Funding Opportunities Late December

The National Forest Foundation has partnered with Vail Resorts Management Company, Copper Mountain Resort, Arapahoe Basin Ski and Snowboard Area, and Beaver Run Resort and Conference Center to help maintain and enhance the quality of the White River National Forest and the visitor experiences. By combining Federal funds with individual donations voluntarily made by resort guests, the NFF Ski Conservation Fund™ is able to multiply the resources available to nonprofit partners to implement projects that directly benefit the White River National Forest. Grant applications are now being accepted for projects on the White River National Forest that implement action-oriented, on-the-ground conservation projects. The deadline for applications is December 16th, 2020. For more information and complete application instructions please review the program information HERE.

The Colorado Dept. of Agriculture offers the Noxious Weed Management Fund (WMF) grant program. The primary objective of the CDA Noxious Weed Management Fund (WMF) grant program is to provide additional financial resources to counties, communities, weed control districts, and other entities that are engaged in cooperative efforts to eradicate and/or contain state, regionally, or locally rare noxious weed species populations, and to prevent the spread of high priority weed populations. Applications are due December 18th, 2020. For more information click HERE.

CDPHE’s Nonpoint Source Program is now accepting applications for watershed implementation projects that restore waterbodies impaired by nonpoint sources of selenium, sediment, pathogens and/or nutrients AND/OR protect waterbodies from nonpoint sources of pollution. The question deadline is December 7th, 2020. Answers will be posted on npscolorado.com on December 15th, 2020. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. January 4th, 2021. Get the application and reference materials HERE.

The Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) department 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 our neighbors (Boulder County Parks and Open Space and Jefferson County Open Space), we will also consider interagency grant proposals for joint funding. The maximum award amount for OSMP proposals is $10,000. Proposal deadline is January 11th, 2021. Full details are available HERE.

The National Forest Foundation is pleased to announce that it is currently soliciting proposals for its Matching Awards Program (MAP). MAP is a national, competitive grant program that provides federal funds for on-the-ground projects benefiting America's National Forests and Grasslands. There will be an informational webinar on MAP December 10th, 2020. The Round 1 Application Deadline is January 13th, 2021. There will be an informational webinar on December 10th, 2020. The program supports action-oriented projects that enhance outdoor experiences, forest and ecosystem health, and engage local communities in caring for their public lands. For more information click HERE.

The Nonpoint Source (NPS) Program at the Water Quality Control Division is requesting brief proposals for post-wildfire implementation projects to improve water quality impacted by NPS pollution. Approximately $200,000 a year is anticipated to be awarded for post-wildfire related implementation projects. Typical project budgets range from $100,000-$200,000. Projects can be phased over multiple years and/or can be part of a larger project with other funding sources. Please submit no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 15th, 2021. Get more information HERE.

The Bureau of Reclamation has published a funding opportunity for the WaterSMART Cooperative Watershed Management Program Phase I to develop a watershed group, complete watershed management planning activities, and design watershed management activities. Applicants may request up to $100,000 for projects to be completed within two years. A non-federal cost-share is not required for this funding opportunity. The funding opportunity is available on grants.gov HERE. Applications are due on January 19th, 2021 (4:00 p.m. MST). The Bureau of Reclamation will host an informational webinar on Wednesday, December 2nd, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. MST. Click HERE to join the live event or use the same link to watch a recording after the completion of the live event. If you have questions regarding applicant and project eligibility, program requirements, or the evaluation criteria, click HERE and select CWMP Phase I FOA Inquiry to schedule a time to talk with the program coordinators. Read even more HERE.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is seeking applications for wetland and riparian restoration, enhancement, and creation projects to support its Wetlands Program Strategic Plan. CPW will award up to $2.5 million in funds from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) and Colorado waterfowl stamps to projects in Colorado that support the Wetlands Program Strategic Plan’s two main goals: 1. Improve the distribution and abundance of ducks, and opportunities for public waterfowl hunting. 2. Improve the status of declining or at-risk species. The application deadline for this year’s funding is January 27, 2021. The Wetlands Funding Request for Applications (RFA) is available on CPW’s website.

Denver Audubon's Lois Webster Fund (LWF) is now soliciting grants in support of Colorado non-game wildlife research, education, and conservation projects. The Committee is accepting grant proposals through January 31st, 2021. A maximum of $11,602 funding is available in the coming project year. Grantees will be notified by early March 2021 and the funds dispersed in time for the spring field season. Now available online are the LWF grant 2021 Guidelines, Requirements, and Application. The LWF Guidelines require partnering with other organizations. The grantee is expected to provide the leadership and coordination to obtain additional funding and to involve others.

Thanks to major support from Toyota Motor North America, International Paper (IP), and the Hilton Effect Foundation, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $128,000 in grant funding to support public lands that have been impacted by increased use during the COVID-19 pandemic. With social distancing regulations in place, people are turning to the outdoors more than ever for exercise and rejuvenation. At the same time, the agencies and organizations responsible for maintaining public lands are hampered by reductions in staff, volunteers, and resources, leaving them ill-equipped to keep up with increased human presence in these delicate ecosystems on top of existing maintenance backlogs. In response, NEEF has established the Restoration & Resilience COVID Recovery Fund to help restore these special places by distributing resources and mobilizing volunteers. The deadlines for the next rounds of funding are February 1st, April 1st, and June 1st, 2021. For more information click HERE.

USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) offers financial and technical assistance to farmers and private landowners through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) to create, restore, and enhance wetlands. Click HERE for more information.

In response to the impacts of COVID-19, Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) has launched the Resilient Communities Program (RCP). The $15 million program aims to fund one-time, immediate needs or opportunities that have emerged in direct response to the pandemic. It will help partners advance outdoor recreation, stewardship, and land protection projects in a manner that best reflects community needs and priorities at this moment in time. Capacity and operations support, stewardship efforts, projects that support community vitality, and urgent and emergent land acquisition opportunities will be considered. For more information, including eligibility criteria and application forms, click HERE.

The Geospatial Experience Center (GeoEx) at Front Range Community College was created to give students the opportunity to take on GIS projects and gain experience to prepare them for the workforce. GeoEx is funded by a National Science Foundation (NSF), Advanced Technological Education (ATE) grant. GeoEx can take on various project types, from digitizing to lidar analysis. Projects GeoEx can take are only limited by the experience of students and their availability. Projects can be completed at your location, the students’ home, or at school. For all projects GeoEx will ensure students can use their experience to further their careers. Students must be able to use what they work on with you in their portfolio. If sensitive data is involved, the student can create mock data to represent the original.  If you would like to ensure your project is a good fit for our students, become involved in FRCC activities, or have other questions, email GeoEx at skye.lewis@geoexcenter.org. Initiate a project HERE.

Service Objects, a company specializing in contact validation services, offers an in-kind grant program for organizations working to encourage environmental leadership and conservation. The goal for creating this unique program is to inspire and assist non-profit organizations that are working to promote environmental health, economic vitality, informed land-use decisions and sound management of our planet's natural resources. Grants of up to $2,500 will be awarded on an individual basis. Programs that may qualify for the grant include those that aim to reduce waste or assist in the aftermath of natural disasters. More information about the grant can be found HERE.

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. The program is currently accepting applications. Full details, including requirements and guidance, can be found HERE.

Colorado Emergency Drought Response Program.-The Program provides up to $1 million annually, in the form of loans or grants, for emergency drought-related water augmentation purposes to Colorado’s agricultural water users. For more information click HERE.

Colorado's Water Plan Grants fund progress on the critical actions identified in the Colorado’s Water Plan (CWP) and its Measurable Objectives. See the grant guidelines and apply 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. Basin Account application timelines vary by basin. Statewide Account applications are brought before the board in March and September. For more information click HERE.

The Colorado Water Conservation Board offers numerous loans and grants to water providers and other entities statewide for a variety of water-related projects, studies, planning documents, awareness campaigns and other activities. Click HERE to find out more about the CWCB’s funding programs.

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

Trainings & Workshops Late December

JANUARY 21st, 2021, 8:30 am-12:30 pm | Water Law in a Nutshell | Virtual. Don't miss this rare and unique opportunity with Aaron Clay in an online setting to learn more about all aspects of the law related to water rights and ditch rights as applied in Colorado. Subject matter includes the appropriation, perfection, use, limitations, attributes, abandonment and enforcement of various types of water rights. Additional subject matter will include special rules for groundwater, public rights in appropriated water, interstate compacts and more. Registration is only $35. Click HERE to learn more.

JANUARY 25th & 26th, 2020: Green Infrastructure: Concepts, Planning, Implementation, and Maintenance | EUCI. This course will be led by Brian Wethington, Green Infrastructure Project Manager, City of Denver and Tom Liptan, Green Infrastructure Consultant, LIVE Center and will provide a comprehensive overview of green infrastructure terminology, planning and site selection, design, modeling, construction, maintenance, and monitoring while providing a number of real world examples and looking at the barriers and solutions to green infrastructure implementation in your region. To view the brochure, click HERE. Click HERE to register.

The Clean Water Certificate (CWC) training program for workforce development provides high quality training opportunities that promotes job growth in the stormwater industry and delivers industry-specific, job-readiness skills and knowledge. Click HERE to learn more about this training program offered by the Center for Watershed Protection.

“Stormwater Treatment Systems and Green Infrastructure” | Hermit’s Peak Watershed Alliance. Educational video shot and edited by Jacob Erickson (Hermits Peak Watersheds Alliance PR Media Specialist), narrated by Aaron Kauffman of Southwest Urban Hydrology, and produced by Hermit's Peak Watersheds Alliance. Click HERE to view.

“Returning Rapids Project: A discussion with Peter Lefebvre and Mike DeHoff” | Colorado River Studies. The Returning Rapids Project seeks to document the recovery of river resources once inundated by a full Lake Powell, and now being exposed as reservoir storage declines. Peter Lefebvre and Mike DeHoff, principal investigators of the Returning Rapids project and professional river guides in Moab, Utah, are working to record these changes. They will share their preliminary findings and matched photographs in the talk. Watch the full video HERE.

The American Stormwater Institute, LLC now offers courses in a live setting and online that deal with developing the knowledge and skills required to conduct stormwater inspections. Our courses are based on a “Real World” attitude of finding implementable solutions to the challenges that stormwater inspectors face every day. The state and federal regulations require that “QUALIFIED PERSONS” conduct inspections related to stormwater permits. The overarching goal of the ASI classes is to ensure that our students are well qualified to conduct these inspections. For a list of all classes offered click HERE.

“Episode 32: The River Is Who We Are - The Waccamaw Indian People and the Waccamaw River” | American Rivers | Podcast. Through displacement, genocide and enslavement, the Waccamaw Indian People sustain their river heritage. Join us today to learn more about the Waccamaw Indian People and their history with the Waccamaw River in coastal South Carolina. For the Waccamaw Indian People, layers of oppression eroded the relationship between people and the river they relied on and that coursed through their history, culture, and being. But the impacts of that displacement don’t just live in the past, and it is essential that the connection the Waccamaw Indian People have with the river is strengthened and reestablished for the future of their communities, and for the future of the Waccamaw River. Listen to the full podcast on Soundcloud HERE.

Job Announcements Late December

The Colorado Watershed Assembly is seeking a Program Assistant. The Program Assistant is responsible for coordinating and producing high quality communications and providing administrative assistance to support Colorado Watershed Assembly programs and our commitment to protect and improve the conservation values of our state’s land, water, and other natural resources. This position rewards versatility and creativity. We are looking for a motivated individual who will seek out information needed for assignments, enthusiastically engages with the public and loves to learn. The Program Assistant will be asked to communicate effectively with the Executive Director, CWA Board, staff, and various program partners as appropriate. For full details, click HERE. Application materials will be accepted until end of business day, 5:00 p.m. MST, Monday, December 28, 2020. The interview process will begin January 2021.

The Metro Wastewater Reclamation District (MWRD) is seeking proposals from qualified firms able to develop and maintain an updated water quality model for the South Platte River. This will include working with the District in development and implementation of field studies and analyses, while also supporting District staff in compiling, analyzing, and presenting model data. MWRD is the wastewater treatment authority for much of metropolitan Denver and parts of Northern Colorado. They are committed to protecting the environment and providing for the community's future needs. The solicitation due date is December 31, 2020 at 2:00 PM (MST). You will find the full Request for Proposals HERE.

Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers (RFOV) is currently seeking a Program Manager, for a 10 month full-time salaried position (potential to be upgraded to year-round). Applications accepted until Jan 1, 2021. The Program Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, implementation, and reporting for RFOV’s field-based conservation and restoration projects. This position requires excellent managerial, planning, and leadership skills; independence and accountability in decision-making; organizational skills in logistics and time management; developing and adhering to project budgets; developing and maintaining relationships with project partners and land managers; grant and fundraising experience; and a proven ability to instruct, lead, and motivate people in backcountry and frontcountry settings. For more information and how to apply click HERE.

Pitkin County Open Space and Trails is hiring a Senior Planner. This is an exciting opportunity to be a part of a collaborative team working on complex open space and trails planning and implementation projects. Check out the full job description HERE and apply HERE. The deadline to apply is January 2nd.

The Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT) is seeking a Stewardship Director. This is full-time salaried position based out of Evergreen, CO will begin on January 18th, 2021. Primary duties include: Coordinate the management of Fee Title Properties owned by Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT). There are currently four Fee Title Properties in MALT’s portfolio. Coordinate and direct all stewardship activities for Conservation Easements held by MALT. There are currently over 80 Conservation Easements in MALT’s portfolio. Assists the Land and Water Conservation Director with the development of Conservation Easements and public projects. The application deadline is January 8, 2021. For more information and to apply click HERE.

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) is excited to announce that we have a position open for our San Luis Valley Volunteer and Partnership Coordinator. This is a unique position embedded in the Rio Grande National Forest office in Monte Vista, CO. An employee of VOC, this position works closely with the RGNF and the Bureau of Land Management San Luis Valley Field Office (BLM SLVFO) to manage VOC's efforts to continue building public land stewardship capacity through partnerships and volunteers in the San Luis Valley. This includes the management, coordination, and administration of volunteer programs on RGNF and BLM SLVFO lands and supporting the RGNF and BLM with their volunteer needs, projects, and outdoor stewardship trainings. Click HERE to apply. Applications must be received by January 10th, 2021.

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) is hiring for our 2021 Seasonal Field Projects Coordinator position. Help us spread the word! The Seasonal Field Projects Coordinator is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working in the outdoors, is ready to meet great people dedicated to taking care of Colorado, and is looking to build their professional network in the outdoor stewardship industry. This Seasonal Field Projects Coordinator is a full-time, term limited, non-exempt position that reports to VOC’s Senior Projects & Operations Manager. This position works within the VOC program team and closely with other project staff positions to provide professional project management, logistical support and volunteer leadership coordination on VOC volunteer projects both in the office and in the field.  For more information about this position and other current openings, please click HERE. Applications for this position must be received by January 10th, 2021.

RMFI is hiring multiple seasonal positions for the 2021 field season. Position openings include Field Instructor and Field Coordinator positions to begin in March 2021 and end in October/November 2021. These positions help RMFI achieve stewardship objectives at multiple public land sites in Southern Colorado and the Pikes Peak region including Garden of the Gods, Barr Trail, Pikes Peak, Shelf Road, Sangre de Cristos, and much more. If you love getting your hands dirty, using your problem-solving skills to find creative solutions, being directly involved in the hands-on stewardship of public lands, being part of a team, spending time in nature, and working with the local community then please check out our openings and apply! Click HERE for more information.

Palmer Land Conservancy seeks a qualified and motivated individual to manage the Land Stewardship Program. The Land Stewardship Manager (LSM) builds and maintains positive relationships with landowners, ensures annual fulfillment of Palmer’s legal obligations for conserved properties, provides interpretation of conservation easement terms for landowners, identifies and responds to potential concerns and violations on conserved properties, and completes regular maintenance of stewardship records. Read the full job description HERE.

Colorado Rural Water Association is seeking an Energy Efficiency Technician, who reports to the Executive Director and Field Supervisor. The primary goal of the Energy Efficiency Circuit Rider is to assist rural and small community water and wastewater utility systems in evaluating their energy needs, consumption and costs. Recommending measures to reduce energy consumption and identifying potential funding sources for improvements. For more information click HERE.

Adams County is looking to fill a brand new Senior Parks and Trails Ranger position (full-time, permanent) in Brighton, CO. This function is expected to identify and resolve problems that arise in the normal course of the work.  These efforts are to provide education, safety and well-being for those who visit and utilize the open spaces, trail system, and park facilities managed by Adams County. For more information and to apply, 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 currently looking for a Stormwater Project Engineer / Manager & Engineer Intern. 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. The engineer will assist in and/or manage the planning, design, and production of engineering documents for a variety of projects to include stormwater and drainage design, stream restoration, floodplain analysis, detention and water quality, roadways, parks and trails.Visit the Careers page HERE.

Conferences & Events Late December

FEBRUARY 23rd, 2020: An Evolving Climate: Frameworks for sustainability and social inclusion | Land and Water Summit | Virtual. The goal of the Land and Water Summit is to bring together design professionals, construction and management companies, agencies, farmers, artists, teachers, hydrologists, ranchers, climatologists, wildlife advocates, homeowners, and policy makers to find sustainable ways to protect and share our state’s water and resources. For more information click HERE. To register click HERE.

JULY 19th-21st, 2021: American Water Resources Association (AWRA) 2021 Land and Water Policy Specialty Conference | Denver. The 2021 Summer Specialty Conference will bring together stakeholders from various types of organizations and professions across multiple disciplines to address the design, integration, and implementation of the programs and research necessary to improve the connection of land and water planning and policy. For more information click HERE.

OCTOBER 11th-13th, 2021: Colorado Open Space Alliance Conference | Grand Hyatt in Vail.

DECEMBER 1st & 2nd, 2021: South Platte Forum. Check back for registration opening in 2021. Read more HERE.

Announcements Late December

The CHATFIELD WATERSHED AUTHORITY (CWA) in Douglas and Jefferson Counties, Colorado requests the submission of Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) for legal support, associated with Colorado water environmental regulations. This Request for Qualifications solicits information that will enable CWA to determine the highest qualified Legal Consultant or Firm that may provide professional legal services for the Authority. This solicitation may lead to a contract to provide legal services to CWA. Submissions are Due by 12:00 Noon, MST on Monday, January 4, 2021. For more information you can read the full request HERE.

The Metro Wastewater Reclamation District (MWRD) is seeking proposals from qualified firms able to develop and maintain an updated water quality model for the South Platte River. This will include working with the District in development and implementation of field studies and analyses, while also supporting District staff in compiling, analyzing, and presenting model data. MWRD is the wastewater treatment authority for much of metropolitan Denver and parts of Northern Colorado. They are committed to protecting the environment and providing for the community's future needs. The solicitation due date is December 31, 2020 at 2:00 PM (MST). You will find the full Request for Proposals HERE.

The Call for Special Session Proposals for the AWRA Specialty Conference: Connecting Land and Water for Healthy Communities has been extended to February 1st, 2021. Hopefully this is a little relief for those who were planning to submit and will be incentive for those who wanted to submit but couldn’t due to the tight timeline.

Applications for 2021 Growing Water Smart Workshops in Colorado and Arizona are open. The virtual workshops will be held over 3-4 days; mid-May for Colorado and mid-June for Arizona. This physically distanced but highly collaborative workshop provides a great opportunity for counties, municipalities, or regions to link water and land use, create an action plan, and qualify for technical assistance to support your path forward. There is no cost to participating teams. Contact climateresilience@sonoraninstitute.org with questions. Applications are due by February 15th, 2021.

The City and County of Denver, Denver Water, Mile High Flood District, Metro Wastewater Reclamation District, the Greenway Foundation, and CWCB have come together to create Denver's first One Water Plan. Complete and share this short survey to inform the process and help ensure the Denver One Water program meets the goals and needs of the community. The survey will remain open until early 2021.

2020 Review and 2021 Plans for Colorado River Headwaters

Impact in 2020 looked very different for River Network and the groups served. Cultivating community and youth stewardship of waters was no less important this year – in fact, it was more important than ever. Read highlights from the River Network staff about a few of the many programs supporting these types of activities, both in and on the water, with community in mind. Click HERE to read more.

Get to know the US's landmark water policy, the Clean Water Act! This video, produced in collaboration with Resource Media, provides an overview of the history and contents of the Act including designated uses, water quality criteria, and antidegradation (as well as what all that means!). It's a great primer for your community scientists, monitoring program staff, or anyone else interested in Clean Water Act policy and advocacy.

Construction work is getting underway to improve the heaviest use areas in Rifle Falls State Park. When completed the waterfall viewing area and trails near the falls will be more able to handle the growing number of visitors at this West Slope treasure. To read the full article, click HERE.

Green Team Academy is offering complimentary sponsorships for the 2020 International Climate Action Challenge to Climate Reality Chapters and Branches. The challengers are planting trees, doing cleanups, and transforming their communities! To get started click HERE and request a free Level 2 Sponsorship as a Climate Reality Chapter or Branch.

Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT) is pleased to announce the completion of a Conservation Easement on the 71-acre Sacramento Creek Ranch located near Fairplay within MALT’s Red Hill to Hoosier Pass Priority Area! The Conservation Easement on Sacramento Creek Ranch will prevent the future subdivision of the property and protect critical open space and wildlife habitat for Elk, Moose, Black bear, Beaver and numerous other species that call this area home. The Colorado Natural Heritage Program has identified this region as having “Very High Biodiversity Significance." In addition to critical biodiversity protection, the Conservation Easement specifically ensures use of the property for public recreation, education and research purposes. If you are interested in visiting Sacramento Creek Ranch or learning more about the public uses, please send an email to malt@savetheland.org or call the MALT office at (303) 679-0950.

The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) has just recently released the 2020 Forest Action Plan (FAP), which is a road map to improving forest health across Colorado in the next decade.  The 2020 FAP was created by forestry experts at the Colorado State Forest Service.  This in-depth analysis of forest trends offers solutions and guidance for improving forest health and ensuring our forests — and the resources they provide — persevere for future generations.  This plan will also help assist decision-makers in investing in our forests where these investments will make the most difference.  If you would like to take a look at the plan please click HERE and HERE. Additionally, there is a Forest Action Plan app on the CSFS Forest Atlas page HERE. This is an easy, interactive tool that drills down into the themes of the Forest Action Plan and is an important tool to understand and know how to use.  For CSFS and federal grants, partners will need to show where their project fits in relations to the FAP and will need to convey how the projects that they are proposing ties into this plan.

2020 has seen the three largest wildfires in Colorado history and over 600,000 acres have burned across the Centennial State. Along with many of the obvious concerns that come with fires of such magnitude, additional concerns have been expressed towards the impacts on wildlife. In the newest podcast episode, Colorado Outdoors dives right into the pros and cons of wildfire as it relates to wildlife, aquatic life, and the health of our forests. Providing the context on the subject is senior wildlife biologist for CPW's northeast region Shannon Schaller, northeast region senior aquatic biologist Jeff Spohn, and Casey Cooley, who is CPW's forest habitat coordinator. Listen to the podcast HERE.

Help plan your public areas. Arapahoe County Open Space is currently looking for input online, on potential priorities for Arapahoe County’s Open Spaces program for the next decade and beyond. Please take a few minutes, if you haven’t already, to complete a questionnaire and review an interactive tool that overlays these potential priorities on a map of the County. Click HERE to take the survey.

The Clean Water Act (CWA) is one of the most comprehensive environmental statutes in the United States. It seeks to protect both human health and ecological resources, to maintain healthy waters, and to restore waters that are impaired. The Clean Water Act provides states and authorized tribes with the tools and guidance necessary to protect and maintain healthy waterways in cooperation with federal government agencies. To explore River Network’s Clean Water Act resources, click HERE.

The Denver Parks and Recreation Landscape Typology Manual is a system to identify landscape typologies and the health of individual typology sites. This is a great resource to evaluate and prioritize urban forest health efforts.

The Babbitt Center for Land and Water Policy, a center of the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, proudly co-funded Swimming Upstream, a new StoryMap that highlights collaborative conservation efforts to protect endangered, native fish populations in the Upper Colorado River Basin and enhance critical streamflow management for recreation and agricultural needs in and around Grand Junction, Colorado, along a stretch of the Colorado River commonly known as the 15-Mile Reach. The StoryMap was developed by the Conservation Innovation Center for the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, in collaboration with the Colorado Water Conservation Board and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Click HERE to access the map.

Share your drought related-stories! Faced with the challenge of traveling and touring in the midst of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Colorado Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources invite all who are experiencing the impacts of drought, particularly in agriculture, to submit their drought-related stories online through a dedicated “Drought Virtual Tour” website managed by the Colorado Water Conservation Board.