As of late, sunsets have been spectacularly colorful and horizon lines remain hazy. The air carries a distinct scent many associate with camping — some with fear — and air quality ratings oscillate between moderate to hazardous. Understandably, wildfire is at the top of many folks’ minds. And it’s no surprise that the Roaring Fork […]
drought
Posted inNews
Scuttlebutt & Calendar
River flowsAccording to the Roaring Fork Conservancy’s weekly river report published July 3, “rivers in the Roaring Fork Watershed continue to decrease toward summer base flows earlier than usual, resulting in flows 23-42% of normal for this time of year.” Water releases from Ruedi Reservoir aim to boost flows and support endangered fish recovery efforts […]
Posted inLocal Government
Carbondale Report: Earth Day meeting posits drought resiliency planning
All trustees were present for the regular meeting on April 22, Earth Day, which began with a proclamation declaring May 3, 2025 as Carbondale’s Arbor Day. The proclamation included many beautiful statements about the role of trees. The consent agenda was approved including meeting minutes, seasonal deck licenses for Allegria and Bodegón, Dandelion Day permits, […]
Posted inNews, Uncategorized
Cash-for-grass comes to Colorado
Beginning in July, locals may have an opportunity to participate in a cash-for-grass program as part of statewide efforts to reduce water consumption. The turf replacement initiative comes on the heels of Colorado House Bill 1151 passing in June 2022. According to the Colorado General Assembly, “the act requires the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) […]
Posted inColumns, Opinion, Uncategorized
Autumn reflections on restoring balance
As the sun crossed the equator this equinox, day and night were approximately of equal length. The water flow in the river is low and slow. Patterns of flowing current around rocks are smaller, quieter and a yellow leaf is swirling in an eddy. Does balance between light and dark in our “watershed democracy” call […]
Posted inNews, Uncategorized
Drought inspires collaboration by water users
For the third summer in a row, the Colorado Water Trust (CWT) has acquired water from Ruedi Reservoir to support endangered fish near Palisade. The unique agreement aligns environmental organizations, irrigation districts, federal agencies and philanthropists. The CWT led a coalition that includes Grand Valley Water Users Association, Orchard Mesa Irrigation District, Colorado River District, […]
Posted inNews, Uncategorized
Neighborly disputes
At the end of Harmony Lane, four miles up Missouri Heights from El Jebel — or five miles from Highway 82 on Catherine’s Store Road — a small crowd gathered on a pleasant Saturday morning. The meeting consisted of representatives for Ascendigo Autism Services and Missouri Heights residents, along with others curious to know more […]