Funding Opportunities Early February

Roaring Fork River thru Burry Easement. Roaring Fork River thru Burry Easement. Division of Wildlife. DOW. Photo taken: 9/1/2004.

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.

Colorado Water Quality Control Division is now accepting applications for watershed implementation projects that address water quality impairments caused by nonpoint sources of selenium, sediment, pathogens and/or nutrients OR protect waterbodies from further degradation caused by nonpoint source pollution. Applications must be submitted by February 5th. For the application and reference materials click HERE.

Colorado's Water Plan Grant Opportunities: 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. All applications will be assessed based on funds available for a particular CWP Measurable Objective category. The Board will select projects, programs and activities to fund from applications that have the best opportunity to make progress on the CWP’s Measurable Objectives or critical actions. The CWCB staff reserves the right to negotiate with successful applicants to modify the scope and budget of their project to better meet the CWP objectives in light of fund availability. CWCB staff will evaluate applications and recommend projects to the CWCB Board for final approval at its regularly scheduled Board meetings. Learn more HERE.

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 United 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. Natural Resource Conservation Service 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 February

Sunset at Pueblo Reservoir. Fishermen in a trolling boat at sunset in Pueblo Reservoir. Photo by Holger Jensen. Division of Wildlife. Holger Jensen. Photo taken: 8/21/2003.

FEBRUARY 8th-9th, 2018: The Setting Watershed-Scale Priorities in Riparian Restoration Workshop will be held at CMU University Center, Grand Junction, CO. Decades of restoration efforts in the Colorado River basin have had varying success. With conservation dollars stretched thin, increasing regional temperature and variability in rainfall, and increasing demands on surface water, it is important to prioritize where to pursue restoration and what to do.  They will review restoration strategies and techniques being pursued in the Colorado River basin, and obtain participant feedback on restoration goals, strategies, and techniques. They will introduce decision-support tools useful in the implementation of analytical prioritization strategies in order to refine prioritization tools that help workshop participants increase their effectiveness. This workshop is organized by the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University and hosted by the Hutchins Water Center. For more information and to register, click HERE.

FEBRUARY 13th, 2018: Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) is hosting a webinar from 3:00-3:45 p.m. to learn about proposed changes to GOCO policies. Topics pertain to how GOCO categorizes its grant expenditures and how the organization defines ‘substantially equal’ spending across its four constitutionally mandated purposes. Find more information HERE.

FEBRUARY 13th, 20th, and 27th, 2018: The Hutchins Water Center at Colorado Mesa University invites you to participate in the 2018 Water Course, which will cover Hydrology and Water Law in Colorado; Preparing for a Drier Future; and Grand Valley Initiatives to Improve Habitat and River Access. Click HERE to learn more and register.

FEBRUARY 20th, 2018: Join EPA's Storm Water Management Model (SWMM). Train to use this system. SWMM is a dynamic hydrology-hydraulic water quality simulation model. It is used for single event or long-term (continuous) simulation of runoff quantity and quality from primarily urban areas. The runoff component operates on a collection of sub-catchment areas that receive precipitation and generate runoff and pollutant loads. The routing portion transports this runoff through a system of pipes, channels, storage/treatment devices, pumps, and regulators. SWMM tracks the quantity and quality of runoff made within each sub-catchment. It tracks the flow rate, flow depth, and quality of water in each pipe and channel during a simulation period made up of multiple time steps. SWMM 5 has been extended to model the hydrologic performance of specific types of low impact development (LID) controls. This training is FREE! Find more information and registration access HERE.

FEBRUARY 20th-21st, 2018: Irrigation Association: Principles of Irrigation Landscape. Master fundamental theory and application principles for turf and landscape in this intensive session for experienced irrigators (taught in Imperial units). Two full days in Berthoud, CO covers soil-waterplant relationships, advanced hydraulics, electricity, pumps, specialty valves and irrigation equipment. Learn more HERE .

FEBRUARY 22nd, 2018: Irrigation Association: Landscape Water Management & Planning. Learn how to create water budgets, develop irrigation schedules, document water usage and plan for periods of drought. This full-day class will help attendees maximize the benefits of smart technology and work effectively with water providers. Find more information HERE.

FEBRUARY 28th- MARCH 2nd, 2018: Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado is hosting a Community-Based Collaborative Conservation Workshop. Objectives include: Understand existing resources, identify barriers to participation, identify new resources and opportunities, develop and prioritize strategies to address these, seek agreement on the most effective and efficient way to connect CBCC practitioners, and unify these understandings into an action plan. To read more about this workshop, click HERE.

MARCH 1st-2nd, 2018: National Stormwater Center is offering their Certified Stormwater Inspector (municipal) training in Municipal Denver, CO. Designed specifically for MS4 personnel, this course focuses on stormwater permit compliance as the key to restore and maintain the waters of the United States. Testing will be conducted. Graduates of the Certified Stormwater Inspector course receive certification for 5 years and continuing education units, and ongoing, unlimited support of the National Stormwater Center.  All of their instructors have stormwater enforcement experience at the Federal or State level. Students are expected to achieve a minimum overall score of 75% to be awarded 1.2 CEUs (Continuing Education Units) from National Stormwater Center, and a five (5) year CSI™ Inspector Certificate. This certification indicates that the services are being performed by professionals who have completed the stormwater inspector certification requirements and have met established standards of knowledge, experience, and competence required in the field of stormwater inspections. Learn more and register HERE. 

MARCH 29th, 2018: Water Education Colorado invites you to the 2018 Climate and Colorado's Water Future Workshop in Lakewood, Colorado. Curious about how Colorado's climate impacts the management our water? In Colorado we always hear about snowpack, river levels, and weather changing on a daily basis, but how does it all connect and what does the future of our water resources look like with a variable climate? This workshop will explore the potential impacts of climate change on Colorado's water future and explore how we can meet our demands for water—agricultural, household and business use, plus environmental and recreational benefits—and still deliver water downstream to satisfy interstate agreements. Participants will walk away with a comprehensive look at the relationship between our water resources and the climate and get a unique opportunity to tour the National Ice Core Laboratory! Find more information HERE.

MARCH 29th, 2018: Urban Watersheds Research Institute presents: Regional Statistical Hydrology and Flood Prediction training. BIG DATA and its use is the new wave sweeping much of current technology and appears to be the direction in which much of hydrologic analysis is being done and will increase in application over time.  This class will bring to you the cutting-edge information in how to use the data available from public agencies (mostly USGS) to conduct hydrologic analysis, if for no other reason than to calibrate distributed rainfall-runoff models such as SWMM, HEC-MHS, etc. You will be eligible to receive 1.5 CEU's or 15 PDH's. You will receive 12 ASFPM Core CEC’s for CFM certification. Find everything you need to know 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.

APRIL 24th-26th, 2018: Join FLOW 2018, Managing Rivers, Reservoirs, and Lakes in the Face of Drought in Fort Collins, CO.There is a limit to the number of attendees that can be accommodated, so don’t miss your chance to join this international gathering of instream flow specialists, practioners, water managers, and scientists to learn practical tools and strategies for sustaining and protecting ecological values of water during droughts and periods of water shortage. There are still openings to present a poster describing strategies and tools that conjunctively maintain the viability of rivers, reservoirs, and lakes associated with mitigating drought. The poster abstract submission deadline has been EXTENDED to March 1, 2018! Applicants will be notified of poster acceptance as soon as possible following submission. Only 28 posters can be accommodated, so act soon. Visit HERE to learn more about abstract submission and poster format guidelines. Access the program HERE; register; book hotel rooms HERE.

MAY 14th-18th, 2018: Larimer County is holding the annual Ranger Excellence School. Early registration is now available.  Please go to our website listed below to find out more information and register your staff early.  It will be held at the Budweiser Event Center in Loveland, Colorado. This year They are offering courses in Ranger Leadership, Wildlife Encounters, Scene size up, low angel rescue training,  OC/Pepper Spray Certification, Baton Certification, Medical, Driving, and Self Defense , just to name a few.  They will also have demonstrations on e bikes, Wildlife K9s, Drones, and a Helicopter Evacuation demonstration. This is a dynamic and hands on training in all the areas a park ranger needs to be an effective asset to their agencies.  This is open to not only rangers but all other staff in Natural Resources that are interested.  More information can be found HERE.

JUNE 4th-7th, 2018: COMMUNITY-BASED SOCIAL MARKETING WORKSHOPS with Doug McKenzie-Mohr, Ph.D. This two-day workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to community-based social marketing and how it is being applied throughout the world to foster behaviors that protect the environment and promote health and safety. Those who attend the workshop will learn the five steps of community-based social marketing (selecting behaviors, identifying barriers, developing strategies, conducting pilots, and broad scale implementation) and be exposed to numerous case studies illustrating its use. Explore this more and register HERE.

JULY 9th-12th and 16th-19th, 2018: Mountain Studies Institute (MSI) accepts high school students rising to 11 or 12th grades, or recent high school graduates (with occasional exceptions for younger students). Students from San Miguel, Ouray, Dolores, San Juan, La Plata, Archuleta, and Montezuma counties are invited to apply. Join the San Juans' most immersive and engaging mountain science program!  During the two week, rigorous field course program, students explore topics and careers in the sciences and natural resources by day, and camp and explore in the evenings. During the program, interns gain hands-on experience contributing to real-world environmental science projects. Students work side-by-side with a small group of other interns from across the San Juan Mountains. The program is led by mentors from MSI and more than 20 local science professionals.  Students interact with natural resource managers and researchers in the field to learn about ecology, geology, hydrology, wildlife, and forestry. They will dive into topics such as air and water quality, climate change, mine reclamation, fen restoration, and forest health. Find more information HERE!

Job Announcements Early February

Treat/Ogden SWA is in Fremont county located in the southeast region of Colorado. It includes coldwater fishing on the Arkansas River and wildlife viewing. Division of Wildlife. Michael Seraphin, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Photo taken: 7/5/2001

Wildlands Restoration Volunteers seeks a full-time, seasonal Youth and Stewardship Projects Coordinator who is passionate about empowering youth and WRV’s mission. The Youth and Stewardship Projects Coordinator will help WRV reach our goal of inspiring the next generation of land stewards. Through our Youth Program we partner with diverse local groups to provide education, leadership training, and restoration programs, connecting youth with environmental education, community engagement and volunteerism. Applications will be reviewed starting January 15th and will continue to be reviewed until the position is filled. Read more HERE.

Steamboat Lake State Park is currently accepting applications for their seasonal positions. Current positions include: Aquatic Nuisance Species Inspectors, Maintenance Technicians, Vegetation Management Technician, Visitor Center Attendant and Limited Commission Park Rangers. Hourly pay varies and housing is available. Find the varied options HERE.

Colorado Natural Heritage Program seeks seasonal BLM Aquatic AIM Monitoring Lead and Field Technicians; 3 Lead Technicians and 6 Field Technicians to be exact. In partnership with the Utah Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) is seeking experienced field technicians to collect stream monitoring data through BLM’s aquatic Assessment, Inventory and Monitoring (AIM) initiative. Successful applicants will be trained in aquatic AIM sampling protocols by the National Aquatic Monitoring Center of Utah State University and will sample stream habitat for wadeable rivers and streams on BLM lands throughout Utah. All Technicians must be available for the two-week training starting May 14, 2018. Three field teams of three technicians each (1 Lead Technician and 2 Field Technicians) will be hired. Each team will be stationed in a separate BLM Field Office: one each in Salt Lake City, Vernal, and Moab, Utah. The teams will work closely with Utah BLM Aquatic Biologists and other BLM staff within the Field Offices. Crews will spend 4–8 days in a row in the field, often camping away from the Field Office location. Data collection will include water quality sampling, stream habitat data, and benthic macro invertebrates. First consideration of applicants will begin February 15, 2018. Applications will continue to be accepted until all positions are filled or until April 30, 2018, whichever comes first. Applicants for the Lead Technician Position are encouraged to apply early. Read more and apply HERE.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has three open seasonal positions in Denver: 

• Angler Education Assistant: Feb. 12th through Oct. 31st, 2018. Duties include: Teaching fishing clinics and other fishing-related events; Working with schools and other community groups to schedule fishing clinics; Working with volunteers; Maintaining equipment. Click HERE for more.
• Schools and Outdoor Learning Environments Intern: March 1st-Nov. 30th, 2018. The SOLE Intern will be responsible for: Participating in field trip experiences as a staff photographer and blog contributor; Participating in the delivery of education programming at Family Nature Nights, other family events, and assist with programming in the classroom; Assisting SOLE staff in all aspects of program implementation. Find more information HERE.
• Resource Stewardship Program Technician: This position’s responsibilities will primarily include citizen science program management, biological research, and GIS technician work. This will include field work using ArcCollector tablet computer mapping, as well as assistance with the preparation of resource management plans, GIS map production, data management, biological research, threatened & endangered species analysis, production of biological training & education materials, program planning, site visits, volunteer management, and administrative duties. Find more HERE.

The City of Golden is looking to hire a Senior Maintenance Worker in the Forestry Department. Under supervision, provides support to all aspects of forestry operations. This includes but is not limited to grounds maintenance, landscape construction, tree planting and trimming, equipment operation, "right of way" maintenance and special event support. Spring and Summer season will work 4 ten hour days. Fall and Winter season will work 5 eight hour days. May require some evenings and weekends. Application deadline is by the end of February 11th, 2018. Find more details and apply HERE.

The City of Louisville is excited to be growing their Ranger team!   The Ranger Naturalist position is full time, permanent, and includes benefits. The City of Louisville Ranger provides visitor services, protects natural resources, ensures safety and enhances the visitor experience through enforcement, education, maintenance and medical service. Duties are performed independently in the field and require quick decisions made using fair and impartial judgment, discretion, and diplomacy. Under general supervision of the Open Space Manager, the Ranger Naturalist works alongside division staff and acts as an ambassador in carrying out the objectives of the Parks & Recreation Department as identified in the Master Plan. Duties are performed on foot, bicycle and vehicle patrol to protect citizens, natural resources and disseminate information on local rules and regulations and may result in the issuance of a citation. The Ranger Naturalist duties may also include: providing first aid/CPR, assisting with City sponsored volunteer activities and outreach projects, providing trail maintenance, assisting with snow removal, conducting visitor use surveys, assisting with GIS mapping, and other duties as assigned. Applications are due by the end of February 11, 2018. Click HERE for more details.

A variety of jobs are currently available in the City of Aurora including but not limited to Water and Environment. Click HERE to find out more.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and the Colorado Natural Areas Program (CNAP) is hiring a temporary Natural Areas field technician position. Applicant must have a background in ecology, botany, or another related biological science and have experience with biological field surveys. Much of this work will be conducted independently in remote locations around Colorado; applicant must be a self-starter and able to work in sometimes harsh conditions. Experience with MS Office products, ArcGIS, and GPS products (preferably Trimble), is required; experience with Collector for ArcGIS is preferred. Applicant should have strong organizational, written and oral communication skills. The applicant should be physically fit, willing to hike and camp, and have his or her own camping equipment.  Application deadline is February 13th, 2018. Click HERE for more.

AloTerra Restoration Services is hiring for two positions: 

• Restoration Projects Foreman to provide project and crew supervision, technical interpretation of design plans, and other field and office duties for a wide range of ecological restoration projects (i.e., river and riparian restoration, wetland mitigation, upland restoration, erosion control) for Federal, State, local, and private clients.   Application deadline is February 14th, 2018. Find out more HERE.
• Restoration Crew Members to provide ecological restoration services for a wide range of projects (i.e., river and riparian restoration, wetland mitigation, upland restoration, erosion control, etc.) for a diverse range of Federal, State, and local clients throughout Colorado. Our professional restoration crew offers a great experience to apply your natural resources skills in a way that restores landscapes in the Rocky Mountains, and also an opportunity to develop advanced restoration skills through a great variety of projects. This job requires daily physical labor in a fastpaced environment, including seeding, installing container stock, harvesting and installing willow cuttings, moving and placing rock, building site protection fences, and more. Ecological restoration is multi-disciplinary, attracting successful candidates from a variety of backgrounds. Application deadline is February 15th, 2018. Find out more HERE.

The Colorado Water Quality Control Commission consists of nine members with staggered 3-year
terms. Commission members are appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the
Colorado Senate. Anyone interested in applying to be a member of the Water Quality Control Commission should submit an application and resume at your earliest convenience, but at least by February 15, 2018, to the Governor’s Office of Boards and Commissions. Read more HERE.

Metro Denver Nature Alliance (Metro DNA) is seeking an Alliance Director to guide a growing
coalition of non-profit, government, research, and private sector partners working to achieve its mission
to enhance the alignment and impact of nature-based efforts to ensure more equitable access to nature
and healthier people, communities, and nature. Working closely with the Metro DNA Steering
Committee and standing committees, the Alliance Director will oversee the successful execution of
Metro DNA’s core roles as facilitator, champion, and capacity builder, as well as its Three-Year Business
Plan. The Alliance Director will facilitate and support partner collaborations and projects, cultivate and
manage relationships with partner organizations and individuals, oversee Metro DNA operations, and
help to co-create and implement strategic decisions. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to
develop partnerships with diverse organizations, build organizational capacity, and promote more
inclusive, equity-driven nature-based efforts. Applications should be submitted by February 16th, 2018. Click HERE for full details and application.

The Colorado Water Trust is seeking a full-time Water Resources Engineer to provide water resources engineering and technical support for its work in the three program areas to restore streamflow to Colorado’s rivers. S/he will work in a team environment under the direction of the Program’s Director. The ideal candidate will share our passion for Western water and healthy rivers and is comfortable with the Water Trust’s highly collaborative approach to flow restoration; in our world, everyone is welcome. Applications will be accepted until Friday, February 16, 2018 at 5:00pm (MST). Read more and apply HERE.

City of Denver’s Parks & Recreation Department is now accepting applications for a Campground Attendants to work at the Chief Hosa Campground for the 2018 camping season! There are 4 vacant Campground Attendant positions.  The Campground Attendant positions will work primarily in the service booth at the Chief Hosa Campground in an administrative and guest relations capacity.  These positions will be responsible for proper intake and checkout of guests within the campground and will work closely with Denver Mountain Parks operations staff and Park Rangers to ensure that guests are aware of and adhere to all campground rules and policies. Application deadline is at the end of February 28th, 2018. Click HERE for more details.

Estes Valley Land Trust is seeking a Stewardship Intern. The Estes Valley Land Trust holds more than 160 conservation easements that preserve nearly 10,000 acres of land. The Stewardship Intern’s primary responsibility is to ensure each conservation easement is monitored in 2018. This includes coordinating monitoring visits with volunteers, collecting completed reports and digital files and updating natural resource reports. Click HERE for more about Estes Valley Land Trust, and HERE for details and information on the job and application. Application deadline is March 2nd, 2018.

The Conservation Center is excited to start looking for their next Healthy Forests Initiative AmeriCorps VISTA. In late March, the new VISTA will join their team! The Healthy Forests Initiative VISTA can expect to:

• Team up with The Nature Connection and GOCO Inspire in strengthening and building the Youth Outdoor Network, which is a group that creates pathways to natural resource careers for local high schoolers;
• Get their hands dirty on trail stewardship days with the Paonia Ranger District of the US Forest Service;
• Get kids outside with Conservation Days and Every Kid in a Park; 
• Lead community outreach event planning, like the Mountainfilm World Tour and the Float Fest;
• Build partnerships with public lands agencies; 
• And work in a dog-friendly office with Juniper, Jude, and sometimes Luna!

If this sounds like your cup of tea, you can apply here and find application instructions here. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until filled.  Applications will be accepted through March 26th, 2018.

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) seeks two full-time Seasonal Project Managers to work closely with the VOC project team to provide professional project management, logistical support, and volunteer leadership coordination on VOC volunteer projects both administratively and in the field. This Seasonal Project Manager is a full-time, term-limited, non-exempt position that reports to VOC’s Senior Projects and Trainings Manager. This position works within the VOC program team and closely with two other project managers to provide professional project management, logistical support and volunteer leadership coordination on VOC volunteer projects administratively and in the field. Learn more and apply HERE.

Little Thompson Water District is seeking a Water Resources/Engineering Technician. Under supervision of the District Engineer, the Water Resources/Engineering Technician performs a variety of support functions in water resources, engineering, and geographic information systems. Read more and apply HERE.

Pawnee Buttes Seed, Inc. specialists in seed for pasture, reclamation, turf, and conservation for over 20
years is seeking applications for the position of Marketing/Advertising Coordinator. Duties include:

• Develop and execute seasonal advertising campaigns
• Design and write print, radio and digital advertisements
• Coordinate and implement organization’s social media strategy
• Maintain and update marketing and advertising budget as needed
• Create and update all email marketing including monthly e-newsletter, event emails and other
• marketing emails
• Maintain all promotional materials
• Assist with planning and coordination for special events/activities

Find application information HERE.

Mountain Park Environmental Center seeks a Development Director responsible for planning, organizing, and directing annual fundraising including the annual campaign, direct mail solicitations, special events, and the full life cycle of foundation and trust grants.  The Development Director works closely with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors in all fund-raising endeavors. This position is a full-time, salaried position. Salary is competitive and based on experience. More information and application can be found HERE.

The Middle Colorado Watershed Council is hiring a part-time, contract Community Outreach Coordinator.  The non-profit, based out of Rifle, CO, consists of a broad partnership of interested individuals and entities living and working in the watershed that provide leadership in watershed planning, management, and stewardship.  The Community Outreach and Education Coordinator position is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to help implement elements of the 2016 Watershed Plan.  Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. More information on this position and how to apply can be found HERE.

The City of Longmont is seeking a Temporary Sustainability Coordinator. Under the direction of the Environmental Services Manager, plan, organize and coordinate the City’s implementation of sustainability concepts and methods. Areas of focus include environmental quality, energy and water conservation, renewable energy, green building, low impact development, recycling and reuse, pollution prevention, economic vitality and community well-being.  The position requires coordination with and providing direction to administrative, professional, and technical positions in various City departments. This position will be open until filled. HERE is more information.

Eagle Valley Land Trust (EVLT) is hiring a Communications and Fundraising Coordinator. The mission of the EVLT is to protect forever the lands we love, to preserve our heritage, scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitats, and to build a permanent legacy for future generations. General Job Description: Reporting to the Executive Director, the Coordinator drafts and conveys all communications and coordinates several fundraising activities of the organization. The Coordinator will take on increased public relations responsibility over time. Since EVLT is a small organization, all employees are expected to work together as a team and shall be responsible for administrative tasks necessary for the day-to-day business of the land trust. The position will be open until filled. Click  HERE to learn more.

Conferences and Events Early February

A cow moose stands in water near Slumgullion Pass in southern Colorado. Division of Wildlife. Dyann Walt. Photo taken: 7/1/2009.

FEBRUARY 2nd, 2018: Raptors of the River day camp hosted by SPREE.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. 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!

FEBRUARY 2nd, 2018: Poudre River Forum: The Poudre Runs Through It. Registration includes the full day's program, as well as breakfast, lunch, and a social hour with opportunities to win Poudre prizes. THIS YEAR'S TOPICS INCLUDE but are not limited to: As the Poudre Flows—a set of provocative, dialogue-stimulating “lightning talks” from a range of speakers with contrasting views about what can improve and what can damage Poudre flows; Can we Grow Water Smart?—late breaking alternative scenarios from the evolving Colorado Water Plan, and regional insights on integration of land use planning with water supply planning; How are Poudre Farmers Improving Water Quality through Air Quality Monitoring? Click HERE to learn more and register.

FEBRUARY 6th-8th, 2018: Riparian Restoration Conference at the CMU University Center, Grand Junction, CO. This conference is organized by the Tamarisk Coalition and hosted by the Hutchins Water Center. Along with taking in the breathtaking red rock scenery and outdoor adventure that Grand Junction has to offer, you'll network with your peers and learn about the latest advancements in riparian restoration, ranging from local to regional initiatives as highlighted in case studies and success stories addressing the challenges of restoration, funding, planning, monitoring, and implementation. Novel tools, techniques, and research will be also be discussed. More information and registration can be found HERE.

FEBRUARY 13th, 20th, and 27th, 2018: Annual Water Course held at CMU University Center, Grand Junction, CO. This course is open to the public and provides an overview of water law and hydrology in Colorado and the Colorado River Basin as well as current issues and ways to get involved. Refreshments are provided. Cost: $20/ session or $45 for the whole series. More details to come. To see original posting of this event, click HERE.

Deadlines starting FEBRUARY 9th, 2018: The Trout Tank H20: Pitch Accelerator kicks off with Initial Pitches where participants present their best five-minute pitch to their peers and a committee for feedback. Once participants have completed the initial pitch, the training begins. During the Trout Tank H20: Pitch Accelerator, the Denver Metro SBDC and its partners will provide a Funding Options Panel, a special Trout Tank version of the Rockies Venture Club Pitch Academy, and a Funding Request Preview. Additional sessions related to water are under development. This training is meant to hone and strengthen participants pitches and prepare them for the Final Auditions as well as provide opportunities to strengthen your business. At the Final Auditions, each participant will get to show what they have learned and pitch one last time for a panel of judges. The top pitches will be chosen to present at the Trout Tank H2O: Pitch Event and compete for the $5,000 award!

• Registration deadline – February 9, 2018
• Initial Pitches – February 15, 2018
• Funding Options Panel – March 1, 2018
• Trout Tank H2O edition of Rockies Venture Club Pitch Academy – March 15, 2018
• Pitch at Final Auditions – March 29, 2018 
• Pitch or attend the Trout Tank H2O: Final Pitch Event – April 19, 2018 

Click HERE for more information and to register.

FEBRUARY 16th, 2018: Water Education Colorado invites you to the 2018 Water Festival Coordinator Gathering. This annual gathering brings together water festival coordinators across the state to discover strategies to improve their events. It's also an opportunity to share best practices, challenges, and lessons learned. Spend the day collaborating with experienced water festival coordinators and learning from one another. Topics will include best planning practices, innovative tools to improve your water festival, volunteer management, and more. This year, the gathering will also feature a special session dedicated to evaluating the long-term effectiveness of water festivals. Hear from an evaluation expert who will help you develop indicators to measure the success of your event as well as the impact of your water festival over time. More information can be 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.

MARCH 9th, 2018: Snow to Stream: A Workshop and SNOTEL Field Trip in Carbondale, Colorado.In Colorado, snow is more than a type of weather; it's a way of life. What might be less apparent is what snowpack means in terms water, soil moisture, and forest health, and how climate variability is impacting it all. Join Water Education Colorado and Roaring Fork Conservancy for this day-long workshop and field trip exploring the nexus between climate, snow, and water!  This workshop and field trip will be geared toward educators, but is open to the public and will be interesting for anyone wishing to learn more about these topics. The afternoon will feature a unique opportunity to visit a SNOTEL site at the top of McClure Pass! Participants will learn how to conduct a snow course survey and will then have the opportunity to collect samples themselves. They'll finish the day by snowshoeing to the actual SNOTEL site. Participants will walk away with the knowledge and resources to educate others about snow science, climate, forest health and more. Learn more and register HERE.

The Center for Watershed Protection presents Watershed and Stormwater Webcast Series:

• Stream and BMP Monitoring- March 21, 2018, 1-2:30 PM EST
• Bioretention Design Modifications- May 16, 2018, 1-2:30 PM EST
• Retrofitting the Urban Environment: What’s New?- June 20, 2018, 1-2:30 PM EST
• Stormwater and Green Infrastructure for Combined Sewer Systems- September 12, 2018, 1-2:30 PM EST
• Innovations in Stream Restoration Design and Construction- October 10, 2018, 1-2:30 PM ES
• It Ain’t Easy Getting Green: Incentivizing Watershed Programs- November 14, 2018, 1-2:30 PM EST

Find pricing information and registration HERE.

APRIL 10th, 2018: Join the Center for Watershed Protection's 2018 National Conference to learn fresh ideas about watershed and stormwater funding and management. Today’s water quality experts not only have to overcome pollution, but also a world of uncertain federal funding and regulatory oversight. To restore our waterways, identifying innovative financing strategies and management solutions is more important than ever before. This conference will help practitioners, regulators, water and sewer authorities and stormwater managers overcome common hurdles — from staff shortages and a lack of financial support to addressing multiple pollutant sources in mixed land use watersheds. Register online or attend at one of their in-person hub locations. Spots are limited. Find more information and register HERE.

APRIL 18th, 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.

APRIL 29th-May 1st, 2018: The 2nd annual Next Generation Water Summit. The Summit focuses on water conservation and water reuse in the arid Southwest.  It brings together builders, designers, architects and water professionals to share best practices and brainstorm new ones through charrettes. In 2018, their featured keynote speaker will be Jonathan Overpeck. Overpeck’s visionary work has been at the forefront of the heated climate change public debates and identifying the risks to managing water resources, providing valuable insights into past climate variability and change in the Southwest. He will present on the Climate Change forecasted impact to the Colorado River flows. There are over 40 unique sessions planned with speakers from AZ, CA, CO, NM, TX. On the morning of May 1, they will hold two charrettes, where they will have multiple stakeholders dive into a challenging topic. These charrettes will have very limited seating, so sign up today! Learn more and register HERE.

MAY 2nd-4th, 2018: San Juan Mining and Reclamation Conference - Planning for Resiliency will be held in Creede, Colorado. The format of this conference encourages discussions of how the mining and reclamation community can plan for potential disasters and invites bold and frank conversations about topics that have challenged you, may be considered taboo, or can be uncomfortable to share. Topic examples include, but are not limited to: Longevity of mines; Lifetime of watershed groups; Risk assessment, tolerance, and mitigation; Effectively communicating risk; Fiduciary responsibility and abandoned mines (Good Samaritan Law); Scenario planning; Adaptive management; Environmental justice; New regulations and their impact; Planning for natural disasters and severe weather events; Changes in relationships, partners and stakeholders. Contact UWPcommunications@gmail.com or call 970-325-3010 for more information.

MAY 9th-11th, 2018: Advancing Colorado by Investing in the Outdoors Workshop. The Partners in the Outdoors Conference brings together organizations, agencies, schools, businesses and communities engaged in the future of Colorado's conservation and outdoor recreational opportunities. Together, we can improve the quality of life for all Coloradans by promoting awareness and respect for natural resources, sustainable growth of businesses, and responsible hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Learn more HERE.

MAY 29th-June 1st, 2018: The Society of Wetland Scientists’ 2018 Annual Meeting will be held at the Hilton Denver City Center in Denver, Colorado. This unique meeting is themed “Wetland Science: Integrating Research, Practice, and Policy – An Exchange of Expertise.” Reserve your spot to network and build professional connections with the highest level of wetland professionals at the 2018 Annual Meeting. Simply complete and return the Exhibitor Agreement to reserve your booth today! Agreements must be received by April 30, 2018. Click HERE for more information.

NOVEMBER 7th-8th, 2018: 8th Annual Upper Colorado River Basin Water Forum will be held at CMU University Center in Grand Junction, CO. For more, click HERE.

Announcements Early February

Beautiful Sunrise Landscape. Division of Wildlife. David Hannigan.

San Juan Mining and Reclamation Conference - Planning for Resiliency will be held in Creede, Colorado, May 2nd-4th. This is a CALL FOR ABSTRACTS! The format of this conference encourages discussions of how the mining and reclamation community can plan for potential disasters and invites bold and frank conversations about topics that have challenged you, may be considered taboo, or can be uncomfortable to share. Topic examples include, but are not limited to: Longevity of mines; Lifetime of watershed groups; Risk assessment, tolerance, and mitigation; Effectively communicating risk; Fiduciary responsibility and abandoned mines (Good Samaritan Law); Scenario planning; Adaptive management; Environmental justice; New regulations and their impact; Planning for natural disasters and severe weather events; Changes in relationships, partners and stakeholders. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS Deadline: Mar. 3, 2018. Click HERE learn more about the conference, and HERE to find full information, instructions, and process for submitting the abstract.

The Society of Wetland Scientists’ 2018 Annual Meeting will be held at the Hilton Denver City Center in Denver, Colorado, May 29th-June 1st. This unique meeting is themed “Wetland Science: Integrating Research, Practice, and Policy – An Exchange of Expertise.” Reserve your spot to network and build professional connections with the highest level of wetland professionals at the 2018 Annual Meeting. Simply complete and return the Exhibitor Agreement to reserve your booth today! Agreements must be received by April 30, 2018. Click HERE for more information.

WE NEED YOU TO READ TO A CLASSROOM! Colorado Literacy Project brings Colorado Farmers and Ranchers into the classroom to read a book about agriculture to students. Teachers register their classes with CFA to let us know they want a volunteer to visit and read to their students. During March, April and May students and their teachers can learn about food from the Colorado farmers and ranchers who produce it.
• Start to finish, the Literacy Project takes about 45 minutes.
• Literacy volunteers set up times to visit schools.
• Volunteers read to students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
• Following the reading, volunteers do an activity with students and share their
experiences in agriculture.

Read more and sign up HERE!

Colorado State Forest Service: Water trees during winter drought. "Adequately watering your trees is the best way to ensure optimum health and vigor that will carry through to the growing season," Wood said, according to a press release "Overly dry trees become susceptible to root and branch die-back, and subsequent insect and disease problems." Read more HERE.

Mining water: Aurora Water hopes 'innovative' approach will secure more water, address defunct Colorado gold mine issues. Aurora Water officials are pursuing a $125 million purchase of underground water at the London Mine complex as a new water source to sustain the Colorado Front Range development. It may seem odd, given that discharges from that mine have contaminated the watershed for years, but utility officials have a plan. Read the full story HERE.

On Impaired Rivers, Reclaiming Native Habitat One Mile at a Time. From river rafter to restorer, Conservation Corps leader Mike Wight fights to protect western watersheds from invasive species. Read the story HERE.

Otter spotted eating trout at Colorado toxic mine site raises hope for new kind of cleanup. Bio cell treatment ponds at the at the Rico-Argentine mine site each have experimental processes that are helping to clean metal contaminants from the water that flows out of the St. Louis tunnel.  Read more HERE.

The Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership (UWP) completed its first report for the Ouray Hydrodam Sediment Release Study, detailing the water quality impacts of the annual release into the Uncompahgre River. Read the full UWP Reports on Hydrodam Sediment Release Study HERE.

Conserving water when you’re at home is relatively simple. If not simple, it’s fairly predictable. You have a routine, and within that routine, you’re able to find inefficiencies in your water usage. By cutting back in these areas you’re able to save water and do your part to reduce your impact on the environment. But what about when those routines fly out your open car window? There are many more variables thrown into your day. You might not have the same opportunities to save water when you travel, but that doesn’t mean opportunities don’t exist. Click HERE for some great ways to save water when you travel.