Funding Opportunities Early December

Grant Deadlines:

CDPHE is now accepting applications for watershed implementation projects that restore waterbodies impaired by nonpoint sources of selenium, sediment, pathogens and/or nutrients AND/OR protect waterbodies from nonpoint sources of pollution. They are also accepting applications for projects that develop a new EPA Nine Element Watershed-Based Plan or update an existing EPA Nine Element Watershed-Based Plan. CDPHE is also excited to announce cycle three of the Colorado Environmental Justice Grants Program. This funding opportunity is a great source for matching funds for NPS projects in disproportionately impacted communities. More information on this grant is available on the department's Office of Environmental Justice webpage. Please visit the Nonpoint Source Funding Opportunities webpage for the 2025 RFA applications and reference materials. Applications must be submitted to cdphe_wqcd_nonpointsource+managers@state.co.us no later than December 4, 2024 by 5pm (MST).  

Colorado Ag Water Alliance (CAWA) is seeking proposals for their Drought Resiliency Program that focuses on developing effective strategies for agricultural water users and managers to adapt to reduced water supplies. CAWA seeks to support projects that are shovel-ready and need support for implementation and evaluation. CAWA does not fund general irrigation efficiency improvements as part of this program.Successful projects will test concepts and collect data that can demonstrate the ability to decrease water use and/or increase long-term resilience to reduced water supplies. CAWA will also consider the potential for a project to be replicated or scaled for larger impact as well as pursuing and securing public funding for implementation. Applications are due December 13th, 2024. Learn more HERE. 

The North Front Range Water Quality Planning Association (NFRWQPA) is conducting a public notice and comment period to review the Regional EPA 9-Element Watershed Plans. A public hearing date of December 19, 2024, at 2:00 PM, is tentatively set for the final approval of the plans. Comments may be submitted using the Review and Comment Tracking Google forms provided for each separate watershed. All the Regional EPA 9-Element Watershed Plans and Review and Comment Tracking forms may be viewed here. If your organization is interested in a particular watershed, you may access the watershed plans below individually. Middle South Platte, Big & Little Thompson, Cache La Poudre, St. Vrain Creek. This Public Notice may also be viewed on the Association website here.

The Water Quality Control Division’s Local Assistance Unit is now accepting applications for the 2025 Assistance Grants Program. These grants provide financial assistance for systems that need help reaching or exceeding compliance requirements or addressing a water quality challenge. Total funding is $150,000. Individual grants will be up to $25,000. All public water systems are eligible. Projects must be completed within the 2025 calendar year. The application period will close on December 23, 2024. When applying, please have the system’s Public Water System Identification Number (PWSID) handy. This program primarily funds infrastructure projects and requires systems to address operational and administrative improvements, such as emergency response plans, main break response procedures, and storage tank inspection plans. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Reducing Lead in Drinking Water Grant Program - The EPA is soliciting applications from eligible applicants for lead reduction projects in disadvantaged communities in two National Priority Areas as described in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). The EPA expects to make at least one award under each National Priority Area but may redistribute the awards differently based on the quality of applications received and other applicable considerations. Awards made under the funding opportunity are intended to promote public health and support the Justice40 initiative by addressing conditions that contribute to increased concentrations of lead in drinking water. Proposed projects must include at least one or more disadvantaged community. Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the proposed project:(i) is in and/or benefits a disadvantaged community(ies); (ii) benefits drinking water systems with at least one lead action level exceedance within the last three years or addresses lead levels in drinking water in schools/childcare facilities; and (iii) supports the Justice40 initiative. Please see the NOFO for further details. Applications are due December 30th, 2024. Learn more HERE. 

WaterSMART Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects (SWEP) funding opportunity provides funding for small water efficiency improvements that have been identified through previous planning efforts. Projects eligible for funding include installation of flow measurement or automation in a specific part of a water delivery system, lining of a section of a canal to address seepage, outdoor landscaping, or other similar projects that are limited in scope. The total project cost for the purchase of materials and installation of materials cannot exceed $250,000. Applications are due January 14, 2025. Learn more HERE.

The Colorado Tree Coalition (CTC) Community Grants Program supports community-led projects that focus on planting, maintaining, and managing trees to enhance urban and rural green spaces, improve environmental sustainability, and engage local residents. This grant prioritizes initiatives that promote species diversity, mitigate climate change, and create and advocate for healthy living environments. Applications are due January 15th, 2025. Learn more HERE. 

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.

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, 20254. 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. 

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.

Grant Programs:

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 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.

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.

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.

Conferences & Events Early December

December 5th, 2024 | Rocky Mountain Community Science Conference - The Rocky Mountain Community Science Conference (RMCSC) is a biennial conference that gathers community science practitioners, managers, participants, and enthusiasts to discuss the successes and unique challenges of community science programs in the Rocky Mountain region. The conference includes oral presentations, rants, workshops, networking opportunities, and a poster session. Learn more or register HERE. 

December 5th, 2024 | Grappling with Barriers to Agricultural Water Conservation on Colorado's West Slope - A presentation by: Seth Mason, Principal Hydrologist at Lotic Hydrological and Ph.D. Candidate at Colorado State University  - The Upper Colorado River Commission identifies voluntary and compensated reductions in consumptive water use as an important tool for managing Colorado River water supplies in the face of a drying climate and falling water levels in Lake Powell. Water leasing programs are also an important tool for watershed groups like the Roaring Fork Conservancy working to meet local environmental flow targets. However, participation rates in water conservation programs remain low locally and regionally. Seth Mason will share insights from research activities conducted in the Roaring Fork Watershed and across Colorado's West Slope that probe the factors that limit water conservation program participation rates and attempt to identify opportunities for increasing the appeal and effectiveness of future water conservation programs. Learn more HERE. 

December 5th, 2024 | Mountain Science Institutes Jack Frost Fundraiser - This will be an evening of connecting, mingling, and highlighting all we have accomplished during 2024 and what is in store for 2025.  Learn more HERE. 

December 5th, 2024 | Rooted in Action - Join Groundwork Denver in celebrating our whole community's collective impact and raising resources to support local environmental justice efforts. Learn more HERE. 

December 14th, 2024 | Headwaters Rocky Mountain Yule Celebration - Join the Headwaters Center in Winter Park for their annual fundraiser benefiting the Headwaters River Journey Museum 501c3 and other local water conservation education initiatives. Learn more HERE. 

December 19th, 2024 | Public Hearing - The North Front Range Water Quality Planning Association (NFRWQPA) is conducting a public notice and comment period to review the Regional EPA 9-Element Watershed Plans. A public hearing date of December 19, 2024, at 2:00 PM, is tentatively set for the final approval of the plans. Comments may be submitted using the Review and Comment Tracking Google forms provided for each separate watershed. All the Regional EPA 9-Element Watershed Plans and Review and Comment Tracking forms may be viewed here. If your organization is interested in a particular watershed, you may access the watershed plans below individually. Middle South Platte, Big & Little Thompson, Cache La Poudre, St. Vrain Creek. This Public Notice may also be viewed on the Association website HERE.

April 16th, 2025 | Society of Wetland Scientists Rocky Mountain Chapter Annual Meeting - Save the Date.

June 6th & 7th, 2025 | 2025 Conference on the Colorado River- Save the Date.

Job Announcements Early December

BRWG is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Grants and Accounting 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. 

GS-11/12-0401 Fish and Wildlife Biologist (Contaminants), USFWS Region 6 Colorado Ecological Services Field Office - This announcement is open through December 5, 2024, or until 125 applications have been received. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with private landowners, Tribes, municipalities, public agencies (from counties to federal agencies), non-governmental organizations, and academia to accomplish the USFWS' mission. We are driven by a shared vision (“we envision a future where people and nature thrive in an interconnected way and where every community feels part of and committed to the natural world around us”) and values (stewardship, integrity, respect, collaboration, and innovation). COFO is united in our purpose to conserve and enhance species and their habitats within and around Colorado for their intrinsic value and for future generations to enjoy. We are seeking talented, experienced applicants with a firm grounding in ecology, toxicology, and biological sciences and strong skills in partnership-building, writing, and communication to serve as the office’s lead technical expert on environmental contaminants and pesticides as they relate to effects on wildlife, fish, plants, and their habitats. 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.

Physical Science Researcher Scientist IV - Water Standards Criteria Unit Manager - 2639: This position manages the Standards - Criteria Unit that implements regulatory aspects of the federal Clean Water Act and  Colorado Water Quality Control act that focuses on development of information used by the WQCC to establish  water quality classifications and standards for both surface and groundwater to the state and developing and refining  water quality policies. This is accomplished by implementation of the Clean Water program work plan and priorities by  identifying and overseeing the appropriate work activities assigned to unit staff. This position manages the Standards - Criteria Unit staff within the limits set by federal and state regulations, guided by the WQCD strategic plan goals, and   focused through the Clean Water program work plan and priorities by identifying and overseeing the appropriate work activities assigned to unit staff. Learn more HERE.

Director, Colorado Water Center, Colorado State University:  Request for Applications  - The Colorado Water Center director is appointed by the President of Colorado State University to serve as the chief executive, academic, and policy officer of the Center, reporting directly to the Vice President for Engagement and Extension. The director provides leadership and oversight of the Center’s portfolio of research, education, engagement, and service activities, which is developed and implemented in collaboration with CSU faculty and staff affiliates, partner higher education institutions across Colorado, and a variety of partner scholars, agencies, and organizations. Learn more or apply HERE.

Boulder Watershed Collective is seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director provides strategic direction and leadership to achieve the organization’s mission and will work with BWC staff, state and federal agencies, local partner organizations, and donors committed to revitalizing the Boulder Creek watershed. The Director embodies the values of the organization and will represent the organization in community fora, in front of elected officials, and through engagement with public and private donors. They direct project teams and support BWC projects to maintain a direct tie between organizational mission and execution. The Executive Director oversees administration including organizational development, financial management, and staff oversight. All applications must be received by Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 5 p.m. Learn more or apply HERE.

Resource Central  is seeking to hire a Senior Program Manager, who will lead the innovative Lawn Replacement team, refining this water conservation program to create a more structured, scalable operation. This program allows residents to replace thirsty traditional lawns with beautiful, low-maintenance, waterwise plants that support pollinators and significantly reduce water use. Additionally, they will guide the popular Slow the Flow Sprinkler Evaluation Program team, which has assisted thousands in optimizing their irrigation systems through evaluations, education, and smart technology. This role offers a chance to shape the future of water conservation in Colorado through strategic management and fostering a dynamic team culture. Join us to make a meaningful difference and help make waterwise yards the new norm in Colorado! Learn more or apply HERE. 

La Plata Open Space Conservancy (LPOSC) is looking to hire a Conservation Outreach and Events Coordinator who plays a vital role in supporting our mission to conserve open spaces in Southwest Colorado through event coordination, grant writing, marketing, and community engagement. The Coordinator will drive public outreach and visibility by planning diverse events, managing digital platforms, and supporting internal operations. This role will be integral to building relationships within the community and effectively sharing our story and conservation goals. Familiarity with GIS (ArcPro) is a plus for supporting visual and mapping needs. 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 a Geotechnical and Dam Safety Engineer 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. This position includes analyzing, interpreting, and managing dam embankment instrumentation data and ensuring the integrity and safety of dam structures through diligent monitoring and technical studies. The role involves project management responsibilities, coordinating with consultants and contractors to complete dam, reservoir, recreation area, and mitigation area-related projects. This position is based out of Glenwood Springs near the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Trout Unlimited seeks to hire a Northern Front Range Project Manager. This position requires a self-motivated and competent person to identify, plan, and implement projects to benefit wild and native fish populations in Colorado’s Northern Front Range. The position will primarily support post-fire watershed restoration efforts in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. The position will also develop and implement other restoration projects across the Northern Front Range. Projects will include the removal of barriers for fish and aquatic organisms, infrastructure improvements, water quality assessments, and implementing form and process-based stream restoration at a watershed scale. The project manager will work cooperatively with partners of diverse backgrounds and interests. The project manager will be expected to secure grants and raise funds to cover project costs. Duties will also include active and effective participation in stakeholder groups to produce positive outcomes for coldwater fisheries. Learn more or apply HERE.

Trainings & Workshops Early December

December 3rd, 2024 | Getting the Lead Out Through Cross-Sector Partnerships - Community leaders and water utilities nationwide are facing a common challenge: the prevalence of lead service lines. Last month, the US EPA issued a final rule requiring drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace all lead pipes within a decade. Many utility leaders are grappling with how to accomplish this, knowing that there may be tens of thousands of lead pipes in their systems. One Water approaches that prioritize collaboration between utilities and the communities they serve offer a transformative way of addressing this daunting task. Learn more or register HERE. 

December 3rd, 2024 | Preserving Dinetah: Water Security for Generations, the Nation’s Water Settlements Currently before Congress - Please join the Navajo Nation Department of Justice, the American Indian Law Program and the Getches-Wilkinson Center for a timely discussion regarding the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024. The focus of the presentation and conversation will be the importance of water access for the Navajo Nation, the challenges associated with accessing clean water, planning and infrastructure projects, and a particular focus on current bills submitted to Congress that would comprehensively settle the Navajo Nation’s Arizona water rights as well as multiple basins in New Mexico. Join the Zoom call HERE. 

December 3rd, 2024 | EPA Creating Resilient Water Utilities Initiative's National Webinar Series on Climate Impacts and Solutions for the Water Sector - Session 1: Utility Success Stories Roundtable, 11am - 1pm MST - EPA's CRWU Initiative is excited to offer a new webinar series focused on the experiences of drinking water and wastewater utilities dealing with climate- and weather-related impacts and vulnerabilities, funding challenges and workable solutions. Hear how other utilities are using CRWU's tools and information. To register, click HERE. 

December 5th, 2024 | EPA Creating Resilient Water Utilities Initiative's National Webinar Series on Climate Impacts and Solutions for the Water Sector - Session 2: Climate Impacts Panel, 11am - 1pm MST - EPA's CRWU Initiative is excited to offer a new webinar series focused on the experiences of drinking water and wastewater utilities dealing with climate- and weather-related impacts and vulnerabilities, funding challenges and workable solutions. Hear how other utilities are using CRWU's tools and information. To register, click HERE. 

December 10th, 2024 | EPA Creating Resilient Water Utilities Initiative's National Webinar Series on Climate Impacts and Solutions for the Water Sector - Session 3: Success in Adaptation Funding, 11am - 1pm MST - EPA's CRWU Initiative is excited to offer a new webinar series focused on the experiences of drinking water and wastewater utilities dealing with climate- and weather-related impacts and vulnerabilities, funding challenges and workable solutions. Hear how other utilities are using CRWU's tools and information. To register, click HERE. 

December 11th, 2024 | What are USDA - NRCS Water Management Entities (WMEs)? - Eligible non-profit irrigation companies and ditch consortiums may contract directly with USDA - NRCS to implement conservation projects through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). This webinar will compare and contrast contracting with the NRCS as a Water Management Entity (WME) versus as individual shareholders on a ditch. Register HERE. 

December 12th, 2024 | EPA Creating Resilient Water Utilities Initiative's National Webinar Series on Climate Impacts and Solutions for the Water Sector - Session 4: CREAT 101: Adaptation Tools, 11am - 1pm MST - EPA's CRWU Initiative is excited to offer a new webinar series focused on the experiences of drinking water and wastewater utilities dealing with climate- and weather-related impacts and vulnerabilities, funding challenges and workable solutions. Hear how other utilities are using CRWU's tools and information. To register, click HERE. 

January 8th, 2025 | Aluminum Workgroup Meeting from 10 - 11am. Kickoff meeting to recap previous meetings, discuss data needs, and solicit input for additional topics. Join the Zoom meeting HERE.  

January 27th & 28th, 2024 |  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.

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 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 Early December

As Colorado communities confront new challenges in water availability and ecosystem health, robust and reliable environmental data can provide a foundation for building community resilience. In the face of changing hydrology in the western United States, communities are looking for improved and expanded soil moisture monitoring data along with help understanding when and how that data can inform water supply planning and decision-making. To address both needs, AGCI and partners have developed A Guidebook to Soil Moisture in the Roaring Fork Watershed, which utilizes data from the 12-year-old Roaring Fork Observation Network (also known as iRON), a long-term research and outreach program managed by AGCI.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched a new, no-cost technical assistance effort focused on reducing exposure to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other emerging contaminants in small or disadvantaged communities. This initiative is part of EPA’s Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) program.The Tackling Emerging Contaminants initiative will help eligible public drinking-water systems evaluate emerging contaminant issues, conduct initial water quality testing, and identify next steps in 200 small or disadvantaged communities over the next three years. EPA will also share best practices and amplify successes through case studies, fact sheets, webinars, and other resources regarding addressing emerging contaminants, including PFAS.

The Watershed Research and Training Center and Coalitions & Collaboratives, along with several other national and regional nonprofit organizations, are working in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service on a Community Navigator initiative (CNI),supporting communities in accessing federal funding opportunities, creating partnerships, and building capacity for wildfire risk mitigation and climate resilience.