Funding Opportunities Late January

Grant Deadlines:

AmeriCorps State and National Competitive Grants - Applications due January 23, 2025. AmeriCorps grants are awarded to eligible organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to strengthen communities. An AmeriCorps member is a person who does community service through AmeriCorps. Members may receive a living allowance and other benefits. AmeriCorps will prioritize consideration from organizations that promote environmental stewardship to help communities (especially underserved households and communities) to be more resilient by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving land and water, increasing renewable energy use and improving at-risk ecosystems, among other qualities. To learn more about this Notice of Funding Opportunity, click HERE.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the availability of $7.5 billion of Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA)funding. The WIFIA program offers long-term loans to help communities implement critical water infrastructure projects, which protect public health, deliver environmental benefits, create over 60,000 good-paying jobs, protect waterways including drinking water sources, and support local economies, at a lower cost. The WIFIA program has funding available on an ongoing basis. Learn more HERE.

Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program 2025 Request for Proposals - Full Proposal Due Date: January 30, 2025, by 11:59 PM Eastern Time. The Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration grant program seeks to develop community capacity to sustain local natural resources for future generations by providing modest financial assistance to diverse local partnerships focused on improving water quality, watersheds and the species and habitats they support. Projects include a variety of ecological improvements along with targeted community outreach, education and stewardship. Ecological improvements may include one or more of the following: wetland, riparian, forest and coastal habitat restoration; wildlife conservation, community tree canopy enhancement, wildlife habitat, urban agriculture and community gardens, wildlife and water quality monitoring and green infrastructure best management practices for managing run-off. Learn more HERE. 

USDA Forest Service People’s Garden Initiative - Proposals due January 30, 2025. Approximately $1 million in funding is available from the People’s Garden Initiative through USDA’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production, in partnership with The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s 2025 Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration program. The program will fund projects that support community-based gardens promoting sustainable agriculture practices that benefit people and wildlife. Applicant gardens do not need to be registered as People’s Gardens prior to applying, however, they will be asked to sign up once funding is awarded. Gardens of different sizes and types, including school gardens, community gardens, urban farms and small-scale agriculture projects in rural and urban areas, can be recognized as a People’s Garden.  To learn more about the People’s Garden Initiative and how to apply, click HERE.

We are pleased to announce that 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 31, 2025. A maximum of $15,000 in funding is available in the coming project year. Grantees will be notified by early March 2025 and the funds dispersed in time for the spring field season. Learn more HERE. 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is excited to announce the 2025 round of funding opportunities for the Fishing is Fun Grant Program. The goal of this program is to provide funding to projects that expand fishing access across the state and provide more angling opportunities. CPW awards around $700,000 in Fishing is Fun grants annually. The Fishing is Fun program supports projects such as stream and river habitat improvements, access improvements, perpetual easements for public access, pond and lake habitat improvements, fish retention structures, development of new fishing ponds and amenity improvements such as shade shelters, benches and restrooms. The completed application form must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

The Colorado State University Water Resources Archive is now welcoming applications for the Water Scholar Award. This annual award grants funding to researchers whose work on western water would benefit from access to the collection. The award is intended to help offset the expenses of researchers engaged in studies that will benefit from access to the holdings of the Water Resources Archive as well as costs associated with presentations, publications, or other products resulting from that research. For the 2025 award, the total amount of funding is capped at $3,200, to be allocated to a maximum of three applications. Please apply only for the amount needed. Of special interest are applications concerning historical research related to the Colorado River Interim Guidelines expiration in 2026. Applications are due January 31. Additional information and application details can be found HERE.

USDA Forest Service Partnerships for Aquatic and Watershed Restoration - Responses due February 7, 2025. USDA Forest Service is looking to address aquatic and watershed restoration needs and empower local communities and partners to assist with implementation of activities. Partnerships will help to address restoration needs through projects that support watershed restoration to improve water quality, improve aquatic organism passage or improve efficiencies for aquatic restoration activities on lands managed by USDA Forest Service. The agency seeks to actively involve both new and current partners in restoration efforts. Your submission signals an opportunity for USDA Forest Service to explore with you your ideas/projects/programs and federal funding opportunities. To  learn more and for information on how to apply, click HERE.

Wetlands for Wildlife Grants - The Colorado Wetlands for Wildlife Program is a voluntary, collaborative, and incentive-based program to restore, enhance, and create wetlands and riparian areas in Colorado. Colorado Parks and Wildlife annually seeks applications for wetland and riparian restoration, enhancement, and creation projects to support the  goals of this program. Applications are due February 10, 2025. Learn more HERE.

BRWG has released the RFP and is soliciting proposals from contractors for review in the following weeks. The next stage will be hiring contractors to undergo a Wildfire Ready Action Plan (WRAP). The WRAP will assess Summit County’s valued assets to ensure our county's at risk resources are protected from post-fire flooding and other damaging effects of western fires. RFP DUE: 2:00 PM (Mountain Time), 12 February 2025. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Rocky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain Conservancy are currently accepting applications for the 2025 Bailey Research Fellowship. The Bailey Research Fellowship provides opportunities for highly qualified graduate students to conduct research in the park and communicate their work to the public.The goal of the fellowship is to support graduate student research that aids in park management and decision making. Areas of research can include wildlife management, vegetation and riparian studies, fire ecology, cultural sciences, archeology and historic structures preservation, as well as topics in botany, zoology, geology, history, ecology. These projects should aim to promote the informed decision making and adaptive management of RMNP or the education of staff to promote professional development and growth. Applications accepted through February 16, 2025. For more information, click HERE. 

Colorado Healthy Rivers Fund opens January 20th, 2025. A grant application may be submitted for locally-based watershed protection efforts, provided that the applicant is committing to a collaborative approach to the restoration and protection of lands and natural resources within Colorado’s watersheds that compliments sustainable economic development.  Applications will be accepted through February 28, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

The South Platte Basin and Metro Roundtables are seeking proposals for their Water Supply Reserve Fund Basin Grants. The Water Supply Reserve Fund is designed to provide grants to assist in addressing critical water supply issues and interests. The Roundtables play a major role in allocating these state funds for water projects in the South Platte basin and Denver Metro area. Proposal summaries due March 1st, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

The WaterSMART Applied Science Grants funding opportunity is now available from the Bureau of Reclamation. The Applied Science Grants support projects to develop hydrologic information, water management tools, improve modeling and forecasting capabilities to increase water supply reliability, and projects that will improve the condition of a natural feature or nature-based feature. Applicants may request up to $400,000 for projects to be completed within two years. A non-Federal cost-share of 25 or 50 percent depending on the type of project is required. Eligible applicants include, as Category A applicants: States, Tribes, irrigation districts, water districts, and other organizations with water or power delivery authority. Eligible applicants, as Category B applicants: Universities, nonprofit research institutes, federally funded research and development centers, and nonprofit conservation organizations partnering with one of these entities can also apply. See Section C.1. Eligible Applicants of the funding opportunity for additional information. The funding opportunity is available on grants.gov by searching for opportunity number R25AS00038. Applications are due on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time (MDT). Learn more HERE.

The United States Department of the Interior's WaterSMART Program, through the Bureau of Reclamation, supports efforts to enhance water supply reliability and address water resource challenges. As part of this initiative, the Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Projects (AERP) program focuses on restoring and protecting aquatic ecosystems. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal funding, the AERP collaborates with States, Tribes, and local entities to study, design, and construct projects that improve fisheries, wildlife, and aquatic habitats, promoting environmental health and community resilience. These projects align with Federal priorities, such as tackling climate change, advancing equity, and enhancing drought resilience.Electronically submitted applications must be submitted no later than 4:00 p.m., MT, on April 15th, 2025. Learn more HERE.

Grant Programs:

The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) Water Project Loan Program provides low-interest loans for the design and construction of agricultural and municipal water collection, storage, and delivery facilities, as well as hydroelectric power generation  projects in Colorado; however, it does not fund drinking water or wastewater treatment projects. A minimum loan request of $100,000 is recommended. Projects financed by the Water Project Loan Program must align with the goals identified in Colorado’s Water Plan and its measurable objectives.

Community Navigator Program - The Watershed Center and Coalitions and Collaboratives, along with several other national and regional nonprofit organizations, are partnering with the US Forest Service on a community navigator initiative, which supports communities in accessing federal funding opportunities, creating partnerships, and building capacity for wildfire risk mitigation and climate resilience. To get in touch with a navigator, fill out a request form here.

Closing America’s Wastewater Access Gap: EPA is offering free technical assistance for communities with failing decentralized (septic) wastewater systems, or communities with no existing wastewater systems at all. Do septic systems back up into homes or cause sewage to pool in yards? Does the town or county struggle to provide adequate sanitation services to its residents? Does the community struggle to rebuild damaged or non-functioning wastewater and septic systems? If any of these conditions apply, then your community may be eligible for assistance through this initiative. Communities – including homeowners and utilities – and all states, Tribes, and territories can request no-cost technical assistance. Technical assistance can help assess current wastewater infrastructure, recommend options, and support development of funding applications for the community. More information can be found HERE.  

IRA Forest Landowner Support - Provides grant opportunities to entities and organizations delivering technical and financial assistance to private forest landowners - including Tribes, underserved landowners, and small-acreage landowners - to participate in emerging private markets for forest resilience and climate mitigation.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants — Rolling application window open — The USDA Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants program supports eligible communities to prepare, or recover from, an emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water. Eligible applicants must show a decline in quantity or quality of water that occurred within two years of the date of the application or that a significant decline in quality or quantity of water is imminent.

FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs are provided to eligible applicant states/tribes/territories that, in turn, provide sub-grants to local governments. The applicant selects and prioritizes applications developed and submitted to them by local jurisdictions to submit to FEMA for grant funds. Prospective sub-applicants should consult the official designated point of contact for their applicant state/tribe/territory for further information regarding specific program and application requirements.

The Colorado Water Plan Grant Program supports implementation of the Colorado Water Plan.The Partner Actions within the plan offer examples of the types of project level work that CWCB can help support through this grant program. All grant applications will be assessed based on funds available for a particular Water Plan category. Application deadlines are twice per year (July 1 and Dec 1). Colorado Water Plan Grant program multi-benefit funding categories include: Water Storage & Supply; Water Sharing Agreements; Conservation & Land Use Planning; Engagement & Innovation; Agricultural; Watershed Health & Recreation. To learn more or to apply, please contact the CWCB staff person in your basin, listed HERE. 

City of Ft. Collins Nature in the City Planning Grants. Have an idea for a nature play area, outdoor gathering space, or pollinator restorations? The Dream it Up Project Planning grants can help you and your community plan out your dream project. Anyone from HOA's, faith-based organizations, affordable housing communities, and even schools are welcome and encouraged to apply. Get started!

Colorado Environmental Justice Grants Program - Community Solutions to Improve Environmental Health. This grant opportunity was created by the Environmental Justice Act to provide funding to communities disproportionately impacted by pollution and climate change. The Environmental Justice Advisory Board oversees the EJ Grants Program and will serve as the selection committee for the grants. You can apply for this grant if you are part of a: non-profit organization, local government, federally-recognized Tribal government, university, other educational institution, for-profit corporation, or grassroots organization.

The Water Supply Reserve Fund (WSRF) Grant Program provides funding to assist Colorado water users in addressing their critical water supply issues and interests through a unique local review process. Requests for funds from the WSRF program must be presented to and recommended by the respective Basin Roundtable prior to submitting a grant application and being considered by the CWCB Board. Deadlines to apply vary based on the respective Basin Roundtable meeting schedule and more information can be found HERE. Eligible projects may include funding for technical assistance regarding permitting, feasibility studies and environmental compliance; studies or analysis of structural, nonstructural, consumptive and nonconsumptive water needs, projects or activities; design of structural projects or activities; infrastructure replacement or maintenance projects.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) - Programs include the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), and the Watershed Operations PL-566 Program. 

Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) - CDPHE’s SWAP program's main objective is to minimize potential contaminant threats to public drinking water supplies. To engage in this effort, public water systems and governmental entities can apply for a $5,000 protection planning grant through the SWAP program. The SWAP program also supports Wildland Fire Decision Support System work and post-wildfire recovery efforts. SWAP program staff assisted in the development of the Post Fire Playbook to assist local recovery groups in navigating the complexities surrounding post-wildfire recovery. For more information visit the SWAP page.

Water Quality Grants and Loans Unit - CDPHE’s Grants and Loans Unit offers small community grants and water quality improvement fund grants to protect public health and water quality. They also administer the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program to finance the design and construction of public drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. More information on eligible drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects is available on the water quality grants and loans page.

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.

Colorado Water Conservation Board has compiled this database to serve as a tool for people and organizations across Colorado to navigate all available funding opportunities for water projects in a single place.

A list of state, federal and private funding available for a wide variety of wildfire mitigation projects including Watershed Health.

Job Announcements Late January

CPW Program Management II/Water Resources Team Manager (Denver, CO) - This position manages, directs, and supervises a staff of nine (9) water resource professionals with programmatic responsibilities for water resource and water right protection, instream flow, water quality, recreational water uses, and statewide coordination of water project mitigation and the development of fish and wildlife mitigation plans for water projects. Application closes 1/22/2025. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Morgan Conservation District is seeking applicants for the District Manager position. Job duties include bookkeeping, program administration & management, and coordination of outreach events. To apply, send your resume with at least two references to morganconservationdistrict@gmail.com or 200 West Railroad Avenue, Fort Morgan, CO 80701. 

The Water Conservation Program Assistant position is an hourly position (up to 29 hours per week) within the City of Fort Collins Utilities Water Conservation Department. The City is seeking an individual who is interested in reducing the community’s water use to help create a more resilient and sustainable water supply. Primary job responsibilities include assisting water conservation programs through customer engagement and support, inspections and water savings analysis. In addition to working closely with other water conservation staff and completing tasks independently, this position will spend some time outside of the traditional office environment working with the water utility customers and at community events. Other work includes research and data analysis for various water efficiency planning and program needs. No prior experience working specifically on water conservation and efficiency is required, just a passion for helping our community use our water resources wisely. Additional duties include assisting the Water Conservation Department in water shortage response planning and implementation, such as restrictions or voluntary response efforts, as needed. For more information on Water Conservation’s programs, you can visit: fcgov.com/savewater. For the right candidate, this position has flexible work hours, location and start and end dates. Application deadline is 3:00 p.m. MT on 1/20/2025. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Colorado Springs Utilities is looking for a Water Conservation Specialist, who is a passionate irrigation and landscape professional with deep experience in irrigation & landscape design, installation and maintenance, and a successful background in program administration and a focus on resilient landscapes, and customer engagement; with irrigation design expertise being a critical component of this role. The position will be responsible for supporting programs and following careful processes to ensure their success. These programs support the organization’s conservation and demand-side management goals. Applications are being accepted through: 1/21/25. Learn more or apply HERE. 

The Sonoran Institute is seeking a Program Manager for their Growing Water Smart program. Sonoran Institute’s “Growing Water Smart” (GWS) program trains and assists communities in ensuring that land-use planning, which largely determines future water demand related to urban growth and development, is sensitive to future water conditions and makes the most strategic and equitable use of that water. The program advocates for state policies that more widely integrate water and land use planning across the basin. The program currently operates in Colorado, Arizona, California, and along the US-MX border.  Learn more or apply HERE. 

San Juan Citizens Alliance (SJCA) is looking for a passionate, experienced, and motivated Rivers Program Manager to lead campaigns to protect and restore river systems in the San Juan basin, with a focus on the Animas River watershed and implementing the Animas Riverkeeper program. Duties include supporting safe and reliable river access, promoting environmental and legal protection of water resources and riparian ecosystems, and encouraging democracy in water resource management. The position is full-time and located in either our Durango, Colorado or Farmington, New Mexico office. Application deadline is January 25, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

The Coalition for the Upper South Platte (CUSP) is seeking a Northern Watershed Coordinator to facilitate water quality, watershed health, forest health and fuels reduction projects in the northern Upper South Platte Watershed. This is a somewhat autonomous position that works primarily with communities along the Hwy 285 corridor and along Hwy 9.  Applications are due by February 28th, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

The Blue River Watershed Group (BRWG) is seeking a Projects and Program Director to lead the group’s project development, implementation of restoration projects, collaborative initiatives, and thoughtful planning. The Projects and Program Director is responsible for oversight and implementation of the projects and programs, including but not limited to subcontractor hiring and management, fundraising, financial management, public relations, and more. This position requires a flexible and versatile leader as the work blends technical work with community outreach and relationship building.  Learn more HERE.

Eagle River Coalition (ERC) seeks a Director of Watershed Restoration to develop and implement projects outlined in the Eagle River Community Water Plan (ERCWP) and Water Plan Grant from Colorado Water Conservation Board. Additionally, this position will oversee our Watershed Restoration Manager and a variety of projects and volunteer events that are currently in progress. The Director of Watershed Restoration reports directly to the Executive Director. Learn more HERE. 

The City of Greeley is seeking a Water Resource Operations Manager to join the Water Resources division of the Water and Sewer Department.  Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Water Resources, the Water Resource Operations Manager will oversee the operation and management of Greeley’s raw water supplies.  The successful incumbent in this role will assist with all major water resource efforts, including implementation of the Water Master Plan which includes water supply planning for an aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) project, reservoir operations, and non-potable system expansion.  This role manages professional and technical personnel, and specialized consultants in performing complex, highly specialized studies, including water rights analyses, strategic planning, and raw water supply analysis.  The Water Resource Operations Manager will represent the City’s interests in critical negotiations with ditch companies, agricultural businesses, developers, neighboring municipalities, and other entities throughout the region, and will lead efforts to optimize water supply utilization through data analysis and modeling. Learn more HERE.

BRWG is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Community Engagement and Grants Director to join our team. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing the financial aspects of our organization, with a specific focus on grants management. The Grants and Accounting Director will be responsible for overseeing the grants application process, ensuring compliance with funding requirements, and maintaining accurate financial records. Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to info@blueriverwatershed.org. References and interviews will be part of the selection process. The deadline for applications is January 20, 2024. Learn more HERE. 

The River Corps program places AmeriCorps members at organizations and agencies throughout Colorado to focus on helping the efficiency, efficacy, and scale of healthy rivers and watersheds. To thrive in these technical positions, Members will receive comprehensive training in data collection, river health and restoration, and watershed coordination techniques. Check out their openings across the state HERE. 

Northern Water is seeking a Senior Water Efficiency Planner to design and execute strategic water efficiency initiatives. This individual will lead efforts in research, program development, project management, policy and outreach to enhance water use efficiency across northeastern Colorado’s urban areas. By applying exceptional project management skills, the successful candidate will manage multifaceted and strategic water efficiency initiatives, facilitate and coordinate stakeholder groups, oversee consultant contracts, monitor and report on water efficiency policy, laws and regulations, and more. This is a dynamic position that provides meaningful and lasting impacts alongside opportunities for growth. Learn more HERE.

The West Region Wildfire Council (WRWC) is looking for a Forester / Program Coordinator to join our organization! The position coordinates and implements the Vegetation Management Program (VMP)- a flagship program of the West Region Wildfire Council. The VMP provides technical forestry assistance, as well as incentives, for private property owners to engage in wildfire risk mitigation and forest resilience projects at the parcel, community and landscape scales. Forestry skills and knowledge, program coordination, project management as well as client and contractor relationship management are all utilized skills in this role. Full position details can be found HERE.

The City of Evans, Colorado is seeking to hire a Civil Engineer. The Civil Engineer is under general supervision of the City Engineer, provides a full range of engineering and project management services for the City’s Public Works and Utilities Department. This includes technical work related to municipal stormwater management, transportation, water distribution, wastewater collection, and wastewater treatment. The employee will perform technical work related to the design and review of engineering and utility plans and develop deliverables related to the production of maps, drawings, plans, specifications, and details for water, wastewater, and stormwater management systems. Learn more or apply HERE. 

The Colorado River District is hiring aWater Resources Engineer/Project Manager to perform technical, project management, advocacy, and engineering work in close coordination with and under the general direction of the Director of Asset Management/Chief Engineer. The position involves project management responsibilities, coordinating with consultants and contractors to complete dam, reservoir, recreation area, and mitigation area-related projects. It further entails analyzing, interpreting, and managing dam embankment instrumentation data and ensuring the integrity and safety of dam structures through diligent monitoring and facilitating technical studies. Position will typically involve periodic travel to the District’s project locations and throughout the 15-county territory. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to Audrey Turner (aturner@crwcd.org) no later than January 31st. Learn more HERE.

The Office of Senator Michael Bennet seeks applicants for the role of Regional Representative for the Central Mountains or Northwest Colorado. The position will report to the Western Slope Director. To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to CO_resumes@bennet.senate.gov and include “Regional Representative'’ in the subject line. The application will remain open until filled with the first review of applications beginning on January 13, 2025. Learn more HERE.

Conferences & Events Late January

January 19th, 2025 | Water is Love: Film Screening, Eco-Art, and Water Filter Distribution - Enjoy a powerful screening of the award-winning documentary "Water is Love: Ripples of Regeneration," create eco-friendly paints and nature-themed art, and if you're a Thornton and Commerce City resident, take home a water filter and pitcher to keep your family safely hydrated. Learn more or register HERE. 

January 19th, 2025 | Monthly Water Walk on Lower Bear Creek - This month, we will be joined by Greg Sanchez, who will contribute a mycological perspective (mushrooms and mycelium) to our conversations. Greg Sanchez knew nothing about mushrooms until 2004 when he wondered, “What do you do at a mushroom festival?”  After attending the Telluride Mushroom Festival that year, he found out, sparking a lasting fascination with and a deep passion for all things fungal. Greg is a high school Social Studies teacher in the Denver metro area and an active member of the Colorado Mycological Society, serving in various roles including CMS President in 2011, 2014, and 2022. Although he considers himself a generalist and amateur when it comes to mycology, his social science background brings to him a special interest towards the human and cultural connections with mushrooms, mushroom people, and Ethnomycology. Learn more HERE. 

January 23rd, 2025 | Lower South Platte Water Symposium - Hear from 4 different speakers on updates along the South Platte River Basin. Topics include grant funding, TAPS, salinity, and the State of the South Platte. The meeting will be held at the Knights of Columbus Building on 421 S. 11th Street, with coffee and snacks beginning at 8:30 am. Speakers include CSU Professor Tim Gates, who will be discussing a new salinity research project he is leading in the Lower South Platte Basin. Greg Peterson, CAWA, will be overviewing different grant funding sources that can be used to help fund agricultural water infrastructure projects. Haxtun Farmer Roy Pfaltzgraff, Pfz Farms, will be talking about profitable farming with limited water. Joe Frank, Lower South Platte Water Conservancy District General Manager, will provide a Lower South Platte River update. Learn more HERE. 

January 23rd, 2025 | Are there Rare Earth Elements and Trace Metals in Lincoln Creek? — 5pm - 6:30pm — During the summer of 2024, with the support of many outside agencies, two graduate students at the University of Colorado Boulder conducted a comprehensive study of Lincoln Creek to evaluate the presence of rare earth elements and trace metals and assess their implications for the creek's ecological health. They collected a variety of samples to address critical research questions. Find out the significance of rare earth elements and the potential ecological challenges facing this important water system. Register HERE. 

January 25th, 2025 | Snow Science & Social Snowshoe Hike at Lizard Head Pass - Join SJMA and Mountain Studies Institute to learn about forest ecology, watersheds, climate change, and the future of snowpack in the San Juans by digging snow pits and taking a winter interpretive hike. Snowshoes will be provided if necessary. Back by popular demand, these snowshoe hikes are a great opportunity to explore the snowy landscape and learn more about winter in the San Juans. Learn more or register HERE. 

January 29th - 31st, 2025 | The 2025 Colorado Water Congress Annual Convention, themed "A Gathering of Water Minds," is a premier event bringing together key players from across the state's water industry. Featuring expert panels, interactive discussions, and space to connect with peers, the convention serves as a collaborative platform for CWC’s diverse membership. Attendees will explore the latest developments in water management, conservation, and sustainability, sharing insights to shape Colorado’s water future. With a focus on innovation and problem-solving, the event fosters meaningful dialogue aimed at tackling the state's most pressing water challenges. Learn more HERE. 

February 13th, 2025 | 2025 Water Workforce Career Fair - Join us for the Colorado Water Center’s second annual Water Workforce Career Fair designed to connect students across Colorado with water-related employment and education/training opportunities. The Fair will feature over 30 exhibiting water professionals, a speed-dating networking session for students and professionals, and water education for all ages—for free! Please share this with your networks. Exhibitor registration closes Friday, January 31st, 2025. Individual registration closes Monday, February 10th, 2025. Learn more HERE.

February 15th, 2025 | Morgan Conservation District’s 2025 Annual Meeting - Learn about updates from the District, and hear from 2 different speakers: Joe Frank, General Manager, Lower South Platte Water Conservancy District, and Chuck Miller, Auctioneers Miller & Associates. $25/person or $50/couple, includes dinner. RSVP by 2/7 to 970-427-3358 or morganconservationdistrict@gmail.com. 

March 5th & 6th, 2025 | Arkansas River Basin Water Forum - This year’s 2025 Water Forum will be held at the Pueblo Convention Center and will feature two outstanding keynote speakers.  Rebecca Mitchell, Colorado River Commissioner, has agreed to be our keynote speaker on Wednesday, March 5th and our keynote for Thursday, March 6th is Judge Gregory Styduhar, Chief Judge of the 10th Judicial District.  Our planning committee is developing two outstanding plenary sessions, eight diverse and interesting concurrent sessions and seven fun and informative tours for your picking.  The program covers topics from Water Law 101 to Aquatic Nuisance Species and everything in between.  Stay tuned! Be sure to register and make your lodging reservations early.  Learn more HERE.

March 28th, 2025 | Southwestern Water Conservation District’s Annual Water Seminar -  Join us for our 41st Annual Water Seminar, Water Reimagined: Strategies for a Changing World and explore the future of water management in the face of big data and new ideas. Panels will include Municipalities, Women in Water, Collaboration, and discussions about the future of technology and the role of AI. Learn more HERE.

March 29th, 2025 | Rio Grande State of the Basin Symposium - Save the Date.  

April 16th, 2025 | Society of Wetland Scientists Rocky Mountain Chapter Annual Meeting at the Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver, Colorado. Click HERE to register. Visit the same link to submit an oral presentation or poster abstract. Abstracts are due by January 31st!

April 22nd - 24th, 2025 | Partners in the Outdoors Conference - The conference will take place from April 22-24, 2025 at the Cheyenne Mountain Resort in Colorado Springs, CO. At this year’s conference, we will explore how resiliency applies to every facet of our work and highlight how we can plan for, adapt, recover, and thrive amidst challenges. Register HERE. 

June 6th & 7th, 2025 | 2025 Conference on the Colorado River - Save the Date. Registration will open January 15th, 2025. 

September 18th, 2025 | Colorado WaterWise 2025 Annual Water Conservation Symposium - Save the Date.  Abstract submissions are due by March 14, 2025. 

September 30th - October 4th, 2025 | The11th World Conference on Ecological Restoration (SER2025)will be held in person on 30 September – 4 October 2025 in Denver, Colorado, United States. SER’s World Conference is an exciting and inspiring biennial gathering of global experts in restoration, making SER2025 the premier venue for those interested in being active members of the global restoration community. Call for abstracts closes January 30th.  Learn more HERE.

Trainings & Workshops Late January

January 22nd, 2025 | Native Grass Project Planning - 9am - 10am - Transforming an urban landscape with native grass takes time and careful planning for success. Learn about a proven project planning framework and timing that can be utilized for HOA boards, municipalities, parks, contractors, etc., to help prepare and plan for a native grass conversion. Join the meeting HERE. 

January 22nd, 2025 | Water Conditions Monitoring Committee Meeting from 9:30-11am. The WCMC monitors conditions that affect Colorado’s water supply, including snowpack, reservoir storage, streamflow, historical climate norms, long term precipitation and temperature outlooks, and climate variations. Join the meeting HERE. 

January 22nd, 2025 | MS4 Workgroup Quarterly Meeting with CDPHE - 11:30-1pm - Join us on Wednesday, 1/22. We are in person (still with a remote option) at MHFD in Lakewood (see address above). Topics will include: Construction Stormwater topics (Al Stafford), Clean Water 14 initiative update, updates on MS4 permits, and other topics. Click HERE to join the meeting. 

January 23rd, 2025 | The Basics of Federal Grant Management: Financial Management and Compliance - 12:30-2pm - Does your organization receive funding through federal grants or agreements, or are you considering applying for federal opportunities in the future? The Fire Adapted Communities Learning Network and the Watershed Research and Training Center are excited to partner with Kelley Nonprofit Consulting to offer a four-part series intended to help communities better understand key requirements for successfully managing federal funding. Webinars will cover budgeting for federal awards, expense and match tracking, procurement, and more! We’ll also leave plenty of time for Q&A with our knowledgeable presenters. Register HERE. 

January 27th & 28th, 2025 |  National Stormwater Center - Colorado CSI MS4 Webinar. Designed for Municipal personnel (MS4), this course will focus on permit regulations and compliance to restore and maintain the waters of the United States.  Permits require certifying officials to select qualified stormwater personnel. Gain an in-depth understanding of stormwater permits, the six minimum control measures, how to conduct inspections, and the authority, demeanor, and discretion of stormwater inspectors to enhance your credentials.

February 11th, 2025 | Reusing Produced Water in Oil & Gas - In 2023, Colorado's legislature set up a new Colorado Produced Water Consortium through House Bill 1242. The bill required the Energy and Carbon Management Commission (ECMC) to create rules in order to reduce freshwater use and increase the use of recycled produced water in oil and gas operations. Those rules are now expected to be adopted in early February 2025. We'll learn about those new rules, hear about the Colorado Produced Water Consortium, and explore opportunities and challenges from the industry perspective.  Register HERE. 

February 12th, 2025 | Site Selection for Project Success - 9-10am - In this interactive session, we’ll explore the factors that make a site ideal for native grasses, the challenges that certain conditions can pose, and how to determine whether to modify a site or opt for a different type of landscaping. Gain insights from fellow attendees and share your own experiences to enhance everyone’s knowledge. Join the meeting HERE. 

February 19th, 2025 | Wildlife Habitat Restoration Workshop - Mark your calendars for a free wildlife habitat and riverside restoration workshop for private landowners on February 19th at 5:30pm at CSU's Western Colorado Research Center - Orchard Mesa! Join RiversEdge West and Mesa Conservation District to learn about ongoing riverside restoration projects in the Grand Valley, how you can get involved or start restoration work on your land, and funding opportunities to support your restoration goals!Contact Christa (cbrown@riversedgewest.org) or the District (mesaconservationdistrict@gmail.com) for more information.

April 28th - 30th, 2025 | Colorado Growing Water Smart: Integrated Water and Land Use Planning Workshop - The Growing Water Smart workshop brings key community decision makers on water and land use planning together to collaborate on sustainable water use. The workshop utilizes a range of public engagement, planning, communication, and policy implementation tools to help community teams realize their water efficiency, watershed health, and water resilience goals. Application Deadline: February 28, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

June 4th, 2025 | Aluminum Workgroup Meeting from 10 - 11:30am. Bob Gensemer will summarize this year's data and highlight any trends or findings. Any additional topics suggested by the workgroup will also be presented. Join the Zoom meeting HERE.  

The Professional Water Studies Certificate is made up of three courses – Colorado Water and the American West, Water Law, and U.S. Water Concerns. Take just one that you’re interested in or all three to earn the certificate. Each course is four weeks long, online, and self-paced – allowing continuing education to fit within your busy schedule. Learn more or register HERE. 

The Community Wildfire Mitigation Best Practices training is designed to increase the skills of the professional mitigation practitioner and individuals who run mitigation programs. Participation in the 9-week virtual course is not guaranteed as we endeavor to provide training to individuals who lead or have responsibility for community wildfire mitigation programs. Acceptance is on a per person basis and is not transferable to another person. If there are multiple people from an organization signing up please ensure they sign up individually. Please complete this form if you are interested in being considered for the CWMBP training. Application forms are accepted on a rolling basis and added to a review list. As we schedule new classes, we will email next-steps to everyone listed. For questions about upcoming class or for assistance with this form email wendie.warner@co-co.org. Fill out the interest form HERE. 

EPA Office of Water's Understanding Climate Change Impact on Water Resources Module  — The EPA Office of Water has recently updated and relaunched their Understanding Climate Change Impact on Water Resources Module. This module explains the causes of climate change, its potential impacts on water resources, and the challenges water resource managers face. It was produced by EPA’s Watershed Academy, which publishes educational webinars and publications about watershed management. The updated module reflects the findings of the Fifth National Climate Assessment (2023) and Office of Water's Climate Adaptation Implementation Plan (2022). Regional information on climate change impacts in the United States is also provided in the course. To learn more, click HERE.

EPA's Office of Research and Development and Office of Water host this free webinar series to communicate current research, regulatory information, and solutions for challenges facing small drinking water systems. See the upcoming schedule or past recordings HERE.

Webinar Recording: Overview of Prescribed Fire Liability in State Law. Lawyer Sara Clark provides an overview of prescribed fire liability in state law, including definitions of liability and how state laws defining liability interact with certified burn manager programs, tribal sovereignty and cultural burning, and prescribed fire insurance. This webinar is intended for those who are new to the issue of prescribed fire liability or those more experienced who would like an overview of the subject, especially anyone about to engage on similar policy initiatives in their state or jurisdiction.

Online Course: Leave No Trace 101 Course. This is an introduction to Leave No Trace and the actions we can collectively take to protect our planet. In this course we share helpful information with a simple framework of minimum impact practices to apply when spending time outdoors.

Watershed Academy’s new Hazard Mitigation Planning and Water Resource Management Module Ready - The EPA Watershed Academy has released their new Hazard Mitigation Planning and Water Resource Management Module. This module is intended for water quality and hazard mitigation professionals that are interested in integrating water quality issues and/or nature-based solutions into state or local Hazard Mitigation Plans (HMPs) and highlights the benefits of working across water quality and hazard mitigation programs. Modules in this series can be used as training tools to help planners from both worlds explore activities of mutual interest and benefit. Case studies and examples are provided to assist hazard mitigation planners with integrating water resource programs into HMPs and help watershed planners understand the synergies between water resource plans and HMPs. Visit this link to begin the course!

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 education resource to learn about your watershed including mine reclamation, water monitoring, recreational use, water conservation, drinking water and wastewater treatment and distribution, aquatic life, water scarcity, agricultural use, management, infrastructure, and more. Watch the video series HERE.

The American Stormwater Institute, LLC now offers live and online courses 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 the implementation of the new Non-standard MS4 Permit. Please click HERE to access the material.

Introducing the brand new NRCareers.org: Your ultimate resource for career development in the environmental sector. You may have been familiar with the PDF "A How-To Guide for Pursuing a Career in Natural Resources." This website contains all the same great information from the original PDF, but now you can search the content directly and enjoy quicker updates without needing to download a lengthy guide! The newly redesigned website, developed by CAEE and the Colorado Youth Corps Association, include career possibilities, who hires, how to apply, and career prep.

The Clean Water Certificate (CWC) Training Program is the first in the nation ANAB-accredited green infrastructure and stormwater training program. The CWC Training Program is now being offered through the CWPA Membership Program. The purpose of the training program is to provide high-quality training opportunities that provides job growth in the stormwater industry and delivers industry-specific job-readiness skills for the under- or unemployed , or currently employed adults seeking to expand their skillset. Learn moreHERE.

Announcements Late January

Colorado Parks and Wildlife initiated the first release of water from the Chatfield Reservoir Environmental Pool to increase flows in the South Platte River below the reservoir. The historic release began Tuesday morning and provided three cubic feet per second of water into the South Platte to alleviate low flow conditions, support aquatic life and enhance ecosystem function. Read more HERE. 

Thinking about applying for Water Education Colorado’s 2025 Water Leaders Program? Good news—the application deadline has been extended! You now have until midnight on January 29, 2025 to submit your application.

This is the final week for folks to register for the virtual CWMBP Training running from January 20 through March 27.

Our thoughts are with those affected by the California wildfires. It’s a reminder that wildfire can happen anytime, anywhere. More than half of Colorado residents live in the wildland-urban interface and are at risk of wildfire. If your home is located in or near the natural vegetation of Colorado’s grasslands, shrublands, foothills or mountains, you live in the wildland-urban interface and are at risk. You can learn more about how to live wildfire ready at livewildfireready.org.

Forest and fire learning series: Mountain Studies Institute and partners organized a lecture series event in the spring of 2018 to spark community awareness of local forest conditions, the role of fire on the landscape, changes that will shape future forests, and local land managers and emergency planners. Check out the first two episodes of this year's series HERE.