Peak Environment

Project Taurus is a proposed data center near Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Multiple community groups have filed appeals to the city’s administrative approval of the project. Where to from here? Ciara and Riss from 350 Colorado Springs discuss.

In a time of alternative facts as well as the ability to buy credibility and manipulate human behavior, how do we go about fighting extractive, ecological monstrosities in our communities? These fights are proving to be Place-based and contextual, so Ciara and Riss begin with a part of the wider picture.

Mentioned in the Episode:

● Raeden: https://raeden.com/

● Residents appeal approval of data center in Colorado Springs: https://www.cpr.org/2026/06/24/data-center-colorado-springs-approval-appeal/

● Bruno Latour: https://www.bruno-latour.fr/books_and_edited_volumes.html

● The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: https://shoshanazuboff.com/book/about/

● Denver data center moratorium: https://www.denver7.com/follow-up/denver-city-council-unanimously-approves-one-year-moratorium-on-new-data-center-construction

● PuebloPlex: https://krdo.com/news/2026/03/31/weapons-facility-development-underway-in-southern-colorado/

● Honor the Earth: https://www.honorearth.org/stopdatacolonialism

Energy & Environment Committee Hearing dated 5/7/26

Colorado State House Reps we heard from, in order of appearance:

● Alex Valdez (Bill Sponsor of HB1030)

● Scott Slaugh

● Junie Joseph

● Dan Woog

Action Items

Email Daniel Sexton, the city planner at daniel.sexton@coloradosprings.gov

Email city council at allcouncil@coloradosprings.gov

Contact county commissioners: https://citizenconnect-portal.elpasoco.com/FrontPortal/Page/RenderPage?tabId=7&searchParameter=srTypeId=4

Sign open letter to Mayor Yemi: https://www.change.org/p/open-letter-to-colorado-springs-mayor-yemi-mobolade-about-data-center-proposal

Attend City Council meetings every other Tues. and make public comment Find upcoming city council meeting dates here: https://coloradosprings.gov/node/154591:

Attend Colorado Springs Utilities Board meetings and use your voice. Find upcoming CSU board meeting dates here: https://www.csu.org/about/leadership/utilities-board

Attend Anti Data Center Action hours every other Thurs. at Penrose Library in downtown Colorado Springs - free parking with a PPLD library card. We’ll be in the Pine room at 5:45-6:45. July 2nd, 16th, 30th. Aug. 14th and 28th.

Follow some of the Project Taurus organizers on social media:

● No Data Center COS: https://www.instagram.com/no_data_center_cos/

● Zuri: https://www.instagram.com/zurihorowitz/

● Landon @landonliveslife: https://www.instagram.com/landonliveslife/

● Integrity Matters: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrityMattersCOS/

● Colorado Springs DSA: https://www.instagram.com/cospringsdsa/

● 350 Colorado Springs: https://www.instagram.com/350coloradosprings/

This episode of Peak Environment was contributed by 350 Colorado Springs, https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/ a grassroots environmental group focused on addressing the climate crisis in the city we call home, moving away from fossil fuels and building resilience for future generations.

Ciara Guerrero is a Team Coordinator for 350 Colorado Springs. After getting her foot in the door of big tech a decade ago and seeing behind the curtain, she was moved toward different path. She’s a student at Pikes Peak Permaculture https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ and is a gardener and an environmental organizer in the Springs area.

Riss Banuelos is a Youth Organizer for 350 Colorado Springs. She is currently finishing her bachelor’s in anthropology at Colorado College, has been part of Sunrise Movement, and has been lucky enough to attend two United Nations’ climate COPs where her commitment to climate grew stronger and more inspired.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Need to know where to take items like metals and electronics? Look to Colorado Industrial Recycling and ITAD Electronics for your needs. These businesses help make our region more sustainable and resilient by recycling challenging items.

Want your business to be more resilient? Check out the Colorado Green Business Network! They offer free information and assistance to help your business to reduce energy, water and waste, save money, and thrive.

Host Mary Barber welcomes Bryan Valentine of ITAD Electronics Recyclers, Andy O’Riley of Colorado Industrial Recycling, and Konrad Schlarbaum of the Colorado Green Business Network for this May/June Sustainability in Progress discussion.

LINKS:

ITAD Electronics Recyclers: https://www.ierpro.com

Colorado Industrial Recycling, Inc: https://www.coloradoindustrialrecycling.com

Colorado Green Business Network: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/dehs/sustainability/cgbn

Sustainability in Progress is a program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado Springs https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Wildfire seasons are intensifying, but what if the very fuels driving these fires could become part of the solution? In this episode, firefighter and regenerative farmer Will Vogl, Douglas County Environmental Inspections Supervisor Jared Tanaka, and Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Becky Elder and Ally Richardson explore the growing role of biochar in building climate resilience.

Douglas County’s new biochar facility is projected to be complete in 2026 and is poised to benefit not only its own community but neighboring counties as well. It offers a forward‑looking model for land management and wildfire mitigation along the Front Range, reminding us that wildfires do not stop at county lines.

Mentioned in this episode:

Douglas County Biochar Facility Open House Discussion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T32CCRhMLyc&t=3146s

Douglas County residents can dispose of “Green Yard Waste” at the County’s Slash/Mulch site at 5675 Delva Way in Sedalia. This is a NEW location for the 2026 season. https://www.douglasco.gov/public-works/green-yard-waste/

Black Forest Slash and Mulch Program for El Paso County residents: https://communityresources.elpasoco.com/environmental-division/black-forest-slash-mulch/

Vogl Homestead Regenerative Farm in El Paso County, Colorado: https://www.facebook.com/VoglHomesteadFarming/

Complete Solutions. Biochar Funding Company for feedstock handing equipment, chippers and grinders: https://csc-int.ca/

Wilson Biochar, LLC. Ring of Fire Kiln which can be assembled in field: https://wilsonbiochar.com/

Pueblo’s SUN SOIL WATER SUMMIT Keynote Speaker John Christenson of Native Lumber: https://pueblofoodproject.org/sunsoilwater/

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Upcoming Events:

May 3rd, Tending Points of Light in the “Long Dark” with Carolyn Baker. Sign-up here: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/tending-points-of-light-in-the-long-dark-with-carolyn-baker/

MeadowGrass Festival May 22nd through May 24th https://www.eventbrite.com/e/17th-annual-meadowgrass-music-festival-tickets-1977435259091?aff=oddtdtcreator

Earth School for 2026/2027. Currently enrolling for our homeschool enrichment program beginning this August, tuition FREE for ages 9-13. Find out more about this program here: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ppp-earth-school/

Help us fund a living classroom to be built this summer, where we will grow a more resilient community. Donations include access to our summer permaculture‑in‑action tours. https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/donations/

This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Everything you ever wanted to know about our home watershed. Hear about water supply and conservation, creek restoration, the regional trail, and the upcoming Great American Cleanup. This is a Sustainability in Progress presentation from Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future.

Host: Mary Barber

Guests:

Alli Schuch, Executive Director, Fountain Creek Watershed District

Mary Wilson, Outreach Coordinator

On the table in this episode:

Water supply

Water conservation

Reducing nonfunctional turf, adding native plants to conserve water and support restoration and wildlife (especially pollinators)

Stewardship of Fountain Creek

Creek restoration

Brewshed Alliance and Liquid Lectures

Fountain Creek Watershed Great American Cleanup

Creek Week in the Fall

Hydration celebrations after cleanups

Fountain Creek Regional Trail

Scoop the Poop

Both crew leader and group registration are open for the Great American Cleanup. Volunteers

can register up to May 2, and even on site on May 2: https://www.fountain-crk.org/great-american-cleanup-f0de636

LINKS:

The Future of Fountain Creek – Panel and Community Discussion – episode 135 of Peak Environment:https://studio809podcasts.com/future-of-fountain-creek-panel/

State of the Watershed Summit: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcq7pJhVKqDhXPwCeyRROogdUI6r6Bv_l&si=qdauhTlDenfyn9sr

Purchase a rain barrel from the watershed district: https://www.fountain-crk.org/rain-barrel-sale

Fountain Creek Watershed District:

Website: https://www.fountain-crk.org/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fountaincreekwatersheddistrict

Events Calendar: https://www.fountain-crk.org/event-calendar

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fountaincreekwatershed

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FountainCreekWatershedDistrict/

This episode was recorded as aSustainability in Progress (SIP) episode of the podcast. Sustainability in Progress is a program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future.

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

How does a small garden club grow into a powerful driver of community resilience? Host Ally Richardson and leaders from the Manitou Springs Garden Club explore how plant sales, community grants, and hands‑on education strengthen our local ecosystems. Their work shows how simple, community‑rooted actions can create lasting impact. As Bill Mollison reminds us, “Though the problems of the world are increasingly complex, the solutions remain embarrassingly simple.”

Manitou Garden Club Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ManitouSpringsGardenClub

Join their plant sale on Sunday, May 24th, from 9AM to noon at the pool parking lot of Schryver Park, 202 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs

Come help out at April’s club meeting and see if the garden club is your flavor. Then, join! They meet every second Thursday of every month at the Community Congregational Church (except for special club member Summer months in member’s gardens).

City of Manitou Springs Tree Voucher Program: https://cityofmanitousprings-parksandrec.app.transform.civicplus.com/forms/22690

Colorado Spring’s Grow Shade Together, the City's Neighborhood Tree Planting Program: https://coloradosprings.gov/GrowShadeTogether

Recommended Reading: The Wild Wisdom of Weeds - by Katrina Blair

BIG OL EARTH DAY CELEBRATION! https://www.concretecouch.org/

Community orgs collaborating to Celebrate Mother Earth, connect people of all ages with nature and support the ongoing land restoration at Concrete Coyote Community Park!

Wednesday, April 22·12:00 – 6:00pm, 1100 S Royer St, Colorado Springs, CO

This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Colorado Springs Utilities wants to delay closing its last coal-fired powerplant. CSU is currently obligated under its clean energy plan to close its Ray Nixon plant by the end of 2029 in order to meet a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2030. It claims the extension is necessary because it is too costly to meet the current deadline. Learn about proposed legislation that would allow the plant to continue operating up to an extra ten years, and why many environmental groups oppose it. This episode’s guests:

Jim Lockhart, conservation chair of Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Ciara Guerrero, Colorado Springs team coordinator for 350 Colorado

Olivia West, environmental organizer for Sierra Club and Green Corps

LEARN MORE:

Colorado Springs Utilities Enlists State Lawmakers To Keep Ray Nixon Power Plant Running Into 2030 – CPR news story: https://www.cpr.org/2026/01/13/colorado-springs-ray-nixon-power-plant-legislation/

Update on the Nixon Plant Decommission – Sierra Club update: https://www.sierraclub.org/colorado/pikes-peak/february-2026#:~:text=Update%20on%20the%20Nixon%20Plant%20Decommission&text=CSU%20is%20currently%20obligated%20under,emissions%20by%2080%25%20by%202030

SB26-022 - Challenge Meeting 2030 Emissions Reduction Goals: https://leg.colorado.gov/bill_files/110720/download

Clean Energy for Colorado Petition: https://forms.gle/9eiwmh52x463DJuz9

HB26-1030 - Data Center & Utility Modernization: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb26-1030

350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/

Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club: https://www.sierraclub.org/colorado/pikes-peak

Subscribe to Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Email Updates: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

What if ten weekends could change the way you see your land, your home, and your future?

Host Ally Richardson interviews three recent graduates of the 2025 Permaculture Design Certification Course where they share the moments that surprised them, the skills that reshaped their thinking, and the unexpected community they found along the way. Before you hire a landscaper, hear what a PDC can unlock. Step into your power and shape the land for good!

Mentioned in this episode:

2026 Permaculture Design Course

Register here: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/2025-permaculture-design-course/

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s PDC follows the Permaculture Institute of North America curriculum and meets the 72 hour certification standard. The course emphasizes ethics, principles, whole systems thinking, and collaborative site design.

The program runs 10 weekends from February to August across Southern Colorado, with a few regional field trips. Lunches are prepared by students on rotation, with snacks provided. Children may attend with prior discussion.

Work trade options and financial aid are available. Few spots left, so sign-up today!

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

ERC helps cut wasted energy consumption through energy-efficient home upgrades, now available to all households in their 27-county service area, regardless of income level. Upgrades are free to income-qualifying households. ERC collectively saves $300,000 in utility bills each year by upgrading about 2,000 homes. Energy Resource Center Director of Programs Mike Mazzola fills us in on what ERC can do for you.

LINKS:

Sustainability & Resiliency Info and Networking Survey: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

Energy Resource Center: https://erc-co.org

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Shrinking your holiday footprint on the planet can seem daunting – but this episode offers tips to make it a joy. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) is deviating from the norm this month. Instead of the usual live, third Wednesday Zoom event, the November Sustainability in Progress is this pre-recorded studio conversation.

This conversation is about the holidays, discovering local resources to give meaningful and lifelong gifts to reduce waste. Host Mary Barber of PASF is joined by Ally Richardson of Pikes Peak Permaculture and Dave Gardner of GrowthBusters (both are regular co-producers of the Studio 809 Podcasts Peak Environment podcast).

We’re considering making some changes in SIP, and we’re inviting collaboration. Help Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future and the entire sustainability/resiliency community make plans for 2026. Please take this poll: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

LINKS MENTIONED: 

Pikes Peak Bulletin Winter Holiday Calendar with local-maker markets: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/events/2025-winter-holiday-calendar-events-and-markets-in-the-spirit-of-the-season/

Colorado Springs Mom winter markets calendar: https://cospringsmom.com/parenting-wisdom/winter-markets-in-colorado-springs/

Downtown Shopping Gift Card: https://downtowncs.com/event/shop-local-win-local/

Resource Central Garden in a Box:  https://resourcecentral.org/gardens/

Center for Biological Diversity’s Simplify The Holidays Helpful Tips: https://simplifytheholidays.org/

So Kind Gift Registry: https://sokindregistry.org/

Who Gives a Scrap for the crafty: https://whogivesascrapcolorado.com/

Volunteer with the City of Colorado Springs: https://hr.coloradosprings.gov/VolunteerOpportunities

Find opportunities at Flying Pig Farm, community farm practicing permaculture and building resilience: https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Divert waste with Galvanize Recycling:  https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/

El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facility: https://communityresources.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

Compost with Food To Power: https://foodtopowerco.org/

Other holiday-related podcast episodes we mentioned:

Sustainable Holiday - Peak Environment episode #66

Have Yourself A Low Impact Holiday - Peak Environment episode #112

Plastic Bags Update & Moving Toward Zero Waste: Policy Wins, Advice and Resources - Peak Environment episode #115

Rebelling Against Black Friday Consumerism - GrowthBusters podcast episode #61

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Energy rates are changing, and so is the demand. Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Ally Richardson, frequent producer and cohost of the Peak Environment podcast, shares practical ways we can reduce energy use and rethink consumption. She’s joined by panelists Becky Elder (a permaculture instructor) and Scott Harvey (a structural and electrical engineer).

They delve into the current state of energy usage in the Pikes Peak region, examine the primary sources of energy and identify the sectors that consume the most. They also explore the factors driving changes in energy rates and demand, providing us with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face. Feel empowered to take action towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) event on October 14, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. You can view a video recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY

The October meeting was presented by Pikes Peak Permaculture, which is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to teaching principles and practices of permaculture design in the Southern Colorado region. The organization educates about working with nature instead of against it, building stronger connections with our landscape and all inhabitants, regenerating land, water, and food systems, and making sure our region thrives for generations to come. 

Mentioned in this episode:  

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): https://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap

Colorado’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP):  https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/weatherization-assistance-program

Project Cope. Donation based fund for community members utility bill assistance in time of crisis and emergencies:  https://projectcopecs.org/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. Subscribe to receive email notice of news and events: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Unite Your World with the Arts! Some people might think that the concept of sustainability means only environmental sustainability. While sustainability does include nature and the environment, it also encompasses society or community, economy, and individual well-being. Arts and culture represents one aspect of social sustainability that sustains and improves our quality of life, which we explore through the region's leader in arts and culture, the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region.

Angela Seals, Executive Director of COPPR, provides an update on the 10-year cultural plan for the Pikes Peak Region: Arts Vision 2030. Ms. Seals tells us about October Arts Month activities and initiatives around the region coming in October.

The Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (a.k.a. COPPR) is the nonprofit local arts agency that serves the City of Colorado Springs and the greater Pikes Peak region (El Paso and Teller Counties). The Cultural Office works to ensure that the creative sector grows in economic vitality and depth of impact, that creative workers can thrive in our community, and that the arts are leveraged to positively address regional economic development, education, cultural tourism, and quality of life.

Angela Seals is a creative leader, project manager, public programs designer, and speaker with 20 years of experience working at arts nonprofits. She has worked with the Cultural Office in a variety of roles since 2013. Angela has built a reputation for dynamic and collaborative impact across her career in Colorado Springs and at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust / Pittsburgh Dance Council, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Corcoran College of Art + Design in Washington, D.C. She has been honored with awards for her service to the field, including the 2024 Women of Influence Award from Colorado Springs Business Journal and the 2022 Juneteenth Community Award from Pikes Peak Diversity Council.

LINKS:

October - Arts Month, download digital passport: https://artsoctober.com/

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region: https://www.culturaloffice.org/

Peak Radar: https://peakradar.com/

Arts Vision 2030: https://www.culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030/

Concrete Couch: https://www.concretecouch.org/

Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts: https://www.smokebrush.org/

Smokebrush Farm: https://www.facebook.com/smokebrushfarm

Visit Colorado Springs: https://www.visitcos.com/

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 17, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Bright Idea: Conserving Energy

October Sustainability in Progress

Hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture

Join virtually or in person

October 15th, Noon to 1:15

In-person at UCCS Downtown, 102 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs

Virtually on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

We begin to unravel one of the most complex and timely topics in the global energy landscape. Whether you’re a student, a policy maker, a professional in the energy sector, or simply an engaged global citizen, this episode promises to broaden your horizons and foster informed dialogue.

As countries strive to decarbonize their energy sectors, the debate over nuclear power becomes increasingly vital. Nuclear energy offers a unique combination of high-capacity generation and low carbon emissions, positioning it as a potential linchpin in the global effort to combat climate change. However, high-profile accidents, long-lived waste, and economic considerations give rise to legitimate concerns. This discussion aims to navigate these complexities with clarity and candor and provide Alliance stakeholders with a strong background from which to further explore the topic. 

Christopher Juniper provides a balanced examination of nuclear power, highlighting both its transformative potential and the valid concerns it raises. He addresses the following key areas:

·     The Basics and Lifecycle of Nuclear Energy: How does nuclear power work? What is fission, and how is electricity generated from uranium or thorium?

·     Advantages of Nuclear Energy: Explore the compelling benefits, from low greenhouse gas emissions to high energy density, reliability, and potential for innovation in reactor design.

·     Drawbacks and Risks: Delve into the challenges, including extraction of uranium, radioactive waste, safety concerns, high upfront costs, and public perception. 

·     Future Outlook: A look at emerging technologies, such as small modular reactors and fusion energy, and their potential to reshape the energy landscape.

·     Colorado Connection: Understanding the potential implications for Colorado. 

·     Interactive Q&A Session: Bring your questions and perspectives for an engaging dialogue.

Christopher Juniper, a Colorado native and Colorado College graduate, has tracked nuclear power for nearly 50 years as a sustainability economist, consultant, activist, and college instructor. He created the Sustainability Performance Lifecycle Management System in 2003 that his team used to evaluate energy sources available to the Pikes Peak region 2009-2011. He has served on the Colorado Springs Utilities’ EIRP technical advisory committee; co-authored certification study guides for the International Society of Sustainability Professionals; authored book chapters on climate risk economics; and served international sustainability-related projects and non-profit boards.

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 20, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next Sustainability in Progress:

Arts & Culture: Angela Seals of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region

September 17, 2025, Noon to 1 PM

Virtual

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/HSD6IEKYR-yNGcsvHS2P3A

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nuclear-Lifecycle-2025.pdf

Speaker’s Research Notes: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nuclear-Power-Rsh-Notes-20Aug25.pdf

Colorado Energy Office: https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/

Sign Up for Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future’s Monthly Newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya 

Visit Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future’s Website: https://peakallianceco.org/

Follow the Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr 

Pikes Peak Permaculture: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org 

Visit Fountain Creek Watershed District for upcoming cleanups, monthly Liquid Lectures, and other events

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Why is water such a hot-button issue in Colorado right now? Host/producer Ally Richardson dives into the heart of local water challenges with Dave Gardner, Mark Robinson, and Mike Callicrate. From policy to permaculture, they explore innovative solutions that could shape the future of our region’s most precious resource.

In the conversation today:

Farmer Mark Robinson from Green Hill Farm in Peyton, Colorado. 

Mark hopes to have Grains & Vegetables coming soon!  Find him at the Grain Chain: https://www.coloradograinchain.com/nexus/organizations/green-hill-farm

Rancher Mike Callicrate from Saint Francis, Kansas. 

Mike has 2 local Colorado Spring stores, Ranch Foods Direct, that are worth a visit! 

Find him at:  https://www.mikecallicrate.com/

Dave Gardner from Colorado Springs, Colorado. 

Dave manages Studio 809 Podcasts, where he produces some episodes of Peak Environmentand co-hostsLoving the Springs.He also hosts the GrowthBusters podcast, which recently visited the water issue: https://www.growthbusters.org/growth-addiction-water-southwest/

This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at https://pikespeakpermaculture.org.

Mentioned in This Episode:

2023 Colorado Water Plan: https://dnrweblink.state.co.us/CWCB/0/edoc/219188/Colorado_WaterPlan_2023_Digital.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities - Tiered Water Plans found here:  https://www.csu.org/rates/tiered-water-rate

Zack Weiss creates brilliant videos to illustrate how water moves through land and atmosphere.  https://waterstories.com

The Watershed Death Spiral:  https://www.waterstories.com/story/the-watershed-death-spiral     

The Revived Water Cycle:  https://www.waterstories.com/story/the-revived-water-cycle

Denver 7 News Article by Brandon Richard, Foreign ownership of Colorado's agricultural land raising concerns found here: https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/foreign-ownership-of-colorados-agricultural-land-raising-concerns

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Stuck on how to grow food in our region of Southern Colorado? Don’t know where to start? Feeling overwhelmed? Or shoot, do you just want to pick good local food up? Peak Environment Cohost Ally Richardson joins Kristie Taylor at Vermijo Community Garden to talk about how the garden is transforming more than just the landscape. It’s sparking a movement, cultivating connections, and nourishing more than just vegetables. 

Featured in This Episode:

Vermijo Community Garden

Contact: Kristie Taylor | vermijogarden@gmail.com

Find the garden on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575044404344 and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vermijocommunitygardencos/

Partnered with Flying Pig Farm https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Volunteer Day: Last Saturday of every month—drop in and lend a hand!

Find Community Gardens Near You

https://coloradosprings.gov/gardens

https://www.communitygardensppr.com/home

A Mom’s Guide to Survive

This nonprofit empowers Colorado Springs moms with resources, support, and a sense of community. Check out the Mothers Guide To Survive events on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/amomsguidetosurvive.

Sankofa Community Orchard

Located in Richmond, Virginia, this five-acre green oasis is dedicated to food justice and climate resilience, featuring over 100 fruit trees. Learn more at https://thenaturalfestival.com/sankofa/.

Pro Tip: Mulch!

Mulching is essential for building healthy soil and conserving water in our dry climate. Free mulch is available in a pile next to the train tracks near 1401 Recreation Way, courtesy of Colorado Springs Park & Recreation Department.

Upcoming Permaculture Workshop

Soil for Every Garden

Date: Saturday, August 2nd, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Location: Vermijo Community Garden

Struggling with high-altitude gardening or pests like grasshoppers? Join this interactive two-hour class to learn about building resilient soil and practical pest control techniques. Each participant will take home a jar of homemade garlic spray. Register at http://wildoasispermaculture.com/.

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a sponsor and content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit http://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture design – certifications, workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

What can we expect in the future for both public and automobile transportation in the Pikes Peak Region? We hear from the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) and Mountain Metro (Colorado Springs’ bus system). John Liosatos, Transportation Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, discusses the recently adopted 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan for the Pikes Peak Region as well as the role the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) plays in bringing together local communities. Jacob Matsen, Planning and Operations Supervisor for Mountain Metropolitan Transit, shares the agency’s short and long-term visions for improved public transit service throughout the Pikes Peak Region – including increased services, greater regional connections, innovative modes of transit, and more.

LINKS:

PPACG John Losiatos Presentation Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2050-LRTP-Presentation-for-SustainabilityInProgress.pdf

Mountain Metro Jacob Matsen Presentation Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Peak-Alliance-for-a-Sustainable-Future-2025.06.18.pdf

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Transportation Planning: https://ppacg.org/transportation/

PPACG Long Range Transportation Plan: https://ppacg.org/transportation/long-range-transportation-plan/

Mountain Metro Transit: https://coloradosprings.gov/mountainmetro

2050 Regional Transit and Specialized Transportation Plans: https://coloradosprings.gov/2050-regional-transit-and-specialized-transit-plans

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 18, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. We're taking some time off this summer, but be notified when the next SIP is planned: https://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado: https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

The state of housing affordability and attainability in Colorado Springs, and what the Pikes Peak Housing Network is doing to improve it. “Colorado Springs and El Paso County aren't building enough homes that typical buyers can afford, while smaller houses and other types of housing options are needed to make housing more attainable for many people, including young adults… and seniors….” That’s the conclusion of a recent report by the Pikes Peak Housing Network. 

Jill Gaebler, Executive Director, tells us about how the PPHN is meeting the challenge of supporting “innovative and collaborative solutions to promote housing affordability, access and production” in the Pikes Peak Region. The Network’s mission involves advocating for sustainability principles like infill and redevelopment and access to transportation options, employment and living wages, cultural activities, green space, and more. 

Affordable, accessible housing is key to the establishment of a regional culture and resilient, sustainable built environment essential to a healthy economy, quality of life, attractive workforce environment, and personal health now and in the future.

LINKS:

Pikes Peak Housing Network: https://pphousingnetwork.org

2024 State of Housing Report: https://pphousingnetwork.org/2024-PPHN-State-of-Housing-Report-1.pdf

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 21, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Regional Transportation Planning Update

John Liosatos, Transportation Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments

Jacob Matsen, Planning and Operations Supervisor for Mountain Metropolitan Transit

June 18, 2025

Noon to 1 p.m.

Virtual. Register here to get link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/pEktJ5xCR7O2PjS3265dSg

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Ever stopped to wonder what’s in the air you breathe? From invisible pollutants to visible smog, air quality affects us all—whether we realize it or not. Host Ally Richardson from Pikes Peak Permaculture sits down with activist and Peak Environment cohost Konrad Schlarbaum, alongside Pikes Peak Area Council of Government’s Air Quality Outreach Specialist Kenzie Courtney, to discuss air quality in the Pikes Peak region. In this episode, we’re diving into the challenges we face, the risks we can’t ignore, and the steps we can take to create cleaner skies for generations to come.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments   https://ppacg.org/

Find the Air Quality Index here   https://www.airnow.gov/

CDPHE Air Quality Division - Colorado Air Quality Summary  https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/colorado_summary.aspx

CDPHE’s Air Quality Division daily reports  https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/

The latest ways to get around in the Pikes Peak region  https://ppacg.org/transportation/

Free Energy Audits for Businesses  https://www.csu.org/business-efficiency/request-an-audit

Food To Power  https://foodtopowerco.org/

PPAG will provide info through  https://Pikespeakair.com

Bike Routes and Safety Information  https://coloradosprings.gov/bikemap

Additionally, mark your calendars for Bike To Work Day on Wednesday, June 25th, where free breakfast will be provided at several bike stations throughout the city. Find more details here: https://coloradosprings.gov/biketowork

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture. Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

What do 68 monitoring sites and over $1.3 million annual investment in data collection tell us about Fountain Creek? Colorado Springs Utilities water quality expert Annie Berlemann provides some answers. She is Fountain Creek Watershed Project Manager for the utility.

Fountain Creek is one of Colorado’s most closely monitored and ecologically diverse waterways—spanning urban neighborhoods, rural landscapes, and natural ecosystems from the top of Pikes Peak to Pueblo. The Fountain Creek Watershed tells a complex story of resilience, risk, and recovery. From the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest fires to the “Miracle May” floods – discover what it takes to track and improve water health for both people and wildlife, including the native Flathead chub, a species of special concern.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Watershed-101-and-Water-Quality.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities: https://www.csu.org/

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 16, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The next event is:

Home Grown – Built to Live, Love, Last - Jill Gaebler of Pikes Peak Housing Network

May 21, 2025, Noon to 1 p.m., Virtual

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QFVcv-2VRZGvEovtDnV9cQ

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to revitalize your space with sustainability in mind! Join Ally Richardson and Aaron Shaha, local permaculturists who dive into Zone 0, sharing their journey, expert insights, and practical resources for greener living in the Pikes Peak region. This episode covers essential topics like energy efficiency, water conservation, food production, waste reduction, and holistic well-being—helping you create a more mindful and regenerative home.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Informative Permaculture Forums can be found at https://Permies.com or reach out with questions to Pikes Peak Permaculture on website at https://pikespeakpermaculture.org

Zachary Weiss’s Water Stories can be found at https://www.waterstories.com

Video Reviving Rivers with Dr. Rajendra Singh https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N9PIBATSFw

Research on Fraudulent Organic Labeling: 

Giannakas, K. and Yiannaka, A. 2023. Annual Review of Resource Economics. Food Fraud: Causes, Consequences, and Deterrence Strategies. Annu. Rev. Resour. Econ. 15:85–104.   https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-resource-101422-013027

Denver Laundry to Landscape:

https://www.denvergov.org/files/assets/public/v/1/public-health-and-environment/documents/eq/rules-and-regulations-governing-graywater-treatment-works-2024.pdf

Regulation 86- Reg. 86 – Graywater Control from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division. https://cdphe.colorado.gov/water-quality/clean-water/reg-86-graywater-control

Vitamin D Boosts from mushrooms! Visit local business Microvora for all your gourmet mushrooms, microgreens, and more. Questions or Wholesale Inquiries - Contact via email at hello@microvora.com. Storefront Open Daily from 10AM-6PM in Colorado Springs at 3685 S U.S. Hwy 85 87 Suite 2.

Resources for Household Waste: 

Galvanize Recycling Services: https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/

The El Paso County Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHWF) is located at 3255 Akers Dr. Colorado Springs, 80922

For more information about what is accepted, please visit: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976

https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

A panel discussion with Fountain Creek Watershed District Executive Director Alli Schuch and Jim O’Donnell, author of Fountain Creek: Big Lessons from a Little River, followed by a dynamic community conversation.

Alli provides an overview of watershed basics and shares insights on the current state of Fountain Creek. She highlights future opportunities and challenges facing the watershed.

Jim dives into key themes from his new book. Together, they explore environmental issues, community engagement, and the economic and cultural dimensions of the watershed—while offering a forward-looking perspective.

Mary Barber of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future hosts, while Allen Beauchamp of Trails and Open Space Coalition moderates. Melody Daugherty delivers the land acknowledgment and blessing.

Presenters’ Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Complete-Presenters-Slides-SIP-March-19-2025.pdf

Thanks to These Hosts & Sponsors:

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://peakallianceco.org/

Fountain Creek Watershed District: https://www.fountain-crk.org/

El Paso County Parks and Recreation: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/parks-and-recreation/

Fountain Creek Nature Center: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/nature-centers/fountain-creek-nature-center/

Peak Environment podcast: https://studio809podcasts.com/podcasts/peak-environment/

Thanks to These Participating Community Organizations:

Colorado Springs Stormwater: https://coloradosprings.gov/stormwater-enterprise

COS Creek Plan: https://coscreekplan.org/

Trails and Open Space Coalition: https://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/

Pikes Peak Chapter of Trout Unlimited: https://www.ppctu.org/

Jim O'Donnell, MCRP, CPD

Freelance Writer/Photographer

Fountain Creek: Big Lessons from a Little River https://www.aroundtheworldineightyyears.com/books/fountain-creek/

http://aroundtheworldineightyyears.com

http://www.jimodonnellphotography.com/

This episode was recorded at theSustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 19, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Fountain Creek Water Quality – What the Data Tells Us

How fire, flood, drought, and human development are shaping the watershed—and how partnerships and science are helping to protect it. In this Earth Week presentation, water quality expert Annie Berlemann shares what we know from 68 monitoring sites.

April 16, 2025

Virtual only, noon to 1 p.m.

Register here to get the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Oan8kU2MR02EG_nmOT4J7Q

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Get an update on exciting Great Outdoors Colorado investments and work statewide, from Christopher Aaby, the Generation Wild Program Officer with GOCO. Great Outdoors Colorado invests a portion of the Colorado Lottery proceeds through competitive grants open to local governments and land trusts in Colorado. GOCO just released their 2024 annual report available here: https://www.goco.org/annual-report/2024. 

Chris was an active board member of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, and hosted many of our Sustainability in Progress events. Join us in welcoming him for this visit.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 19, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

March 19, 2025, 12 Noon

The Future of Fountain Creek: Panel and Community Discussion

Attend in Person - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/march-sip-the-future-of-fountain-creek-tickets-1263008013969

Attend Virtually - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/5RNjoPyYRGCLUQ86pcZzJQ

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slides - https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SIP-Febuary-GOCO.pdf

Great Outdoors Colorado - https://goco.org/

Generation Wild - https://www.generationwild.com/

Local website – https://generationwildppr.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GenerationWildColorado/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/generationwildcolorado/

Kids on Bikes - https://kidsonbikes.net/

Mile High Youth Corps - https://www.milehighyouthcorps.org/

Blackpackers - https://blackpackers.org/

YMCA Camp Shady Brook - https://campshadybrook.ppymca.org/

Rocky Mountain Field Institute - https://www.rmfi.org/

Colorado Parks and Wildlife - https://goco.org/programs-projects/colorado-parks-wildlife

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services - https://coloradosprings.gov/PRCS

Catamount Institute - https://www.catamountinstitute.org/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/ your local bike shop since 1976

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Components of nature connection and the basic skills that everyone's ancestors practiced. Host/co-producer Ally Richardson and guests Iraiah & Austin – who run Smokebrush’s Earth Skill Club – talk about facilitating opportunities in our local community to foster deeper connections, not only with fellow humans but with all living things in our surrounding ecosystems. Deeply engage your senses, so together we can witness how living closely with our earth is practical, accessible, & tangible. Tune in to explore how these ancient practices can enrich our modern lives.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Earth Skill Club for three hands-on classes— 2nd Saturday of the month all spring long! ⏰12:30 pm - 2:30  

Fiber & Cordage - March 8th. Learn the basics of fiber processing through cordage making, an essential for making tools, shelter, and clothing from the earth. Learn how to make rope with the help of your friends, tie knots to create proper leverage, and create an ultralight backpack tie. 

Stone & Bone Tools - April 12th. Dive into the art of crafting tools from materials such bone and stone all stemming from the simplest of measures - a sharp edge. Play with nature as we create our own biodegradable, primitive cutting devices. Tap into curiosity as we listen to the density of rock’s sounds, observing what they can tell us to discover their best uses. 

Friction Fire Building - May 10th. Ignite your instincts and get a work out as we tap into the age-old skill of fire building, a cornerstone of surviving and thriving. Practice creating a fire with sticks through the power of hand and bow drill friction kits, using different local woods to birth the coal that will provide nourishment to our bird nest kindling.

Earth Skill Club on Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/people/EarthSkills-of-Manitou/100086610595176/

Earth Skill Club on Instagram   https://www.instagram.com/earthskills_of_manitou/

Rocky Mountain Highway's Meadowgrass Music Festival 

May 23, 10am - May 25 · 11:30pm    https://meadowgrass.org/

Be sure to check out Smokebrush's Puppet Show!

Listen to last year’s Studio 809 podcast about Meadowgrass here: https://rockymountainhighway.org/meadowgrass-2024-featured-on-studio-809-podcast/

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s The Seed Garden Class 

March 15, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm   Go to https://pikespeakpermaculture.org or click here to register: https://form.jotform.com/250237033443043

Join us for this class and discussion on the value of seeds. Learn about seed starting and saving techniques and participate in a seed swap. Learn the value of climate adaptation and landrace development in seed stock and how it helps to strengthen community food sheds. Build community and meet great people who face the same perils of gardening our region as you do.

An Amazing List of Resources our guests recommend! Check them out at your local library.

1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus, Book by Charles C. Mann

Tending the Wild: Native American Knowledge and the Management of California's Natural Resources, Book by Kat Anderson

What the Robin Knows: How Birds Reveal the Secrets of the Natural World, Book by Jon Young 

Eavesdropping on Animals: What We Can Learn From Wildlife Conversations, Book by George Bumann

Forgotten Fires: Native Americans and the Transient Wilderness, Book by Omer Stewart

Edible Native Plants of the Rocky Mountains, Book by Harold Harrington

Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West, Book by Michael Moore

Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species, Book by Mark Elbroch

Participating in Nature: Wilderness Survival and Primitive Living Skills, Book by Thomas J. Elpel

Animal Tracking Fundamentals: Animal Track Identification, Flashcards by Silva Tracking

Colorado Wildflowers Search, Free App by Steve Sullivan (has a Columbine as the app image)

A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976         http://oldtownbikeshop.com/

And thanks to Becky Elder for her support. You can provide support here.  https://www.patreon.com/studio809

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture design – certifications, workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Learn about the comprehensive vision for future investments and stewardship, with a focus on downtown Colorado Springs. We’ll hear from Chris Lieber, COO for Pikes Peak Waterways, Principal at N.E.S. Inc. and Chair of the Downtown Development Authority. He is joined by former city councilor Jan Martin, cofounder and board member for Pikes Peak Waterways.

The COS Creek Plan establishes a comprehensive vision for the future investments and stewardship of the Fountain Creek Watershed with a specific focus on segments of the Monument and Fountain creeks adjacent to Downtown Colorado Springs. The COS Creek Plan establishes an implementable vision, which respects our communities’ values, responds to infrastructure needs, and leverages opportunities. Implementation of the Plan is being pursued through a unique partnership between Pikes Peak Waterways (non-profit), the City of Colorado Springs (Stormwater Enterprise), and Colorado Springs Utilities. It is intended to create excitement, foster collaboration, and identify public and private partnership opportunities.

Pikes Peak Waterways is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded on the premise that visionary planning, research, and action is vital to making our region’s waterways sustainable and enjoyable for generations to come. Pikes Peak Waterways serves as a catalyst for change and is turning Fountain and Monument Creek’s challenges into opportunities: opportunities for restoration, opportunities for preservation, opportunities for recreation, and opportunities for community and economic development.

Chris Lieber is leading efforts to implement the COS Creek Plan and supporting the non-profit work of Pikes Peak Waterways. For nearly two decades Chris managed the Colorado Springs Parks, Trails and Open Space (TOPS) Program.

LINKS:

Presenters’ Slides

https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/COS-Creek-Plan-SIP.pdf

Pikes Peak Waterways

https://Ppwaterways.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 15, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

February 19, 2025, 12 Noon

Topic: Connecting Colorado with the Outdoors - Great Outdoors Colorado and Generation Wild

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/3NQwgJHAScGcXFVygi4bow

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

350 Colorado

GrowthBusters

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow Peak Environment on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Chelsea and Melissa at 350 Colorado discuss hope and art, in addition to specifics on exciting events in CO Springs coming up in 2025. This episode is a must listen!

Also discussed:

350 Colorado is the largest Colorado-based grassroots network focused on taking action to stop climate change. It’s an independent state affiliate of 350.org, the well-known global organization. Learn more at http://350colorado.org/, or email Melissa @ melissa@350colorado.org, and Chelsea @ chelsea@350colorado.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

There is a divide among sustainability advocates concerning urban development. At a glance, it may seem that halting all development would be beneficial. However, John Olson urges us to look beyond the surface and consider the implications of how we develop our cities, as well as the potential consequences of stopping development altogether.

He believes we need to shift the status quo mindset of development. Rapid urbanization, suburban sprawl, and the degradation of natural resources have strained infrastructure, exacerbated social inequalities, and threatened environmental sustainability. New urban planning approaches foster deeper human connections, mitigate climate change, and build communities that are resilient, equitable, and prosperous for future generations.

John’s passion and dedication is creating inspiring places that foster deeper connections with each other and our natural environment. With over two decades of experience integrating smart growth principles across various project types, his strength is creating innovative and sustainable solutions, engaging a wide variety of stakeholders, and leading projects from vision to implementation and beyond.

John earned his Landscape Architecture degree from Kansas State University. He has a passion and vested interest in projects that enrich the Colorado Springs area in which he and his wife of over twenty years have lived and raised their family of five.

His commitment extends to serving on multiple boards. Recognized for his impact, he currently serves as Chair of the Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority and Co-Chair of ULI Southern Colorado. He helped found the Colorado Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism, and Colorado Springs Urban Intervention. He is an Accredited New Urbanist, Registered Landscape Architect, and LEED Accredited Professional.

LINKS:

Video of this Presentation https://youtu.be/Wai4GHPGKGA

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Olson-Sustainable-Development-Nov-2024.pdf

Urban Landscapes https://urbanlandscapes.design/

Loving the Springs podcast https://studio809podcasts.com/category/loving-the-springs/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on November 20, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

 January 15, 2025, 12 Noon Topic: TBA Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcpduuopzMuHdf7Nk4vUgzyYVjJ69f1d402

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn how local arts nonprofit Concrete Couch has turned a concrete dump into a community asset – a park and learning center. Caitlin Hannigan and Jorge Estevez also share how Concrete Couch has contributed to increasing interest and engagement in the arts and sustainability in Colorado Springs. Concrete Couch is a nonprofit that works with kids and community groups to create public art, build community, and create environments and experiences that humanize our world.

Speakers:

Caitlin Hannigan is the Education Director at Concrete Couch. She was raised in Colorado Springs and worked as a teacher in China before working at Concrete Couch. Over the last 4-years she has worked with Concrete Couch to help make Concrete Coyote into a 7-acre community park and helped design and develop educational programming for community members. 

Dr. Jorge Estevez is an instructor with Concrete Couch. He has a doctorate in physics. He is passionate about trees, biking and the Colorado Springs community. With his work at Concrete Couch, he has helped plant over 50 native trees and plants and build over 2 miles of hiking and biking trails. 

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on October 16, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free), normally the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

 November 13, 2024 John Olson of Urban Landscapes LLC Register here to receive Zoom link

LINKS:

Presenters' Slides

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Concrete Couch

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Discover how the symbiotic relationship between our environment and our economic development can lead to a more sustainable future with national speaker and Colorado author, John Giordanengo. John has spent the last three decades in the trenches of conservation, restoration ecology, non-profit development, and small-business ownership. That work, coupled with investigative research from across the globe, led to his recent book, Ecosystems as Models for Restoring Our Economies, which was a finalist in the 2023 Colorado Book Awards. Drawing from his systemic experiences, Giordanengo will share insights on aligning environmental values with critical economic and social goals, bridging the gap between the inherent values of our environmental and economic systems in the Pikes Peak Region.

John Giordanengo began building his career in ecological restoration throughout the Western U.S. While studying business in the late eighties, he became intrigued by a universal challenge: preserving earth's ecosystems while meeting humanity's economic needs. Giordanengo offers lecture series at universities and public venues across the U.S. and several other countries, and works with entrepreneurs, non-profits, and industry leaders to create sustainable solutions to complex challenges. He lives in Fort Collins, where he plays music, gardens, and strengthens his professional networks.

If you wish to see John’s slides, view this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/eCyc2VTp2ew

LINKS:

Book: Ecosystems as Models for Restoring Our Economies - By John H. Giordanengohttps://economicrestoration.org/book

Economic Restoration Serviceshttps://economicrestoration.org/

Contact John: John at EconomicRestoration.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on September 18, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Concrete Couch October 16, 2024, Noon to 1 p.m. Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpcu6pqzIoHt1Djz6KOns5dM1rjdNDXm4-

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What is a permablitz? Ally Richardson invites fellow permaculturists Alexandra Malecki and Beth Carbone to discuss this engaging social permaculture event. We couldn’t contain our giggles! Together, we share our experiences with these community gatherings, which we believe truly enhance our ability to achieve the impossible. In alignment with Mayor Yemi’s initiative on 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings Initiative, a permablitz not only tackles seemingly impossible tasks but also addresses mental health issues and isolation, all while offering support and sunshine.    Find more information about a permablitz here: https://www.permablitz.net/ 

Since the recording in August, Alex Malecki has joined the 1,000 Neighborhood Gathering Initiative! We’re now at 767 gatherings. We need 233 more, with just over two weeks to go! Have you hosted a gathering recently?  Register yours here: https://coloradosprings.gov/1000Gatherings 

Mentioned in the episode: 

The mystery book that was referred to by Beth, given by Alex, is the SKIP book by Paul Wheaton and Mike Hasaal. Skip is short for Skills to inherit property. There are many people who have built wonderful permaculture systems on their land, but with no heirs. This program allows for an opportunity to prove you have the skills to take care of the land. For more information on the SKIP program, look here: https://wheaton-labs.com/skip/

To purchase a physical copy of the book, look here: https://permies.com/wiki/160690/physical-copy-SKIP-book 

Chip Drop was also mentioned. We love wood chips in permaculture. See more information here about getting your wood chips delivered: https://getchipdrop.com/ 

There is a free resource pile from the City Parks Department at 1601 Recreation Way in Colorado Springs.

Thanks to Old Town Bike Shop for sponsoring the Peak Environment podcast. Check them out at https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Learn about the GRIT Program that offers training in a brief conversational intervention used to support effective coping for those in your natural social network. In these trying times, we could all benefit from free training in effective coping to build our collective grit. We get the details from Dr. Lauren Shaw, GRIT Program Manager at UCCS’ Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience. The program is intended to function as one element within more comprehensive planning to help individuals and communities to be as resilient as they can be in the wake of stress-related problems or disasters. In times of disaster, strengthening coping, spreading support, and providing resources can have a positive impact on healing and resilience for everyone.

Dr. Shaw is the GRIT Program Manager with the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience. She received her Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs in 2009, and her Psy.D. in Organizational Psychology, with a specialization in Health and Wellness, from the University of the Rockies in 2018. Her professional background includes teaching resilience, mindfulness-based training, and leadership development in military and organizational settings. Additionally, she holds certifications as a health coach and personal trainer from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). 

LINKS:

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/GRIT-Presentation.pdf

GRIT Programhttps://grit.uccs.edu

Pikes Peak Rising 360https://www.elpasocountyhealth.org/prevention-services/pikes-peak-rising-360/

Contact Maggie Youkhana for a Pikes Peak Rising 360 platform demo: maggieyoukhana@elpasoco.com

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on August 21, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Ecosystems as Models for Restoring our Economies (to a sustainable state)Wednesday, September 18, from 12:00 - 1:00 PM Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAuc--vqj0uG9DCLX0N-3Bo4oyOLJu62nQa

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn how 350 Colorado can help you become a climate activist, or have more fun and be more effective if you’re already an activist. Chelsea Alexander and Melissa Burrell share what 350 Colorado is and does, and then drill down to some activities and events coming up in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

350 Colorado is the largest Colorado-based grassroots network focused on taking action to stop climate change. It’s an independent state affiliate of 350.org, the well-known global organization. After listening, you’ll understand why 350.org co-founder Bill McKibben said, “It’s hard to imagine a place more important to the climate fight than Colorado.”

In this episode:

Melissa BurrellDenver, Boulder, & CO Springs Team Coordinator, 350 Colorado

Chelsea AlexanderMovement Building & Volunteer Director, 350 Colorado

Dave Gardner, Peak Environment Host

Learn more and plug in at https://350colorado.org/

or find @350Colorado on social media 

Join 350 Colorado, The Butterfly Pavilion, Rocky Mountain Bee Supply, Cronk Art, Rick's Garden Center, Pikes Peak Beekeepers Association, Heroes To Hives, and The Horticulture Society at:

Pollinating Climate ActionAugust 4, 2024  2 to 7 pmSoda Springs Park (at farmers market)Manitou Springs, COInfo & RSVP: https://secure.ngpvan.com/Yr2N45vPpUeOCLrrqK6oTA2

Contact Melissa for Colorado Springs specific questions or suggestionsmelissa@350colorado.org

Contact Chelsea, as wellchelsea@350colorado.org

Thanks to these Peak Environment underwriters:

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Old Town Bike Shop https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Colorado’s Circular Economy Development Center facilitates connections in Colorado to create circular economy solutions using materials that Coloradans recycle. Archibald, Southern Front Range Satellite Office Coordinator for the CEDC shares details and case studies.

The Center’s mission is to assist companies striving for circularity by helping them advance their business or locate to Colorado. The goal is to create individual, scalable pathways toward circular economies—and step one is creating beneficial collaboration and innovation between Colorado businesses.

This program of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides end market solutions and fosters the round-table discussions that lead us to circularity. They engage and work closely with stakeholders to mediate solutions that work for our businesses, communities, and environment alike. 

During Q&A, there is also an interesting discussion about efforts to have just one trash hauler picking up in each neighborhood, eliminating multiple trucks, reducing costs and cutting carbon emissions.

Alicia Archibald has been developing partnerships and assisting communities throughout Colorado for over 20 years. Most of her career has centered around waste diversion, sustainable procurement, and recycling systems. She’s based in Colorado Springs.

 Speaker’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CEDC-Intro-Deck-2024_AA-small.pdf

Circular Colorado & CEDChttps://coloradocedc.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on July 17, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Sustainability in Progress, Topic TBAAugust 21, 2024, 12 noon Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcucuGpqDosE9KbpycdFfUuRsv2kAxwPiYm

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about deep nature connection, nature deficit disorder, great programming in the area, and ways we all can engage to feel a belonging amongst the other species that live in the lovely Southern Colorado region. Co-host Ally Richardson, from local nonprofit Pikes Peak Permaculture, is joined by three permaculture guests who work and teach in the region, all who steward the gift of nature connection: Brian Fritz from Pikes Peak Permaculture, Frank Cordova “Ranger Frank,” and Angelina Perez from Pueblo, CO.

Discussed in this episode: 

Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center, Pueblo, Colorado     https://hikeandlearn.org/ 

Nature School, Day and Overnight Camps, Trails, and Home School Programs!

Check out the programs here: https://hikeandlearn.org/programs-and-events-camps/

Jon Young- Deep Nature Connection - http://512project.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oo-HyjwrsLM

Richard Louv ‘Last Child in the Woods’  https://richardlouv.com/books/last-child/

Findhorn Gardening https://www.findhorn.org/

Heart Math Institute https://www.heartmath.org/

Upcoming Community Classes:

Catamount Institute https://www.catamountinstitute.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture, Manitou Springs, Colorado     http://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org

Weeds have a story for you! July 20th, 2024, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Spend the day with Jayme Domejka at Fountain Creek Nature Center to learn about what the weeds in your landscape are telling you about your soil. Discussion will be surrounding specific weedy species, how and if they can be used, and what strategies you can use to get them to give way to other more desirable plants. Don’t want to miss this one!! 

Register Here: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/weeds-have-a-story-for-you/

Flying Pig Farm     https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Traditional Ecological Knowledge Workshop with Michael Alcazar    July 21, 2024,  9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

The event with include lunch featuring indigenous foods and a hands-on learning experience from an expert in the field. Register here: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/traditional-ecological-know

Farm and Art Camp July 29 - Aug 2, 2024  8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Grades 2nd - 8th Growing relationships to their food and the natural world in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. 

Grades 9th - 12th Learn cooking and leadership skills as assistant counselors and chefs, with activities like clay work, construction, animal and plant care, food harvesting, and many more…

Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSffT1XJqnK-JhBKZtiAMJD3SdrOGYnaxgsUnAbsBeSCQzAgnA/viewform

A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976https://oldtownbikeshop.com

KJS Auto Hail Repair, your go-to when your vehicle gets hail damage- $100 discount for mentioning Studio 809https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Join host Ally Richardson as she ventures to the opposite slope of Pikes Peak to converse with master herbalist Mari Marques. Explore how plants nurture us, followed by a tour of her stunning and bountiful gardens. Discover additional advantages and applications for the plants thriving in our area, including those often deemed invasive or labeled as weeds!

“Invasive plants are Earth’s way of insisting we notice her medicines.” -Stephen Herrod Buhner

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer   https://www.robinwallkimmerer.com/books

United Plant Savers    https://unitedplantsavers.org/

Ute County News Article - Wild Thing, You Make My Heart Sing by Mari Marguezhttps://www.utecountrynews.com/archives/2022/july-2022.pdf

Home Remedies and Healing with Plants w/ Mari MarquesJune 29th, 1:00-3:00pm

Enjoyed what you learned from the podcast? Join an upcoming class where Mari Marques delves further into cultivating plants and exploring those found in the wild, emphasizing their role in our healing and well-being. Mention your interest in joining Mari on a tour of her space that day! The class will be at the Florissant Fire Protection District at 2606 W Hwy 24, in Florissant. Registration is required due to limited seating. 

Here is a link to register: https://www.rlifeskills101.com/book-online

Join Pikes Peak Permaculture for our upcoming class! 

Weeds Have a Story For You! July 20th, 9:00-4pm

Discover what the weeds in your landscape reveal about your soil. We'll explore various weedy species, their potential uses, and effective strategies to encourage more desirable plants to thrive. This class will be held at the Fountain Creek Nature Center. 320 Peppergrass Lane, in Colorado Springs. Registration is required due to limited seating.  

Here is a link to register: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/weeds-have-a-story-for-you/

 A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – Your local bike shop since 1976http://oldtownbikeshop.com/

KJS Auto Hail Repair – Your go-to when your vehicle gets hail damage$100 discount for anyone mentioning Studio 809https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Discover practical ways to reconnect your home landscape with nature. Learn how to provide food, water, and shelter to support pollinator habitats in your yard. David Woolley, Science Educator and Founder of the Manitou Seed Library shares fascinating information about the many pollinators and their favorite plant varieties.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Native-Places-15-May-2024.pdf

Manitou Springs Seed Library https://www.facebook.com/ManitouSeedLibrary

To email David Woolley manitouseedlibrary@gmail.com

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on May 15, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

July 17, 2024 12 Noon Topic TBARegister here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYudu2sqTsuGNUTy-ZKggy_yzQumYhEf2Gq

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about water resource limitations and challenges for Colorado and Colorado Springs. Scott Winter, project manager in Water Resources and Demand Management for Colorado Springs Utilities, shares work being done to ensure our community is as efficient and as resilient as possible. He also reviews how and what you can do to participate in the efficient use of water both inside and outside of your home.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

 Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/04172024-Peak-Alliance-for-Sustainable-Future.pdf

 Water Conservation & Efficiency Resources – Colorado Springs Utilitieshttps://www.csu.org/Pages/WaterConservationEfficiency.aspx  

Coffee and Conservation – First Saturday of each month May – October, 8 to noon at CSU Conservation Centerhttps://allevents.in/colorado%20springs/200026400462050

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on April 17, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Native Plants for Native PollinatorsDavid Woolley, Science Educator and Founder of the Manitou Seed Library May 15, 12 NoonRegister here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0kceuurzouHtOY5fWIjVpK3O3DOkU8Nlt2

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org/.  

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about a great resource in the Pikes Peak Region to help you recycle many items you can’t just toss into curbside recycling. This conversation also explores some opportunities for how we might improve Colorado Springs poor recycling performance – we divert only 15% of our waste from the landfill into recycling. Loveland diverts 60%, Boulder 51%.

Mike Mazzola shares why he founded Galvanize Recycling and how this young business can solve many of our recycling challenge – whether you’re a family, a business, a neighborhood group or a city. We also learn about a great opportunity for businesses to sponsor local recycling events. Frequent Peak Environment hosts Ally Richardson and Dave Gardner shepherd the discussion.

 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Galvanize Recycling http://galvanizerecycling.com/

Request A Pickup with Galvanize Recycling - Order Formhttps://www.galvanizerecycling.com/pickup/

Front Range Waste Diversion https://www.coloradofrwd.org/

Join the movement! CONO's 1000 Neighborhood Events Initiative https://coloradosprings.gov/1000Gatherings

El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facilityhttps://communityservices.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

El Paso County Recycling Directory 2024https://epc-assets.elpasoco.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/Recycling-Directory-2024.pdf

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

The Transition Town grassroots movement is a way you can impact your own neighborhood. Learn more about this as Peak Environment co-host Ally Richardson explores Transition Towns with Becky Elder and Brian Fritz from Pikes Peak Permaculture.

If you would like to find out more about public forums, lectures, and community green movies, or if you would like to host such an event, please send Pikes Peak Permaculture an inquiry at https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/contact-us/

Pikes Peak Permaculture is a Southern Colorado 501c3 nonprofit that educates adults and the youth on the wide world of nature and permaculture.

Our upcoming class…. Weeds Have a Story for You!  Fountain Creek Nature Center on July 20th, 2024 from 9am - 4pm.  Learn more and register:  https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/weeds-have-a-story-for-you/

Mentioned in this episode:

The Transition Handbook: From Oil Dependency to Local Resilience - by Rob Hopkins https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2932356-the-transition-handbook Free eBook: https://www.ic.org/community-bookstore/product/transition-handbook/

Transition US   https://www.transitionus.org/

Transition Network   https://transitionnetwork.org/

Nextdoor App- Social network of neighborhoods   https://nextdoor.com/

TED Talk: Transition to a World Without Oil - Rob Hopkins   https://www.ted.com/talks/rob_hopkins_transition_to_a_world_without_oil

Music on the podcast by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia. https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Katie Helm, Conservation and Sustainability Program Manager for the City of Fountain, provides an update on the city's sustainability efforts. This episode includes an extensive impromptu discussion of recycling challenges and solutions across El Paso County.

Katie Helm is the Conservation and Sustainability Program Manager for the City of Fountain, where she manages energy and water programs. In previous roles she has worked as a Water Conservation Specialist for the City of Aurora, a Park Ranger for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and as a sawyer through Americorps. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. In 2017 she earned her Master of Science from Denver University for Environmental Management and Policy.

 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CAG-Water-Topics-3.24-small.pdf

Resource Centralhttps://resourcecentral.org/lawn

WaterWise Yards exampleshttps://waterwiseyards.org/inspiration-hub/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on March 20, 2024. Sustainability in Progress  is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Sustainability in Progress: Colorado Springs Utilities Water Conservation UpdateHear from Julia Gallucci, Water Conservation Supervisor at Colorado Springs UtilitiesApril 17, 2024 at Noon Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlc-qprzosHt3sT6MGLj5Um3boT49lewJq

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about City of Colorado Springs sustainability efforts – from both a strategic and an operational perspective. Ryan Trujillo, Deputy Chief of Staff – Operations, updates us and answers questions. Topics include decentralization of the city’s sustainability efforts, status of the yet to be launched Sustainability Advisory Board, a waste characterization study to determine rates we’re diverting waste from landfills, micromobility, and the 2050 Regional Transit Plan (see link to sign up for updates).

 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

2050 Regional Transit Planhttps://coloradosprings.gov/2050-regional-transit-and-specialized-transit-plans

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on February 21, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

Thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts sponsor KJS Auto Hail Repair. Save $100: Mention that you were referred by Studio 809 when you call, or on the contact form at https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What’s the law on plastic bags and polystyrene cups and take-out containers? What other legislation is in effect or potentially coming soon to move the state toward zero waste? How can you receive funding to support your organizational efforts? How can we all take part in moving to reduce this kind of waste? Find out in this update from Rachel Setzke of Eco-Cycle.

In Colorado, restaurants have experienced as much as a 90% reduction in use (and costs) of single use items like straws, ketchup packets, etc. when they don’t automatically provide them, but first ask if a customer wants them. Get this and other useful bits of information in this episode!

Eco-Cycle is one of the oldest mission-based recyclers and Zero Waste organizations in the US, and an innovator in resource conservation. They operate the Boulder County Recycling Center, provide Zero Waste business services, and created the nation’s first Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials (CHaRM). They also run the Green Star Schools program, Community Carbon Farming program, a recycling helpline (303-444-6634), created the A–Z Recycling Guide, and advance Zero Waste policies at the local, state, and national levels.

 MORE INFORMATION:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Colorado-legislation-wins-for-recycling-composting-and-waste-reduction-for-Co-Springs-group.pdf

Front Range Waste Diversion Enterprise Fund programs informationhttps://www.coloradofrwd.org/

https://ecocycle.org/harmful-plastics

Producer Responsibility Acthttps://www.recyclingforallcoloradans.org/

https://www.plasticfreerestaurants.org/

https://www.chefannfoundation.org/

Bag Fee, Ban Materials & Resourceshttps://ecocycle.org/PPRA

Thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts sponsor KJS Auto Hail Repair. Save $100: Mention that you were referred by Studio 809 when you call, or on the contact form at https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on January 17, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Register for the February Sustainability in Progress: COS Sustainability and Strategic Doing February 21, 2024, 12 noon MST https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsc-GhpjorHNR7orAohu2U6jUEq2Nrz2fy

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Why might you want to attend a permaculture design certification course offered in our region? Ally Richardson, a permaculture educator and Peak Environment podcast co-producer, discusses this with other members of Pikes Peak Permaculture: Becky Elder, Brian Fritz, and Jayme Domejka.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s 2024 Permaculture Design Certification

Since the early 1980s, permaculture has been taught through hands-on courses – PDCs – with experienced mentors handing down their knowledge to passionate students.

We are beginning March 8th and will finish September 22nd. Work Trade available- ask for details!

Register Here:  https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/2024-permaculture-design-course/

Permaculture Potpourri

Come join us at High Prairie Library on February 3rd, 2024 for a FREE class on many topics we cover as permaculturists. From soil to social systems- we have solutions. 

Location: 7035 Old Meridian Road, Falcon, Colorado 80831

Register here: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/permaculture-potpourri/

Weeds Have A Story For You!

Spend the day with us and learn on July 20th to learn about what the weeds in your landscape are telling you about your soil. We will discuss specific weedy species, how and if they can be used and what strategies you can use to get them to give way to other more desirable plants. 

Class Fee $35; Location TBD.

Register Here: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/weeds-have-a-story-for-you/

Tree City USA Bulletin #59 Permaculture and the City. Arbor Day Foundation

https://www.arborday.org/trees/bulletins/coordinators/resources/pdfs/059.pdf

Music on the podcast by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia. https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Richard Skorman shares an environmental vision and a unique community building opportunity that can help with the restoration efforts of our local watershed - creating natural landscapes that everyone can enjoy: Poor Richard's Rubbish Roundup! Join the weekly trash roundup team and help keep our community clean. Or, better yet, reach out to Richard for support in starting your own volunteer group near your local waters.

The episode is hosted by Ally Richardson, a permaculture educator and Peak Environment co-producer.

Richard Skorman served thirteen years on Colorado Springs City Council, including two as vice mayor. He was on the initial board of the Fountain Creek Watershed District. In 1975, he launched what is now Poor Richard’s Downtown collection of shops – a book and gift shop, a toy store, a restaurant and a coffee cafe/wine bar. He founded the U.S. Environmental Film Festival in 1991, and was a founder of Citizens Project.

 Mentioned in this episode:

Poor Richard's Rubbish Roundup- Beginning Again on January 9th, 2024. The volunteer group meets every Tuesday from 3pm to 5pm to clean up Monument Valley Park - South.

For more information: https://www.poorrichardsrestaurant.com/event/richards-rubbish-roundup-every-tuesday/ 

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control & Greenway Districthttps://www.fountain-crk.org/

Induced Meandering MethodThe technique of meandering the creek to recharge groundwater, which in turn recharges flowing waters on the landscape and wetlands. The edges that are created from the natural flowing pattern create habitat and forage- for birds and insects, as well as for other fauna which inhabit earth and need to survive.  

Biochar & Permaculture Design for Fire Mitigation and Soil Regenerationhttps://pina.in/engage/february-2023-ferp-webinars/

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australiahttps://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of Pikes Peak Permaculture, celebrating 15 years of Permaculture education, inspiration, and support throughout Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region. We provide several Design Certification Courses, and have graduated upwards of 60 new Permaculture designers. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Do you approach the holidays mindful of the environmental impact of shopping, gifts and food? This episode explores sustainable options for this holiday season. Konrad Schlarbaum, sustainability director for the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, shares low-impact practices for gifts, food, decorations, and transportation.

Konrad Schlarbaum is the Director of Sustainability at the University of Colorado–Colorado Springs (UCCS). He also serves on the Board of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, the Sustainability Committee at Thomas MacLaren School, and the Planning Committee for the Pikes Peak Children’s Water Festival. He holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in sustainability and is certified in LEED and Permaculture.

 LINKS:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sustainable-Holiday-Practices.pdf

Bear Creek by Candlelight – December 1 5 to 8 p.m.https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/bear-creek-candlelight-2/

Center for Biological Diversity’s Simplify the Holidays (gift guides and other green holiday info)https://simplifytheholidays.org/

SoKind alternative gift registryhttps://sokindregistry.org/

Makeover Your Holiday Plate with MyPlatehttps://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2013/11/21/make-small-changes-healthy-holiday-makeover-your-holiday-plate-myplate

 Holiday Travel Methods, Ranked from Most to Least Eco-Friendly - Brightly Bloghttps://brightly.eco/blog/holiday-travel-sustainability

A Thankful Feast, Not a Wasteful One - Natural Resources Defense Councilhttps://www.nrdc.org/bio/andrea-spacht-collins/thankful-feast-not-wasteful-one

E-Tech Recyclershttps://etechrecyclers.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on November 15, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Current and upcoming legislation that will impact greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, zero emission vehicles and consumer energy costs. Chris Piper, Director of Legislative Affairs at the Colorado Energy Office shares this and much more, in a very engaging presentation and discussion.

Colorado Energy Officehttps://energyoffice.colorado.gov/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on October 18, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Register for the November 15, 2023 Event (on Zoom):

Have Yourself a Low Impact HolidayNovember 15, Noon to 1 PM Register Here

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Continue your deep dive into permaculture principles in the second part of a series hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture. Acknowledging and practicing permaculture principles can lead to wonderful experiences - which will guide you to understanding how natural systems work in our environment and our climate.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is a Southern Colorado 501c3 nonprofit that educates adults and the youth on the wide world of nature and permaculture.

Thank you to our supporters and community members who came out to Ranch Foods Direct and helped make our September 16th fundraising event possible!

Food to Power- https://foodtopowerco.org/compost

Food To Power makes it super convenient for residents and businesses to keep food, paper and yard “wastes” out of the trash and instead have it turned into compost. Event inquiries are available. 

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australiahttps://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

We can enjoy the great outdoors most when we love and protect our cherished spaces. In this episode we get to know longtime nonprofit Leave No Trace organization, its principles and its programs. Frequent host Dave Gardner is joined by guest co-host Bob Falcone, co-host of the Outdoors with Hiking Bob podcast, and guest Andrew Leary, Director of Sustainable Tourism and Partnerships at Leave No Trace. Andrew and Bob also explain some of the basics of how we can love and protect the outdoors. It’s easier than you think.

Mentioned in This Episode:

 Leave No Tracehttps://lnt.org/

 Take the free Leave No Trace 101 Coursehttps://learn.lnt.org/

Care for Colorado https://oedit.colorado.gov/care-for-colorado-program

 Hiking Bob – Podcast, Book, Photography & Newshttps://hikingbob.com/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Pikes Peak Permaculture begins a deep dive into permaculture principles in this Part 1 of 2 episode. Acknowledging and practicing these principles can lead to wonderful experiences which will guide you to understanding how natural systems work in our environment and our climate.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is a Southern Colorado 501c3 nonprofit that educates children, and adults, on the wide world of nature and permaculture.

Join us on Saturday, September 16th from 12 to 6 for Pikes Peak Permaculture’s first fundraising event, as we inform the community of ways towards resilience and sustainability within our homes and our community. Many of the things discussed in the podcast will be available to view at the event, such as rainwater harvesting, composting techniques, and much more.

The event will take place at Ranch Foods Direct East at 4635 Town Center Dr . Just by coming to the event,  you are supporting educational programs and outreach, and you will also have an opportunity to meet with local farmers, enjoy LIVE music, engage at educational booths, learn creative activities for children, like natural painting and seed balls. We will have local vendors, and food trucks. Door prizes and a silent auction add excitement to that day.

For more information, visit  https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/pikes-peak-permaculture-fundraiser/ 

Mentioned in today’s podcast:

Rainwater, Storm Water & Graywater  https://dwr.colorado.gov/services/water-administration/rainwater-storm-water-graywater

Regulation #86, Graywater Control Regulation  https://cdphe.colorado.gov/wqcc-rulemaking-proceedings 

Calculate your footprint here:  https://www.footprintcalculator.org/home/en 

Pikes Peak Library Repair Café https://ppld.org/repair-cafe

 Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australiahttps://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn how Denver Public Schools' Climate Action Plan was developed and is being implemented. DPS policy is to “be a national leader in establishing an organizational culture anchored in sustainability, climate action, and environmental justice in both the conservation of natural resources and in minimizing the carbon footprint of DPS’ practices.”

LeeAnn Kittle, director of the Sustainability Team at Denver Public Schools, shares the details on that climate plan. She’ll also highlight the significance of GHG inventory storytelling and financial impact assessments, which have played a critical role in driving sustainable change across the school district.

LeeAnn holds a Master's in Business Administration and a B.S. in Environmental Science. She is passionate about educating and inspiring her community on sustainability initiatives to address pressing climate issues. She works hard to change the narrative from climate crisis to one of bold action, innovation, and accountability. Kittle has served on several boards across the front range, including organizations such as US Green Building Council, Recycle Colorado, and Colorado Association for School District Energy Managers. LeeAnn also took part in NREL’s Energy Executive Leadership Program and was recently named Energy Manager of the Year for the Central and South US through the Association of Energy Engineers.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/AUG-2023_SIP-PRESENTATION_DPS.pdf

Denver Public Schools Climate Action Planhttps://sustainability.dpsk12.org/2023/01/06/see-the-dps-climate-action-plan/ 

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Monthly Newsletterhttps://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr

Pikes Peak Permaculture Fundraiser - September 16 https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/pikes-peak-permaculture-fundraiser/

The Brewshed Alliance Liquid Lecturehttps://www.fountain-crk.org/liquid-lecture-series

 Fountain Creek Watershed’s 10th Anniversary Creek Week Cleanup Registrationhttps://www.fountain-crk.org/creek-week-2023-registration?fbclid=IwAR17qEUuoOIrjcV4dPytDVhIZq-OJ2deuZ9ZDb-JcNn7yjrwPVOyfydIkLU

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on August 16, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Register for the next Sustainability in Progress event:

Building High Efficiency, All-Electric Homes – Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity - September 20 at noonhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAocOCppjwuHNZFUr8MeMV8K6pJa0IA-WGy

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about the environmentally sensitive design and construction of the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center and the Living Building Challenge certification process. Sandy Elliott, Parks Operations Administrator for Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, shares the fascinating details.

Speaker's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Peak-Alliance-Presentation.pdf

Pikes Peak - America's Mountain https://coloradosprings.gov/drivepikespeak

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on July 19, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Register here for the August 16 SIP, Denver Public Schools' Climate Action Plan https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZctcu-srz0uHtTWIXd_vjdZGva87qykG6NR

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Permaculture elementary Environment Club, permaculture Earth Day Celebration, and a youth permaculture design course. Pikes Peak Permaculture discusses the importance of permaculture education to connect our children to nature, and how impactful it was in a local school.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is an educational 501c3 nonprofit serving Southern Colorado in the nature and ways of permaculture. If you would like to find out more about permaculture and our programs, please visit our website at pikespeakpermaculture.org. 

Come join us at our upcoming sustainable fundraiser event on September 16th, 2023. We are growing in big ways and we are trying to reach you! At our event, we will have a silent auction, door prizes, music, games, local vendors, food trucks, and lots of hand-on permaculture activities will be available for everyone to try.

We need help- Interested in volunteering?  Contact us: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/contact-us/

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Flying Pig Farm’s Barak Ben-Amots PEAK ENVIRONMENT Podcast # 98 Building Resilient Community Relationships with Land https://studio809podcasts.com/resilient-community-relationships-with-land/

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How homeowners and the community can reduce wildfire risk and prepare for a wildfire event. Ashley Whitworth, Wildfire Mitigation Program Administrator for the Colorado Springs Fire Department, brings us up to speed on defending against wildfire. She also tells us about the Division of the Fire Marshal, and Peak Alerts. Ashley served as a Wildland Firefighter on the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest Fires.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Peak-Alliance-Presentation.pdf

Sign up for Peak Alertshttps://member.everbridge.net/1772417038942752/new

Outdoor burning guidelines, burn bans, burn restrictionshttps://www.coswildfireready.org/

719-444-7000 – non-emergency number to report violations

Ashley Whitworth Office: 719-385-7342Ashley.Whitworth@coloradosprings.gov

Please take the Green Drinks Meetup surveyhttps://forms.gle/QGYCaQ1JXvJoNk1p6

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region group on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/47914284779

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on June 21, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

July's event:

Sustainability in Progress: How the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center is Meeting Environmental ChallengesJuly 19, Noon to 1 pmLearn about the environmentally sensitive design and construction of the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center and the Living Building Challenge certification process. Sandy Elliott, Parks Operations Administrator for Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, will share the fascinating details. Reserve here to receive a link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwscuqorDwjHNSUN7Dg-H9PNEJeQBmsAvUS

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Have you heard of Permaculture? Join the Pikes Peak Permaculture's team as we introduce ourselves, permaculture and our mission here in the Pikes Peak region. Learn about the programs we offer, including certifications, teacher training, classes and workshops. 

Pikes Peak Permaculture is an educational 501(c)3 nonprofit educating Southern Colorado in the ways and nature of permaculture.

Pikespeakpermaculture.org http://pikespeakpermaculture.org/

In September, our organization will be holding its first fundraiser event with live music, food and fun. We are planning to have many opportunities for people of all ages to learn about permaculture. 

We are growing by leaps and bounds with goals to have big impacts in the community. We are hosting this fundraiser to provide funds for programs for schools, teens, and community members. 

We are looking for volunteers. If you can help reach out!https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/contact-us/

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

If you’re looking for a place to grow delicious produce this summer, get the scoop here. Colorado Springs Sustainability Program Administrator Samantha Bailey provides an update on city sustainability initiatives and a new website to help you find a garden plot. She is joined by Westside Community Center’s Felicia Barnhart, who updates us on what’s happening there (including LOTS of available community garden space).

Samantha provides details about:

Sustainable COS (Sustainability Action Plan) – using the Pikes Peak Region 2030 Plan – to improve or create a more robust sustainability program for the city for the next 10 years.

COS Love My Air –we now have air quality monitoring stations in each council district measuring ozone and particulate matter. 

SmartCOS – using technology to increase efficiency and improve city life

 LINKS:

https://coloradosprings.gov/gardens

https://coloradosprings.gov/innovation

https://coloradosprings.gov/smartsustainability

https://coloradosprings.gov/westsidecommunitycenter

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What does the April ballot success of the Trails and Open Space tax renewal tell us about our community, and how might we use that to address shortfalls in county and city parks funding? Susan Davies, Executive Director of the Trails and Open Space Coalition (TOSC), fills us in. She shares highlights of our areas parks and open spaces, and discusses ways we can improve funding for future needs.

After a 30-year career as a TV journalist in various markets around the country, Susan took the position leading TOSC in 2009. Under her leadership TOSC has tackled several large initiatives including completing the Ring the Peak Trail, supporting Friends Groups across the region, starting a Trail Ambassador and Get Out/Get Healthy Program, empowering neighborhood groups committed to improving trails and parks in underserved areas and most recently the extension of the  City's TOPS (Trails, Open Space and Parks) tax.

LINKS:

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/SIP-presentation.pdf

Trails and Open Space Coalitionhttps://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/

Info about Colorado Springs Trails, Open Space and Parks Programhttps://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/tops/

Pollinator Festivalhttps://manitoupollinators.org/pollinator-festival-2023

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/47914284779

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on May 17, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The June 21, 2023 SIP will be: Wildfire Mitigation - with Ashley Whitworth of CSFDRSVP and get the zoom link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwoce6hqDMoGteK4y9gy1FvOXmVvomlhaxO

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about the 2022 county parks master plan, including updates to future open space and park areas, revisions to trail alignments, and an asset management plan to outline critical needs. Jason Meyer, Planning Supervisor for El Paso County Parks and Community Services, shares how the plan was created, and highlights of the plan.

El Paso County's regional park system has over 8,000 acres of park and open spaces, and over 200 miles of regional trails. Popular parks include Bear Creek Regional in Colorado Springs, Fox Run near Monument, Fountain Creek in Fountain, and Paint Mines near Calhan. County Parks also operates the Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers. Planning in underway to add a third nature center in Fox Run Regional Park. 

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/El-Paso-County-Parks-Presentation-4-19-2023.pdf

El Paso County’s Parks Master Plan https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/parks-planning/

 This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on April 19, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The May 17, 2023 SIP will be: Plans for Trails, Open Space and Parks - with Susan Davies of TOSC

RSVP and get the zoom link here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUuc-CpqDgtGdOZV27D17F7KQbi5rX7dhl0

Thanks to sponsors Pikes Peak Permaculture (link below) and Becky Elder.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Hungry for good, local food? CSA’s, community gardens, farmer’s markets and the Hunt or Gather Buying Club are discussed by local food experts and champions, Michele Mukatis and Megan Andreozzi Harris.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Hunt or Gather Buying Club https://www.facebook.com/HuntOrGather/ huntorgatherivywild@gmail.com

New Roots Farm https://newrootsfarmllc.com/

Ellen’s Flowers https://www.ellensflowers.com/

Olde Owl Bread Co. https://www.facebook.com/oldeowlbreadco

Nightingale Bread  https://www.nightingalebread.com/

Switchback Coffee Roasters https://switchbackroasters.com/

Colorado Produce Calendar https://ag.colorado.gov/sites/ag/files/documents/ColoradoProduceCalendar_0.pdf

Colorado Farm Fresh Directory https://drive.google.com/file/d/1f5ScQ3MVvvroOLQnKsGqmVXMResyAVHm/view

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Thanks to Gold Hill Mesa https://www.goldhillmesa.com/ for their support of Studio 809 Podcasts.

And thanks to Becky Elder for her support. You can provide support here: https://www.patreon.com/studio809

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Food cultivation, land-based learning in empowering youth, and the central role of farmers as caregivers in our region are essential parts of building resilient community relationships with land. Barak Ben-Amots updates us on his efforts as executive director of Flying Pig Farm, a community learning garden growing at the base of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs, CO. He has worked over the last eight years to help learners of all ages connect with land, natural systems, our ecological family, and themselves. Raised in Colorado Springs as the child of two artists and professors, he is passionate about creativity, resilience, and life-long learning.

LINKS:

https://www.facebook.com/flyingpigmanitou/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on March 15, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How will Colorado Springs’ updated zoning and subdivision ordinance make our community more sustainable and resilient? City of Colorado Springs Planning Supervisor Morgan Hester shares important details about RetoolCOS.

The City of Colorado Springs City Council recently adopted the first comprehensive update of the City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance in several decades.  The 3-year process has been spearheaded by the Planning Department and is known as the RetoolCOS project, which will result in a Unified Development Code (UDC) to establish a new, modern, and more user-friendly approach to zoning and subdivision regulations as directed by PlanCOS, the 2019 Council-adopted comprehensive plan, to fit the needs of the City. 

The zoning and subdivision ordinance governs how property owners can use their land, including regulations such as building height, setbacks between properties and rights-of-ways, and what uses are permitted. The zoning and subdivision ordinance also describes the procedures for subdividing property or undertaking a development project.  Learn more at https://coloradosprings.gov/project/retoolcos-zoning-ordinance-update.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress  (SIP) virtual event on February 15, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

The new disposable plastic shopping bag “ban” and Colorado’s miserable recycling rate (15%) are among the topics as we hear from Liz Chapman, Executive Director of Recycle Colorado. Chapman shares information about new waste policies being implemented or voted on in 2023, plus other efforts to improve recycling and reduce waste statewide.

Of particular interest is the Producer Responsibility for Recycling Act, passed in 2022 and being fully in effect in 2026. It will make it easy for all Coloradans to recycle more plastics, aluminum cans, glass bottles, cardboard, and printed paper. It will also help manufacturers and businesses by creating a more resilient domestic supply of recycled materials to make new products. 

Recycle Colorado is a statewide non-profit organization working to advance infrastructure, end markets, and state and local policies in waste reduction, recovery and diversion. Recycle Colorado has over 300 members from across the state—from the public, private and non-profit sectors.

LINKS:

Speaker's Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/1.18.23_PEAK_Alliance-presentation.pdf

Recycle Coloradohttps://www.recyclecolorado.org/

Producer Responsibility for Recyclinghttps://www.recyclingforallcoloradans.org

Ecocyclehttps://www.ecocycle.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 18, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about the changing climate in Colorado with Peter Goble of the Colorado Climate Center. Peter is a climatologist and research associate.

The Colorado Climate Center is located at Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, Colorado, within the Department of Atmospheric Science. As a recognized State Climate Office, the Center strives to collect and observe data with the purpose of monitoring the climate, placing individual events into historical perspective, disseminating climate information to the user community, and providing climate expertise as part of the decision-making process.

Colorado Climate Centerhttps://climate.colostate.edu/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 16, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. Subscribe to receive meeting notices and other updates from Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

In observance of arts month, get arts and culture updates from Andy Vick, executive director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region; and Natalie Johnson, executive director of the Manitou Art Center. Andy shares about the community’s new cultural plan, Arts Vision 2030, and some of the work it has already inspired. Natalie shares about some of the specific programs and initiatives that the Manitou Art Center has undertaken to support sustainability efforts.

 LINKS:

Andy Vick’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SIP-PowerPoint-10-19-22.pdf

Natalie Johnson’s Slides

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Regionhttps://www.culturaloffice.org

Arts Vision 2030https://www.culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030/

Manitou Art Centerhttps://www.manitouartcenter.org/

Military Arts Connectionhttps://militaryartsconnection.org/

November’s Sustainability in Progress

Climate Change in Colorado with Becky Bolinger, Ph.D. (she/her), Assistant State Climatologist, Colorado Climate Center, CSU Dept. Atmospheric Science

Wednesday, November 16, from 12:00 - 1:00 PMThis is a virtual event. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtcOmrrDwpGNMQetZ55X-sXH8rPpPF6BLv

Featured Community Events

Green Drinks RebootA monthly casual networking event where sustainably-minded people meet over drinks. 

Thursday, October 27 from 6:00 - 8:00 pmIvywild School, Bristol Brewing CompanyInfo and RSVP: https://fb.me/e/ePzF22UL9

Seeking Board Members

Do you have a passion for sustainability?

Do you want to promote sustainability efforts happening in the region? 

Do you have about five hours per month to dedicate to this cause?

Do you have or are willing to develop skills in:

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is a 501c3 non-profit organization that strives to promote sustainability in the Pikes Peak region and to advance the regional sustainability plan called Looking to Our Future: Pikes Peak Region 2030. You can read the plan here: http://peakalliance.org/uploads/pdf/Final%20PPR%202030%20Plan.pdf

Contact Mary Barber

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on October 19, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

An update on the Colorado Water Plan from Jeff Rodriguez, Regional Water Coordination Specialist with the Colorado Water Conservation Board. The 2023 Water Plan, to be finalized in January, builds on a legacy of integrated statewide planning for water in Colorado. This updated plan continues to focus on collaboration between the state and the water community on-the-ground. To help Coloradans take action, the plan incorporates state-of-the-art tools and data focusing on four major interconnected action areas: Vibrant Communities, Robust Agriculture, Thriving Watersheds, and Resilient Planning. 

 LINKS:

 Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Water_plan_rodriguez.pdf

 To read the draft plan or share a water story, visit https://engagecwcb.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 21, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. Next program:

Arts and Culture in the Pikes Peak RegionOctober 19, 2022 12:00 Noon Mountain TimeRegister in advance for this meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcodO-oqTstHNHEUOk5WCIzqNmAjx2gz030 

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about the newly revived Kathleen Marriage Garden at Sondermann Park, and how you can incorporate native plants into your landscape and help support a healthy watershed. Colorado Native Plant Society Executive Director Maggie Gaddis and Fountain Creek Watershed District Interim Executive Director Alli Schuch talk about the history of the garden, how it was brought back to life, and how native plants help support a healthy watershed. They also discuss National Pollinator Month.

LINKS:

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District https://www.fountain-crk.org/

Fountain Creek Watershed info https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/FCWatershed.jpg Fountain Creek Watershed Map https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fountain_Creek_Watershed-map.pdf Fountain Creek Brewshed Alliance Map https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/FCWD-Brewshed-Poster-2022.pdf

Colorado Native Plant Society https://conps.org/

Register to Virtually Attend the Next Sustainability in Progress meeting Sustainability in Progress: Stormwater Green Infrastructure Plan Jul 20, 2022 08:00 AM City of Colorado Springs Stormwater Enterprise Manager Richard Mulledy will share about the enterprise’s Green Infrastructure plan. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsde2sqzMpHd3HfEPDlGRTFT3KFjPPU6W8 

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 15, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

A dry winter, long-term drought, and record low levels in major Colorado River reservoirs have all of us wondering what we can do to minimize our water consumption. Kate Larson of Resource Central shares how the organization is helping communities implement programs to encourage homeowners to conserve water.

City of Fountain Conservation and Sustainability Manager Katie Helm also shares the response from community members and why being able to partner with another organization to administer these services is so invaluable. (Resource Central is helping the city of Fountain with Lawn Replacement, Slow the Flow (irrigation evaluations), a smart controller program, and seminars).

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Resource-Central-SIP-5.18.2022_v2.pdf

 Resource Centralhttps://resourcecentral.org/ 

City of Fountain Conservation & Sustainabilityhttps://fountainco.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=8af6d3c2308b4909a1820b4337bb38b5

 Source of information and inspiration - property owners can share water conservation tips and experiencehttps://waterwiseyards.org/

Three Videos Shown by Kate:

 Lafayette Waterwise Yard Transformationhttps://youtu.be/UVyV-I5O5mg

Bee Friendly Yard Beautifies the Neighborhoodhttps://youtu.be/bxMfWP9m2gI

Lawn Replacement Program: How It Workshttps://youtu.be/dQtzodxoOUI

 Resource Central YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/user/ReSourceConservation

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region - Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr

 Receive Notifications of Future Sustainability in Progress Meetingshttps://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 18, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Sustainability in ProgressJune 15, 20228 to 9 amIn-Person or VirtualSondermann Park740 West Caramillo StreetColorado Springs, CO  80907

Planting for a Healthy Watershed

Join CO Native Plant Society Executive Director Maggie Gaddis and Fountain Creek Watershed District Interim Executive Director Alli Schuch at the newly revived Kathleen Marriage Garden at Sondermann Park. We'll talk about the history of the garden, how it was brought back to life, how you can incorporate native plants and help support a healthy watershed. This is an outdoor event at the garden.

Advance registration required to attend the virtual version of this meeting:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtduqppjwtG9f1Y2WlqJRbvaQOzwu3hnLf 

Cob Oven WorkshopJune 11-12, 2022Smokebrush Farm302 El Paso Blvd.Manitou Springs, CO

For information and registration, call Dylan Roberts: 719-650-5697

Permaculture Design WorkshopJune 24-26, 2022Orient Land TrustMoffat, CO

For information and registration: permaculture@olt.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How will Colorado Springs meet its water needs for the next 50 years? Our water system is complex and far-reaching – spanning more than 100 miles. Colorado Springs Utilities Senior Conservation Education Specialist Birgit Landin shares what it takes to acquire, treat and deliver water to our community every day. She also explains the challenges we face and Utilities’ roadmap for a cost-effective water supply for the next 50 years.

Next Sustainability in Progress meeting:

Wednesday, May 18, 2022 from 8 to 9 amVirtual only. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIofuCuqDgqHNOYJg6cYzTpKl91s5AnLPoO 

Conserving Water at HomeA dry winter, long-term drought, and record low levels in major Colorado River reservoirs have all of us wondering what we can do to minimize our water consumption. Kate Larson of Resource Central shares how the organization is helping communities implement programs to encourage homeowners to conserve water.

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Water-System-and-Future-Planning-2022.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities Rebates and Showerheads https://www.csu.org/Pages/ResidentialRebates.aspx

Receive Notifications of Future Sustainability in Progress Meetingshttps://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya.

 Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/47914284779

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Thanks also to the MeadowGrass Music Festival. This wonderful outdoor music festival in the Black Forest happens Memorial Day weekend. Tickets and info here: https://meadowgrass.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 16, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Colorado Springs Sustainability Coordinator Samantha Bailey fills us in on her current efforts, the new SustainableCOS project, and her goals for the future of Colorado Springs. SustainableCOS is a city-wide sustainability action plan.

LINKS:

Samantha Bailey's Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/03152022_SustainableCOS_PASF.pdf

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation https://coloradosprings.gov/office-innovation

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 16, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn how to calculate the carbon footprint of some of your common activities and convert that it into work that reduces overall carbon emissions. Carbon Cut Colorado is a website and program of Colorado Springs-based Energy Resource Center (ERC). ERC Development Director Mike Mazzola sat down for this conversation with Peak Environment co-producer and co-host Ellen Johnson-Fay, to explain Carbon Cut Colorado, as well as the other programs of ERC.

The funds donated through Carbon Cut Colorado support the work of ERC – assisting income-qualified families through energy efficiency improvements. Work includes insulation, HVAC, hot water heaters, lighting, appliances, air sealing and more. These efforts save money on energy bills, reduce demand on natural resources by cutting energy waste, assist with the affordable housing crisis, and create a safe environment in which Colorado residents can thrive.

ERC also makes paid home energy audits and weatherization assistance to available to the general public. Fees from this work help support the assistance provided to families in need. Energy Resource Center serves 27 Colorado counties, with offices in the Pikes Peak Region, Denver Metro, the San Luis Valley and Northern Colorado.

LINKS:

Energy Resource Center https://www.erc-co.org/

Carbon Cut Colorado https://carboncutco.com/

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Get the state of the science and public policy related to wolves in the U.S. today. Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) hosted this virtual conversation in a January 25 webinar. See the video replay here, or listen to this podcast replay.

Learn about the history of gray wolf persecution and recovery, PEER’s unique approach using the Pittman-Robertson Act, hear from a notable scientist about the state of the science about liberalizing wolf-killing, and explore an indigenous perspective for a new vision for wolves based on an ancient relationship. The webinar included Q&A from participants and a call to action for participants to protect wolves in 2022 and beyond. 

Featured Speakers:

Adrian Treves PhD Professor and Founder of the Carnivore Coexistence Lab 

Adrian conducts independent research and advocates for future generations of all life, for scientific integrity, and for sovereign publics worldwide. He studies and speaks about the public trust doctrine and intergenerational equity around the world. Adrian earned his PhD at Harvard University in 1997 and is a Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and director of the Carnivore Coexistence Lab since 2007. For the past 27 years, his research focuses on ecology, law, and human dimensions of ecosystems in which crop and livestock ownership overlaps the habitat of large carnivores from coyotes up to grizzly bears. 

Peter David Wildlife Biologist 

Peter David a wildlife biologist with the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, where he assists GLIFWC’s member tribes in the implementation of their off-reservation, treaty-reserved rights. He received his education (bachelors and master’s in wildlife ecology) from UW-Madison, and from the tribal elders and members for whom he has worked for the last 35 years. At the Commission, he has had the opportunity to work with a variety of natural resources – or “more than human beings” in the Ojibwe world view - ranging from wild rice to wolves. 

Dave Parsons 

Dave Parsons received his Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from Iowa State University and his Master of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology from Oregon State University. Dave is retired from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service where from 1990-1999 he led the USFWS’s effort to reintroduce the endangered Mexican gray wolf to portions of its former range in the Southwest. 

Chandra Rosenthal Attorney, Rocky Mountain PEER Director 

A Colorado native, Chandra heads up the office as Rocky Mountain PEER Counsel. Chandra, formerly staff attorney with Defenders of Wildlife specializing in endangered species and public lands issues, has also worked for the U.S. Department of Justice and, under a legal fellowship, worked on a Superfund site with the Department of Energy. Chandra earned her law degree in 1993 at the Lewis and Clark Northwestern School of Law, where she focused her studies on environmental law. 

Moderator 

Hudson Kingston Policy and Litigation Attorney at PEER 

Hudson, a born and raised Minnesotan, helps public employees hold governments to account for environmental harm in the Midwest and across the country. He comes to PEER after working with public health, consumer protection, and environmental organizations in both Washington DC and the Midwest. Over the course of his career, he has worked on litigation and policy related to climate change, addressing the water pollution impacts of mining, pesticide regulation, the environmental and health impacts of e-cigarettes, and environmental injustices perpetuated by the administrative state. It has been his honor to partner in this work with tribes, local nonprofits, low-income advocates, coalitions of environmental and social justice groups, and local/state/territorial/federal public employees. Hudson received his law degree from the University of Iowa School of Law, and two Masters of Laws degrees in human rights and international law from New York University and the National University of Singapore. He received his bachelor’s degree in French and English Literature from Carleton College, in Minnesota.

Call to Action Participants are encouraged to call Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland at (202) 208-3100 and encourage her to: (1) Use Pittman-Robertson funds as a lever to compel states to protect native predators and (2) Issue an immediate emergency listing of the Grey Wolf as an endangered species.

Links:

A Review of the Effects of Liberalizing the Killing of Wolves(Pre-print of the peer-reviewed publication) http://faculty.nelson.wisc.edu/treves/publications.php 

Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission https://glifwc.org/

Video Replay of this Webinar https://peer.org/webinar-pups-and-packs-saving-wolves-in-2022/

Speakers’ Slides https://peermd.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/all-staff/Ebi7scQF_OBGhX0TIxworGQB5xA7569EzDhDBdXse7-URw?e=uUBOg3

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility https://peer.org/

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

An introduction to Arts Vision 2030, the new cultural plan to support arts and culture in the Pikes Peak Region. It was developed by, of, and for the community, under the stewardship of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPeR), the Bee Vradenburg Foundation, and a diverse steering committee of 24 local creative leaders. COPPeR Executive Director Andy Vick introduces the plan, and he shares how it was created and how we can all be a part of its implementation.

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slide Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Arts-Vision-2030-10-Minute-Presentation.pdf

Arts Vision 2030 Document https://culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 17, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Learn about opportunities to lower your carbon footprint by getting around town without a car. Electric scooters, all-electric buses and trains are among the topics.

SPEAKERS: Jeff Hoover - Veo Brian Vitulli - Planning Supervisor, City of Colorado Springs Public Works, Transit Services Division (Mountain Metropolitan Transit)

LINKS:

Veo https://www.veoride.com/colorado-springs/

Mountain Metro https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro

How to Ride (Mountain Metro bus services) https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro/page/how-ride?mlid=8456

Metro Rides – Alternative Commuting https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro/page/metro-rides-alternative-commuting?mlid=8506

Bustang Intercity Bus Service https://ridebustang.com/

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on October 20, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What should be considered in designing projects to address environmental issues, and how can we best integrate these? In designing projects to address environmental issues, we often underestimate the influence of social, financial and legal systems. Konrad Schlarbaum explores these systems using a permaculture framework and a real-world example. Konrad is Sustainability Coordinator at Pikes Peak Community College.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Integrating-Social-Legal-Financial-.pdf

Office of Sustainability, Pikes Peak Community College https://www.ppcc.edu/sustain

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

This program was recorded at the October 22, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. The Forum is now taking a break. Learn about future plans or luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for updates as we evaluate our future.

Environmental Forum Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

Becky the Gardener

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How and why has Colorado Springs grown to be the second largest city in Colorado, and what are the environmental implications of this? John Harner, author of the new book, Profiting from the Peak, shares highlights from the book. Harner is a professor of Geography at UCCS.

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/harner_podcast.pdf

Profiting from the Peak: Landscape and Liberty in Colorado Springs – by John Harner https://upcolorado.com/university-press-of-colorado/item/4028-profiting-from-the-peak

Video – John Harner presentation at UrbanCOS Series in 2020 https://youtu.be/GN9oQU35S-U

Lost & Preserved in Colorado SpringsEpisode of Colorado Experience series by Rocky Mountain PBS https://youtu.be/q09ALRrY6Dw

This program was an encore presentation of the September 24, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. The Forum is taking a break  following its October, 2021 meeting. Learn about future plans or luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for updates as we evaluate our future.

Environmental Forum Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

Becky the Gardener

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Creek Week events give you an opportunity to take care of our local water resource. It’s the largest watershed clean-up in the state of Colorado. Fountain Creek Watershed Outreach Coordinator Alli Schuch shares the exciting events offered during Creek Week, September 25 – October 3, 2021. Also get an update on the projects of the Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District – from Executive Director Bill Banks.

LINKS:

Slides from Bill Banks Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Speakers-Bureau-updated-2021-Sept-15.pdf

Slides from Alli Schuch Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Sept-2021-SIP-Presentation.pdf

Creek Week Events and Registration http://www.fountain-crk.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Creek-Week-2021-Public-Events-FINAL-1.pdf

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District https://www.fountain-crk.org/

Creek Week 2021 Commercialhttps://youtu.be/9-ZwiUlpwrA

Stella fixes a leaky flapper! – YouTube Video https://youtu.be/diJ3xuZJTXk

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 14, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How do our local city and county governments compare to other communities in Colorado and the nation? How does this affect our quality of life? Get an advance look at the Local Government section of the Pikes Peak United Way Quality of Life Indicators Report, Peak Progress.

Andy Gunning, Executive Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, and Deb Hamilton, Strategic Services Librarian of the Pikes Peak Library District, share some of the data collected by the Local Government council for the Quality of Life Indicators report.

LINKS:

Presenters’ Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Data-Presentation-Local-Government-No-data.pdf

PEAK PROGRESS Quality of Life Indicators https://www.ppunitedway.org/peakprogressqli/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 18, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

September's SIP will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 8 am. RSVP here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIsceiupzwrGd1TJP7WZZfFaDdW1fdUfWGs

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

The Demographics council of the Peak Progress Quality of Life Indicators Report share the contributions they’re making to the next version of the report. They’re providing tools to make it easier to understand who lives in our region and how that is changing over time. Data can be overwhelming but it can tell us a lot about the place that we live.

The 2030 Sustainability plan was heavily informed by the past QLI reports. The next several Sustainability in Progress meetings will feature reports on different sections of the QLI report.

Speakers:

LINKS:

Peak Progress: Quality of Life Indicators (includes the video played in this session) https://www.ppunitedway.org/peakprogressqli/

2007 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/2007-QLI-Report.pdf

2010 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2010-QLI-Report.pdf

2011 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2011-QLI-Report.pdf

2013 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2013-QLI-Report.pdf

2016/2017 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/QLI-FULL-REPORT_web.pdf

UCCS Geocivics website on redistricting https://geocivics.uccs.edu/

Representable – free, open-source tool for creating maps of communities of interest https://www.representable.org/

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region (good source of redistricting info) https://www.lwvppr.org/

The 15 Most Transient American Citieshttps://roanoke.com/lifestyles/the-15-most-transient-american-cities/article_90f3788d-157b-5660-9257-4d6ea44424ee.html

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on July 21, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

August's SIP will be held on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 8 am.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at http://peakalliance.org/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Get a tour of the new El Paso County Master Plan recently adopted by the county commissioners. Mark Gebhart, Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development for the county, provided this overview at the June 16, 2021 Sustainability in Progress meeting.

LINKS:

Your El Paso Master Plan – project website

El Paso County Planning and Development

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 16, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

August's SIP will be held on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 8 am.

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How do we ensure all Colorado children are engaged in outdoor learning experiences? Appreciation for nature, the great outdoors, conservation and sound environmental stewardship don’t just happen. They are the result of positive experiences and good information and education. In this episode, we hear from two environmental education leaders who are providing these experiences and education for the children of Colorado. Environmental education across the state of Colorado and getting kids learning outside can support our sustainability goals.

Katie Navin, executive director of the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education, shares information about updating the Colorado Environmental Education Plan, as well as two important pieces of legislation. Christopher Aaby, executive director of Catamount Institute, fills us in on the excellent youth education programs provided by the Catamount Institute as well as a few other programs.

LINKS:

Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education

Catamount Institute

Organizations Offering Educational Programming

Colorado Environmental Education Plan - draft

Executive Summary

Carbon Cut Colorado – Offset your carbon emissions by providing energy-efficiency ugrades to income-qualified families, thanks to Energy Resource Center

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 19, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

July's SIP will be held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at 8 am.

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Why do we need to grow more of our own food? According to local garden expert Larry Stebbins, Colorado Springs is behind many other cities in local food sufficiency. He explains why urban gardening plays a critical role in our resilience and food supply in the face of a growing population and shrinking farmland. He also shares some of the opportunities in the local area for embracing urban farming. This includes the Backyard Garden Project – launched this year – which helps local food-insecure families start their own raised-bed gardens.

Michael Rigny fills us in on a survey and mapping project he and Larry are conducting to help track progress on some of the stretch goals of the 2030 Sustainability Plan – increased regional farming and more people growing their own food.

Ruthie Markwardt of Flying Pig Farm and Colorado Farm and Art Market updates us on current status and plans for the markets.

LINKS:

Slides accompanying Ruthie's CFAM update http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/CFAM-Slides.pdf

The Garden Father (Larry Stebbins’ website) https://thegardenfather.com/

Backyard Garden Project info https://thegardenfather.com/garden-blog/f/backyard-garden-project-you-can-help

Colorado Farm and Art Market https://farmandartmarket.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 21, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

May's SIP will be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 8 am.

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

An ambitious new project near downtown is cleaning up an old construction materials dump and turning it into an amazing community treasure. A lot of creativity is going into this site, including letting nature do what real estate developments typically pour concrete to do (manage stormwater). If you see mosaics on light poles, concrete benches inlaid with tiles, murals and other street art around Colorado Springs, there’s a good chance this is the work of Concrete Couch. This nonprofit works with kids and community groups to create public art, build community, and create environments and experiences that humanize our world.

Executive Director Steve Wood and Community Coordinator Christine Flores share the story of creating an interactive, creativity-inspiring, community wonderland they call Concrete Coyote – complete with bike trails, a natural playground, gardens, and a stone climbing wall. Their model to develop a community-designed-and-built park requiring zero public funds and marshaling hundreds of volunteers can be used for different types of projects! Community, recycled materials, shared skills, and creative fundraising go a long way. Learn how the work gets done!

This program was recorded at the March 26, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

The next Pikes Peak Environmental Forum takes place April 23. Samantha Bailey and Josh Handley of the Colorado Springs Office of Innovation will update us on: Our Journey to Establishing a Smart & Sustainable Future. This event will not be available later as a podcast, so be sure to RSVP here and plan to attend this free virtual event: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PeSISEqORCa-JpjohXMVRQ

Presenting Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

OrganaGardens

Additional Sponsors:

Blue Planet Earthscapes

Peak Radar

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

Terra Essentials

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com

LINKS:

PowerPoint Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Welcome_to_Concrete_Coyote.pdf

Non-Profit Rehabilitates Dump Site into Community Wonderland (video shared in this presentation) https://www.rmpbs.org/blogs/rocky-mountain-pbs/nonprofit-rehabilitates-illegal-dump-site-into-community-wonderland/

Concrete Couch http://www.concretecouch.org/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

A new non-profit co-op is working in Colorado to help people go solar, simplifying the process and reducing costs. Bryce Carter, Colorado Program Director for Solar United Neighbors (SUN) shares details about how it works. The co-op launched in Colorado Springs at the end of March, 2021.

This event was co-hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future and Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society.

LINKS

Speaker’s PowerPoint Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Colorado-Springs-Solar-Information-Session-Presentation.pdf

Solar United Neighbors in Colorado Springs https://www.solarunitedneighbors.org/coloradosprings

Colorado Springs Utilities – how to buy into green power https://www.csu.org/documents/greenpowerfaq.pdf

Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society https://www.cres-energy.org/southeastern-colorado-secres.html

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 17, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

April's SIP will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2021 at 8 am. The program will be about Backyard Gardens and Local Food. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUscuquqjsrHdSAnMRDqjRh928S7aK3jDhf

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Boulder County told Byron Kominek you cannot put solar panels on agricultural land; it violates zoning. But Byron persisted. Agrivoltaics are a global phenomenon in which solar panels and agriculture share land. The county eventually amended its code. Today there are about 3,000 panels on Jack’s Solar Garden, which Bryon created. In addition to helping small farms turn a profit, the panels provide benefits to the crops, and the crops actually provide benefits to the panels. What might those benefits be? Listen to this episode to learn all the details about Byron’s journey and what he has learned. Byron is in the process of launching the Colorado Agrivoltaic Learning Center, the largest agrivoltaic research site in the U.S.

This program was recorded at the February 26, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

The next Pikes Peak Environmental Forum takes place April 23. Samantha Bailey and Josh Handley of the Colorado Springs Office of Innovation will update us on: Our Journey to Establishing a Smart & Sustainable Future. This event will not be available later as a podcast, so be sure to RSVP here and plan to attend this free virtual event: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PeSISEqORCa-JpjohXMVRQ

Presenting Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

OrganaGardens

Additional Sponsors:

Blue Planet Earthscapes

Peak Radar

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

Terra Essentials

LINKS:

Speaker's Slide Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Jacks-Solar-Garden-Presentation_26Feb2021.pdf

Jack’s Solar Garden http://www.jackssolargarden.com

Colorado Agrivoltaic Learning Center https://www.coagrivoltaic.org/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

There are plenty of good reasons for political conservatives to be concerned about the climate crisis. We explore them in this conversation with three gentlemen from the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, or CCL:

Citizens' Climate Lobby (CCL) is a nonpartisan group that's focused on a carbon fee and dividend, which would put a price on carbon at the source, and the proceeds of the carbon fee would be distributed back to households in the form of a dividend.  This proposal has garnered a lot of attention recently, and was introduced in Congress as the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (https://energyinnovationact.org/).

Links:

Citizens’ Climate Lobby https://citizensclimatelobby.org/

CCL Colorado Springs Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoSpringsCCL

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What steps can the Biden administration take to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Bureau of Land Management to better address its conservation and climate change goals? This question was addressed in a lively online discussion hosted by PEER (Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility). Panelists discussed the results of a recent employee survey, trends in land management planning, problems in BLM’s management culture, and questions from the webinar participants. This discussion was held on February 24, 2021.

Panelists included:

Moderator: Rebecca Leber of Mother Jones

Chandra Rosenthal, Director of Rocky Mountain PEER

Laurel Williams, Officer for U.S. Public Lands and Rivers Conservation at the Pew Charitable Trusts

Richard Spotts, former Planning and Environmental Coordinator at the BLM Arizona Strip District Office

Mary Jo Rugwell, former BLM State Director for Wyoming.

LINKS:

Presenter Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BLM-A-New-Era-PPT-2-25-21_slides-FINALwPew.pdf

Presenter Slides From This Event http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BLM-A-New-Era-PPT-2-25-21_slides-FINALwPew.pdf

Video of this Webinar https://www.peer.org/webinar-new-era-bureau-of-land-management/

2021 Bureau of Land Management Employee Survey Report https://www.peer.org/report-2021-bureau-of-land-management-employee-survey/

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) https://www.peer.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Will Toor, Executive Director of the Colorado Energy Office, provides a summary of State/CEO projects, activities, and initiatives, and shares the Colorado Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Pollution Reduction Roadmap. 

This event was co-hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society, Green Cities Coalition, and the Energy Resource Center.

LINKS

Speaker’s PowerPoint Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Toor.GHG-Roadmap.pdf

Resource Guide https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/786dca153b1f4275946530d56ccdced4

Energy Code Adoption Toolkit https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/climate-energy/energy-policy/building-energy-codes/energy-code-adoption-toolkit

Contact local government coordinator Christine Berg with Questions christine.berg@state.co.us

Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society https://www.cres-energy.org/southeastern-colorado-secres.html

Green Cities Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/gccppr

Energy Resource Center https://www.erc-co.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 17, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. 

March's SIP will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at 8 am. The SIP speaker will be, Bryce Carter, Colorado Program Director for Solar United Neighbors. Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is a nonprofit helping people go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights. SUN is launching across Colorado including a Colorado Springs Co-op at the end of the month. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIpdO-hpjgpH9QPoNV4GdhpfA_87bCNvB_o

While Solar United Neighbors in Colorado Springs doesn't launch until later this month, YOU get an early peek.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What can you do to create a sustainable, just, and carbon-free city? Hear what’s next in the closure of the fossil-fuel powered Martin Drake Power Plant in Colorado Springs, and learn about three local campaigns on which you can take action. This is audio from a live webinar held on February 19, 2021 – organized by a group of Colorado College students. It was described as speed-dating for climate action.

This event includes a brief update on Drake from David Padgett, General Manager of Environmental Services at Colorado Springs Utilities.

Campaigns Discussed:

Gas-Free BuildingsJenny Wilford, Clean Energy Advocate, Sierra Club

Zoning OrdinancesMax Kronstadt, Co-Founder of The COS Pro-Housing Partnership

Protecting Public LandsPublic Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) Chandra Rosenthal, Rocky Mountain Office Director and Kevin Bell, Staff Counsel

PDF of Event Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Drake-panel.pdf

Thanks to CC Student and Sierra Club Student Campaign Organizer Filip Carnogusky for playing a lead organizing role, and to the following:

Organizing Groups:

Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal (Carbon) Campaign https://coal.sierraclub.org/campaign 

350 Colorado Springshttps://350colorado.org 

Co-Sponsors:

Sierra Club https://coloradosierraclub.org

The Colorado Springs Pro-Housing Partnership (PHP) https://coloradospringsprohousingpartnership.com

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER)https://www.peer.org 

Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society (SECRES)https://www.cres-energy.org/southeastern-colorado-secres.html 

Sunrise (Colorado Springs chapter) https://www.sunrisemovement.org/?ms=SunriseMovement

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) http://www.peakalliance.org

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakEnvironmentalForum/ 

Pikes Peak Permaculturehttps://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org 

Chinook Centerhttps://www.chinookcenter.org 

Studio 809 Podcasts http://studio809podcasts.com

Shout Out to:

Students for Environmental Awareness and Sustainability at UCCS https://seas.uccs.edu 

Food to Power https://foodtopowerco.org/ 

Conscious Living Shop https://www.consciouslivingshop.com

Eclectic COhttps://shopeclecticco.com/

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What are 33 Colorado cities doing to conserve water? Frank Kinder, Water Efficiency Program Manager for Northern Water, updates us on the conservation work of this regional water provider.

LINKS:

Frank Kinder’s slide presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/2021-Presentation-FK-PPENV.pdf

The Colorado-Big Thompson Project - video shown during presentation https://youtu.be/wQkMdlvCgP0

2020 in Review: Water Efficiency Programs – video shown at end of presentation https://youtu.be/p8zNT2aPrAU

This program was recorded at the January 22, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Presenting Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

OrganaGardens

Additional Sponsors:

Blue Planet Earthscapes

Peak Radar

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

Terra Essentials

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Colorado College students demonstrate just how engaged and activated their generation can be. Filip Carnogursky and Liam Reynolds share two initiatives they started because they saw a need and weren’t going to wait around for someone else to do it. They’re doing something about addressing climate change and addressing unaffordable housing and unsustainable urban development. Learn all about Climate Action and the Colorado Springs Pro-Housing Partnership.

Filip, a Sierra Club intern, and the fellow students he assembled have organized the 2021 Climate Justice Action Panel, which takes place on February 18.

View Filip's slides here.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 20, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. Register here for the February 17 Sustainability in Progress.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

The holidays are coming and that means shopping, gifts, and food. Do you approach the holidays mindful of the environmental impact of all these activities? This episode explores sustainable options for this holiday season. Konrad Schlarbaum, sustainability coordinator for Pikes Peak Community College shares low-impact holiday gift-giving practices, and fills us in on the virtual PPCC Green Holiday Fair. Lorrie Myers, of Who Gives a SCRAP, updates us on the shop’s just completed move to larger quarters at 810 Arcturus Drive, which expands the shop’s offerings.

Who Gives a SCRAP is a donation based scrap store that carries arts, craft and hobbies supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. The store was founded on the belief that the reuse of goods and materials is the most efficient, environmentally friendly and economically viable way to reduce the waste stream. In its five years of existence, Who Gives a Scrap has diverted over 213 tons of clean, reusable materials from ending up in the landfill.

LINKS:

Konrad’s Slide Presentation

PPCC Green Holiday Fair (virtual) On Instagram On Facebook

Who Gives a Scrap On Facebook On Instagram

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 18, 2020. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Flying, driving, bus, train, bicycle, on foot, even staycations. What do we need to know to make responsible decisions about the way we move about? Dave Gardner, host of the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living, shares data and tools to guide us.

LINKS:

Presentation Slides

GrowthBusters – Free Black Friday Screening (view 11/26/20 to 11/29/20)

1.5 Degree Lifestyles report

The Four Lifestyle Choices that Most Reduce Your Carbon Footprint (Lund University Study ranking carbon reduction actions)

Vacation Traveler Carbon Guide – Quick Reference Chart and the stuy behind it (Union of Concerned Scientists)

Getting There Greener – full report behind the above vacation guide

Skyscanner greener flight booking site

UCS web tool for EV efficiency in your area

Carbon Offset Info and Programs

American Idling: The Ecological Cost of Keeping the Engine Running

Climate Perks

The future of conference: Will events remain virtual after lockdowns?

This program was recorded at the October 23, 2020 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Presenting Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

OrganaGardens

Additional Sponsors:

Blue Planet Earthscapes

Peak Radar

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

Terra Essentials

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Christian Nelson and Michael Avanzi of Colorado Springs Utilities share the future of energy production in our community. The Colorado Springs Utilities Board approved an Integrated Resources Plan (IRP) portfolio in June of 2020 that represents a significant departure from the utility’s heavy reliance on coal and natural gas generation. What does this mean for the Pikes Peak region and renewable energy? 

LINKS:

PDF of presenters' slides

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on September 16, 2020. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. During COVID we're meeting virtually on the third Wednesday of most months from 8 to 9 a.m.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's

What’s happening and what can we expect in terms of how we get electricity to power our homes, business and industry? How clean can it be, and what it will cost? Over the past twenty years, the energy market has shifted dramatically. The unsubsidized cost of wind and solar energy, with battery storage, has dropped below the cost of fossil fuel generation. The US Energy Information Agency expects the trend of dropping renewable energy and storage costs, and rising cost of coal, to continue. The shift to renewable energy for electric generation brings more significant benefits than lower electric rates.

This episode features a presentation by Jim Riggins at the September Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. Jim retired after 30 years in the US Air Force, serving as a research engineer, pilot, operational planner, and weapon systems programmer. He also served as an operations group commander, and vice wing commander. He is a retired small business owner as a Home Energy Rater and Professional Building Analyst, providing consulting to builders and architects on energy efficient building construction and residential and commercial energy audits. Jim holds Masters degrees in electrical engineering, Military Art and Science, and National Security Strategy. He is a Senior Executive Fellow from the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government. He currently sits on the board of Mountain View Electric Association and serves as a volunteer on the Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity building committee.

This program was recorded at the September 25, 2020 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

LINKS:

Slides for the presentation in this episode

Levelized Cost of Energy and Levelized Cost of Storage – 2020

Presenting Sponsors:

Art of Engineering

Black Hills Energy

Miriam's Place

OrganaGardens

Additional Sponsors:

Blue Planet Earthscapes

Peak Radar

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

Terra Essentials

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Indigenous permaculturalist, designer, builder and educator Michael Alcazar led this ceremony on September 18, 2020 at Flying Pig Farm. This ceremony kicked off the Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative, in which Manitou will be planting tree guilds (natural communities of tree/plant relationships) that will act as natural education sites for the community for learning how to grow food, provide pollinator and bird support, and help mitigate climatic changes. The initiative began with three planting sites. Volunteers met the next morning to begin planting. Masks were worn and social distancing was practiced at this ceremony. To volunteer, please call or email Becky Elder (719-685-0290. The ceremony, and this episode, were presented by Pikes Peak Permaculture. Michael Alcazar also spoke about his 1 Million Trees project for Colorado.

LINKS:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

1 Million Trees project for Colorado

Flying Pig Farm

Upcoming Virtual Events:

October 21, 2020, 8 am Environmental & Social JusticeSustainability in Progress peakalliance.org for info

October 23, 2020, 12 Noon Does this Flight Make My Footprint Look Big?Shrinking the carbon footprint of your travel habitPikes Peak Environmental Forum Register here

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Don’t miss the 7th annual Creek Week Cleanup, September 26 – October 4th.

Every year citizens of Southern Colorado step up, put on their environmental steward hats, and join with friends and neighbors in what’s become the largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado. In this episode, Alli Schuch shares how we can all participate this year. Safe, socially-distanced, outdoor activities are on the agenda. Last year, 3,200 volunteers from Palmer Lake to Trinidad removed over 14 tons of litter.

Peak Environment host and co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay interviews Alli Schuch, who coordinates outreach for the Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District.

Registration is now open for the 7th Annual Creek Week Cleanup. There are over 40 public events to choose from, or you can organize your own Creek Crew and Alli’s team will help you find a site. Learn more and register at fountaincreekweek.com

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Dems Environmental Initiative

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Library District Sustainability Team

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

The 2020 election in Colorado is shaping up to be historic, but not for the reasons you might think. Voters in Colorado will get the chance to direct wildlife managers to reintroduce gray wolves, nearly 80 years after they were eradicated on behalf of the livestock industry. 

In this interview, Delia Malone, Mike Phillips, and Rob Edward, three friends and longtime wolf advocates, discuss the importance of wolves to Colorado's future.

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth’s ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

For more information:

www.sierraclub.org

www.wolfactionfund.com

Colorado Wolves FAQ CHCC – A website developed at Colorado State University by the Center for Human and Carnivore Coexistence

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Dems Environmental Initiative

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Library District Sustainability Team

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

How can we improve the Pikes Peak Region 2030 Plan? Several municipalities and organizations in the Pikes Peak Region came together to develop a long-range sustainability plan, completed in 2012 and adopted by some cities and organizations (but not by the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, interestingly). In this episode, Konrad Schlarbaum (director of Green Cities Coalition) discusses his recommendations for improvements to the regional sustainability plan (PPR 2030). The City of Colorado Springs has adopted the plan and is interested in doing an update. Ellen Johnson-Fay interviews Konrad here.

Konrad invites you to comment with questions or suggestions, or to express interest in getting involved in this project.

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of the Green Cities Coalition, communicating the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

Ultimately, our goal is to celebrate with you the achievements of those who contribute to the preservation and health of our local natural and human environments. We invite you to Communicate, Collaborate and Celebrate all things sustainable with us!

LINKS:

Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030 plan

PDF of Konrad’s Proposal

PDF of Konrad’s Powerpoint Presentation

Green Cities Coalition (Facebook)

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG)

City of Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Community College Office of Sustainability

Manitou Springs Climate Action Workgroup

Manitou Springs sustainability

Sierra Club – Pikes Peak Group

Southeast Colorado Renewable Energy Society (SECRES)

350 Colorado Springs

Colorado Farm and Art Market

Colorado Farm and Art Market – order online at Open Food Network

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Dems Environmental Initiative

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Library District Sustainability Team

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

What can we learn from indigenous people about caring for the land on which we depend for our food? This episode is a recording of the keynote address by indigenous permaculture designer Michael Alcazar at the 2020 Pikes Peak Foodshed Forum. The forum was hosted by Green Cities Coalition and Pikes Peak Community College on February 8, 2020.

Indigenous permaculture designer Michael Alcazar is a master educator with over 30 years of designing, teaching, facilitating, building, and coaching experience. His various life experiences have uniquely given him the opportunity to explore areas of art, building, design, anatomy and physiology, health and human services, as well as Permaculture - all from the perspective of his indigenous ancestral lineage of traditional ecological knowledge and application.

Thanks to event sponsors Pikes Peak Community College, Pizzeria Rustica, and the PBS POV series.

LINKS:

Michael Alcazar's Slides

Pikes Peak Community College – Office of Sustainability

Pizzeria Rustica

POV on PBS

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Dems Environmental Initiative

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Library District Sustainability Team

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

You can’t escape toxic PFAS chemicals. They are everywhere. Get an update on what we know and what’s being done about water contamination by PFAS (Perfluoroalklsubstance). Groundwater and surface water in portions of the Pikes Peak Region is known to have PFAS contamination, due to years of firefighting exercises at Peterson Field and the Air Force Academy (PFAS have been an ingredient in firefighting foam for decades).

This February, 2020 update is presented by Dr. Tyler A. Cornelius, Visiting Assistant Professor in the Environmental Program, and Eli Fahrenkrug, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, both at Colorado College. Fahrenkrug and Cornelius have been monitoring and studying the contamination just south of Colorado Springs via the Fountain Valley Water Project, which they launched for this purpose.

This program was recorded at the February 28, 2020 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

LINKS:

Slides for the presentation in this episode

Fountain Valley Water Project

Fountain Valley Clean Water Coalition

Sierra Club PFAS information page and listserv signup

PFAS: What You Need to Know About Your Water

Episode 45 of Peak Environment: PFAS Water Contamination Panel – Peak Environment Podfest 

Episode 21 of Peak Environment: PFAS Contamination in our Water (3/20/19 PASF Presentation)

Presenting Sponsors:

Blue Planet Earthscapes

Peak Radar

Additional Sponsors:

Adams Bank & Trust

Black Hills Energy

Environmental Compliance Systems

Old Town Bike Shop

Miriam's Place

OrganaGardens

Terra Essentials

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Dems Environmental Initiative

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Library District Sustainability Team

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Colorado needs Wolves – not merely to restore a natural balance or the wildness that we all seek – though wolves will do that if they are present for long enough, in sufficient numbers and with wide enough distribution  – but also to ensure that we pass on a Colorado intact, with a complete suite of native wildlife, to enrich future generations. 

This episode explores the issue of wolf reintroduction in Colorado, including Initiative 107, which will facilitate reintroduction of gray wolves to the state. Cathy Herzog, Wildlife Chair for the Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club interviews Delia Malone, an ecologist who lives and works on Colorado’s west slope. She’s conducted ecological and biological surveys for streams and wetlands, and rare plants, animals and communities for the purpose of informing conservation. Delia is Wildlife Chair for the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and a member of the Science Advisory Team for the Rocky Mountain Wolf Project, which has a campaign to restore Gray Wolves to Colorado.

Find additional information on this issue at the end of these show notes.

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

 LINKS:

https://www.wolfactionfund.com/

http://www.eaglesummitwilderness.org/newsletter_200201.htm

http://www.mtoutlaw.com/where-wolves-dare/

https://mountainjournal.org/lessons-learned-25-years-after-wolves-restored-to-yellowstone

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Accessing Clean Water: The PFAS Story in El Paso County, COPikes Peak Environmental Forum Friday, February 28, 2020 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Permaculture Design Course 2020Pikes Peak PermacultureFirst class - March 13, 2019Information and Registration

The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Dems Environmental Initiative

Green Cities Coalition

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum

Pikes Peak Library District Green Team

Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Additional Information: 

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Colorado Needs Wolves. Elk Need Wolves – the magnificent bull elk, so coveted by hunters, is a result of eons of selective predation by wolves; 

Beaver Need Wolves, to prevent ungulates from devouring the willows that they need for food and to build their dams, that store the water, that helps maintain stream flows in the arid west; 

We Need Wolves to restore the natural balance that is our life support system – a natural balance that begins with a balance between predator and prey.

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SO WHY ARE THERE NO WOLVES IN COLORADO’S WILDLANDS?

Renee Askins explains:  “In the span of less than fifty years man had systematically, consciously, intentionally killed every wolf in the West . . . Hundreds of thousands of wolves were killed—some in the name of protecting livestock, some for their pelts, some because we believed it was our inalienable right, and some just out of cold, hard vengeance and cruelty, a cruelty we so often attribute to the wolf”.

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Science documents what the land is telling us: Wolves keep ecosystems healthier by balancing species populations with ecological carrying capacity.

Wolves keep elk herds healthy by removing vulnerable, sick or old animals (Lukens 2006) and they keep landscapes healthy by keeping elk within the carrying capacity of their environment. 

Although Colorado has more elk by far than any western state all is not well: Elk exceed CPW’s population objectives – i.e. ecological carrying capacity - in over half of Colorado’s elk management units; and Chronic Wasting Disease occurs in at least 16 of Colorado’s 43 elk herds and 31 of 54 deer herds 

As the preeminent wolf biologist, Dr. David Mech, stated “…the preponderance of scientific evidence supports the view that wolves generally kill the old, the young, the sick and the weak…” and further states:  “Based upon everything I’ve seen over the course of my career, I generally stand behind the assertion that wolves make prey populations healthier...The evidence to support it is overwhelming.”

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IV. SO WHY DOES WOLF RESTORATION STRUGGLE?  WHY DO WOLVES REMAIN RESTRICTED TO 15% OF THEIR HISTORIC HABITAT DESPITE AN ABUNDANCE OF SUITABLE HABITAT, MUCH OF IT IN WESTERN COLORADO?

The doomsday scenarios predicted when wolves were restored to the northern rocky mountain states have not come to pass. There is no indication that they would do so in Colorado either.

Evidence indicates that:

…wolves have not decimated prey populations. 

…wolves have not reduced hunter success. 

… wolves haven’t negatively impacted the ranching industry

…wolves pose an infinitesimal threat to humans

Facts are that with 1,900 gray wolves in the Northern Rockies in 2015 and with the total number of 1,980,600 cattle in the same region as gray wolves, confirmed losses of to wolves in 2015 was 148= 0.007%

Facts are that elk populations and hunter success in the Northern Rockies is either stable or increasing since wolf restoration. 

Fact are that in Yellowstone National Park from 1995-2018 with 101,070,722 visitors, none were injured by a wolf and among 2.7 million tent campers in Yellowstone from 1995 to 2018, no camper was injured by a wolf.

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COLORADO’S WEST SLOPE IS IDEALLY SUITED TO WOLVES – prey base and public lands are key determinants of suitable wolf habitat – Colorado’s west slope has an abundance of both.

While it’s true that Colorado’s population is growing, it’s also true that, according to the State Demographer, 84% of Colorado’s population will settle on the Front Range, 11% on the western tier counties and the remaining 5% divided between the Central Mountains, the Eastern Plains and the San Luis Valley (https://demography.dola.colorado.gov/demography/infographics/#a). 

A VIBRANT WOLF POPULATION WOULD BE AN ASSET TO COLORADO BUT WOLVES CANNOT GET TO COLORADO ON THEIR OWN.

The journey is simply too dangerous, with too many mortality hazards between the Northern Rockies and Colorado for a sufficient number of wolves to wander to Colorado, find one another, and survive long enough to give birth to the countless litter of pups needed to give rise to a viable, ecologically effective wolf population

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VIII. RESTORATION IS IMPERATIVE IF COLORADO IS TO HAVE ANY CHANCE OF AN ECOLOGICALLY EFFECTIVE POPULATION OF GRAY WOLVES,  

In 25 years since wolf restoration to Yellowstone National Park only about 10 wolves have made it to Colorado – 3 were killed and 1 was never again seen. And the six that have recently been seen in Colorado near the Wyoming border are closely related. These six do not carry sufficient genetic diversity to establish a healthy, viable population and six is nowhere near the number Colorado needs for an ecologically effective population. 

Coloradans stand ready to achieve a breakthrough, decades in the making — reintroducing the gray wolf and in so doing, beginning the journey to restoring a natural balance to the Wildlands of Colorado’s West Slope.

Initiative 107 is a grassroots path to restoration – a pathway that gives all Coloradans a voice as to the management of their public lands. 

If you’re a Colorado voter, please vote for initiative 107 on the 2020 Colorado ballot. Vote to restore a natural balance for now and future generations of Coloradans.