Newsletter: November 2020

What a year this has been. Or has it been ten? We have been through a lot this year and each time we are faced with something we think, "surely it can't get any worse, right?" One thing I do know, and I know I have told you already, but I am so proud of how we are coming together for the sake of the larger community. Unfortunately this isn't demonstrated state or nation-wide, but the water community is special in that way.

This morning my daughter asked me what I was thankful for. I began rattling things off and realized I don't verbalize these enough. Now is the perfect time to start. I am thankful for DARCA, each of you, and the ability to do what I love. I used to be a teacher and while I loved being with the students, I realized that my heart wasn't in it. So many people don't often change careers as suddenly or drastically as I did and don't love what they do, but I truly love being your Executive Director!

Happy November. Happy Thanksgiving. Take a bit of time this month to be thankful. It's so easy, especially this year, to be negative but we have so much to be thankful for. 

Many thanks, 

Amber Weber

Big News!

We are all eager to meet again, and we are excited to announce that we will be hosting a hybrid conference. The February conference will look different this year. With the ability to attend in person, we will obey every executive order placed in front of us. Those online will not have to worry about the distancing and will get to see the content and participate in that way. 

I have some really great things planned for us for February but also know that flexibility is key. While I would love to have a normal conference, my greater concern is the health and safety of each and every person in attendance. We have two great options with lots of great content and new additions and I will keep you posted about location, agenda, etc. 

We can't wait to see you whether on a screen or as a masked face. It's truly been to long!

DARCA is Turning 20!

In light of our birthday next year, the DARCA Board and I are going through some strategic planning. We want to be sure we are serving you well. We want your feedback, ideas, questions, concerns. We are here for YOU. The best way to get a hold of us, is to call Amber at 719-688-9941 or email at darcaconference@gmail.com. 

Clear Creek Management Plan- Metro/South Platte Members

West Denver Trout Unlimited is spearheading the Clear Creek Integrated Stream Management Plan in accordance with Colorado's Water Plan which mandates that all major watersheds complete a stream management plan by 2030. We have spent the year gathering interested stakeholders, applying for grant funding, and creating a steering committee to direct community meetings and draft the CCIWMP. 

Many basin water users have already joined us as stakeholders and advisors. This is in open invitation to all the Metro/South Platte ditch, irrigation, and reservoir companies, and private ditch holders to participate. You are welcome to contact Ashley Giles at gilesajames@gmail.com, or email Darren Beck at darren.s.beck@gmail.com who sits on both the Metro and South Platte basin roundtables.

Communications Corner

This year we have learned what it’s like to be connected in a disconnected world. DARCA is proud to have our online platform up and running. Our goals are to provide a space for networking, information exchange, and advocacy to you, our members. One of the key parts about this online world is to be social. So, we created a space for our members and supporters of DARCA to all follow one another. Please fill out this spreadsheet with you and your organization’s social handles and follow other DARCA members and supporters. Our goal is to truly highlight the work of our members and stay in touch!

Connect with us @DARCAonline!

Micaela Fenton