class beer garden, food trucks, vendors and much more. The festival will take place in Confluence Park and on Little Raven Street between 15th and Elitch Gardens. Get more details here.

Mountain Park Environmental Center (MPEC) Summer Camps provide children with days filled with Nature fun and life-long memories. They have several new camps planned for this summer. Transportation from Pueblo is included in MPEC camps, and they have a scholarship program that can help those who need financial assistance. Camp descriptions, prices, and other details can be found BY CLICKING HERE, including applying for a scholarship and registering. Please do not wait to register, as many camps fill up.

JUNE 19th - 23rd, 2017: Nature Explorers (Entering 2nd-3rd Grade)

JUNE 20th - 22nd, 2017: Mission Wolf (Entering 6th-8th Grade)

June 26th - 30th, 2017: Intrepid Adventurers (Entering 4th-5th Grade)

JUNE 27th - 29th, 2017: NEW Water and Rock Camp (Entering 6th-8th Grade)

JUNE 18th, 2017: On June 17, 2017, Runoff Runoff committee is partnering with the Willow Creek Reclamation Committee, a project of the Headwaters Alliance, to host the Runoff Runoff: Run along the Rio Grande! This event boasts a marathon, half-marathon and 6K! The purpose of the Runoff Runoff is to educate and engage the public in local watershed issues. This annual event is their main fundraiser and helps organize river restoration, diversion replacement and community river projects. For more information or to register, go to their website.

JUNE 19th, 2017: Join the Colorado Ag Water Alliance on a full day tour and see a variety of speakers from local producers to the Commissioner of Agriculture. Explore working farms and ditches. See how water is used in irrigation and what farmers are doing about conservation. This event will be at Colorado Corn Office 127 22nd St. Greeley, CO 80631 from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. For more information click HERE.

 JUNE 22nd-24th: The 14th Annual Gunnison River Festival Gunnison, Colorado. Join them in beautiful Gunnison as they explore the challenges & opportunities facing water communities in Colorado, the Southwest, and the World. “Celebrating Our Rivers” brings us together at the beginning of each summer season at the headwaters of the Taylor, Gunnison Rivers and regional creeks flowing off the Continental Divide. Celebrate run-off, recreation and ecology of the clean waterways. The Gunnison River Festival follows the Workshop on Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday. Scholarships for students and non-profits are available. For more information & to register visit: www.western.edu/water

JUNE 24th, 2017: 10th Annual Celebration of the Uncompahgre River. This year has been planned for another great festival with some special additions to commemorate its 10th year. Join for a full day of fun, and consider competing individually or with a team of friends in the hardshell kayak, inflatables, standup paddle board or Junk of the Unc races. You can sign up to volunteer for three hours Contact Tanya at 303-819-7784 or ridgwayriverfest@gmail.com.

JUNE 27th, 2017: Join the Colorado Ag Water Alliance on this full day tour and see a variety of speakers from local producers to the Commissioner of Agriculture. Explore working farms and ditches. See how water is used in irrigation and what farmers are doing about conservation. The bus tour takes you through Longmont, Fort Lupton and Brighton to see a variety of local working farms, irrigation systems and diversion ditches. Start location - Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road, Longmont, CO 80501 from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Go to their website to register.

JUNE 29th, 2017: The Watershed Summit (SHED '17). The event's focus on "Water Is Your Business" seeks to add new voices to the discussion, introduce innovative ideas, and break down silos. The goal is to bring local influence to global issues. This year's topics include: The Evolution of Water Conservation, Climate Change Under the New Administration, Future Water Shortage: What is Agriculture's Place in the Challenge?, and The Importance of Watershed Health in Recreation. Register here.  

JULY 7th, 2017: Join the Watershed Wildfire Protection Group at Colorado Parks & Wildlife Administrative Offices; Bighorn Room; 6060 Broadway; Denver, CO. They promote healthy watersheds by facilitating education and awareness; and facilitating prioritization, implementation, and monitoring for people and wildlife. Their vision is to protect Colorado water supplies and critical infrastructure from catastrophic wildfire and other threats by maintaining healthy, resilient watersheds through collaboration, implementation, leveraging, and education. Click HERE for more information. 

AUGUST 20th, 2017: Colorado Headwaters Land Trust Annual Event. Join them at the B Lazy 2 Ranch in Fraser, Colorado from 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm for a fun family-friendly celebration and fundraiser. Yard games will be available for kids and adults! Dinner will be a Buffet by Stone Creek Catering (vegetarian and gluten free options, includes 2 drinks) followed by a cash bar. Paddle Raiser. Live Auction. Silent Auction. Dinner. Games. And More! Register HERE. 

AUGUST 26th, 2017: Join the Tamarisk Coalition and local river experts for Raft the River, a fun, educational float trip and dinner along the Colorado River in Fruita, Colorado from 1:00 pm~6:30pm.  This year will have a new floating stretch of river compared to previous years from Rimrock Adventures to the Loma Boat Ramp. This one-day float trip, guided by Rimrock Adventures, will provide you with a “behind the scenes” look at the work being done to rejuvenate the treasured riparian (riverside) area in the Grand Valley.  Register HERE.  

SEPTEMBER 18th- 20th, 2017: The COSA steering committee is delighted to announce that the 2017 conference will be held at Beaver Run Resorts in Breckenridge. As information is available, it will be posted on the COSA website.

SEPTEMBER 26th-27th: Setting Watershed-Scale Priorities in Riparian Restoration, CMU University Center, Grand Junction, CO. This workshop is being organized by the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University and hosted by the Hutchins Water Center. The goal of this event is to describe tools and strategies that agencies and organizations can use in deciding where to work, what to do, and how to establish appropriate and achievable goals in riparian rehabilitation and restoration. For more information or to register click HERE.

OCTOBER 3rd-4th, 2017: The EPA Region 8 is hosting a Wetlands Conference to convene federal, state, tribal, and local representatives and NGOs to share information and best practices related to wetlands management. The 2017 conference in Boulder, Colorado will include sessions on stream and wetland restoration; mitigation; monitoring and assessment/mapping; and federal, state, and local level aquatic resource protection. The conference will allow stakeholders to discuss opportunities, hurdles, strategies, and potential solutions associated with protecting aquatic resources in Region 8. The event will facilitate networking, peer-to-peer learning, and collective problem-solving on specific issues, and allow regulators to share updates and learn from stakeholders View the conference webpage here and register here.

OCTOBER 10th-12th, 2017: Save the Date - 2017 Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference at the Westin Riverfront Resort, Avon, CO. This highly popular event expands cooperation and collaboration throughout our state for natural resource conservation, protection, and enhancement by informing citizen groups, agencies, consultants, and legislators about current issues and through networking opportunities. In 2017, the conference will focus on “Coming Together – the Confluence of Science and Society.”

OCTOBER 26th-28th, 2017: Join the Land Trust Alliance Rally this year in Denver, Colorado,  for a gathering packed with diverse topics to explore and great colleagues and friends to learn and share with. Rally has all of the resources you want to take your conservation skills further. Rally is the Land Trust Alliance's  annual gathering of nearly 2,000 inspired and passionate land conservation practitioners from the US, Canada, South America and beyond, who are dedicated to conserving cherished places in local communities. Registration now open. Learn more here

Trainings for Late June

Stocking Fish, Bob Carochi and Billy Krall stocking fish at Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area. Bob and Billy also took the water temperature and checked ph levels, Windi Padia, Colorado Parks and Wildlife

JUNE 19th-23rd, 2017: Western State Colorado University is pleased to host the Summer Teacher Institute, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am - 6:00 pm. Learn how to incorporate rivers into your curriculum, creating relevant context and connections for your students. This five-day, field-based course includes water management, river ecology, fisheries, and geography of the Colorado River Basin. Rivers are the basis of our Colorado livelihoods and are critical to the future of their students and communities. Our natural affinity to water makes rivers and watersheds a useful and familiar context for cross-disciplinary teaching and learning. Field experiences include a Morrow Point Reservoir boat tour, Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery tour, Gunnison River ecology field day, and a visit to Coldharbour Institute. The second part of the week incorporates participation in the Colorado Water Workshop Conference engaging with water resource professionals from across Colorado. Participants must register for the Colorado Water Workshop to earn 3 ENVS credits.(All meals are included beginning Wednesday at noon; 3 credit course fee of $375; additional $40 course fee plus additional fee of $150 (50% discount) for Colorado Water Workshop. Total cost is $565.) Register Here

CSU Extension Native Plant Master Program – Metro-to-Mountain Group Summer Program

• Monday, June 19th - NPM Course on Wetland/Riparian Plants - Mondays, 6/19, 7/10, 8/7; 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM, South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center, Littleton
• Tuesday, June 20th - NPM Course on Wetland/Riparian Plants - Tuesdays, 6/20, 7/11, 8/8; 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM, South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center, Littleton
• Saturday, June 24th - Ecology and Recovery of Hayman Wildfire - Sat., June 24, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Pike National Forest - Hayman Burn Area, Deckers
• Tuesday, Jun 27th - Plant Field Sketching Class - Tues. June 27 and Wed. June 28, 9 AM - 4 PM, Lookout Mountain Nature Center , Golden
• Friday, June 30th - DIY Native Plant Landscaping Installation - Fri., June 30; 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, South Platte Park and Carson Nature Center (west deck), Littleton

  To register for these workshops, please go to https://npm.eventbrite.com.

Colorado Agriculture in the Classroom presents Food, Fiber & More. This is a five day course designed for teachers who have little or no agriculture background. You can receive 3 continuing credits from CSU. Institute cost: $250 (scholarships available to pre-registered educators). Sign up today to reserve space and to apply for a scholarship for 2017 Food, Fiber &  More, AITC Summer Institute. Register at www.growingyourfuture.com. You can choose to attend:

• JUNE 19th-23rd - FORT COLLINS, CO 
• JUNE 26th-30th - DENVER, CO 

JUNE 21st - 23rd, 2017: Western State Colorado University 42nd Annual Colorado Water Workshop - Rural and Urban Water Issues in an Evolving Political Landscape. For registration and agenda information click HERE.

JUNE 21st,  2017: The Center for Watershed Protection is hosting a Making Urban Trees Count webinar. The water quality benefits of forests are widely accepted, yet very few studies have successfully quantified therunoff and pollutant-reducing impacts of trees in the urban landscape. Using everything from individual street trees up to small patches of forest as a stormwater best management practice (BMP) is hampered by this uncertainty of how to "credit" urban trees for runoff and pollutant load reduction. This webcast will review the available stormwater crediting systems for urban tree planting and will present a new crediting system that includes a design specification for urban tree planting that can be integrated into state and local compliance systems for stormwater management, TMDLs and other water quality requirements. Click HERE to register.

JUNE 27th, 2017: Colorado Ag Water Alliance will be holding a CAWA Ag Water Tour: Denver Metro event. Take the opportunity to learn how water is used in agriculture first hand. Explore working farms and ditches. See how water is used in irrigation and what farmers are doing about conservation. Join the Colorado Ag Water Alliance on these full day tours and see a variety of speakers from local producers to the Commissioner of Agriculture. The bus tour takes you through Longmont, Fort Lupton and Brighton to see a variety of local working farms, irrigation systems and diversion ditches. For tickets to go their website.  

The Center for Watershed Protection's 2017 Webcast Series is open. Register and join them via Adobe Connect for the following sessions: 

June 21st, 2017, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm EST, Webcast 3:  Making Urban Trees Count - Register for this webcast! 

September 13th, 2017, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm EST, Webcast 4: Stream Restoration: Where are we now? - Register for this webcast!

October 18th, 2017, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm EST, Webcast 5: Bringing Better Site Design into The 21st Century - Register for this webcast!  

November 15th, 2017, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm EST, Webcast 6: Modeling for Water Quality - Register for this webcast! 

JUNE - JULY 2017,  Colorado Foundation for Water Education (CFWE) Water Fluency Training. Register for CFWE's professional development course to boost your water knowledge. Participants learn through site visits; in-person classroom discussions; and online materials, presented with Colorado State University's online water course. Learn more about the course, review the agenda, and register here. 

JULY 24th, 2017: Dive into a half-day tour of the rushes, sedges and unique wetland and riparian plants of the front range at the Wetland/Riparian Front Range.  You will examine the specialized vocabulary and structures used to identify these plants and will share wetland weed management and restoration project successes and failures as you all  tour to find the plants.  To register, please go to https://npm.eventbrite.com.

AUGUST 2nd - 4th, 2017: The Park Planning and Maintenance Academy (PPMA) is a new school for park and recreation professionals, reinvented, with greater sessions focused on trends and cutting edge park maintenance practices in addition to the fundamentals of park planning. Training will be at the Radisson Hotel, Denver Southeast, 3155 S. Vaughn Way, Aurora, CO 80014. PPMA IS LIMITED TO 50 PEOPLE. REGISTER TODAY, swprti.org/PPMA.  

SEPTEMBER 26th-27th, 2017: Setting Watershed-Scale Priorities in Riparian Restoration workshop in Grand Junction, Colorado. This workshop is being organized by the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University and hosted by the Hutchins Water Center. Decades of restoration efforts in the Colorado River basin have had varying success. They will review restoration strategies and techniques being pursued in the Colorado River basin and obtain participant feedback on restoration goals, strategies, and techniques. We will introduce decision-support tools useful to implement analytical prioritization strategies in order to refine prioritization tools that help workshop participants increase their effectiveness. Click here to register.