Announcements Late April

The first issue of Corn Quarterly for 2022 is now available online and should be arriving to your mailbox soon. This issue is packed full of information on what the CCAC has been up to, as well as industry news, trade and export news.

Photo cutline: Left to right, Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership Communications Director Tanya Ishikawa and Board President Dennis Murphy receive a check for $7,500 from RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service co-owner Tim Patterson. The donation was from the proceeds of A Benefit for the Uncompahgre River at the Fly Fishing Film Tour at the Ouray County 4H Event Center in Ridgway. Nearly 200 audience members came to the event co-sponsored by RIGS and Telluride Angler. In addition to silent auction and drawing donations from both lead sponsors, other donations were received from Ouray Brewery, The Liquor Store, Yeti, and artist Emma Yardley. Plus, food was provided by Beyond the Board and several volunteers assisted in making the evening a great success!

The Four Corners Resource Management Apprenticeship Program (RMAP) is Mountain Studies Institute summer internship program that connects regional college students and recent graduates with resource managers to gain the knowledge and hands-on skills of what it means to work with or for a federal agency. Whether interns participate in natural, recreation, or cultural resource management, a key goal of the program is to prepare the next generation of agency personnel. There are a variety of apprenticeship positions across the Four Corners region with MSI and our partners. To learn more about the RMAP program and apply, visit our website HERE.  

The Colorado State Forest Service has a new video series called Growing Great Trees with tips on selecting, planting and caring for seedlings. Click or tap below for the first video in the series, or watch the entire series on the CSFS Nursery's Planting Guide webpage.

Funding Opportunities Late April

Cleanup grants assist in the remediation of abandoned properties that contain environmental hazards. They are available to:

  • Not-for-profit entities

  • Non-Federal Governmental entities

  • Watershed or other community organizations

  • OR get formal support from one of the above

Applications are officially open for submission and will close on May 31. Selections will be made on a competitive basis and announced in the summer of 2022.

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 Late April

APRIL 28th-29th, 2022 | Fundamentals of Cost of Service and Rate Design for Water Utilities. This introductory course reviews the basic mechanics of a cost of service and rate design study for water utilities. Participants will also learn valuable tools on obtaining buy-in or “selling” the need for a revenue increase to its constituent groups. Real world examples based on generally accepted ratemaking principles will be utilized throughout the course.

MAY 12, 19, 26 June 2nd and June 16, 2022 | Introduction to Groundwater, Watersheds, and Groundwater Sustainability Plans - An Online Shortcourse. Understanding groundwater and watersheds and how we monitor, assess, and sustainably manage these resources is critical and integral to California Groundwater Sustainability Plans (GSPs) and other water management programs. This online short course will review the fundamental principles of groundwater and watershed hydrology, water budgets, water quality, and water law and regulation in an intuitive, highly accessible fashion. Through real world examples, participants learn about the most common tools for measuring, monitoring, and assessing groundwater and surface water resources. We then review the key steps and elements of planning for groundwater sustainability.

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 Late April

The Sand Creek Regional Greenway Partnership (SCRGP) seeks an enthusiastic and curious individual for a 10-week paid Environmental Education Internship for the Generation Wild Program funded through Great Outdoors Colorado. This person will work alongside SCRGP’s Environmental Education and Outreach Program Manager to plan and facilitate outdoor and environmental education programs for youth ages 5-18. Applications opened on April 13th , 2022. Applications are accepted until the role is filled. Read the full description.

The Getches-Wilkinson Center for Natural Resources, Energy and the Environment (GWC) at the University of Colorado Law School is seeking two outstanding — early career — attorneys to serve as the next GWC Water Law Fellows. Fellows will work on the most pressing water law reform issues of the day under the guidance of the GWC and in partnership with leaders from the non-profit, government, and private sectors. Apply by May 1st, 2022 for full consideration. The full description can be found here.

Grand Valley Water Users Association (GVWUA) in Grand Junction, CO is seeking applicants for the position of Irrigation District Manager. The Manager reports to an 11-member board, implements the board’s directives and policies, and manages the administrative and operational functions of the Association. Requirements include knowledge of irrigation system operation and excellent skills in management, budgeting and customer relations. Salary range begins at $95,000.Please apply before May 25, 2022 at indeed.com where a detailed job description is posted.

The Alliance Center is seeking an Operations and Finance Manager and a Facility Manager. Click here for more information about both of these positions.

Groundwork Denver is now hiring for youth and young adult summer positions! Positions available for ages 13-24 in the neighborhoods of Northeast Park Hill, Montbello, Globeville/Elyria-Swansea, Five Points/Cole, Westwood, and Commerce City, Northwest Aurora, and the City of Sheridan. Young adults 18-24 from anywhere in metro Denver are encouraged to apply to our Green Infrastructure Training Program. Learn more or apply now!

Cottonwood Institute is looking for inspiring and passionate field instructors to lead outdoor programs in the spring of 2022 and additional programs throughout the year. CI partners with local schools and youth organizations to connect students to the outdoors through low impact camping and service-learning projects. Most programs operate in base camp settings throughout the Front Range, however, several programs involve backpacking into backcountry areas throughout Colorado. Please read the CAP class section of our website to get a sense for our flagship program. As a field instructor, you will be working with our CAP instructors to take their classes on field days and overnights as part of their courses’ culminating experience. The full job description can be found here.

Florida Consolidated Ditch Company is seeking an Operations Manager. As Operations Manager, you would communicate with shareholders, maintain the ditch, manage personnel, and work with contractors, equipment operators, and government officials. It’s full-time during the summer irrigation season with the ability to work part-time in the offseason. Read the full job posting here.

Mountain Studies Institute is currently hiring for three positions: Accountant/Bookkeeper, Finance and Operations Director, and Development and Engagement Director. Visit this link for additional information!

San Juan Mountain Association is now hiring for a new position on the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests as a Community Outreach Specialist. The Norwood Community Outreach Specialist will be based out of the Norwood Ranger Station to develop and deliver interpretive and educational programming and organize volunteer events to contribute to public lands stewardship in the region. This part-time seasonal position is great for an individual passionate about promoting conservation and stewardship on public lands. Click here for more information and to apply.

San Juan Mountain Association is hiring a lead instructor for our popular environmental education day camp. The camp instructor will work with the SJMA education team to deliver outdoor education programming at SJMA’s Nature Center and on public lands throughout Southwest Colorado. SJMA instructors have a passion for getting youth outdoors, cultivating a deep understanding of natural processes, and encouraging public lands stewardship. Click here for more information and to apply.

The Colorado State University Department of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship (FRS) in the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU) is seeking applications for an Assistant Professor specializing in forest ecology with experience and/or strong interest in urban environments. This is a 9-month, full-time tenure track faculty position. More information on the position and how to apply can be found in the attached position description. Click here to read the full description.

ERO Resources Corporation is currently seeking a full-time staff biologist to join our natural resources group in Denver, Colorado.  This position will work in collaboration with our natural resources group to support new and existing natural resource projects based out of our Denver office.  The ideal candidate for this position will apply their ecological knowledge to evaluate a variety of project sites for natural resource concerns, provide guidance to clients on those resources, and prepare and review ecological reports and permit applications. Click here for more information.

Conferences & Events Late April

APRIL 20th, 2022, 9am-12:30pm | Western Slope Virtual Funder Rountables. Virtual Funder Roundtables are an opportunity to directly engage with staff from foundations and grantmaking agencies of your choosing - to introduce yourself, share a bit about your work, ask questions about fit, and speak to your needs and plans. This three and a half hour session will provide participating nonprofits and local governments with the opportunity to connect with up to six funders throughout the morning, while providing ample breaks to ensure you can take care and refresh yourselves. Nonprofits will sign up for sessions with the funders of their choice to be a small group with other organizations from their region. We will limit the number of participants to four in each round to ensure meaningful engagement and foster regional relationship building. Click here to learn more and register.

APRIL 21st, 2022, 5pm | Our Common Ground: A History of America's Public Lands | Book Release Event. The event will include an overview of the book by John Leshy, followed by a panel discussion of the topics covered. The Common Ground is free and open to the public, but registration is required to attend and/or receive the livestream link. During registration, please indicate your intent to join in person or remotely. This helps us track in person attendance. More information can be found here.

APRIL 27th, 2022 | Dolores River Stewardship Event | RiversEdge West. Join RiversEdge West and the Southwest Conservation Corps in planting native vegetation along the Dolores River on Wednesday, April 27th from 9 am - 2:30 pm. We will be planting native trees, shrubs, forbs, and grasses to help continue restoration efforts and provide viable habitat along the Dolores River. Volunteers are encouraged to bring knee pads/kneelers, gloves, water bottles, sun protection, and work clothes. The location is approximately a 2-hour drive from Grand Junction. Please RSVP by Sunday, April 23rd so food can be planned. Lunch and water will be provided.

MAY 7th, 2022,9 am | 19th annual Spring Up the Creek | The Town of Castle Rock. The Town of Castle Rock hosts this event in conjunction with Douglas County, Castle Pines Metropolitan District and Chatfield Watershed Authority. Groups, schools, businesses, media and the community are also integral to making this event a success each year. About 200 volunteers gather to pick up trash and debris from the banks of East Plum Creek and Sellars Gulch in an effort to keep our waterways clean. For more information click here.

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 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.