Announcements Early June

Long Lake. Photo by Kaushal Subedi on Unsplash

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division is requesting surface water quality data for the development of the 2024 303(d) List of Impaired Waters and Monitoring and Evaluation List (Regulation #93). This effort requires a compilation of recent water quality parameters including biological, physical, chemical, and other related information collected from 2017 through 2021. The division specifically requests data collected in the Upper Colorado, North Platte, and Lower Colorado river basins (Regulations #33 and #37). Data from other basins will be included in requests in subsequent years. Data must be submitted to the division by September 1, 2022. Required documents, a list of parameters of interest, and data submission templates are available from the division website.

Due to critically low water flow caused by dry conditions and minimal snowpack levels, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) will implement a mandatory fishing closure on a 0.6-mile stretch of the Yampa River between the dam at Stagecoach State Park downstream to the lowermost park boundary

Pikes Peak Courier, Teller County Ranches are recipients of grant-funded fire mitigation project

Funding Opportunities Early June

Maroon Bells. Photo by Rich Martello on Unsplash

State Revolving Fund Annual Eligibility Surveys Colorado’s State Revolving Fund drinking water and wastewater programs provide affordable financial assistance for water and sewer infrastructure design and construction projects throughout the State of Colorado. The first step to securing this funding is to complete an annual eligibility survey! The Annual DWRF and WPCRF Eligibility Surveys will open on June 1st with a June 30th submittal deadline. Click here to take the survey.

Last year's bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act included $400 million over five years for WaterSMART grants. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) is now making $160 million available for WaterSMART grants and will release additional funding opportunities in the coming months. Projects eligible for these grants must conserve and use water more efficiently, increase the production of renewable energy, mitigate conflict risk in areas at a high risk of future water conflict, or accomplish other benefits that contribute to sustainability in the Western United States. Applications are due July 28, 2022. Click here to learn more and to view eligibility requirements.

WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grants (formerly Challenge Grants) Reclamation provides 50/50 cost share funding to irrigation and water districts, tribes, states and other entities with water or power delivery authority. Projects conserve and use water more efficiently; increase the production of hydropower; mitigate conflict risk in areas at a high risk of future water conflict; and accomplish other benefits that contribute to water supply reliability in the western United States. Projects are selected through a competitive process and the focus is on projects that can be completed within two or three years. July 28th, deadline.

The Colorado River District’s Community Funding Partnership was created in 2021 to fund multi-purpose water projects on the Western Slope in five project categories: productive agriculture, infrastructure, healthy rivers, watershed health and water quality, and conservation and efficiency. Funding for the program was approved by Western Colorado voters as part of ballot question 7A in November 2020. These funds provide a catalyst for projects that are priorities for residents in the District to receive matching funds from state, federal and private sources. Click here for more information and to apply.

The Colorado Strategic Wildfire Action Program (COSWAP) was created after the devastating 2020 fire season by the Colorado legislature through the bi-partisan supported SB21-258 in the summer of 2021. COSWAP is designed to quickly move $17.5 million state stimulus dollars to start on-the-ground work on fuels reduction projects and increase Colorado's capacity to conduct critical forest restoration and wildfire mitigation work that will increase community resilience and protect life, property and infrastructure. Learn more about these opportunities here.

HUD: Authority to Accept Unsolicited Proposals for Research Partnerships Notice. HUD’s Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) has the authority to accept unsolicited research proposals that address current research priorities. HUD is making up to $2 million available for Lead and Healthy Homes Research Partnerships and approximately $1 million available for Research Partnerships for other topics. HUD is interested in increasing participation of Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) of higher education and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in all program areas. To learn more, click here.

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.

Trainings & Workshops Early June

Maroon Bells. Photo by Mike Scheid on Unsplash

JUNE 8th & 9th, 2022 | Forest to Faucets Teacher Workshop. Mountain Studies Institute, in partnership with San Juan Mountains Association, the Water Information Program, and Fort Lewis College conduct the Forests to Faucets: My Water Comes from the San Juan Mountains teacher training workshop each year. Teachers attend a two-day workshop where they learn watershed science, and the model lessons found within the My Water guide.

JUNE 22nd, 2022, 5:30-7pm | Forest Ecology, Collaborative Forest Management, Defensible Space Webinar. Boulder County Nature Association and Left Hand Watershed Center have joined forces to bring you classes on forest ecology and fire mitigation. Each class will focus on a different topic, so participants can attend one or both. In this evening talk on Zoom, we will provide an overview of some general forest ecology principles, the legacy of fire suppression and changes in the forest that have occurred, and the desired future conditions ecologists see for our forests. The current work that is occurring in the St. Vrain Watershed across many partners and communities to respond to forest management needs across boundaries will be discussed. Lastly, Wildfire Partners, a resource for homeowners in Boulder County, will provide an overview of defensible space principles, and resources available to home/landowners.

June 23rd-24th, 2022 | Long Term Capital and Financial Planning for Municipal/Public Water and Wastewater Utilities. This course will address the benefits of effective long-term financial planning, the factors that drive capital expenditure needs (e.g. new customer growth, regulatory compliance, etc), and the common funding sources (both internal and external sources) available for capital projects. In addition, since the utilization of debt has become increasingly prevalent in the public utility industry, it is imperative for managers and directors to become informed and knowledgeable of the process and requirements for issuing bonds.

The Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership presents 14 videos to help community members learn about how water is managed, restored and monitored in the upper Uncompahgre River watershed. Take advantage of this new education resource to learn about your watershed including mine reclamation, water monitoring, recreational use, water conservation, drinking water and waste water treatment and distribution, aquatic life, water scarcity, agricultural use, management, infrastructure, and more. Watch the video series here.

Master Irrigator Program- San Luis Valley. Over four sessions, this 32-hour program reviews water law and administration, history of water development, and gives participants the tools and strategies to improve water and energy use efficiency and conservation, soil health, and profitability on their operations. Those who complete the course will also receive a $2,000 stipend. To be eligible for this course you must farm in either Rio Grande, Alamosa, Costilla, Conejos, Saguache or Mineral County. Details will be available soon 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.

Non-standard MS4 Permit PDD Template and Program Strategy Templates. SPLASH members and SEMSWA worked with CP Compliance to create resources to educate permittees. It may also assist permittees with implementation of the new Non-standard MS4 Permit. Please click HERE to access the material.

San Juan Expedition Avy Course based at Thelma Hut. The AIARE Avy 1 Hut Course is designed to give you a full introduction to backcountry travel. Based out of the Thelma hut on Red Mountain Pass, you will spend day and night with your peers and instructors learning the foundation of avalanche education. In a hut format, you spend more time skiing, more time learning from and observing your instructors, and more time in the mountains—all with lodging and food included. When you take your level one with San Juan Expeditions you will get hands-on experience analyzing the avalanche hazard and using your observations to make decisions in the field. Click HERE for more information.

MSU Denver developed the noncredit Water Studies courses for people interested in safeguarding this precious resource. Students will learn history, law, management, and water trends in Colorado and the American West. The courses have recently been improved, offering the same high quality, but shortened to meet your busy schedules. The course structure has been redesigned for each class to be one month long to improve the learning experience and accommodate the schedules of busy professional students. Click HERE for more information.

Colorado Master Irrigator offers farmers and farm managers advanced training on conservation- and efficiency-oriented irrigation management practices and tools. This program is the product of efforts led by several local producers, district management representatives, and others. Colorado Master Irrigator is modeled on the award-winning Master Irrigator program created and run since 2016 by the North Plains Groundwater Conservation District in the Texas panhandle. Topic experts from Colorado and adjacent Ogallala states, serve as instructors over the 32 hours of the program. Colorado Master Irrigator's interactive class format is designed to encourage peer-to-peer exchange among participants and instructors, helping forge useful contacts that graduates can reach out to after their participation in the program. Click HERE for more information.

Silt Removal - Positive Impact on Crop Yields, Water Use Efficiency, & Irrigation Systems. Presentation from the 2021 World Ag Expo on sources of silt, its impacts, and current and new methods of removal. Watch the presentation here!

Job Announcements Early June

City Park. Photo by Cassie Gallegos on Unsplash

The Boulder Watershed Collective is seeking a Watershed Scientist. The successful applicant will be a motivated, independent, enthusiastic problem-solver who is capable and willing to serve the larger purpose of restoring ecosystems and engaging in meaningful community dialogue. The Watershed Scientist is challenged to assist the Director in developing and managing watershed restoration projects and pre and post project monitoring (field data collection) and adaptive management. All applications must be received by Wednesday June 10, 2022 at 5pm.

The South Platte Basin Roundtable is seeking a Recorder. This position is responsible for administrative duties including maintaining the member list and calendar, distributing agendas and meeting materials for the monthly meetings. There will be one in-person meeting a month. This flexible, part-time position will be paid a flat rate of $400 a month. This is a great opportunity to be involved in the vital Colorado Water Plan and Roundtable process. Please contact and submit your letter of interest and qualifications to Sean Chambers at Sean.Chambers@greeleygov.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The West Region Wildfire Council is currently reviewing applications to fill our Partnership & Collaboration Director position. The partnership & collaboration director will provide leadership and/or assistance for initiatives that create and enhance connections between and amongst stakeholders, promote coordination and collaboration and advance an increase to the pace and scale of prioritized outcomes as they relate to wildfire and watershed resilience. This position will expand WRWC’s capacity to convene, facilitate and foster collaborative communication and coordination services for numerous partners and stakeholders.

Community Resource Center is hiring for multiple positions. Remote and/or hybrid positions across the state with opportunities for those early in their careers, as well as for seasoned professionals are available. If you know of any purpose-driven individuals who are looking for a new opportunity, please encourage them to check out our open positions: Human Resources Coordinator, Human Resources Manager, AmeriCorps Assistant Program Manager, AmeriCorps Program Manager, Assistant Director of AmeriCorps VISTA, Assistant Director of Statewide Education, Member Learning Coordinator

Clear Creek County seeks an Emergency Management Coordinator. This position prepares for all-hazards response in cooperation with County and municipal agencies, special districts, state and federal partners, private industry, and non-governmental organizations. Interact frequently with internal and external stakeholders, senior and elected officials, and the public to facilitate emergency preparedness. Review, update, and/or develop emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation plans and procedures. See the full job description here.

Conferences & Events Early June

Independence Pass. Photo by Sam Dellaporta on Unsplash

JUNE 2nd, 5:30-7pm | St Vrain Forest Health Project: NEPA Webinar. Calling all residents and stakeholders in the St. Vrain Watershed and beyond! The U.S. Forest Service is planning forest management actions in the St. Vrain watershed and is currently going through the NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) process. As part of this process, there is a public comment period. This webinar and Q&A will provide community members with an opportunity to learn about what is being proposed and how to comment on that proposal.

JUNE 3rd-5th, 2022 | Yampa River Annual Festival. The flagship event of Friends of the Yampa, the Yampa River Festival, is a true hometown celebration of our friend the Yampa River. It is with great thanks to all the passionate and dedicated river enthusiasts, partners, and supporters that this event continues to be the gem that it is today. While following all the latest safety guidelines, join us to celebrate this year’s Yampa River Festival between June 3-5, 2022. The main event is on Saturday, June 4th. *There will be a special event on Thursday, 6/2, 4:30-6:30pm – Jackson Kayak freestyle & free Rockstar V demo w/ instruction from Clay Wright.

JUNE 4th, 2022 | Grizzly Creek Hike and Fire Impacts Tour. Join for a walking tour of the Grizzly Creek Fire area, including discussion on restoration efforts! Experts will join to talk about the impacts of the fire and debris flows on the watershed, including highway infrastructure, water quality, riparian health, and wildlife. We will also hear from experts on MCWC's collaborative post-fire mitigation and restoration efforts and water quality monitoring.

JUNE 9th, 2022,1pm | Webinar: Colorado Ute Tribal Water Rights and Access. Join us on June 9 at 1 p.m. for a webinar looking at the past, present and desired water future of the Colorado Ute Tribes, where we'll hear from tribal leaders along with those involved in negotiating the Colorado Ute Indian Water Rights Settlement Act and future Colorado River agreements involving the tribes.

JUNE 15th-17th | Annual River Basin Tour. Each year, these fun and informative multi-day tours draw attendees statewide. Water Education Colorado takes lawmakers, water managers, attorneys, engineers and members of the public on a tour of a different river basin in Colorado to learn about the history, water-management practices and challenges of the area. Participants can also take part in extra-curricular activities, such as rafting or fly-fishing, dine at area ranches or open-space parks, and network among peers. Find more information here.

JUNE 16th, 2022, 1-5pm | Planning to Thrive: Equity, Justice & Integrated Strategies for Colorado’s Future. The Symposium brings together community members and advocates, subject experts, and local and state elected officials. Learn first-hand of challenges facing Coloradans – to understand shortcomings, steps needed to achieve authentic sustainability, and 21st century solutions for resiliency for everyone. The event is designed for listening, learning, conversation, working sessions, and advancing real actions for a better future.Representatives from more than 30 organizations in Colorado – working on environmental restoration, climate mitigation, equity and environmental justice, housing-of-all, efficient land use, economic resilience, and mobility-for all – are expected at the symposium.

JUNE 25th, 2022 | Ridgway River Festival | Uncompahgre Watershed. Ridgway River Festival (RiverFest) is a family-friendly celebration of the Uncompahgre River and our community with all-age river races, live music, local food and drink, kids’ activities, watershed educational and cultural programs.  The highlight of the day is the infamous “Junk of the Unc” race in which boaters maneuver their craft,  constructed from scrap materials not intended for river travel, through whitewater rapids and others’ junk, trying to keep it all intact for the 0.5 mile finish line. 

JUNE 25th, 2022 | A Night In The Park | Mountain Area Land Trust. Join MALT at "A Night in the Park" on as they celebrate the 30th year of land and water conservation! "A Night in the Park" is MALT's signature gala and the must-attend event of the summer! Former Denver Bronco Reggie Rivers will be back with his amazing energy and enthusiasm to emcee our evening and other special guests will be honored as part of the celebration. Read more and purchase your tickets here.

JULY 11th-29th, 2022 | Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) Colloquium | The Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E). The Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E) would like to announce the Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO) Colloquium, which will be held 11-29 July 2022 at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. Scholarships for travel expenses are available. The application deadline is February 1st 2022. Read more and apply here.

SEPTEMBER 16th, 2022 | The Colorado River Districts Annual Water Seminar. Save the date!