Conferences & Events Late March
March 19th, 2026 | “The Human Element” Film Screening & Panel - Join a film screening and panel discussion of documentary “The Human Element.” Follow photographer James Balog on an exploration of how changes in water, air, fire and earth impact all of us. Afterward, hear a panel discussion from Daniel Wright, Co-producer of the film, Josh Hankes, Executive Director of Routt County Wildfire Mitigation Council, Tim Sullivan, Western Resilience Center Senior Director of Climate Resilience and moderated by Michelle Stewart, Ph.D, Western Resilience Center Executive Director. Learn more and get tickets HERE.
March 19th, 2026 | From Lab to Launch: Colorado’s Emerging Water-Tech Innovators - 12pm - 1:30pm - Join us for a webinar spotlighting Colorado-based water-tech startups transforming university research into real-world impact. From rapid PFAS testing to real-time water quality digitization and advanced nutrient removal, these innovators are tackling urgent challenges facing water and wastewater utilities. You’ll hear about current market traction, regulatory drivers, and what’s next for water innovation. If you care about the future of water technology, this conversation will give you insight into where the industry is headed and who’s building it. Learn more HERE.
March 20th - 22nd, 2026 | SUN SOIL WATER 2026 - Sun Soil Water is a showcase of what can happen when a community gathers around its shared love of food, learning, and local entrepreneurship. Learn more and register HERE.
March 21st, 2026 | Snow Science & Social Snowshoe Hike - Join SJMA and Mountain Studies Institute to learn about forest ecology, watersheds, climate change, and the future of snowpack in the San Juans by digging snow pits and taking a winter interpretive hike. Snowshoes will be provided if necessary. Back by popular demand, these snowshoe hikes are a great opportunity to explore the snowy landscape. Learn more HERE.
March 25th, 2026 | Spring Seminar Series With Ducks Unlimited - Ducks Unlimited's Regional Engineer, Wetland Restoration Biology, and Engineering Services Manager, Michael Kuehnel, Katharine Cody, and Kevin Warner, will give a one-hour seminar about the following topic: "Grand Valley Audubon: Wetlands for waterfowl and Endangered Fish." Learn more HERE.
March 26th, 2026 | Coffee & Climate Conversation: An Ode to our Forests - Join EcoAction Partners, Sheep Mountain Alliance and the Wilkinson Public Library for both a celebration of our forests and a call to care. Our discussion will include current challenges our forests face from climate stress and wildfire risks to pests and drought, along with practical actions we can take to protect them. We will weave in moments of literary appreciation and invite you to bring your favorite poem or passage to share! Whether you are a forester, climate advocate, poet, someone concerned about our forest health, or simply someone who finds peace beneath a canopy of leaves, this conversation offers space for learning, gratitude, and collective action. We hope to see you in the Wilkinson Public Library Magazine room Thursday, March 26th from 8:30-9:30 AM.
March 26th, 2026 | SEDGES & SANDWICHES - Bridging Functions and Values: Advancing Wetland Ecosystem Service Assessment Through Use of a Service Capacity Index - 12pm - 1pm - Join the Society of Wetland Scientists Rocky Mountain Chapter for its March Sedges and Sandwiches with Bill Kleindl. Sedges and Sandwiches is a virtual lunchtime speaker series on the last Thursday of each month dedicated to exploring the latest topics in wetland science and management. Participants are encouraged to Bring Your Own Sandwich (BYOS)—of any flavor—and enjoy insightful talks in a relaxed, informal setting of your choosing! Learn more and register HERE.
March 26th, 2026 | Colorado Water Center’s 60th Anniversary - On March 26, 2026, the Colorado Water Center will celebrate its 60th Anniversary at the Lory Student Center at CSU Fort Collins. The evening will feature two different opportunities to celebrate the milestone: Colorado Water Center Reception & Water Tables Fundraiser. Learn more and register HERE.
March 26th, 2026 | FOMELC Winter Speaker Series: Dam It: Partnering with Beavers to Heal the Planet - 6pm - In Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter, environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb reveals that our modern conception of a healthy ecosystem is wrong, distorted by the fur trade that once eliminated millions of beavers from North America’s waterways. The consequences of losing beavers were profound: ponds drained, wetlands dried up, and species from salmon to swans lost vital habitat. Today, a growing coalition of “Beaver Believers”—including scientists, farmers, and passionate citizens—recognizes that ecosystems with beavers are far healthier than those without them. From the Nevada deserts to the Scottish highlands, Believers are hard at work restoring these industrious rodents to their former haunts. In his talk, Ben will discuss the history and biology of this world-changing species; how beavers can help us fight drought, flooding, wildfire, and climate change; and how we can coexist with this challenging but vital rodent. To receive the Zoom invitation, please email: tara@fomelc.org.
March 27th, 2026 | Sip N Science in the SLV - Wetlands - In partnership with the Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust, a series of events that shines light on our natural resource systems... and beer. ‘Sip n. Science in the SLV’ is a yearlong series designed to help our community learn about the natural systems that define our region. Each of our sessions focuses on a different environmental topic that directly affects life here in the San Luis Valley. Learn more HERE.
March 27th, 2026 | Southwestern Water Conservation District’s Annual Seminar - Join the conversation shaping the future of water in the Southwest Basin. One Watershed, Many Voices connects local and regional leaders to explore water quality, supply, recreation, and policy—and how collaboration across communities and jurisdictions can move us forward. Learn more and register HERE.
March 28th, 2026 | Rio Grande State of the Basin Symposium, Adams State University - The 2026 Rio Grande State of the Basin Symposium “Where Water Connects Us” provides an opportunity to learn from experts about the natural resource challenges shaping our basin and the communities working to create solutions. Learn more HERE.
April 1st, 2026 | Blue River Habitat Restoration Project Public Open House - BRWG, Trout Unlimited, and the Town of Silverthorne are excited to announce the design phase of the Blue River Habitat Restoration Project! The 2016 Gold Medal status delisting was a result of underlying ecological issues affecting sections of the Blue River. After years of research guided by the Integrated Water Management Plan, this project aims to address these issues and help restore the fishery and the river corridor. Join us to participate in the stakeholder process to ensure your voice is heard during the river redesign. Come any time between 5:00 and 7:00 PM to provide input on public river access, comment on river recreational uses, and review the 30% design drawings. Learn more HERE.
April 2nd, 2026 | TENACITY: Women in Conservation - Over the last ten years, TENACITY: Women in Conservation has brought together passionate advocates, curious community members, and conservation leaders for an evening that's equal parts inspiration and action. Whether you're a longtime conservationist or just beginning to explore what protecting Colorado means to you, this event welcomes everyone to the table. Learn more and register HERE.
April 2nd, 2026 | 2026 Denver Water Law Review Symposium - Oil & Water: Energy Across the West - The University of Denver’s Water Law Review is delighted to welcome you to our 18th annual symposium. This year’s theme is Water & Energy Across the West. We look forward to welcoming an interdisciplinary group of experts, who will lead us through discussions about the intersection of water and energy in Colorado and the West. Learn more HERE.
April 2nd & 3rd, 2026 | Denver Water Law Review Symposium - Oil & Water: Energy Across the West - The landscape of the West’s water and energy are rapidly changing. Join the University of Denver Water Law Review April 2-3 for the 2026 Water Law Review Symposium: Oil & Water: Energy Across the West to drill deep into the legal and policy frameworks governing these important resources. This interdisciplinary symposium features technical panels on the water-energy demands of AI data centers, the regulatory landscape of produced water, Tribal energy sovereignty, and transitions in Colorado’s water and energy. Don't miss this opportunity for discussion and professional networking in Denver. CLE credits for the legal community are pending! For more information, contact Symposium Editors Marisa Wesker (marisa.wesker@du.edu) and Eleanor Hasenbeck (eleanor.hasenbeck@du.edu). Register HERE.
April 7th, 2026 | State of the River: Grand Valley - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
April 9th, 2026 | State of the River: Glenwood Springs - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
April 14th, 2026 | Community Water Panel: Water, Drought, and the Future of Agriculture in the West - Eagle River Coalition and Colorado Water Trust invite you to join Water, Drought, and the Future of Agriculture in the West on Tuesday, April 14th at Walking Mountains in Avon. This community conversation will bring together agricultural producers, water experts, and conservation leaders to explore how drought, climate pressures, and changing water demands are shaping agriculture locally in the Eagle River Valley and across Colorado. Learn more and register HERE.
April 15th, 2026 | Spring Seminar Series With Auden Schendler - Author of Terrible Beauty, Auden Schendler, will give a one-hour seminar about his book of the same name. Schendler spent his career working in corporate sustainability, trying to use the power of business for good in society, first at RMI and then for 26 years at Aspen One. He focuses on large-scale, systemic solutions to climate change through advocacy, policy, and demonstration projects, including the first utility scale solar array in western Colorado, small hydroelectricity, model green buildings, and coal mine methane capture. Learn more HERE.
April 16th, 2026 | Leave it to the Beavers: “Chew on This: Colorado's Approach to Beaver Management” with Boyd Wright, Colorado Parks & Wildlife - co-hosted by Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV), the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed (CPRW), Larimer Conservation District (LCD) and Rocky Mountain Flycasters (RMF), brings together experts, enthusiasts, and community members passionate about the important role beavers play in creating resilient ecosystems. Learn more HERE.
April 16th, 2026 | State of the River: White River - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
April 22nd & 23rd, 2026 | Arkansas River Basin Water Forum - The Arkansas River Basin Water Forum brings together diverse water interests to explain their views and engage in open dialogue about water issues in the basin. It is an opportunity to hear about key issues facing our communities and projects within the basin and statewide. Topics include legislative updates, a climate report, augmentation, river management, watershed health, and updates on projects like the Arkansas Valley Conduit. Join us April 22 & 23, 2026 at the Salida Streamplant. Learn more and register HERE.
April 23rd, 2026 | State of the River: Roaring Fork - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
April 25th, 2026 | Fire Lives Here Screening - A discussion and Q&A will follow, including new fire and building codes, defensible space, and fire mitigation in the County. Optional tour of new fire station immediately after event. Free event, but registration is required. Learn more and register HERE.
April 27th - 29th, 2026 | Partners in the Outdoors Conference - The Partners in the Outdoors Conference serves as a vital platform to address the intricate balance between conservation and outdoor recreation in Colorado. Registration is now open. Learn more HERE.
April 30th, 2026 | Confluence: Where Water & Energy Come Together - Confluence will deeply examine how water is used for energy development, including data centers. We will also examine issues surrounding the Colorado River and explore the many facets of water availability, cost, conservation, development and supply. Other conversations will involve how AI is being used for energy and water development. Finally, we will examine regulatory changes for energy and how the rules are changing. Learn more HERE.
April 30th, 2026 | Firewise Futures: Readiness & Resilience in the West - Wildfire is reshaping the West—are we ready? Elemental confronts wildfire risk and resilience through powerful documentary storytelling, followed by an expert panel discussion. The afternoon and evening also feature a hands-on, family-friendly fire safety simulator from the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention & Control, turning awareness into action with practical, take-home knowledge for all ages. Learn more and register HERE.
May 1st, 2026 | 2026 AWRA & CGWA Symposium - The 2026 AWRA & CGWA Symposium is a premier gathering of experts, researchers, and practitioners in the field of hydrology. This year's Symposium theme, Flowing Tensions: Navigating Water Scarcity and Competing Demands, highlights the deep tensions and competing interests inherent to water use in the arid West and how policy, regulation, and science have evolved in the context of water scarcity. Learn more and register HERE.
May 2nd, 2026 | Spring Up the Creek - Join us in this annual area-wide effort to improve and enhance our local creeks by collecting and removing trash and debris along trails. Volunteers will be provided gloves and bags. Snacks and water will be available. All ages are welcome and this is a perfect opportunity to fulfill community service hours while keeping Castle Rock beautiful and our watershed clean. Learn more HERE.
May 6th, 2026 | State of the River: Eagle River - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
May 13th, 2026 | State of the River: Gunnison River - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
May 14th, 2026 | Annual Meeting of the Society of Wetland Scientists Rocky Mountain Chapter - Abstracts are due by March 20th, 2026. Submit an oral abstract HERE. Submit a poster abstract HERE. Registration is now open. Learn more and register HERE.
May 14th, 2026 | For Love of the Land - Our biannual gala, For Love of the Land, returns May 14, 2026, at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Come together with the best minds in business, philanthropy, and conservation to make an impact that will last more than a lifetime. The evening event will include a private cocktail reception for lead sponsors, a full-course dinner, and an inspiring program highlighting the generational impact of conservation. Learn more HERE.
May 18th, 2026 | State of the River: Blue River - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
May 19th - 21st, 2026 | Western Collaborative Conservation Network Confluence - This year's theme: The Future of Collaboration: The Power of Working Across Divides. Save the Date. Learn more and register HERE.
May 21st, 2026 | State of the River: Upper Colorado River - Hosted by the Colorado River District and a variety of local partnership organizations in twelve different watersheds, the State of the River event series is a spring tradition in western Colorado. Join your neighbors and local experts for a casual, public-information evening including not only a look at the upcoming hydrology, but a summary of major western water issues, and a spotlight for the projects and priorities of each local community. Learn more and register HERE.
June 4th &5th, 2026 | 2026 Colorado River Conference - Save the Date. Registration is now open. Learn more HERE.
June 14th, 2026 | Longmont Water Fair - This annual event features hands-on science activities, creative art projects, live performances, water ceremony, and conversations with local water leaders to explore water’s journey between Nature and home. Learn more HERE.
June 14th - 20th, 2026 | Colorado Trout Unlimited’s River Conservation & Fly Fishing Camp - Colorado TU’s River Conservation & Fly Fishing Camp is a week-long, overnight experience for youth ages 14–18 who want to learn about fly fishing, river conservation, and the role people play in caring for Colorado’s waters. Campers learn outside, on the river, and alongside peers who share a curiosity for the outdoors. Learn more HERE.
June 17th, 2026 | Watershed Summit - The Watershed Summit, or “Shed” as it is affectionately known, has become a Colorado tradition. Each June stakeholders gather to discuss current and future water challenges and opportunities facing the state. Shed ’26 is a fully in-person event at Denver Botanic Gardens, concluding with the ever-popular happy hour event. A special add-on morning event will feature a panel and discussion on One Water. Learn more HERE.
June 27th, 2026 | Ridgway RiverFest - The Ridgway RiverFest is a family-friendly celebration of the Uncompahgre River, our watershed and river recreation with all-age river races, live music, local food and drink, kids’ activities, watershed educational and cultural programs. Learn more HERE.
July 27th & 28th, 2026 | Water Quality Forum Annual Retreat - The annual retreat is open to anyone interested in contributing to the mission and planning of the Water Quality Forum.
August 20th, 2026 | Water TAP Innovation Summit - Water TAP will host its inaugural Innovation Summit bringing together utilities, industry leaders, researchers, and technology developers to explore emerging solutions in water reuse and One Water innovation. The summit will take place immediately following the National Sustainability Society Annual Conference, hosted at CSU Spur August 17–19, 2026, creating a full week of collaboration and dialogue on sustainability and water innovation. More details and registration will be announced soon!
August 30th - September 2nd, 2026 | Rocky Mountain Mining & Reclamation Conference - Save the Date.
September 16th, 2026 | 2026 Water Conservation Symposium - Call for abstracts closes March 31st. Student scholarship application closes May 29th.
October 6th - 8th, 2026 | Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference - Save the Date.