Funding Opportunities Early February

Grant Deadlines:

The State Revolving Funds have several state grant programs to help fund water, wastewater, and stormwater projects. Upcoming loan application deadlines: Feb 5, 2025 (open cycle) and April 5, 2025 (closed cycle). Learn more about the grant programs 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 is now open. 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 Water Quality Control Division (division) is pleased to announce the Request for Applications (RFA) for the Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program. This RFA is open as of January 24, 2025. This program helps non-transient, non-community or community public water systems in small or disadvantaged communities. The funds can help with planning, design, and infrastructure to reduce public health risks from emerging contaminants, including PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances), manganese, and others. The details of this RFA are located on the division’s website. Written questions and inquiries regarding the RFA are due on February 7, 2025, by 2:00 p.m. MDT. The application deadline is March 21, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Learn more or apply 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.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the availability of $7.5 billion ofWater 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 moreHERE.

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 Early February

The Getches-Wilkinson Center for Natural Resources, Energy and the Environment (GWC) at the University of Colorado Law School is seeking an outstanding — early career — attorney to serve as the next GWC Water Law Fellow. The Fellow will work on the most pressing water law reform issues of the day under the guidance of the GWC and law school faculty and in partnership with leaders from the non-profit, government, and private sectors. The overarching objective of the Water Law Fellows Program is to create a matchless educational and mentoring experience that will prepare the Fellows to become leaders in the field. The intensive program will immerse the Fellow in the real-world challenges of water law and policy. During the program, the Fellow will be actively engaged in water law reform in the public interest and will hone their leadership, communication, advocacy, and research skills.Learn more or apply HERE. 

Jefferson Conservation District is seeking to hire a Natural Resource Specialist. Position reports to the Director and undertakes a variety of office/computer and fieldwork duties (about a 50/50 split over the course of a year). Supporting JCD’s grant administration year-round is a major focus of the office/computer work. Noxious weed inventory and program support during the summer/fall is the primary fieldwork focus of this position. Open until filled, but application review will begin after 2/9/25. Learn more HERE. 

Western Resource Advocates (WRA) is hiring an Annual Funds Manager to join our Development Team. The Annual Fund Manager works with and reports to the Associate Director of Donor Relations. The Annual Fund Manager leads the development of a multi-channel, donor-centric annual fund program, which includes donor societies, sponsorships, and giving days, in collaboration with members of front-line fundraising and the Marketing and Communications department teams. This position requires high collaboration, project management, motivation, and skill in creating and executing compelling annual giving strategies and collaborating on content development for mail and email campaigns. The Annual Fund Manager will also support the donor relations team by contributing to prospecting and donor engagement events. The Annual Fund Manager will be involved in the growth and expansion of WRA’s donor base, generate leads for the major gifts team, achieve annual fund goals, and contribute to the overall success of the development team's goals to fight climate change and its impacts in the interior West. Deadline To Apply: Open Until Filled with priority review beginning on Monday, February 10, 2025. Learn more or apply HERE. 

Jefferson Conservation District is seeking to hire a Conservation Forester. Position reports to the Director and undertakes a variety of office (approx.50%) and fieldwork (approx. 50%) duties in support of JCD’s private-lands ecological forestry program. This position involves significant project management, landowner outreach, and contractor coordination. This work occurs in partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), which provides logistical support to JCD at the Colorado NRCS State Office at the Denver Federal Center (This position is not a federal job; JCD and NRCS are separate employers). Open until filled, but application review will begin after 2/9/25. Learn more 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. 

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: 2/3/25. 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. 

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 analysis, 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.

The Aquatic Ecology Intern will contribute to Northern Water's monitoring and applied science investigations focused on aquatic ecosystems and resource management. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and professionals, the intern will support ongoing research and monitoring projects while gaining hands-on experience in aquatic ecology and limnology. 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, and 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. 

DAR is seeking a Herd Manager to join our mission of regenerating land and culture in Boulder County, Colorado. As the Herd Manager, you’ll lead DAR’s livestock operations, managing sheep, Red Devon cattle, and heritage pigs, alongside ducks and chickens, to achieve ecological, research, and food production goals. Working closely with our Director of Land Stewardship, you’ll develop and execute adaptive grazing strategies, restore degraded pastures, and nurture a resilient, biodiverse landscape. You will also manage an existing assistant herds person and other farm hands to support your success. If you’re passionate about regenerative agriculture, adaptive grazing, and creating a future where ecosystems and communities thrive, we’d love to hear from you. Learn more or apply HERE.

Conferences & Events Early February

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. 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 2nd, 2025 | Snow in Steamboat - Join Water Education Colorado for the Snow in Steamboat event on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, to hear from a panel of local experts on the outdoor industry and snow's critical role and emerging trends.This panel discussion will focus on topics like El Nino, snowmelt and the impact of local industries while connecting with Water Education Colorado and a community of like-minded individuals. Enjoy breakfast snacks, coffee, and tea. After the panel, attendees are encouraged to participate in the Ski-Free Sundays at Howelsen Hill just down the road. Learn more or register HERE. 

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 7th, 2025 | Poudre River Forum - The Poudre River Forum is a conference on water issues, use, history, and conservation practices. Industry professionals and community members come together to learn more about current issues and solutions impacting the Poudre River Basin. The annual event attracts hundreds of river enthusiasts from Northern Colorado communities and beyond. Learn more or register HERE. 

March 13th, 2025 | Colorado Trout Unlimited River Stewardship Gala - Enjoy a memorable evening featuring a cocktail hour, dinner, live and silent auctions, raffles, and a special presentation celebrating the partners behind the Colorado River Connectivity Channel – reconnecting our state’s namesake river at Windy Gap Reservoir. Your participation helps fund critical work to restore trout habitats, protect waterways, and expand our youth programs that inspire the next generation of conservationists. Learn more or buy tickets HERE. 

March 18th, 2025 | ONE BOOK STEAMBOAT: Live talk with Ben Goldfarb - Each year Bud Werner Memorial Library presents a community read in Steamboat Springs. We call it ONE BOOK STEAMBOAT. This winter, the Yampa Valley community is invited to read and discuss the award-winning nonfiction book Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter, by journalist Ben Goldfarb. In addition, the Library is offering a series of events to enrich your reading experience and a Yampa Valley-wide conversation about resilience in our local environment,  culminating with a live talk by author Ben Goldfarb on March 18 at the library. Learn more HERE. 

March 21st, 2025 | Breckenridge Fly Fishing Film Tour - Don't miss the perfect opportunity to support 4 local nonprofits and community organizations all with one great night out. On March 21st, Breckenridge Riverwalk Center welcomes us back for another evening of The Fly Fishing Film Tour showcasing the world’s most inspiring fly-fishing stories, featuring breathtaking locations, passionate anglers, and unforgettable adventures. Buy tickets 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. 

May 2nd & 3rd, 2025 | Colorado Youth Climate Summit -  The first annual Colorado Youth Climate Summit (CYSC) is happening Friday-Saturday May 2-3, 2025 at the Third Street Center, free for high school youth. Participants will be engaging in climate action planning, exploring regional climate solutions, and building relationships with peers from across the state. Youth need to apply soon to participate in this free state-wide program by March 1st; space is limited. Adult volunteers are also encouraged to sign up soon HERE. 

May 29th, 2025 | State of the Yampa Address - Save the date. 

June 6th & 7th, 2025 | 2025 Conference on the Colorado River - Once again, the Colorado River is at a crossroads, as the efforts to finalize the post-2026 rules push up squarely against long standing conflicts, legal interpretations, and notions of equity and inclusivity.  Complicating progress is the narrow focus on reservoir operating rules, and the tradition of pushing the thorniest issues to future discussions in largely undetermined forums and unknown schedules.  In this event, we assess the current state of progress, focusing specifically on the degree to which emerging steps forward incorporate the lessons learned through past experiences. Learn more or register HERE. 

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 | The 11th 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 Early February

February 11th, 2025 | Turning Waste into Resources: 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 18th, 2025 | Water Efficient Growth and Housing - Join Colorado WaterWise at 12pm as we host the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and the City of Longmont for an insightful discussion on how communities and the state are collaborating to address two pressing challenges: providing housing for all Coloradans while managing a limited water supply. Register 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.  

Join RiversEdge West for their 2025 Workshop Series, where experts, practitioners, and community members come together to explore innovative approaches to riparian restoration. Each workshop offers a unique focus on the tools, technology, and partnerships driving successful restoration efforts across the Southwest.

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.

TheClean 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 more HERE.

Announcements Early February

The EPA’s Trash Free Waters program, in collaboration with the University of Georgia, will be setting up an Escaped Trash Monitoring Network to periodically gather escaped trash data from locations around the country in order to annually update density and material type estimates on the Escaped Trash Risk Map. If interested in the network, click HERE.

From CWCB: “ Two years in, Colorado’s Water Plan has achieved 20 percent progress on the state’s actions and is on track to reach its 2033 goal, according to a new progress report released today by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB). The updated Colorado Water Plan, launched in January 2023, outlines a comprehensive strategy that includes 50 agency-led and 50 partner-led actions aimed at addressing the state’s diverse water challenges.” 

Congratulations to the 16 projects that received funding from the Upper Basin Environmental Drought Mitigation (B2E) funding opportunity to help mitigate the impacts of drought to aquatic habitats with priority to the Colorado River Basin. Learn more about the projects HERE. 

Friends of the Front Range Wildlife Refuges is seeking applications for their Youth Council. It's a paid opportunity ($20/ hour!) to work with different non-profit organizations in the area. Participants will receive professional development, learn about different environmental non-profits, and provide feedback on their programs. Youth Council will start on April 5th and run through May 3rd. They will meet Saturday mornings, 9:00 am- 12:00 pm. Apply HERE.