Funding Opportunities Late December

The Gates Family Foundation's Natural Resource initiative will partner strategically with groups to support land conservation, water resource protection and management, increased land trust capacity, citizen stewardship and ecosystem services demonstration opportunities. Please note that Gates initiative grant funding is not an opportunity for ongoing operating or program support, nor does the Foundation accept unsolicited proposals for funding in these areas. The deadline is December 31st, 2019. For more information to apply click HERE.

ESRI Nonprofit Organizations Program. The Environmental Systems Research Institute provides many resources and avenues for non-profit organizations interested in developing GIS capacity but who lack the funds to pay retail costs. The deadline to apply is December 31st, 2019. For more information click HERE.

The Open Space and Mountain Parks Department (OSMP) of the City of Boulder has funding available through its funded research program for scientific inquiry on OSMP lands. Preference is given to original proposals that address priority research topics identified by the department. However, all proposals will be considered based on their merits. For research that crosses the boundaries of OSMP and the neighboring Boulder County Parks and Open Space and Jefferson County Open Space, interagency grant proposals for joint funding will also be considered. The maximum award amount for OSMP proposals is $10,000. The proposal deadline is January 10th, 2020. Full details are available HERE.

Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) is pleased to once again offer Small Research Grants to individuals or groups to conduct applied studies on JCOS lands. The goal of this program is to fund research that will inform the management of natural, cultural, and recreational resources. See a list of priority research topics in the announcement below. Applicants can also suggest original topics that have significance to resource management or visitor experience in JCOS parks and open spaces. Researchers can also propose interagency projects between JCOS, City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP), and Boulder County Parks and Open Space (BCPOS). The maximum award amount for JCOS proposals is $10,000. Proposals must be submitted electronically  by 5:30 p.m. on January 13, 2020 to OSSRgrants@jeffco.us. Please see the announcement HERE for additional details.

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. Water Plan projects eligible for grants fit into the five main categories: Agriculture, Conservation and Land Use, Engagement and Innovation, Environment and Recreation, and Water Storage and Supply. CWCB staff will evaluate applications and recommend projects to the CWCB Board for final approval at its regularly scheduled Board meetings. The next grant application deadline is February 1st, 2020. Learn more HERE.

The Non-Point Source (NPS) Program funds projects that help restore and protect waterbodies from nonpoint source pollution impacts. The CDPHE 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 currently meeting water quality standards from further degradation due to nonpoint sources of pollution. For application and reference materials, click HERE. The application deadline is February 3rd, 2020. Please direct questions regarding the Request for Applications to Estella Moore at estella.moore@state.co.us by January 7, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. Answers to those questions will be posted on npscolorado.com on January 15, 2020.

Colorado River Network offers funding from the Business for Water Stewardship Project Bank. Are you planning, designing, or implementing on-the-ground restoration projects that will restore river flows and/or recharge ground water? Would you like the opportunity to share your projects with businesses who may be interested in providing support for your projects? If the answer is “Yes!” be sure to check out the Business for Water Stewardship Project Bank, a new opportunity for paid members of River Network to use a national platform to attract funding.

US Department of Agriculture Rural Development Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program. This program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas. Full details, including requirements and registration, can be found HERE. 

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Water Quality Planning Design and Engineering Grants. These grants provide money to small communities to help cover costs associated with the State Revolving Fund pre-application requirements. Grants require a 20% match from the applicant. Planning grant applicants must complete the prequalification form and attend a pre-application meeting. Design and engineering grant applicants will be considered by project needs assessment submissions by approved disadvantaged communities. For more information click HERE.

The Colorado Water Conservation Board Water Supply Reserve Fund (WSRF) 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.

What type of Water Supply Reserve Fund Grants are available?

Basin Account: Funds water activities from a basin roundtable. The CWCB evaluates applications for the Basin Account to ensure the Threshold Criteria are met. *Applications are accepted year-round.

Statewide Account: Funds water activities from a basin roundtable on a competitive basis. The CWCB evaluates applications for the Statewide Account to ensure each application meets the Threshold Criteria in addition to being evaluated using the Evaluation Criteria. *Statewide applications are brought before the board in March and September.

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:

The Environmental Protection Agency Water Finance Clearinghouse has access to hundreds of water funding opportunities that can be found HERE.

Trainings & Workshops Late December

FEBRUARY 6th, 2020: Community Resource Center is offering Strategic Planning | Colorado Springs, CO. Provide Executive Directors and Board Members the tools and resources necessary to craft a compelling and relevant strategic plan that is practical, measurable, and can be implemented without the cost of hiring an outside consultant. Join the Community Resource Center for a comprehensive, 1-day strategic planning workshop and learn the various processes that will engage board and staff in identifying the priorities of your organization and providing a roadmap for successfully meeting mission. Participants will learn about a streamlined strategic thinking and planning process and walk away with greater clarity on mission, goals, opportunities, and specific actions and next steps to move forward. See a list of training topics and register HERE.

FEBRUARY 11th, 2020: Community Resource Center is offering Strategic Planning | Durango, CO. Provide Executive Directors and Board Members the tools and resources necessary to craft a compelling and relevant strategic plan that is practical, measurable, and can be implemented without the cost of hiring an outside consultant. Join the Community Resource Center for a comprehensive, 1-day strategic planning workshop and learn the various processes that will engage board and staff in identifying the priorities of your organization and providing a roadmap for successfully meeting mission. Participants will learn about a streamlined strategic thinking and planning process and walk away with greater clarity on mission, goals, opportunities, and specific actions and next steps to move forward. See a list of training topics and register HERE.

APRIL 6th-9th, 2020: After the Flames Workshop and Conference. Granlibakken Tahoe, California. Experts warn that year-round fire season is the new normal. Wildfire is no longer "if" it will occur, but rather "when." The impacts of a wildfire last long after the flames are extinguished. Community leaders, agency representatives, property owners, and anyone impacted by wildfire are invited to join this interactive workshop and conference featuring recovery experts and agencies engaging After The Flames. Click HERE for more information.

Online Courses Available Through Colorado Rural Water Association. Industry studies have shown employee-training budgets for most water and wastewater utilities are tighter than ever. Web-based operator certification and license renewal training provides employers and their employees the flexibility of taking training courses at their own pace without the hassle and cost of attending live classes. Check them out HERE.

Job Announcements Late December

Fourmile Watershed Coalition seeks a Program Assistant in Boulder County. This is a part-time, temporary position for 20 hours per week through June 2020. Should the position become a full time in the future, health care benefits and vacation will be offered. Primary Duties include: Project Management, Education and Engagement,Volunteer Management, Marketing and Outreach, Event Planning. All applications must be received by December 20th, 2019. Read the job announcement HERE.

Colorado Water Conservation Board is seeking a Physical Science Researcher/Scientist II, Hydrologist/Hydrographer in Denver, CO. The purpose of this position is to provide the Colorado Water Conservation Board with the scientific hydrographic information required for the 1) appropriation and protection of instream flow and natural lake level water rights and 2) protection of interstate compact entitlements, decision support system development, and floodplain management and water conservation activities. The position also exists to educate, coordinate, and collaborate with the Colorado Division of Water Resources, United States Geological Survey and other stakeholders regarding the CWCB's various programs and hydrographic activities. This position functions as an expert in the science of hydrography as it relates to the CWCB's mission critical areas of stream and lake protection, compact protection, and floodplain management. The application deadline is December 23rd at 5:00 p.m. Apply and find the full job description HERE.

Western Resource Advocates (WRA) seeks a passionate attorney to join their Healthy Rivers team. The Senior Staff Attorney will research and advocate for wiser water management and updated water policies and laws for the West, helping to ensure our rivers and lakes are healthy and able to provide for our growing population. Reporting to the Healthy Rivers Program Director, the Senior Staff Attorney will be the lead acting attorney for a team of WRA experts in the water field. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing non-profit, and to learn and grow while working with other conservation professionals. Apply by January 1st, 2020. To apply click HERE.

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy seeks applicants for three Field Coordinator opportunities. The Field Coordinator plays in essential role in the implementation of the Conservancy’s on-the-ground conservation programs, including the Conservation Corps, High School Leadership Corps, and Volunteer Stewardship programs. The Field Coordinator will help plan, implement, and oversee the programs during the 2020 season (mid-May through September). Compensation: $500/week with housing provided. Applications are due by January 5th, 2020. For more information click HERE.

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics seeks dynamic, tech savvy, extroverted teams of educators for Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainer positions for the contract period mid-April 2020 through mid-April 2021. The Traveling Trainer program is the organization’s mobile education arm, delivering Leave No Trace education, programs, and outreach to local communities across the country. Click HERE for the complete job announcement and application instructions. The application deadline is January 5th, 2020.

River Network seeks a Director of Philanthropy in Boulder, CO. The primary role of this position is to increase unrestricted support for River Network, thereby allowing River Network more ability and responsiveness in fulfilling its efforts to advance clean water and healthy rivers for all. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by January 13th, 2020. Find details HERE.

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District is seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director reports to the nine-member Board of Directors of the Fountain Creek Watershed, Flood Control and Greenway District. This person will be responsible for the administration and management of all functions under the jurisdiction and authority of the District. Interested candidates who meet the position requirements and have a passion for public service are invited to submit a detailed letter of intent with compensation requirements and a resume to Larry Small. Job description available upon request. Application deadline: January 15th, 2020. Click HERE for the position advertisement.

Colorado Water Trust has an open position for the Water Transactions Coordinator. The Water Trust works statewide, based in the office located in Denver, Colorado.The Water Transactions Coordinator will evaluate, develop, and implement flow restoration projects throughout Colorado using collaborative, voluntary, market-based approaches. Please apply by 5:00 p.m. January 17th, 2020. See full job description HERE for more details.

River Network seeks a highly organized and results-driven Community Engagement Manager to manage the organization’s clean-up and other community engagement events that match corporate interests in clean water, healthy rivers, and other social responsibility goals with opportunities to support local communities and nonprofit organizations across our nationwide network. This position will maintain and expand River Network’s existing corporate relationships and support our goals related to network engagement, including as sponsors of our annual conference (River Rally) and increase investment and engagement in local projects that restore water quality and quantity. Applications are due by January 17th, 2020. For more information click HERE.

Dominion Water & Sanitation District needs a Water Resource Analyst in Greenwood Village, CO. Under direction of the General Manager, this position is responsible for providing engineering support and analysis for Dominion Water & Sanitation District focusing on planning and operational modeling, water resources planning, and water quality modeling and analysis. Current registration as a professional engineer in the State of Colorado is desired. Learn more HERE.

The City of Aurora is seeking a Water Resources Principal Engineer. The Principal Engineer - Water Resources is the most advanced professional/technical level in the engineering class providing high-level subject matter expertise in Water Resource related projects including raw water reservoirs, dams, and complex water resource master planning and near- and long-range capital improvement program (CIP) development. This position is responsible for taking the lead on project delivery and project delivery oversight for complex water resource-related projects including reservoirs, dams, pipelines and other major infrastructure work. This position develops and implements solutions by planning, organizing, and directing complex engineering analysis and management of complex projects for the Water Department under the supervision of the Aurora Water Deputy Director in Planning and Engineering. Find out more HERE.

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy is excited to share their Cartographer Technician opening. The Cartographer Technician will be a full-time, temporary employee. The selected candidate will serve for 6-months. Housing options are available. The position will be paid $25/hour. To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to Amelie.Harris@RMConservancy.org. For more details click HERE.

Aurora Water is looking to hire a GIS Intern. Aurora Water is responsible for the operation and maintenance of drinking water, sewer and storm drainage systems, treatment and non-potable reclaimed wastewater for irrigation, and water conservation, acquisition and development. Primary responsibilities will include: Compile information for data requests, reports, summaries, etc, assist with updating utility extension agreement records and documentation, execute Map Requests, assist with field data collection, create new GIS data from plans, field information, research, or other various sources. No Closing Date. For more information contact Doug Rulison at drulison@auroragov.org and visit HERE.

ICON Engineering is one of Denver’s most reputable planning, design, and project management civil engineering firms. They offer engineering services for stormwater management, stream restoration, flood mitigation, drainage, parks and trails. Visit their website HERE. ICON Engineering is currently looking for:

Farnsworth Group, Inc. is seeking a Professional Land Surveyor in Colorado Springs, CO. Qualified candidates will conduct and perform Boundary and Topographical Surveys, Construction Layouts, Subdivision Plats, Right of Way Plans and ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys. This position will include a combination of office and field work if needed and may require some travel. Please apply HERE.

Highlands Ranch Metro District is currently accepting applications for a Lead Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. The employee performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks, which result in the efficient and effective operation of water and wastewater treatment facilities and systems. Supervises the operations staff to ensure compliance with State and Federal Regulations. Interfaces with other departments and sections to assure coordination of activities. Find out more details HERE.

Leonard Rice Engineers, Inc. is currently seeking applicants for a Senior-Level Water Resources Engineer, specializing in Water Rights. The successful candidate will be responsible for completing tasks including water resources data collection, water use demand forecasting and planning, water rights analysis, and river basin modeling. For more information and how to apply click HERE.

Leonard Rice Engineers, Inc. is also seeking applicants for a Water Resources Permitting Senior Project Manager. If you thrive on understanding and implementing complex water-related projects, applying watershed science, navigating environmental regulations, and developing dynamic partnerships, this is the position for you! The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in watershed science, engineering, natural resources, or a similar field of study. A Bachelor’s degree is required. Highly-qualified candidates will have 10-15 or more years of experience. For more information, click HERE.

Conferences & Events Late December

DECEMBER 19th, 2019: Soil Revolution Conference. 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This event is hosted by Boulder County Parks & Open Space, CSU Extension, the City of Boulder, USDA-NRCS, and the Boulder Valley and Longmont Conservation districts. Sponsor and exhibitor opportunities are available. Topics will cover on-the-ground solutions from producers spanning a variety of climate and soil conditions across the county. For more information and to purchase tickets, click HERE.

FEBRUARY 6th-7th, 2020: APWA Colorado Chapter 2020 Construction Inspection Conference. Please join the APWA Colorado Chapter for the Annual Construction Inspection Conference on February 6 & 7, 2020 at the University of Colorado South Denver (formerly The Wildlife Experience) at 10035 S. Peoria Street, Parker, Colorado 80134. Details can be obtained on the attached registration summary. The cost for the conference is $225 for two days and includes breakfast, lunch and snacks. Conference Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 30th, 2020. For more information click HERE.

FEBRUARY 28th, 2020: CoorsTek Denver Metro Regional Science & Engineering Fair. Since 1963, DMRSEF has provided area middle school and high school students an outlet to engage their scientific interests and an opportunity to share their work with local STEM professionals. Volunteer to support the next generation of scientists and engineers! Partial and full-day shifts are available February 27th - March 1st, 2020. Click HERE to be a Judge, or click HERE to register as a volunteer.

FEBRUARY 28th, 2020: The Poudre River Forum, an initiative of the Poudre Runs Through It Study/Action Work Group (PRTI), brings together those on the Poudre who farm, deliver clean potable water, drink beer, recreate, and advocate for river health to learn from one another and to explore how we can move from conflict to collaboration. Join them for this year’s event to engage with other Poudre River enthusiasts. Click HERE to register!

MARCH 10th-12th, 2020: WCCN’s Inaugural Confluence 2020. Members of community-based collaborative conservation groups will gather from across the west to connect, convene, and catalyze. Consider a vendor table and or a sponsorship. We are raising funding to support CBCC leaders travel and speaker travel. For more information click HERE. Register online HERE.

APRIL 6th-9th, 2020: After the Flames Workshop and Conference. Granlibakken Tahoe, California. Experts warn that year-round fire season is the new normal. Wildfire is no longer "if" it will occur, but rather "when." The impacts of a wildfire last long after the flames are extinguished. Community leaders, agency representatives, property owners, and anyone impacted by wildfire are invited to join this interactive workshop and conference featuring recovery experts and agencies engaging After The Flames. Click HERE for more information.

APRIL 14th-17th, 2020: National Watershed and Stormwater Conference | Austin, TX. This annual conference has served as an important forum for watershed and stormwater professionals to learn about innovative restoration approaches from experts, build partnerships and share best practices. Early Bird Pricing ends on December 31st, 2019. Pre-conference workshops will take place on April 14th, 2020.

APRIL 23rd-24th, 2020: Arkansas River Basin Water Forum: “The Vision of Water 20/20” | Salida, CO. To know water is to better understand our state. Since 1995, the Arkansas River Basin Water Forum has provided a friendly, constructive medium where individuals and organizations are able to explain their views and engage in open dialogue with other water users. To stay informed about the forum, click HERE.

Announcements Late December

Call for Session Proposals for After the Flames Conference & Workshop | Proposals due December 31st, 2019. Coalitions & Collaboratives, Inc. invites you to submit session proposals featuring actionable best practices for communities and agencies impacted by wildfire. The 2020 After the Flames will feature two tracks for 1) technical subject matter experts and 2) practicable solutions for community leaders. April 6th – 8th, 2020 in Granlibakken Tahoe, CA. View the call for proposals HERE.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regions 7 and 8 announced the launch of the “See a Bloom, Give It Room” High School Video Challenge. The competition, supported by EPA’s Office of Research and Development, is calling for videos from high school students (grades 9-12) that promote public awareness of harmful algal blooms through creative filmmaking. Submissions are due January 3rd, 2020. For more information and how to submit click HERE.

Colorado Voters Approve Proposition DD, Supporting the Colorado Water Plan Future. Proposition DD - included on the November ballot - was officially approved by Colorado voters. The measure legalizes sports betting in the state, and creates a 10% tax on sports betting revenue that will help support the Colorado Water Plan grant program. In the future, this more permanent funding source will assist in bringing the Water Plan closer to its full potential by allowing the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) to increase the number of grants awarded to Water Plan projects. The next Water Plan grant application deadline is February 1st, 2020.

Egret Marsh Stormwater Park in Florida overlaps Municipal & Industrial (city & factory) filtration of water with Environmental habitat rebuilding. These multi-use structures are all the rage. Bioengineering with algae?! Watch the video HERE! Alexis Peralta notes, Colorado has harsher winters than this brackish ecosystem.


Colorado River District works every day to secure water supplies for agricultural, industrial, and municipal uses on the Western Slope. From the jagged peaks of the Continental Divide to the red rock canyons of the Colorado Plateau, and from the twists of the Uncompahgre River to the turns of the Yampa River, the Colorado River District contains the headwaters of one of our nation’s most important watersheds: the Colorado River. Watch and Share their video to spread the word.

Friends of the Lower Blue River is proud to announce the launch of their online guide to the history of the Lower Blue River Valley. With a click on the website or a swipe with your thumb on your device, you will be transported to key points of interest and their historical relevance from Summit to Grand County. This project was made possible by grant support from the Summit Foundation. To check out the LBR history guide, click HERE.

The City of Durango has been engaged in the development of a Drought Management Plan over the past year. The goal is to remove the “crisis” from the City’s drought response efforts, reduce the hardship caused by water shortages, and raise public confidence in the actions taken to address short and long term water shortages, as stated in the plan. A brief fact sheet is also available to explain the basics of the plan. Click HERE to view the City of Durango’s Drought Management Plan.

The Dolores River Restoration Partnership released their 2018 Annual Report. The DRRP is a public-private collaboration of local, state, and federal agencies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, landowners, foundations, and citizen volunteers that share a common set of goals and principles for restoring the riparian habitat of the Dolores River.

The Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District recently celebrated the opening of the James Broderick Hydropower Plant at the Pueblo Dam, which was completed in May. The Plant will use water from the Pueblo Reservoir to create energy for the City of Fountain and Fort Carson. Water flows used in the hydro-generation will be returned to the Arkansas River without any flow reduction, creating a long-term, renewable energy solution.

A survey is being administered as part of a graduate capstone project within the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University. The results of this survey will be used to inform the development of new volunteer monitoring opportunities with the Big Thompson Watershed Coalition (BTWC), a nonprofit with the mission "to protect and restore the ecological health of the Big Thompson watershed for the use and enjoyment of our community today and for future generations. Click HERE to participate in the survey.

Consider supporting one of the leading Riparian Restoration Conferences in the West by becoming an RRC sponsor. Your contribution will provide registration and travel scholarships to students as well as support conference expenses. Complimentary registration is included in the Willow Sponsor level ($1,000) and above. View sponsor benefits HERE.

The Center for Environmental Justice at CSU is launching this academic year. Starting out five years ago as a working group in the School of Global Environmental Sustainability, the Center is building capacity and community connections.

Center for Health & Environmental Justice is exploring the possibility of working on a national campaign around water contamination. Several bills related to clean water have been introduced last year. These relate to testing school pipes, testing and repairing pipes within HUD housing, and testing and repairing older pipes in cities and towns that need new infrastructures. They are monitoring water related legislation that will be reintroduced this year. Please LET THEM KNOW whether or not there is a water related issue in your community, even if you are not working on it at this time.