Funding Opportunities Early October

Burry Ranch habitat improvement. The Division of Wildlife has acquired a perpetual fishing easement along 1.25 miles of Gold Medal waters on the Roaring Fork River. Located about four miles northwest of Carbondale on Highway 82, the Burry Ranch hosts world class fishing in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley. Division of Wildlife. Date taken: 2/9/2004.

The Colorado Water Conservation Board has a new category of grants available to support implementation of the Colorado Water Plan. The purpose of the Water Plan Grant funding is to make progress on the critical actions identified in the Colorado’s Water Plan (CWP) and its Measurable Objectives. The Colorado Water Conservation Board will select projects, programs and activities to fund from applications that have the best opportunity to make progress on the Colorado’s Water Plan Measurable Objectives or critical actions. Categories for funding include: supply and demand gap projects; water storage; conservation, land use and planning; engagement and innovation activities; agricultural; and environmental and recreation. Click HERE for details on October 1, 2017 submittal deadline. There will be multiple opportunities to submit applications – in October, February and August 2018 and February 2019.All applications will be assessed based on funds available for a particular CWP Measurable Objective category. Click HERE for more information. 

The Clif Bar Family Foundation is accepting applications for its fall 2017 Small Grants program. Grants of up to $7,000 will be awarded in support of projects that address the foundation's priorities from a holistic perspective. Priority will be given to projects that aim to protect the earth's beauty and bounty; create robust, healthy food systems; increase opportunities for outdoor activity; reduce environmental health hazards; and/or build stronger communities. Projects must operate with clearly defined objectives and viable plans to achieve them; demonstrate strong community ties and operate at the community level; and promote positive change through both the project and the implementation process. To be eligible, applicants must be considered tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. See the Clif Bar Family Foundation website for complete program guidelines, an eligibility quiz, and application instructions. Small grants deadline is Sunday, October 1, 2017.

Research to Action: Assessing and Addressing Community Exposures to Environmental Contaminants - Due October 5, 2017: Applications using community-engaged research methods to investigate the potential health risks of environmental exposures of concern to the community and to implement an environmental public health action plan based on research findings are encouraged. Learn more HERE.

Wetlands Conservation Funded, Fish and Wildlife Service, The North American Wetlands Conservation Act Small Grants Program supports the long-term protection, restoration, enhancement, or establishment of wetlands and associated uplands habitats for the benefit of all wetlands-associated migratory birds. The U.S. Small Grants Program is a competitive, matching grant program that supports public-private partnerships carrying out projects in the United States that further the goals of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act. These projects must involve long-term protection, restoration, enhancement and/or establishment of wetlands and associated uplands habitats for the benefit of all wetlands-associated migratory birds. A 1:1 match is required. Research funding is ineligible. In June 2016, U.S. Small Grants Program award ceiling increased from $75,000 to $100,000 by the North American Wetlands Conservation Council (NAWCC). The application deadline is October 19, 2017. For more information go to www.grants.gov.

National Science Foundation Environmental Sustainability Grants - Due October 20. The National Science Foundation’s Environmental Sustainability program promotes sustainable engineered systems that support human well-being while also being compatible with sustaining environmental systems. For full proposals submitted via FastLane: standard NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide proposal preparation guidelines apply. For full proposals submitted via Grants.gov: the NSF Grants.gov Application Guide: A Guide for the Preparation and Submission of NSF Applications via Grants.gov Guidelines applies. (Note: The NSF Grants.gov Application Guide is available on the Grants.gov website and on the NSF website. To apply for this grant click HERE.

Conservation Alliance Invites Nominations for Conservation Projects – Nominations Due November 1st, 2017. The Conservation Alliance seeks to protect threatened wild places throughout North America for their habitat and recreational values. Grants are awarded to registered 501(c)(3) organizations in support of projects designed to secure permanent and quantifiable protection of a specific wild land or waterway with clear habitat and recreational benefits. Click HERE for more information.

The Nature Conservancy is working to promote environmental education through the creation of Nature Works Everywhere gardens. The core principle behind the Gardens program is that gardens model conservation science on a relatable scale. The program empowers students and teachers to work together to create and implement their own solutions to environmental challenges in their communities. Grants of up to $2,000 will be awarded to support projects that implement green infrastructure to address local environmental challenges. These include access to healthy food, air quality, heat island effect, climate change, and storm water collection. Through the program, young people will work as social innovators to help their communities through project design and implementation. Link to Complete RFP.

FEMA FY17 Flood Mitigation Assistance Application Cycle – Due November 14: FEMA has posted the Fiscal Year 2017 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) announcements for the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program on www.grants.gov. The NOFO provides an overview of the grant program and details about the agency's funding priorities and review process. FMA grants are available to implement measures to reduce or eliminate risk of severe repetitive and repetitive flood damage to buildings insured by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). New in this application cycle is a set-aside of $70 million for community advance assistance and flood mitigation projects. The remainder of the FY17 FMA grants will continue to focus on reducing or eliminating the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures. FEMA will also fund flood hazard mitigation planning as well as technical assistance for applicants who were awarded FMA grant program funds totaling at least $1 million in FY16. Further information is in the NOFO: DHS-17-MT-029-00-99.

FEMA FY17 Pre-Disaster Mitigation Application Cycle - Due November 14, 2017: FEMA has posted the Fiscal Year 2017 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) announcements for the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) grant program on www.grants.gov. The goal of the PDM grant program is to reduce overall risk to the population and structures, while at the same time reducing reliance on federal funding from Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) disaster declarations. FEMA’s highest priority for FY17 competitive sub-applications is multi-state/tribal mitigation initiatives. FEMA will select eligible planning and project sub-applications that limit duplication of other HMA programs by prioritizing funding in areas without post-disaster funding available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP); and projects that cannot be funded by the FMA grant program. Further information is in the NOFO: DHS-17-MT-047-00-99.

Applications are being accepted for Colorado Corn Future Farmers of America (FFA) Grant Program. For a fifth year, the Colorado Corn Administrative Committee (CCAC) is accepting applications from FFA chapters around the state as part of its Colorado Corn FFA Grant Program. The deadline to apply is November 15th. Be sure to let your local FFA chapters know about this opportunity. The Colorado Corn FFA Grant Program assists FFA chapters in Colorado on projects that lack funding in their school's budget. Adding to its support of other youth-focused projects, Colorado Corn began its FFA grants in 2013, awarding a $5,000 grant to the winner during the first year, and all together has contributed nearly $30,000 to FFA chapters through this program. Click HERE for more information.

The Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program has released a new funding opportunity announcement. Past projects funded by the program have typically involved converting unlined canals and ditches to pipelines located in the Upper Basin States to reduce seepage that picks up salt and carries it into the Colorado River system. The Colorado River and its tributaries provide municipal and industrial water to about 27 million people and irrigation water to nearly four million acres of land in the United States. The river also serves about 2.3 million people and 500,000 acres in Mexico. The threat of salinity is a major concern in both the Unites States and Mexico. Salinity affects agricultural, municipal, and industrial water users. Click HERE for more information. 

EPA Wetland Program Development Grants – Due date varies by region. Wetland Program Development Grants (WPDGs) provide eligible applicants an opportunity to conduct projects that promote the coordination and acceleration of research, investigations, experiments, training, demonstrations, surveys, and studies relating to the reduction and elimination of water pollution. WPDGs assist building programs to protect, manage, and restore wetlands. States, tribes, local governments, interstate associations, and intertribal consortia are eligible to apply for the Regional WPDG Request for Proposals. Click HERE for more information.

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 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.

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.

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 programs below for more information about each and 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.

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

Trainings and Workshops Early October

Beaver Dam in Bailey. A beaver dam creates a small waterfall near Bailey, Colorado. Division of Wildlife. David Hannigan. Date taken: 6/13/2009.

OCTOBER 4th, 2017: Careers In Natural Resources Workshop: Grand Junction from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. Help young adults on their path to a natural resource career! Join Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education to develop a training model for using the Career Guide in your programs. Attending organizations will receive kits with hard copies of the Career Guide and digital resources including activities, handouts, and presentations. 

• Get to know the "How-To Guide for Pursuing a Career in Natural Resources" - an in-depth career development tool for young adults - and how you can use it.
• Participate in activities you can use to engage your audiences in natural resource careers.
• Get an insiders perspective on getting hired from a panel of state and federal natural resource professionals.
• Plan future training opportunities for your audiences using the tools provided

For more information and to register go to, caee.org.

OCTOBER 12th, 2017: The Colorado Association for Roadway MAintenance (CARMA), a committee of the APWA CO Chapter, continues its tradition of delivering a great opportunity for training and networking with the annual Winter Workshop.  This is a full day training (8am-4pm) opportunity designed to offer topics to help your agency prepare for winter and keep your staff on the cutting edge of methods, materials, and operations. 

TOPICS:

• Best Practices for Plow Operations

• Building a CNG Snow Plow Truck Fleet

• Building Credibility as First Responders in Public Works

• Cutting Edge Solutions: The Science in Snowplow Blade Technology  

• I-70 Mountain Winter Operations: Breaking Through Mother Nature

• Asset Management Cost Estimating for Winter Operations

• City of Golden Facility Tour

The workshop will be held at the Golden Community Center across the parking lot from the City of Golden Public Works facility. More information and registration access can be found HERE. Registration fee is ONLY $35 per person and includes lunch, breaks and facility tour.  Registration deadline is October 10, 2017.

OCTOBER 26th, 2017: Webinar, This Is What STEM Looks Like! A conversation about inspiring, motivating, and retaining girls and young women in STEM from 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm (MST). Presenters will be Violeta Garcia, Stem Learning by Design and Louise V. Myrland, The Women's Foundation of Colorado. REGISTER HERE.

OCTOBER 26th-27th, 2017: The event Stormwater Green Drainage Design Using EPA SWMM-LID presented by Urban Watersheds Research Institute offers instruction from 8:30am-5pm for two days after which you will be eligible to receive 1.5 CEU’s or 15 PDH’s for this course. This course also allows eligibility for 12 CECs towards ASFPM CFM Certification. 

Topics and workshops in this course include:
(1)  Review of Storm Water Modeling – unit graph method and kinematic wave (KW) 
       overland flow method
(2)  How to set up rectangular runoff KW planes used by SWMM
(3)  KW run-off cascading flow vs run-on infiltrating flow
(4)  Watershed link-node model for conveyance, diversion, storage basin, 
       pump w/o flood gate
(5)  Event-based modeling for extreme events from 2-, 5-, 10-, to 100
(6)  Long-tern continuous simulation for frequency and duration analyses using
       a 30-yr rainfall record
(7)  Stormwater planning using KW model
(8)  Stormwater design using DW model
(9)  Mitigation to urbanization effect using flood detention
(10) Green approach for on-site runoff disposal using rain gardens, pavers, 
        swales, and rain tanks.
(11) Long-term evaluations of the proposed flood mitigation and green
        stormwater approach.

All topics are covered by a short lecture which is followed by a hands-on workshop. The goal of this two-day class is to give the students sufficient working working knowledge to permit them to use this model upon return to their office next working day. For complete information and to register click HERE.

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

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! 

November 6th, 2017:  Colorado Foundation for Water Conservation is hosting a workshop in Colorado Springs, CO, 2017 Considerations in Implementing Regional Water Solutions. As Colorado’s urban areas grow, we must consider leveraging resources, infrastructure, water supply and facilities to secure general well-being and a healthy economy. This informative, day-long workshop provides a forum for planning and discussion around the best approaches for regional water solutions. It includes a close examination of the tradeoffs, hurdles, and opportunities for success. For more information and to register, click HERE.

SPRING 2018: For the first time One World One Water Center will offer a Water Studies Online Certificate through Metropolitan State University of Denver! Participants are required to complete four courses: Water Law, U.S. Water Concerns, Colorado Water and the American West and a final capstone project.For more information and to register: click here.

Job Announcements Early October

Avocets at Russell Lakes SWA wetland. American avocets at Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area in the San Luis Valley, looking east towards the Sangre de Cristo Range in southeast Colorado. The photo portrays a good example of a wetland. Division of Wildlife. Cary Aloia.

The City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks department is hiring 2 full time Ranger Naturalists this fall. The offer will be open until October 8th. Click https://bouldercolorado.gov/human-resources/city-jobs to find and apply for these positions. 

Boulder County Open Space & Mountain Parks Trails Stewardship Team has posted an opening for a Program Lead. Under general supervision to implement, evaluate, and assist with the development of the Trail Stewardship plans, policies, projects, and management practices at a professional level, consistent with department goals and within a department-wide context that supports all chartered land uses and open space purposes; primarily to deliver professional project design and field work. Deadline to apply October 15th, 2017. You can find the job description and information on how to apply at: www.governmentjobs.com.

Denver Water is looking for a Watershed Scientist (Environmental Sr. Scientist) ; Denver Water’s External Affairs Division/Environmental Planning Section is currently seeking a qualified candidate to assist us as a Watershed Scientist. Under general supervision, the Watershed Scientist will serve in a technical role as part of a team that will develop and implement Denver Water’s watershed management program. The key goals include preserving high water quality for drinking water supplies, well-functioning forest health and ecological systems, and cooperative partnerships with numerous stakeholders and groups interested in watersheds and source water protection. The full details of job posting can be found HERE which includes contact information and application instructions. Deadline is October 24th, 2017.

Hands-On Labs, Inc. (HOL) is seeking a Science Laboratory Curriculum & Product Developer. This person develops laboratory experiences, curricula, and products that support the academic requirements of secondary and post-secondary science courses.  This individual designs, develops, enriches, and supports all sales and production facets of the experiments contained in HOL products, called s, which provide wet science lab experiences in support of educational institutions’ science courses, primarly online science courses. This position works collaboratively within a team of science colleagues, clients, and HOL’s Sales, Production, and Documentation teams to develop, write, produce, and confirm challenging and effective  science experiments that engage students, meet traditional academic learning objectives, and can be safely and successfully conducted at home. Please submit resume to Rick Carmichael,  rick.carmichael@holscience.com. Applicants MUST have a science degree. MS or PhD preferred.

The Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT), an accredited land trust, in Evergreen, CO has an opening for a part-time (24 hours) Land and Water Conservation Director.  Please find the complete job description, duties and details on how to apply at, http://www.savetheland.org/job-opportunities.

The Mountain Park Environmental Center is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and engaging individual to join their team as Environmental Educators who will primarily work with their new Forest School for Little Rangers program. This position will co-facilitate MPEC’s preschool program and have the option to facilitate other programs when needed. The ideal candidate will possess a solid early education background, environmental science background and demonstrable experience working at the intersection of nature education and early child development. Position is idea for a retired teacher who is looking for a part time position working with young children in the outdoors. Click HERE for more information and to apply. 

Metro to Mountain Native Plant Master Program is Seeking Volunteer Educators. Are you interested in native plants? Would you like to share your knowledge with others? The Metro to Mountain Native Plant Master® Program is seeking volunteer educators who have a passion for educating others about native plants. Both experts and those with more intermediate knowledge are encouraged to apply. There is a comprehensive training program and in depth resources so volunteers are fully equipped to begin their teaching role in 2018. For more information click HERE.

Conferences and Events Early October

Trappers Lake. Trappers Lake in Garfield County taken June 2003. Division of Wildlife. Loyse Hinkle, Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

OCTOBER 3rd-5th, 2017: 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. This 2017 conference will be held in Boulder, Colorado and 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 4th, 2017: Colorado Play and Protect, created by TAP-IN, is a pitch event featuring entrepreneurs and innovators from the outdoor industries and watershed health fields presenting real-world water challenges in search of community-driven solutions. TAP-IN is calling all entrepreneurs, business professionals, problem-solvers, leaders, change-makers, and citizens passionate about water to join the community for an evening of meaningful dialogue, plus a sampling of our finest water resources (beer)! Register HERE. For more information about Tap-In, click HERE.

OCTOBER 7th, 2017: BEULAH CHALLENGE. The Subaru of Pueblo Beulah Challenge is the best running event in southern Colorado! With free camping, amazing race courses, and great energy, this is an event for everyone. Events: 5k walk/run, 10k run, half marathon run. The Beulah Challenge directly supports scholarships to the Mountain Park Environmental Center's environmental education programs. With your race entry, you'll get an awesome Next Level hoodie shirt this year. They're amazing. Trust us! Full event pricing and registration HERE!

OCTOBER 7th, 2017: 4th Annual Alpine Bank Middle Colorado River CleanUp. The Colorado River needs our help, so lets come together as a community and clean-up this essential resource. They will meet at Centennial Park and head out to the river from there. Please register early to be assigned a section. You are encouraged to form your own River Team. Contact Middle Colorado Watershed Council for more details!

OCTOBER 7th, 2017: Join Colorado Mesa University for The Economics of our Water: A Colorado River Business Tour to learn about how the Grand Valley’s economy depends on our rivers for its growth and vitality. Tour Includes: Talbott Farms; Orchard Mesa Pump & Power Plant site; Lunch at a farm; Las Colonias Park/Watson Island; Happy Hour at Edgewater! Click HERE to register.

OCTOBER 8, 2017: TOUR DE POUDRE BIKE RIDE from 7:00 am – 1:00 pm. Fee includes commemorative event t-shirt for the first 50 participants, as well as snacks, lunch and drinks.  You’ll finish the afternoon by visiting Odell Brewing Company, start/finish at 1805 E Lincoln Ave., Fort Collins, CO. REGISTER ONLINE AT: COLORADOTREES.ORG.

OCTOBER 10th-12th, 2017: 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. REGISTER for 2017, the conference which will focus on “Coming Together – the Confluence of Science and Society.”

OCTOBER 11th, 2017: This is Your River will be an inspiring event featuring films, art, and conversation about the Colorado River. Showcasing stories about the legacy, adventure, and conservation surrounding the Colorado River, we'll highlight how and why we must work together to care for this precious resource which is vital to all facets of life in the West. From 5:30pm-8:30pm, this free event is open to the public and donations to support American Rivers’ and Colorado Trout Unlimited's headwaters restoration work will be gladly and gratefully accepted! For more information email invitation@americanrivers.org. For full details and to register click HERE.

OCTOBER 12th, 2017: Bites & Brews for Biodiversity. This October, Rocky Mountain Wild will be hosting Bites & Brews for Biodiversity this event will be held between 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm at the Silver Vines Winery, 7509 Grandview Ave, Arvada, CO 80002. Admission tickets are $50 in advance, $40 in advance for members at the Supporting Level and above, and $60 at the door. And new this year, they are offering $30 advance tickets for students or young professionals (under age 35)! Tickets are now available.

OCTOBER 13th, 2017:  8th Annual ELK 'n Eggs! Join Environmental Learning for Kids from 7:30 am - 9:00 am at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. This event sells out every year - get your FREE tickets early! Keynote Speaker is Juan Martinez, Director, Leadership Development and Natural Leaders Network at Children & Nature Network. Register Here.

OCTOBER 14th, 2017: Friends of Barr Lake Annual Harvest Festival from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, 13401 Picadilly Rd, Brighton, CO. This event raises funding for educational programming at Barr Lake State Park. Learn more HERE.

OCTOBER 17th, 2017: Join Trout Unlimited and Mountain Studies Institute for Climate change in the Upper Dolores: drought or trout? From 6:30 - 8:00 pm there will be presentation and conversation about potential climate change impacts on trout habitat and populations in the Dolores River. Partners from both organizations will present findings from a recent coldwater-fisheries adaptive management framework and answer questions from stakeholders. This will take place in Room 130 in Noble Hall, Fort Lewis College, Durango CO. Contact page@mountainstudies.org with questions. 

OCTOBER 19th, 2017: From 6pm-8pm there will be an Uncompahgre River Stakeholder Meeting. Holly Brown of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will be presenting an introduction to the agency’s update to the Total Maximum Daily Load calculation for our watershed. The TMDL is the maximum amount of a pollutant that a waterbody can receive and still meet water quality standards. Developing a TMDL is one way for a waterbody to be removed from the 303(d) list, a designation indicating cleanup work is required to meet standards. The meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19 at the San Juan Room of the Ouray Community Center, 320 6th Ave, will provide information about the EPA and CDPHE process for updating the TMDL and give stakeholders a chance to ask questions. This is just the beginning of the process and when calculations are available in early 2018, you will be invited back to provide comments on the data and findings. If you have questions, feel free to contact UWP Communications Director Tanya Ishikawa at uwpcommunications@gmail.com

OCTOBER 24th, 2017: Registration is now open for Colorado WaterWise 9th Annual Water Conservation Symposium at 8:15 am-4:00 pm at the Lowry Conference Center, 1061 Akron Way, Building 697, Denver, CO 80230. Keynote Speaker: Zachary Johnson of Colorado State University's College of Horticultural Sciences - Horticulture & Landscape Architecture will talk about Connecting the Relationship Between Landscapes and Health. Click HERE to register.

OCTOBER 25th - 26th, 2017: South Platte Forum. The South Platte Forum was initiated in 1989 to provide an avenue for a timely, multi-disciplinary exchange of information and ideas important to resource management in the South Platte River Basin. For conference information go to www.southplatteforum.org.

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.

SPREE Holiday Camps 2017-2018

SPREE will be hosting several day camps during the 2017- 2018 academic calendar on days that Denver Public Schools are closed.These unique and educational programs are for children who are in kindergarten (must be at least 6 years old) through 5th grade. All holiday camps will be held at Johnson Habitat Park, 610 S. Jason St. Denver CO, 80223; from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm. Cost for this program is $50/child/day.

Oct. 26-27, 2017: Fur, Feathers, and Scales
Find out why animals have different body coverings and help Chompers the Beaver solve a mystery along the way.

November 3, 2017: Geology Rocks!
What is the rock cycle? What types of rocks are found in Colorado? Become a geologist with SPREE and find out!

November 20-21, 2017: Time Travelers
Hop into your time machine and join SPREE to learn all about the Native Americans and Pioneers who lived along the South Platte River. 

January 15, 2018: Something Fishy!
oin SPREE as we learn about the fish in the South Platte River and the many amazing adaptations they have.

February 2, 2018: Raptors of the River
Investigate the birds of prey that live along the South Platte River.

To view specific dates/themes and to register, please visit the SPREE website!

NOVEMBER 1st, 2017: Save the Date - Cherry Creek Watershed Annual Conference presented by the Cherry Creek Stewardship Partners, the Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority (CCBWQA), & the Southeast Metro Stormwater Authority (SEMSWA). Join them as they celebrate active stewardship in the Cherry Creek watershed! The focus for the conference is providing an update on ‘what’s happening’ in the basin. This year they are going to highlight watershed monitoring to illustrate how dynamic technical advances, successful regional planning, and stewardship engagement can benefit from raising awareness through data collection & analysis. Monitoring takes various forms and can be instrumental in supporting the positive environmental actions we see in our watershed today. For more information visit http://www.cherry-creek.org/events/.

NOVEMBER 1st, 2017: Join the Big Thompson Watershed Forum for its 15th Biennial Watershed Conference. They will welcome 14 speakers who will present on topics ranging from abandoned mines in the Big Thompson Watershed, to status updates on Highway 34 construction. The deadline to register is October 17th. This year's conference will feature the following five sessions: From Source to Treatment: Public Perception of Water Quality, Abandoned Mines: A Watershed at Risk?, Highway 34: Protecting a River Ecosystem, Ripple Effects of the 2016 Fish Kill Event and Wildfires and Watersheds: Lessons Learned. Go to their website to register for this conference. 

NOVEMBER 1st-2nd, 2017: The 2017 Upper Colorado River Basin Water Forum in Grand Junction, CO will showcase stories that illuminate the challenges and complexities involved in trying to understand Upper Colorado River Basin water issues and manage water in new ways. Topics include: Snow Science, Bridging Science & Decision Making, Vulnerabilities to Climate Change, Vegetation Interactions with Water Supply, Multi-benefit Infrastructure Upgrades, Community Connections to Riverfront, State of the Colorado River (interstate panel), Drought Contingency Planning across the Basin, Innovations in Agricultural Water Use, Recreation & Water Policy, Meeting Diverse Needs on Shared Streams Registration is free for CMU faculty, staff and students, as well as K-12 teachers. Note: Rates increase by $50 after October 15! Find the draft of the program HERE. For more information and to register, click HERE.

NOVEMBER 6th-9th, 2017: Join North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) for NALMS 2017: Finding Balance in Colorado to hear fascinating lake talks, see the mountains, and network. Enjoy workshops, exhibits, and first hand experience of our Colorado water resources. Finding Balance is the key to managing our lakes, watersheds, and even day-to-day relationships with people. For information go to their WEBSITE. To register click HERE.

NOVEMBER 6th, 2017: The Colorado Foundation for Water Education is having a workshop about 2017 Considerations in Implementing Regional Water Solutions. Regional water planning and management is becoming a popular topic in Colorado as a means to help secure water for our future. This informative, day-long workshop will provide a forum for information and discussion around the tradeoffs in regional water planning for achieving economies of scale as well as a close examination of the opportunities, the hurdles, and the best approaches for success. Register HERE to reserve your place and join them in Colorado Springs. 

NOVEMBER 6th-9th, 2017: After 26 years, Colorado welcomes North American Lake Management Society (NALMS) back to the headwaters state. Colorado is home to thousands of both natural alpine lakes and reservoirs. We are proud of our mountains and appreciate the importance of our lakes and reservoirs. In Colorado, water is used for fishing, drinking, farming, rafting, camping, mining, ranching, boating, brewing, and much more. These uses are supported with a statewide annual average rainfall of just 17 inches. The lakes and reservoirs throughout the West and the Rockies provide the resources to meet these diverse needs. Finding balance in how we manage them is important. Finding Balance is the key to managing our lakes, watersheds, and even day-to-day relationships with people. Come to NALMS 2017 in Colorado to hear fascinating lake talks, see the mountains, and network. Click HERE to register.

NOVEMBER 26th - DECEMBER 8th, 2017: Join Pueblo County Extension Director Michael Fisher and Horticulture Coordinator Sherie Caffey as they explore both the agriculture and the history of Spain’s Andalusian region. They have planned a diverse tour with stops ranging from seed and grafting propagation to green-house vegetable production. You’ll learn about olive oil production and marketing, avocado exports, and fruit production in Spain. Their group will have the opportunity to look at how a cotton cooperative has spread their risk by diversifying into tomato concentrate production and the cut flower business, marketing over 70 million carnations annually. Some of Spain’s famous equine and cattle operations are going to open their gates & barns for their group to learn about livestock production in the region. To apply and learn more about this event, click HERE.

November 29th- 30th, 2017: Attend the Southern Rockies Seed Network 2017 Conference, Ecotypes: Science, Practice, & Policy at The Fort Collins Innosphere, 320 East Vine Drive, Fort Collins CO. More information to come. More information is found HERE.

MARCH 2nd - 3rd, 2017: 2018 Advancing Environmental Education Conference, "emPowered by Nature", Auraria Campus,Denver, CO. Colorado’s Advancing Environmental Education Conference is annually hosted by the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education (CAEE), a statewide leader in environmental education since 1989. CAEE facilitates communication, coordination, resource sharing and professional development to advance environmental education among over 850 members across the state among various sectors.  Information about the Conference Event.

APRIL 18, 2018: The Center for Watershed Protection is hosting the 2018 National Watershed and Stormwater Conference, which is designed for water management from all sectors, practitioners, regulators, and water and sewer authorities, and will present case studies and best practices as well as address cross cutting issues and emerging trends. This will take place online and at remote hub locations. Registration begins soon. Questions can be answered by emailing: center@cwp.org, or calling 410-461-8323. For more on the Center for Watershed Protection, click HERE.

Announcements Early October

Animas River Gorge. Amimas River Gorge near Durango, CO. Division of Wildlife.Pete Walker, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Date taken: 5/3/2004.

The Solution for Salt in Our Rivers? - 9 million tons: that's how much salt is carried in the Colorado River by the time it flows through the Hoover Dam. 800,000 tons comes from the Lower Gunnison Basin. This article in High Country News explores what irrigators in Western Colorado are doing to keep salt out of our water. 

Colorado River Water Conservation District's ever-popular, one-day annual water seminar was attended by nearly 240, and, broadcast live via our Facebook page. Themed “Points of No Return,” the 2017 seminar highlighted some of the toughest issues facing the Colorado River and the more than 40 million people who rely on its water. The seminar’s program featured presentations and panel discussions with a variety of water experts focusing on agriculture and irrigation issues, Upper and Lower Basin drought contingency planning, collaborative conservation efforts, and more.The Colorado River District’s Annual Water Seminar was held on Friday, September 15th in Grand Junction, Colorado and was attended by record-breaking numbers. For those unable to attend in person or via live feed, or those wanting to relive the awesome experience - please visit our seminar webpage to access the presentations or view the footage of the entire seminar.

The River Rally team invites proposals for workshops, due October 1, 2017, that relate to one or more of the following themes: Reconnecting to Rivers Through Restoration and Recreation; Mobilizing for Change Through Policy, Advocacy, and Civic Engagement; Making Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity Real; Expanding Impact Through Science, Technology, and Monitoring, or; Sustaining Strong Leaders, Organizations and Coalitions. Click HERE for all pertinent details.

The NHWC is requesting articles that focus on practices, technologies and tools used to gather and disseminate real-time hydro-meteorological data. Please consider writing an article that highlights how your organization collects and disseminates real-time data.  Article submission deadline Friday, October 6th, 2017 to be considered for inclusion in the October newsletter. Below is the article focus schedule for the next four months:

Oct   -   Data Collection
Nov -  Hydrology

Dec  -   Hazard Communication & Public Awareness
Jan   -  Modeling/Analysis

Complete requirements and additional information can be found HERE.

Southern Rockies Fire Science Network announced their new four-part video series "Bridging The Divide" which explores the challenges and triumphs involved with the 2013 West Fork Fire Complex in southern Colorado. This 109,000-acre fire had unique impacts on the Rio Grande river watershed, two national forests, and related mountain communities. Each short is a compilation of post-fire interviews, workshops, and research presentations, highlighting the special conditions of the fire and the unique community outcomes. Through science, collaboration and partnerships these mountain communities are learning to live with fire in the landscape.

Part 1 (5:38):  Bridging the Divide – The 2013 West Fork Fire Complex
Part 2 (2:58): Values and Risks
Part 3 (3:08): Forest Management
Part 4 (3:21): The Future of Our Forests

The CDPHE is launching the 2018 Nonpoint Source Funding Cycle. This process begins with the development of a concept or idea focused on water quality problems or protection opportunities associated with nonpoint sources of pollution. This concept will be developed into a full proposal later in the process. For those project sponsors interested in receiving feedback on a NPS project idea, the NPS Program requests submittal of a concept paper. This is not a mandatory step in the funding process but we strongly suggest that you take advantage of this opportunity because it will help you develop a proposal that is better aligned with the Nonpoint Source program priorities and has a stronger possibility of securing funds. The concept paper submittal deadline is October 23, 2017 and feedback on the ideas shared through concept papers will be provided on October 30, 2017 during a telephone conference in the morning (more details to follow). For guidance in developing your concept paper, please go to https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/nonpoint-source-funding-opportunities, or see the attached files. Once you have developed the project concept paper, please submit it to: cdphe_wqcd_nonpointsource+managers@state.co.us .

Do you have great ideas, research, or Environmental Education strategies to share? Help elevate EE by presenting at the annual Advancing Environmental Education Conference, "emPowered by Nature", Friday, March 2nd -Saturday, March 3rd, 2018at the Auraria Campus in Denver. The conference offers a variety of sessions, inspiring speakers, and many opportunities for networking and discovering new ideas, tools and techniques. Proposals are due October 31st, 2017.

The Center for Collaborative Conservation (CCC) invites team applications for the 9th cohort of Collaborative Conservation Fellows. This cohort will join 134 previous fellows as part of a worldwide network of collaborative conservation. The Collaborative Conservation Fellows Program supports faculty, researchers, students, and practitioners using collaborative approaches to conservation and livelihood challenges. For this cohort, they are looking for teams, comprised of practitioners, faculty, and students.  The fellowships will run for a full two years, from January 15, 2018 - January 15, 2020. Please visit their WEBSITE to read the RFP, learn more about the program, and submit your proposal.  Applications will be accepted until November 1, 2017. 

Taking a Walk Through Deep Time. A new app called Deep Time Walk attempts to remind us of our common evolutionary history with all life through the combination of an audio book and physical walk. The walk is 4.6 kilometers, representing 4,600 million years of the Earth’s history. This unfolding takes you from 4,600,000,000 years ago (4,600 Million Years Ago) to the present day, with each metre walked representing 1 million years. During the walk between a fool and a scientist you learn from the latest scientific evidence about how our planet evolved over this vast stretch of geological time, including the accretion of the Earth from a disc of rocky debris, the formation of the oceans and atmosphere, the appearance of first life - bacteria, then the first nucleated cells and multicellular organisms.