Funding Opportunities Late April

View of Arrastra Gulch. Division of Wildlife. Bill Clark, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Photo taken: 5/18/2002.

Colorado Watershed Assembly Request for Proposals for the Colorado Healthy Rivers (HRF) Fund Grant Program. This fund grants money to on-the-ground projects that contribute to cleaner water, healthier wildlife habitat, improved recreation and vibrant local economies throughout our state. The HRF program targets two categories of grants, project grants and planning grants. Project grants support projects that promote the improvement and/or protection of the condition of the watershed. The planning category supports development of a successful watershed restoration or protection project. The goal of the program is the implementation of on-the-ground projects to restore and protect the natural resources within Colorado watersheds. Average grant awards range from $5,000 to $20,000. Interested parties can find grant guideline information, the grant submission format and learn more about the Colorado Healthy Rivers Fund Grant Program by visiting the Colorado Watershed Assembly website at http://www.coloradowater.org/hrf/. The deadline to submit applications is April 30th, 2018.

Grant Funding Available to Help Colorado’s Front Range Address Water Shortage. To help address water supply issues while protecting the environment and water-based recreation, the Colorado Water Conservation Board makes funds available through the Water Supply Reserve Fund (WSRF). These funds are available through competitive grants and the application process begins by applying through Basin Roundtables. The deadline to apply for a WSRF grant through the South Platte Roundtable is May 1, 2018. Go to southplattebasin.com to review the WSRF guidelines and submit your application by May 1, 2018.  You may also email the South Platte Roundtable with your questions at: info@southplattebasin.com.

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'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 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 Late April

Cross vane structures function to maintain deep pool habitat creating holding areas for trout, Rio Grande River, Colo. Division of Wildlife. Matt Kondratieff, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Photo taken: 10/12/2010.

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 18th, 2018: The Central Rockies Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration (CeRSER) will be hosting this Partnership and Leadership in Ecological Restoration Workshop on April 18th at the American Mountaineering Center in Golden that will include opportunities to hear from and network with prominent restoration professionals in the region. Social interaction, collaboration, and leadership are critical skills for practitioners of ecological restoration, yet many professionals lack the necessary training for how to effectively engage with diverse groups of project partners and interested stakeholders.  This workshop will provide training to prepare practitioners, students, and academic researchers to not only participate, but demonstrate high quality leadership skills in complex setting.  Exercises will focus on collaboration tactics for improved collaborative outcomes, negotiation skills for natural resource professionals, and how to be an effective leader in various situations relevant to the application of, research on, and policy regarding ecological restoration.  Throughout the workshop, the emphasis will be on teaching leadership and communication skills so that participants can more effectively engage with ecological restoration partnerships. Click HERE to register!

APRIL 19th, 2018: Colorado Energy Office Webinar: Energy Recovery Hydropower. Learn about Colorado resources and incentives available to help support hydropower project development utilizing existing, pressurized pipelines to produce electricity. Join this FREE introductory webinar to learn more! Find all you need to know 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. Day 1: A daylong training session where you can select 2 of the 4 available training sessions (1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon) on: FERC hydropower licensing, water law concepts for dealing with drought, reducing uncertainty in riverine ecosystems during environmental change, or handling information in water management issues. Days 2 and 3: Presentations by internationally recognized experts providing examples on the use and need of effective laws, policies, science, and public participation to meet water management objectives for rivers, reservoirs, and lakes under drought conditions. Access the program HERE; register HERE; book hotel rooms HERE.

APRIL 26th, 2018: GOT WEEDS? 2018 Purgatoire Watershed Land Management Collaborative Land Management Workshop at Trinidad State Junior College, Trinidad CO, Sullivan Student Center - Pioneer Room from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Noxious Weeds are a serious threat to the economy and environment of Las Animas County. Chances are these silent invaders are lurking on your property, waiting for an opportunity to overtake your land. Join this upcoming workshop focused noxious weed management and land restoration. Who Should Attend:  Any landowner, land manager, or applicator dealing with noxious weeds who wants to improve their land. Find full details HERE. 

APRIL 27th-28th, 2018: Western Regional Rendezvous! Join Trout Unlimited (TU) volunteer leaders from across the West in Keystone, Colorado for enlightening presentations, inspiring dialogue and engaging camaraderie with those who share your dedication to TU and their mission. The TU Western Rendezvous is an occasion to be inspired – by lessons from volunteer leaders, the work of TU staff, and conversations with newfound friends. The event will also be an excellent opportunity to discuss the unique issues facing the region as well as a chance to network and build relationships with fellow TU volunteer leaders. Find more information and register HERE.

MAY 4th-6th, 2018:  Colorado Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (COPARC) Annual Meeting at Lake Pueblo State Park, 640 Pueblo Reservoir Road, Pueblo, CO 81005. Friday - educational workshops on herpetofauna inventory and monitoring; target audience is agencies and consultants, but all welcome. Saturday - general meeting with Keynote speaker Dr. Sean Graham, Social, and Auction. Sunday half-day. Click HERE for more details.

MAY 8th-9th, 2018: Connecting for Conservation is a networking program to encourage partnerships and coordinate collective action across a range of non-profits, agencies, owners and disciplines in the Four Corners. Connecting for Conservation was an idea borne from the realization that many organizations in the Four Corners share conservation goals and interests, but lacks the resources to bring these goals to fruition as singular, isolated efforts. Join this 2018 Workshop by clicking HERE.

MAY 14th-18th, 2018: Larimer County is holding the annual Ranger Excellence School. This 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.

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

• 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.

WATER EDUCATION COLORADO'S WATER FLUENCY PROGRAM

A professional development course for non-water professionals. Learn the language of water and develop tools for navigating water management and policy issues so you can lead with confidence. Water is critical for every aspect of community vibrancy, from industry to commerce to agriculture, tourism, health, and the environment—but it isn't always clear how policy and management decisions around water trickle down to affect other sectors or vice versa. This comprehensive program will help you make those connections. Four in-person classroom days; water-focused site visits; and online discussions and homework between classroom days. The scheduled program dates are: 

• May 22 and 23 in Pueblo
• June 22 in Colorado Springs
• July 20 in Fountain

The topics will include:

• Colorado's water resources (the role of water in society, the economic value of water, ties to public policy, emerging issues)
• Legal and institutional frameworks (water law and administration, project planning and approval, interbasin projects and agreements)
• Water resource management (watershed health, environmental protection, water quality, natural disasters)
• Colorado water for the future (assessing supply and meeting demand, ecosystem values, conservation and land use, alignment of resources and policies)

The class will be capped at 35 people to ensure a quality experience. Find out more HERE, and register HERE.

MAY 22nd-23rd, 2018: Functional Assessment of Colorado Wetlands training course. CDOT is sponsoring two 2-day training courses on the Functional Assessment of Colorado Wetlands method. The Denver course is full, but the May 22-23 course in Glenwood Springs still has several spots left. Please contact Becky Pierce, CDOT Wetland Program Manager, for more details and/or to register.

JUNE 5th-8th, 2018: The Stream Functions Pyramid Workshop is coming to Fort Collins! This course is for individuals involved in stream assessment and restoration/mitigation projects and provides a framework for assessing stream functions. Participants will learn that stream functions follow a hierarchical structure, which has been organized by the following categories: hydrology, hydraulics, geomorphology, physicochemical and biology. The course starts with lectures and exercises on stream functions following the Pyramid Framework and then moves into applications. Participants will work with function-based parameters, measurement methods, and associated performance standards. Find more information HERE.

JUNE 20th - 21st, 2018: Colorado Section - Society for Range Management Summer Workshop. This workshop will take place on the Jordan Angus Ranch 7 miles east of Briggsdale on June 20 and at Pawnee Buttes Seed Inc. in Greeley on June 21. Jordan Angus Ranch received the 2017 Colorado Section SRM Excellence in Rangeland Conservation award. During the morning of June 20 there will be a workshop for high school agriculture teachers on the Jordan Angus Ranch to learn about range management concepts; discuss how to incorporate these concepts into teaching curricula; and receive basic instruction on FFA rangeland judging and plant ID as a Career Development Exercise. This event  is being organized by Emmett Jordan and will conclude with a sponsored lunch on the ranch. The Colorado Section of the Society for Range Management and Jordan Angus Ranch, together with the West Greeley  Conservation District and Pawnee Buttes Seed Inc., are pleased to provide this training opportunity. For additional information contact the summer  workshop  planning committee: Dan Nosal at 303-218-2632 daniel.nosal@co.usda.gov. For more details click 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 Late April

An elk herd spots the photographer near Buena Vista, CO. Division of Wildlife. David Hannigan. Photo taken: 3/1/2010.

Request for Qualifications for Technical Services to Assist with Integrated Water Management Planning in the Middle Colorado River Watershed: The long-term goal of the Integrated Water Management Plan (IWMP) project is to improve security for all water uses in the planning area by understanding and protecting existing uses, meeting shortages, and maintaining healthy riverine ecosystems in the face of increased future demand and climate uncertainty. The planning and implementation effort will be conducted in a series of phases as stakeholder interest and funding allows. Deadline for Submittals: April 19th, 2018, 5:00 PM. Find more HERE.

The Eagle River Watershed Council is looking for a Habitat Restoration Intern. The Habitat Restoration Intern provides both leadership and support to the restoration projects and
volunteer events of Eagle River Watershed Council. The position works with the Projects and Events
Coordinator on volunteer coordination, invasive plant removal, restoration project implementation,
event planning, data entry and other key administrative duties as needed. Applications due April 20th, 2018. Find all the details and application HERE. 

Ark Ecological Services, a small ecological restoration company, will be hiring a Ecological Technician. They are hoping to fill the position and have the person working by mid to late April. The majority of the on-the-ground work they do includes weed management, re-vegetation, and erosion control for a wide variety of private and governmental clients up and down the Colorado Front Range. Their goal is restore the long-term health of the land with an emphasis on restoring native plant species to open space landscapes where possible and practical, thereby improving the habitat for wildlife. Application will be accepted until mid to late April. Find the full details HERE. 

Fremont County Human Resources seeks a Weed Management Specialist who would provide expertise in Integrated Weed Management (IWM) and serves as a source of communication with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in southern Colorado. Performs seasonal field duties, applying IWM practices, associated with noxious weed management in Fremont and surrounding counties. Prepares daily records, interfaces with a variety of local, state, and regulatory agencies; provides landowner assistance; and may prepare maps and provide input to grant writing and reporting process. Applications due April 23rd, 2018. Find more details HERE.

Mile High Youth Corps is seeking qualified candidates for our Summer of Service Crew Leaders positions. Positions are available in Colorado Springs and Denver. Mile High Youth Corps Crew Leader positions require individuals who are skilled problem-solvers, experienced leaders and positive role models.  A crew is comprised of ten Corps members (18-24 years old) who work together to complete work projects on public lands and in communities. Crew Leaders must possess a strong work ethic, promote high quality work performance in their crew and have a desire to devote themselves to field-based youth development for an entire summer. The position requires both supervisory and technical aptitude, in addition to a high level of comfort in the outdoors. Read more about this HERE.

Highlands Ranch Metro District is looking to fill two positions:

• An experienced, motivated individual to fill a Park Ranger position in the Parks, Recreation and Open Space department. Successful candidate must be a team player and have a strong desire to provide excellent service to our community. Read the rest and find the application HERE. 
• A Forestry Technician I position. Principal duties include; pruning large and small trees using rope and saddle/aerial lift truck; tree planting; integrated pest management; tree removal; hazard tree evaluations; maintaining tree inventories; supervision of temporary staff; snow removal; flexibility to assist other Park and Open Space crews as needed. Applicants must have the ability to work in a strong team environment. Read more HERE.

The Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) is hiring for 1 High Alpine Project Supervisor and 2 Field Instructor positions for the 2018 field season: 

• The High Alpine Project Supervisor works under the supervision of the RMFI Program Manager and in close coordination with the High Alpine Field Instructor. The High Alpine Project Supervisor aids in the planning and implementation of RMFI’s trail, restoration, and education field programs. The High Alpine Project Supervisor will be the primary member of the field staff working the Kit Carson Peak-Challenger Point Trail Improvement Project. This is a multi-year project in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service to reconstruct the summit trail to Kit Carson Peak and Challenger Point in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness. This position requires stays of up to 21 days in the backcountry, completing highly technical trail construction and restoration projects at elevations up to 14,000 feet. RMFI works in partnership with youth corps and college students to complete project objectives. In particular, the High Alpine Project Supervisor will be expected to work in partnership with program staff to run RMFI’s undergraduate field studies course, Earth Corps, as well as providing supervision to youth corps crews from the Southwest Conservation Corps. Specific information about this job can be found HERE. 
• The Field Instructor (FI) works under the supervision of the RMFI Program Manager and in close coordination with the RMFI Field Coordinators. The FI aids in the planning and implementation of RMFI’s trail, restoration, and education field programs. The FI assists program staff in the on-the-ground management of field programs and completion of trail and restoration projects. Primary duties include completing objectives for single and multi-day field projects; instructing volunteers (including school-age children) in trail and restoration techniques; assisting with the oversight of tool, equipment, and food logistics in the field; and assisting with the maintenance of project work logs. The FI works with fellow Field Instructors, Field Coordinators, and senior program staff to ensure quality work standards, the highest degree of safety, and an enjoyable experience for all RMFI program participants.

Find out more above RMFI positions and apply HERE. 

Rocky Mountain Field Institute is hiring for two positions: 

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) is seeking qualified candidates for their Projects and Operations Manager position. The Projects and Operations Manager is a full time, non-exempt position that works within the VOC program team to oversee the operational needs for VOC’s boots on the ground stewardship projects. The position also provides professional project management, logistical support and volunteer leadership coordination on VOC volunteer projects administratively and in the field (including extensive travel around the state), and administrative and development support in the off season. Click HERE for full details.

Eagle Valley Land Trust (EVLT) is hiring an Administrative Coordinator who assists with the day-to-day operations of the office and to support staff and the Board of Directors as directed by the Executive Director. Read all pertinent details HERE.

Conferences and Events Late April

Constructed fish barrier that functions to protect a conservation population of native Colorado River cutthroat trout from unwanted downstream invaders (disease organisms and competitive trout species). Division of Wildlife. Matt Kondratieff, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Photo taken: 6/3/2009.

COLORADO RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION (CDPHE) Facility Classification Stakeholder Meetings: CDPHE is hosting stakeholder meetings to discuss drafts developed from work group meetings proposed to update the facility classification sections of Regulation 100 - Water and Wastewater Facility Operator Certification Requirements. This could affect your facility classification in the future. You are encouraged to stay informed. The listed meetings are all outreach meetings with the same content. While you are welcome to attend more than one, the content will be the same. Meeting questions and discussion will vary depending on participants. 

• April 18th, 2018 Web/conference call only --- 1:00 - 2:30 pm. Details will be updated at least one week before meeting date.

• April 25th, 2018 in La Junta --- 9:30 - 11:00 a, Otero Junior College Student Center (Ballroom), 2101 San Juan, La Junta, CO 81050

• April 25th, 2018 in Alamosa --- 2:00 - 3:30 p, Alamosa County Building (EOC, 2nd floor), 8900 Independence Way, Alamosa CO 81101

• May 3rd, 2018 in Montrose --- 9:30 - 11:00 a, Montrose County Fairgrounds, (Pioneer room, accessed through Friendship Hall), 1001 N. Second St., Montrose, CO 81401

• May 3rd, 2018 in Steamboat Springs --- 2:30 - 4:00 pm, Routt County offices (commissioners conference room), 522 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487

COLORADO RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION (CDPHE) Nutrients - additional incentive program meetings. Regulation changes and their voluntary incentive program. They will discuss changes to nutrient management, including the development of nutrient water quality standards within the framework of the Clean Water Program’s 10-year roadmap and the plan to continue making progress through the voluntary incentive program for early nutrient reductions. The final presentation given in Denver will be available on the nutrient website.  Here are the scheduled meetings:

Greeley meeting
Wednesday, April 25th, 2018 (10 a.m. - noon)
University of Northern Colorado
University Center
2101 10th Ave
Greeley, CO 80631
RSVP to this meeting
 

Denver meeting
Friday, April 27th, 2018 (1 - 3 p.m.)
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
C1E meeting room
4300 South Cherry Creek Drive
Denver, CO 80246
RSVP to this meeting

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. 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 21st, 2018: Fryingpan River Cleanup! Help clean up one of the most beautiful stretches of river in the country! Volunteers of all ages welcome. Join them for a free breakfast before cleaning up a 1-mile section of the river. Prizes for: Best of Trash, Most Toxic, Most Useful, Most Unusual Trash, and Best Photo. Learn more and register HERE.

APRIL 21st, 2018: River Run Park Clean Up! (12-3pm)Starting at the River Run Park, which is a newly improved hot-spot for river surfing, we'll be collecting trash along both the South Platte River and Bear Creek. This event is a great opportunity for families, local community members, residents, and service groups to get outdoors while helping to keep a section of our urban waters clean! To signup, email Makalah@GroundworkColorado.org before Friday, April 20th.

APRIL 21st, 2018: High School GLC Spring RiverSweep. Calling all high school students! Come on down to downtown Denver on Earth Day weekend and join hundreds of other volunteers as we get our parks ready for spring by removing trash from our parks! Food will be provided, and you'll earn service hours for your time with us. Register HERE.

APRIL 26th, 2018: CREEC Meeting and Special Speakers. (2-4pm) Colorado School of Mines is having a meeting with special speaker Nohemi Almaraz and Sydney Ulliman which will be talking about "Biological treatment of oil and gas produced water: Implications on the emergence of iodinated disinfection byproducts" and "Improving UV/H2O2 performance following tertiary treatment of municipal wastewater." Please RSVP if you are interested by contacting wbattagl@usgs.gov. 

APRIL 26th-27th, 2018: The Inaugural Water in the West Symposium, hosted by Colorado State University (CSU), will bring more than 400 leaders in water research, agriculture, policy, conservation, and education to Denver. CSU and other partners have invested in creating a state-of-the-art Water Resources Center (WRC) to be housed at the National Western Center (WRC). The WRC will offer a collaborative space for partners from agriculture, utilities, academics, and recreational water stakeholders in a state-of-the-art facility. The WRC will focus on policy, innovation, education, and research, and will be capable of hosting multi-disciplinary programs and water conferences, as well as attracting students of all ages. The Symposium will focus on engaging experts and leaders in thoughtful conversations and creating impact through the WRC. Find full details and a link to register HERE. 

APRIL 29th-May 1st, 2018: The 2nd Annual Next Generation Water Summit at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center, 201 W Marcy St, Santa Fe, NM. 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. Click HERE to learn more.

MAY 8th, 2018: Mesa County State of the River Seminar & Dinner, a complimentary chili dinner, and learn about this year's snowpack and reservoir operations, current Colorado River Basin issues, and potential impacts of the dry year in the Grand Valley. This event is free is you RSVP HERE.

MAY 9th, 2018: From 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., land conservation leaders from across Colorado will convene for a half-day Conservation Futures Project Summit in Breckenridge. Summit participants will:

• Discuss lessons learned from last year's CCLT board assessment of organizational health and direction
• Review research on a range of statewide organizations whose models are considered to be national exemplars in serving their constituents and advancing common conservation goals
• Participate in core purpose and goal-setting exercises designed to set the vision for a redesigned statewide land conservation coalition
• Provide critical guidance to the Conservation Futures Project steering committee as it seeks to shepherd the CFP process

Read more about the Conservation Futures Project Summit HERE.

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.

JUNE 7th-8th, 2018: Join GWC Summer Water Conference, "What Lies Beneath? Reasons to Care About Groundwater in the Southwest." at the University of Colorado School of Law. Read specific details HERE.

JUNE 20th - 21st, 2018: Pawnee Butte Seed Company 2018 Grass Tour. Working with the Colorado Section - Society of Range Management, West Greeley Conservation District, and Jordan Angus, together they have a great tour planned for you. Starting Wednesday afternoon: enjoy a tour of Emmett Jordan's Ranch in Briggsdale. Jordan received the 2017 Colorado Section SRM Excellence in Rangeland Conservation award. Following the tour there will be a BBQ at the beautiful West Greeley Conservation Districts Houston Gardens. Thursday join them for a day all about water. Visit different locations in Northern Colorado and see the different ways water is used in Weld County and its different forms. If you would like to join in please email becca@pawneebuttesseed.com to register!  

AUGUST 6th, 2018: Reclaimed Water - Regulation 84 Hearing Hosted by Colorado Water Quality Control Division. A public hearing is being held to review proposed regulatory changes to Reclaimed Water Control Regulation 84 at CDPHE Main Campus at in Brown Hall at 1600 Illinois St, Golden, CO 80401. For more details about other WQCC Rule-making Proceeding, click HERE.

SEPTEMBER 10th-12th, 2018:  2018 Colorado Open Space Alliance (COSA) conference. Do you have open space, natural resource management, or conservation expertise that you’d like to share?  They are seeking presentations for the conference, which is themed “Ripple by Ripple, Water is the Driving Force in Nature.”  Read more about this HERE.

OCTOBER 9th - 11th, 2018: SAVE THE DATE - 13th Annual Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference. The Color of Water: Exploring the Spectrum, Westin Riverfront Resort, Avon, CO. Don't miss the premier watershed conference in Colorado. Expanding cooperation and collaboration throughout Colorado in natural resource conservation, protection and enhancement by informing participants about new issues and innovative projects and through invaluable networking. Stay tuned at SCW Conference 2018.

OCTOBER 24th-25th, 2018: 29th Annual South Platte Forum at the Embassy Suites in Loveland, CO. The conference will feature an exciting lineup of speakers and topics, and a great opportunity to network. This year the South Platte Forum is accepting speaker applications! If you have a topic that you would like to present at the conference, please submit an application for the Committee to review by May 1st, 2018. Find the list of speakers and their bios HERE, and all general and pertinent information and links HERE. 

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 Late April

Skaguay Reservoir #2. Division of Wildlife. Michael Seraphin, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Photo taken: 7/7/2002.

Call for Papers! You are cordially invited to submit ideas for presentations at the 13th Annual Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference. This highly popular event expands cooperation and collaboration throughout our state for natural resource conservation, protection, and enhancement by informing citizen groups, agencies, consultants, and legislators about current issues and through networking opportunities. In 2018, our conference will focus on “The Color of Water: Exploring the Spectrum.” Our theme this year intends to tap into the creativity of our community and investigate how diverse watershed interests interact. Water touches us all from forests to farms. We’ve branched out this year to delve into water for environment, agriculture, recreation, mining, energy, forest health, city water, rural water, source water, recycled and reuse water. We even have an acronym, ROYGBIV:

• Red Tape – Improving policy/permitting processes locally or nationally to get good projects on the ground
• Opportunities –  Finding the funding and identifying new collaborators that can make projects possible
• Yielding Results – Innovative design in watershed restoration that's proving effective on the ground 
• Green vs Gray – Advances in stormwater management practices that utilize natural infrastructure 
• Barrier Busting – Going beyond philosophical divides and building political will for good solutions
• Industry Voices – Forest, agriculture, mining, and energy practices to meet multiple stakeholder priorities 
• Vulnerability – Addressing drought, floods, fire and climate change uncertainties to better inform planning

We are requesting your submission by Friday, April 20th, 2018.  You can submit a short abstract via THIS LINK. 

Colorado Open Space Alliance is seeking presentations for the 2018 COSA conference, which is themed “Ripple by Ripple, Water is the Driving Force in Nature.”  This year’s conference will be held in Grand Junction at Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main Street, Grand Junction, CO 81501 on September 10-12, 2018. Do you have open space, natural resource management, or conservation expertise that you’d like to share?  The deadline to submit your proposal is Friday, April 20th 2018. Read more about this HERE.

Volunteer to help Clean up the Eleven Mile Canyon! Join them on Saturday April 21st at the pull out just before the toll booth and car pool into the canyon. Bring your fishing gear and wet a line at the end of the task. Please plan on bringing a lunch! Click HERE to register!

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.

Are you interested in speaking at the South Platte Forum this year? The South Platte Forum is accepting speaker applications! If you have a topic that you would like to present at the conference, please submit an application for the Committee to review by May 1st, 2018. The 29th Annual South Platte Forum on October 24th and 25th at the Embassy Suites in Loveland, CO.  Submit your application HERE, and learn more about the conference HERE.