Successess Celebrating our Celebrating
2016 PIKES PEAK Regional SUSTainability Report Acknowledgements
Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (Peak Alliance) would like to acknowledge the many organizations’ regular publications that examine the state of the region and promote sustainable practices including, but not limited to, the United Way’s Quality of Life Indicators (QLI Report), the Pikes Peak Community Foundation and Green Cities Coalition newsletters, the Regional Business Alliance newspaper, and Terra Essentials’ Directory. This Sustainability Report is intended to supplement those publications and not to in any way substitute for them. Our partnerships are, above all, our greatest strengths.
SPONSORS
Peak Alliance would like to thank the following organizations and individuals for their generous financial and in-kind support in terms of research, editing, design, and printing:
Recycling Coalion of Colorado Springs
Harriet Napierkowski, Editor
And the tireless efforts of our all-volunteer Peak Alliance Board: Brent Kennedy Linda Kogan Christopher Aaby Jane Ard-Smith Drew Johnson Ryan Trujillo Mary Barber GO TEAM! Table of Contents Table of Contents
History and Background ...... 2 Executive Summary...... 3
FOCUS AREAS Agriculture...... 4 Arts and Culture...... 8 Built and Natural Environment...... 12 Economic Development...... 18 Education...... 22 Energy...... 26 Health ...... 30 Materials Management...... 34 Transportation...... 38 Water Quantity...... 42 Appendix...... 46
1 History and Background
As the Pikes Peak region continues to grow, competing demands are made on our natural environment, governmental services, community relations, educational systems, personal health, and quality of life. These conditions require a comprehensive plan by which our local governments, institutions, businesses, and individuals can collaborate to develop solutions to regional sustainability challenges.
History and Background History In March 2012, a broad base of volunteers, professionals, and community leaders advanced a strategic plan for achieving sustainability in Teller and El Paso counties by 2030: “Looking to Our Future: Pikes Peak Region 2030”(PPR 2030). The PPR 2030 plan was initially administered by the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments under the name of Pikes Peak Regional Sustainability Project, currently, the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (Peak Alliance). The mission of Peak Alliance is to promote regional sustainability and to advance the PPR 2030 plan through collaboration and outreach. This current report furthers those objectives by examining and celebrating the progress the Pikes Peak region has made thus far towards the long-term goals of the PPR 2030. The Peak Alliance has adopted the following strategies in order to help reach those goals:
■■ Grow awareness of sustainability & the PPR 2030
■■ Teach the value & fundamentals of sustainability
■■ Inspire action to achieve goals
■■ Cooperate with other agencies & organizations
■■ Communicate to tell our stories, celebrate successes & share lessons learned
■■ Collaborate to bring partners & resources together to put sustainability into practice
■■ Motivate & guide leaders, employees & citizens
■■ Demonstrate new & innovative technologies & processes
■■ Promote actions leading to a resilient, sustainable community, environment & economy
Peak Alliance defines sustainability as “acting in a manner that improves our quality of life by balancing economic vitality, a healthy vibrant community, and mindful stewardship of natural resources and the environment for current and future generations.” Such an approach provides a framework and a path by which we can account for current actions as we work to ensure a positive future.
Peak Alliance will continue to work with community partners to celebrate sustainability successes in the Pikes Peak region and broadcast those efforts through outreach programs, periodic reports, and other innovative means. Please consider joining Peak Alliance at their monthly Sustainability in Progress (SIP) events on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Ivywild School from 7:30-9 AM. These engaging events combine informative presentations with lively discussions and networking.
GOING FORWARD Under the leadership of Mayor John Suthers, Colorado Springs once again has an Office of Sustainability, the mission of which is to “be a leader in sustainability by improving the environmental, economic, and social health of our community”—building awareness and accountability through community engagement, partnerships, and education. This renewed focus greatly improves the opportunity to make meaningful progress in sustainability programs, policies, and initiatives throughout the region. 2 Executive Summary Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to highlight and celebrate the region’s many sustainability success stories since the release of the PPR 2030 plan in 2012. The list of entities providing sustainability leadership in our region is extensive, with participation by policy makers, businesses, schools, churches, non-profits, local military institutions, and individuals. The Pikes Peak region can take pride in both the strategic planning and accomplishments that contribute to greater sustainability and resiliency.
The following pages highlight examples of successful efforts to promote sustainability in the region for each of the 10 focus areas included in the PPR 2030 plan: Agriculture, Arts & Culture, Built & Natural Environment, Economics, Education, Energy, Health, Materials Management & Procurement, Transportation, and Water Quantity. This report is not intended to be a quantitative assessment of the metrics included in the PPR plan, and we recognize that there is much more to be done. However, through a focus on specific successful initiatives, we wish to raise awareness, recognize leadership, encourage increased collaboration, and support sustainability as an effective framework to increase our collective quality of life in the region.
There are many more achievements in each of these areas than could be included in this report, so we want to acknowledge all those entities that we were unable to include this time for their commendable sustainability leadership in the community. In addition, Peak Alliance wishes to thank those organizations that responded to our Sustainability Survey prior to the release of this report.
Submit your success stories by taking our survey at peakalliance co. .
We would like to thank the Pikes Peak Community Foundation, our fiscal sponsor, for the program support and financial services they have provided and for the support they have given to improve the quality of life in the Pikes Peak region. Thanks to our generous community partners whose contributions made this report and other activities of Peak Alliance possible.
Donations to support our outreach efforts can be made at peakalliance .co > Get Involved . *The Appendix to this report, available only in the online version, provides a list of organizations involved in regional sustainability efforts. To join, support, or learn more about an organization please visit peakalliance.co. You’ll also find more information about Peak Alliance and the PPR2030 plan.
3 Agriculture Good food is critical to human well-being. Locally grown and sustainably-produced food adds not only to human health, but also increases job opportunities, stabilizes communities, and reduces our dependence on external regions for food supply. Agriculture
BASIC GOALS SEEDS COMMUNITY CAFÉ By 2030, regional farmers and producers have the opportunity to Seeds Community Café has made its way make their livelihoods in agriculture, while providing safe, quality into the hearts of Colorado Springs residents with a mission to solve hunger insecurity food to the region’s consumers, protecting agricultural lands to while transforming lives and building and the maximum extent possible, and contributing to the health and celebrating community. This unique, homey stability of their communities. café is a non-profit and entirely donation based. With strong nutritional knowledge, ■■ Adopt alternative means to preserve and conserve Seeds not only feeds our hungry, but feeds our hungry well. Seeds also enriches our agricultural water, especially allowing for increased region by supporting local farmers and irrigation efficiency and temporary water transfers from rescuing local foods that would otherwise agricultural to urban uses. go to waste. With their volunteer program, Seeds has a positive impact on the lives of ■■ Preserve high-value, food-producing land wherever it is. many residents who are down on their luck.
■■ Help farmers and ranchers stay on the land by supporting their efforts to sustainably produce good, healthy food and market it by increasing numbers of farmers’ markets, introducing it to local school lunch programs, and connecting with local restaurants, among other options.
■■ Make certain that the region’s residents have access to healthy, affordable, local food, have the opportunity to grow it themselves through community and backyard gardens, and are supplied with specific educational programs on nutrition and healthy food choices.
5 AGRICULTURE ACHIEVEMENTS To reduce the amount of water needed for future generations of Coloradans and keep urban-adjacent WHAT CAN YOU DO? agricultural lands in production, Colorado must support ■■ Support local agriculture by visiting the growth of the next 5 million residents more farmers’ markets and purchasing strategically than the last 5 million. local food. Preserve and Conserve Agricultural Water: ■■ Everywhere you water, grow food.
■■ Colorado’s Water Plan, approved in 2015, sets a goal that agricultural ■■ Join a Community Supported economic productivity will match growing state, national, and global Agriculture, CSA, in the winter to Agriculture needs and that alternative transfers will be a priority. support farmers.
■■ Palmer Land Trust’s 2012 Western Lower Arkansas Valley ■■ Become an ambassador for the Green Conservation Plan envisions maintaining viable agricultural lands, water Cities Coalition Food Working Group. resources, and natural lands. The 25,000-acre BX Ranch in Pueblo County ■■ Provide input at an Arkansas Basin is a significant conservation accomplishment and in 2016, Palmer Land Roundtable of the Colorado Water Trust partnered with cousins Bart and David Mendenhall to preserve nearly Conservation Board. 400 acres of irrigated farmland consisting of four farms in Rocky Ford. Preserve high-value, food-producing land:
■■ The Food Policy Advisory Board, established in 2015, advises City Council and El Paso County Commissioners on policies, programs, operations, and land use rights affecting local food issues. Goals include: build a resilient local food system from rural farms to urban agriculture; increase local food system infrastructure efficiencies, including recovery; promote food literacy; enhance economic development through local food; and make healthy food affordable and accessible. Helping farmers and ranchers sell locally:
■■ Till, a farm-to-table restaurant and mercantile, providing locally- sourced ingredients and Colorado products, opened in 2016. Some food will come from as nearby as the new Till Farms near Black Forest. The Colorado Springs Public Market is focusing on the downtown area to provide locally-sourced produce and prepared food in the future.
■■ The LocalFood CS app, developed in 2015, details who is growing or producing local food, where to buy it, and which eateries source locally. The majority of growers on the app are within 67 miles of Colorado Springs. FOOD NEXT DOOR AT UCCS ■■ Eighteen Farmers Markets sell mostly local produce seasonally in the Food Next Door was a concept developed region from Monument to Fountain to Woodland Park. The Colorado by students and faculty to have a dedicated Farm and Art Market sells exclusively local items twice a week in the venue on campus to serve food from the summer and once a month in the winter. UCCS farm and greenhouse and the local Arkansas Valley foodshed. Students meet ■■ The Colorado College (CC) campus and their food provider, Bon early in the week to determine available Appetit, operate on principles of sustainability, sourcing seasonal food and then create recipes to highlight and regional ingredients. In 2014, University of Colorado Colorado those items. Each interaction with customers Springs (UCCS) shifted from a corporate food vendor to in-house provides an opportunity to increase food literacy as well as a delicious meal. Dining and Hospitality Services to provide healthier options, pursue sustainability, and support regional farmers. Twenty percent of UCCS food is now sourced locally. 6 Healthy, affordable, local food options:
■■ Venetucci Farm supplies about 100,000 pounds of organic vegetables to the local community yearly through their Community Supported Agriculture, CSA, program and Colorado Farm and Art Markets. Yearly, over 20,000 people visit the farm for classes, camps, volunteer days, pumpkin patch, and special events. Larga Vista Farm, Ahava Farm, Frost Farm, and Heritage Bell Farms also provide local vegetables at the Colorado Farm and Art Market. Agriculture ■■ The Arkansas Valley Organic Growers have initiated the Excelsior Food Hub, a cooperative of nine member farms who aggregate, distribute, and market a diverse selection of local food. Their products can be found at Whole Foods and eight sites in Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Black Forest, and Pueblo. Excelsior also offers a CSA with weekly delivery.
■■ Many educational and religious institutions grow and eat food from their green-houses and gardens, among them CC, UCCS, Galileo Charter School, Mountain Song, and Woodland Park Church .
■■ Colorado Springs Food Rescue (CSFR) recovers food every day from donor businesses in the Pikes Peak region and delivers it directly to local, low-income communities and humanitarian non-profits. Based on Feeding America’s dollar-per-pound measure, CSFR estimates it has offset over $697,000 from the budgets of local non-profit organizations and other CS communities.
■■ The Local Food Working Group of the Green Cities Coalition works to expand the availability, access, and adequacy of locally grown food through education, collaboration, and community organizing. They are currently developing an El Paso County Food Security Plan.
Home and community gardens:
■■ Penrose Hospital partnered with Pikes Peak Urban Gardens in 2016 to secure a greenhouse to grow local and organic food for the hospital. ■■ Flying Pig Farm in Manitou Springs was developed in 2014 to share PIKES PEAK URBAN GARDENS (PPUG) bio-dynamic agricultural processes and products with the community. PPUG was formed by Larry Stebbins in response ■■ Responding to a growing interest in urban gardening and farming, to the need for more community gardens in 2014 Colorado Springs City Council changed the city’s pet in the Pikes Peak region. PPUG improves ordinance to include miniature goats. neighborhoods, health, and community by providing access to locally grown organic ■■ Sunrise Garden Project is a two-year collaboration between the produce. Unutilized or underutilized park Justice & Peace Commission, the City of Colorado Springs, Seeds land, vacant land, and public facilities offer Community Café, Pikes Peak Permaculture, UCCS, and CC to use opportunities for growing food. School and community gardens in the region are supported community gardening to increase access to healthy food, reduce by Colorado Springs Utilities, which waived homelessness, and eliminate the Food Desert in the Hillside water tap fees. Over 250 members participate in neighborhood. the community garden programs. PPUG operates a four-season greenhouse at Monument Valley ■■ Prospect Farm at Arcadia Gardens, a project of Pikes Peak Park that offers tasting tours and produces over Small Farms, aims to reduce food insecurity in poorer neighborhoods. 3,000 lbs. of produce per year, which partly Organizers received a $51,000 grant from the U.S. Department of goes to food banks. PPUG also offers classes and educational forums on gardening along the Agriculture to support increased local food and farming education Front Range and Teller County. primarily for people living within a half mile of the urban farm. Nutritional education:
■■ The Flying Carrot, a food literacy truck partnership between Pikes Peak Community Foundation and UCCS, provides nutrition education that leverages the food of local farmers at schools, events, and farmers’ markets.
■■ Sustainability Wellness and Learning (SWELL) was developed in 2015 at UCCS to increase awareness of the link between sustainability and health through a focus on local food. In 2015 in collaboration with AVOG and Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, UCCS launched Grain School and its associated Ark Watershed Grain Project to increase the availability of local grain.
■■ Local Food Shift Magazine was launched in 2015 to raise awareness and connect the Front Range regarding local food systems. 7 Arts andAgriculture Culture Arts and culture play an important role in the welfare of the community in the Pikes Peak region. Both from a quality of life perspective as well
as from a direct business impact, ARTS AND CULTURE it is important to understand the specific value we get from art and culture.
BASIC GOALS The vision of PPR 2030 is to develop, enliven, enhance, and promote arts, culture, and the creative industries in the Pikes Peak region to benefit residents, visitors, the cultural sector, and the business sector.
■■ The region offers a diverse and broad range of arts, cultural, and entertainment activities and events. These events contribute to the local economy.
■■ The region’s arts scene draws innovative companies and attracts young creatives.
■■ The Pikes Peak region will have fully implemented the 2010 Cultural Plan in order to increase economic vitality. ARTS MONTH A fantastic way for our region to celebrate and “The purpose of art is washing value the arts and culture of our community, Arts the dust of daily life off our souls.” Month was kicked off as part of a national effort in October 2014. Orchestrated by the Cultural - Pablo Picasso Office of the Pikes Peak region (COPPeR), Arts Month encourages us to have at least one new cultural experience each month. Arts month is a great way to raise local awareness for our creative community while showcasing many local artists and events. In 2015, a themed approach to Arts Month was carried out with each week designated to a different genre.
9 ARTS & CULTURE ACHIEVEMENTS Diverse and broad range of arts, cultural, and entertainment activities and events benefitting the local economy:
■■ The Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPeR) connects residents and visitors to arts and culture in the region. As an umbrella organization, COPPeR hosts Arts Month, maintains an Art Gallery Guide, publishes a periodic Arts & Economic Prosperity Study, and manages PeakRadar.com, the community’s primary source for arts & culture information. COPPeR’s work in arts education, outreach, and advocacy has been vital in increasing participation and attendance throughout the community.
■■ UCCS Gallery of Contemporary Art (GOCA) has hosted BRILLIANT, a fundraiser and art party for the past two years. It has also held a variety of sustainability art exhibitions. ARTS AND CULTURE
■■ The Colorado Springs Philharmonic performs approximately 40 concerts per year for thousands of residents and visitors, WHAT CAN YOU DO? greatly contributing to the area’s culture and economy. In 2015, it ■■ Attend gallery exhibits, arts fairs, and distributed 1,100 free concert tickets to local school children. art walks. Don’t forget to bring the kids.
■■ Purchase local art to beautify your home and support local artisans.
■■ Get involved with programs, classes, and workshops offered by the many arts organizations in the region.
■■ Check out peakradar.com for a comprehensive list of arts events, exhibits, theater, music, and more. There’s something for the whole family. ■■ In 2013, Millibo Art Theatre relocated to the Ivywild Neighborhood and can now seat 109 people. In addition to the theater productions, ■■ Promote arts in schools. Art boosts members provide classes, summer camps, and school touring. innovation, creativity, teamwork, and test scores! ■■ According to COPPeR’s latest Arts & Economic Prosperity Study, “The non-profit arts industry in the Pikes Peak region generates ■■ Support local performers by attending $72 million in annual economic impact: $37.4 million in annual live music, dance, theater, poetry, spending by non-profit arts groups and $34.5 million in spending or comedy. by their audiences. These results send a strong signal that when we invest in the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, we also invest in our region’s economic well-being. And the arts are strong in our community—with an economic impact significantly above the national median.”
■■ Victor Celebrates the Arts is an annual en plein air artists’ competition in historic Victor, CO. In its 17th year, the event draws national as well as local artists, and is open to professionals and nonprofessionals alike.
“The earth without “art” is just “eh.” 10 The region’s arts scene draws innovative companies and attracts young creatives:
■■ The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, voted 2015 best cultural attraction/museum, houses several galleries with permanent and travelling exhibits, a performing arts theater, and the Bemis School of the Arts, offering classes for children and adults. ARTS AND CULTURE
■■ COPPeR’s Art in Store-fronts has placed local art to enliven vacant storefronts downtown and leads the area’s Art Month initiative.
■■ Woodland Park Arts Alliance keeps art, music, and cultural events alive in Teller County and has recently completed a historical mural, located on the east wall of the Ute Pass Cultural Center.
■■ The Cottonwood Center for the Arts, through their classes, galleries, theater, and over 70 artists’ studios, promotes a legacy of beauty, passion, and community, drawing both creatives and their audiences. THE PIKES PEAK ART FESTIVAL ■■ Colorado Springs Dance Theatre presents world-class dance The Pikes Peak Arts Council enriches community talent, provides free and reduced rate tickets to underserved life for residents and visitors by supporting children, and awards over $2,000 per year in training scholarships individual artists in all disciplines. Their annual to local dancers. Pikes Peak Art Festival brings together artists, musicians, and community for a diverse ■■ For the past 10 years, Concrete Couch has brought together a celebration at America the Beautiful Park. diverse community of builders and volunteers, using recycled materials, in a skill and idea sharing collaboration to beautify our public spaces.
■■ The Colorado Youth Symphony and the Colorado Children’s Chorale provide professional direction to school-aged artists, combining the discipline of music with the enthusiasm of youth. The Youth Symphony performed at Carnegie Hall in New York in June 2016. Implementation of the 2010 Cultural Plan:
■■ PPR 2030, through the leadership and vision of COPPeR, continues to develop and promote the integration of arts and culture into our social, economic, and political arenas. In addition to their 2010 Cultural Plan, COPPeR has recently completed a 5-year strategic plan to help guide their organizational efforts through 2020. THE PERFORMING ARTS YOUTH ORGANIZATION (PAYO) For over 45 years, PAYO has been inspiring audiences of children through the arts of dance, theater, music, creative writing, storytelling, “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose and magic. PAYO artists impart multicultural ourselves at the same time.” and educational messages while entertaining and helping to promote self-esteem, tolerance, imagination, and creativity. The performers provide - Thomas Merton positive role models, especially to at-risk students, teaching the value of discipline and dedication.
11 BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Minimizing the impact that we have on our natural environment is critical to our quality of life. PPR 2030 focuses on complementing the built environment with the natural environment and enhancing people’s lives by promoting community, accessibility, and commerce.
BASIC GOALS By 2030, the built and natural environments complement one another and reflect our commitment to enhance the lives of people BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT by promoting community, culture, and commerce and preserving and protecting the natural environment.
Built Environment ■■ New construction, development, and redevelopment of all types and scales are built to incorporate location efficiency, accessible and integrated transportation, diversity of housing, energy and resource efficient building techniques, neighborhood access to parks, trails, and open space, and provide a strong link between the built and natural environment. ■■ The region takes advantage of and maintains all existing infrastructure. ■■ The integration of housing, parks, commerce, transportation, and arts and culture creates a beautiful and functional public realm with great public spaces.
Natural Environment ■■ Regional ecological health, including ecosystems, habitats, and threatened, endangered, imperiled, and other species are protected, restored, and maintained. Air Quality CREEKSIDE AT ■■ Indoor and outdoor environmental quality is healthy for AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL PARK all, with air pollutant levels below State and local health Creekside Park creates access to the water’s edge at the thresholds. southwest end of America the Beautiful Park in Colorado Springs. The newly developed wetlands and interpretive Water Quality area will feature new trails and beach access to connect people to Fountain Creek and its ecosystem. ■■ Ground and surface water quality is better than designated water quality standards that are in place to protect classified uses (recreation, aquatic life, agriculture, water supply, and wetlands.)
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” - Native American Proverb 13 BUILT ENVIRONMENT ACHIEVEMENTS New construction, development, and redevelopment: WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ Gather ideas, methods, and ■■ In 2014, the Colorado National Guard North Colorado Springs examples for developing vibrant, Readiness Center achieved US Green Building Council (USGBC) enduring communities. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum, the highest LEED rating. ■■ Encourage complementary projects ■■ Fort Carson built over 80 LEED buildings since 2007, three of to fill vacant lots or revitalize your which received Platinum certification. neighborhood.
■■ Colorado Springs Fire Station No . 21 became a platinum LEED ■■ Speak in favor of mixed use building in June 2015. projects that encourage transit, ■■ The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) constructed walking, and bicycling. or renovated 12 buildings since 2007, all achieving LEED gold ■■ Join an advisory committee or certification. advocacy group to influence ■■ Colorado Springs Infill and Redevelopment Steering policies and practices for more Committee, established in 2014, received City Council approval in sustainable development. 2016 for an infill supplement to the Comprehensive Plan intended to encourage development of vacant parcels, attract builders, and ■■ Help acquire, protect, and maintain revive already developed areas of the city. trails, parks, and open spaces.
Use and maintenance of existing infrastructure: ■■ Advocate to create, modernize, repair, and maintain public BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT ■■ The Manitou Incline opened as a legal public hiking trail in 2013 buildings, transportation systems, after nearly 20 years of unmanaged trespass and use. The project waterways, and cultural amenities partners continue with trail renovations and enhancements. in consideration of nearby ■■ The 2012 opening of the Wyndham Mining Exchange Hotel communities and future residents. demonstrated adaptive reuse of an historically significant building in downtown Colorado Springs.
■■ In 2015, Colorado College (CC) trustees approved renovation and modernization of the Tutt Library on campus as a net-zero energy building—one strategy to achieve CC’s commitment to 100% carbon neutrality by 2020.
Integration of housing, parks, commerce, arts and culture, and transportation:
■■ An Urban Land Institute 2012 report suggested that the development of additional living space in the Colorado Springs downtown core would create the potential to attract residents, business, and social opportunity, leading to economic development UTE VALLEY GATEWAY OPEN SPACE and revitalization. Community leaders forecast 500 housing units will be completed by 2018. Through a partnership with conservation groups, public supporters, funders, and the ■■ Blue Dot Place, a 33-unit apartment building, opened its doors City of Colorado Springs, Palmer Land Trust in 2015 within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and public secured a 110-acre conservation easement spaces in the New South End Neighborhood located in downtown in 2015 on property adjacent to the Ute Valley Colorado Springs, the first new built apartments in the downtown Gateway Open Space, guaranteeing that it core since 1960. will remain undeveloped and open to the public forever. The conservation project increased the park by 200 acres.
14 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ACHIEVEMENTS Regional ecological health, including ecosystems, IVYWILD REDEVELOPMENT habitats, and threatened, endangered, imperiled, and Ivywild, at 1604 S. Cascade Ave., functioned other species are protected, restored, and maintained: as an elementary school for nearly a century until it closed in 2009. As an urban renewal ■■ Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Tatanka Group, and other members of redevelopment, Ivywild reopened in 2013 the Black-footed Ferret Recovery Implementation Team successfully with a brewery, bakery, coffee bar, and similar shops. The project continues to redevelop and reintroduced one of the most endangered mammals in North BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT America on private land (2012-2014). reinvigorate the neighborhood.
■■ In 2015, the El Paso County Fountain Creek Nature Center Magic Monarch program presented information about decreasing monarch populations and what actions can help. Participants also found larvae, and caught, tagged, and released monarchs for research.
■■ Since 2012, Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI), the Coalition for the Upper South Platte (CUSP), and other partners have worked to restore degraded areas in the Waldo Canyon and Black WHAT CAN YOU DO? Forest burn areas by revegetating bare slopes and minimizing the ■■ Protect habitats — wetlands or marshes, impacts from flooding and debris flows. river systems, grasslands, and forests.
■■ Encourage land development practices that avoid sensitive natural areas, such as GREENBACK CUTTHROAT TROUT floodplains, conserve native vegetation, Near Colorado Springs, Bear Creek holds the only remaining and minimize impacts to soil, air, ground, pure population of greenback cutthroat trout, Colorado’s state and surface water. fish. As this is the highest priority site for conservation of the greenback, project partners have been working to better ■■ Support compatible infill, redevelopment, manage activities within the watershed and minimize impacts and mixed use projects over projects on to the fish and its habitat. Environmental documentation undeveloped land. completed in July 2015 paves the way for the partners to implement restoration, maintenance, reconstruction, and ■■ Plant native milkweed and other plants improvement projects. with nectar to attract butterflies and other pollinators.
■■ Volunteer with a conservation, environmental, or habitat restoration group.
■■ Leave No Trace™ — be prepared, stay on the trail, pack out waste, control your pet, leave what you find, be careful with fire, and respect others.
Bear Creek Greenback Cutthroat Trout 15 AIR QUALITY ACHIEVEMENTS Indoor and outdoor air quality is healthy for all: GREAT MARCH FOR CLIMATE ACTION ■■ El Paso County Public Health continues to raise awareness The Great March for Climate Action rallied in and educate individuals about the potential hazards of indoor Colorado Springs in Jun 2014 with the support pollutants such as radon, mold, and asbestos. The county also of the Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy maintains directories of testing and mitigation resources. They Society, Sierra Club, and 350.org. UCCS, Manitou proclaimed January as Radon Action Month and gave away Springs, and Colorado College implemented 1,000 free radon testing kits in 2015. energy retrofits, operational efficiency improvements, and transportation-related ■■ Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) plans to shut down Unit 5 at emission reductions in accordance with Climate the Drake coal-fired power plant near downtown by December Action plans and carbon neutrality goals. 31, 2017. The entire plant will be decommissioned by 2035. CSU also strives to acquire power generated from renewable sources, such as wind and solar, which would reduce pollutants. BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BUILT
WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ Conserve energy and water to reduce power plant emissions.
■■ Support and purchase energy from renewable sources like solar and wind.
■■ Install solar water heating and power generating systems.
■■ Drive less, avoid idling your vehicle unnecessarily, and choose a fuel efficient or alternative fuel model.
■■ Check your home for radon and other indoor pollutants. ■■ The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lowered the standard for ground-level ozone in the air in 2015. Air quality in ■■ Participate in energy-related planning the region is monitored year-round at two monitoring stations. sessions such as the Integrated Electric The Pikes Peak region recorded the lowest ozone concentrations Resource Plan. of the past decade in 2014 and 2015 and remains in compliance in 2016. The Pikes Peak region is expected to remain in ■■ Advocate for transportation alternatives compliance with the standard. such as transit, walking, and bicycling that provide alternative options to automobile travel.
16 WATER QUALITY ACHIEVEMENTS Ground and surface water quality: WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ Minimize use of inorganic pesticides ■■ The Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway and fertilizers for lawns and gardens. District led a collaborative master planning process in 2014/2015 to address restoration and mitigation in the Upper ■■ Select organic methods to improve soil, Fountain/Cheyenne Creek watersheds affected by the Waldo such as composted manure. Canyon fire in 2012. The master plan identifies projects to reduce ■ erosion, sedimentation, and flooding. ■ Pick up litter wherever you see it, BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT including your neighborhood. ■■ The Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) convened with the Arkansas and Fountain Coalition for Urban ■■ Pick up after your pet. River Evaluation (AF CURE) in 2012 to help the 11 wastewater- ■■ Drop off used oil and hazardous materials discharging entities in El Paso and Pueblo counties develop a at authorized locations. collaborative water-quality monitoring plan. The group collects, analyzes, and shares data from water samples throughout the ■■ Create your own rain garden and urge region and outlines water quality concerns. onsite stormwater and low impact development in your community.
■■ Use native or xeriscape grasses and plants to control soil erosion.
■■ Participate in organized activities to help clean up and protect our watersheds.
■■ Peterson Air Force Base continued to model onsite stormwater controls and low impact development (LID) projects by striving to match the rate and volume of runoff more closely to that of undeveloped land. Permeable pavers, vegetated swales, and other LID techniques allow rainwater to spread out, slow down, and soak in the ground, lessening the impact on local water bodies.
CREEK WEEK Creek Week, led by the Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District, brings together service groups, businesses, non-profits, schools, churches, and government for the common goal of improving our water quality and our region. In 2015, 1,550 citizens came together to gather 18,880 lbs. (9.4 tons) of trash from the watershed. The annual fall event raises awareness of the Fountain Creek watershed, our water supply, and encourages citizens to collect litter and make the watershed and its surrounding communities cleaner, safer, and more beautiful.
17 Economic Development Regions with implemented sustainability plans create more robust economic sectors. This helps to attract new companies to the area and increases retention of younger demographics who seek to live in sustainable communities. PPR2030 prioritizes Economic Development as a focus area of regional sustainability because a Triple Bottom Line approach increases social impact and economic growth while reducing QUALTEK MANUFACTURING environmental damage. Qualtek Manufacturing is a family-owned and operated company that provides metal part manufacturing services to product developers. Demonstrating a comprehensive commitment Economic Development to environmental stewardship, Qualtek has been designated a “Water Champion” by Colorado Springs Utilities, achieved “Gold” in the BASIC GOALS Colorado Environmental Leadership Program, and is actively pursuing its ISO 14001 By 2030, the region will have a strong and diverse economy environmental certification. that supports and benefits from sustainability. In addition to efficiency improvements and ■■ Grow the wealth of all demographic groups of the Pikes certifications, Qualtek actively invests in energy Peak region to sustain households and quality of life infrastructure projects such as solar and wind. by increasing jobs, expanding the economic base, and Qualtek also plays an important role as a community leader in the effort to retain skilled increasing business profitability. workers in the area and advance sustainability in manufacturing through involvement with the ■■ Diversify the economy into multiple sectors to provide Colorado Advanced Manufacturing Alliance and structural integrity, resilience, and innovation. the Manufactures Edge. In addition to having 70 full-time employees, Qualtek was instrumental in ■■ Ensure the region has a strong, localized economy that the establishment of a leading social enterprise, reinvests in the region. Blue Star Recyclers. Blue Star Recyclers has created 38 meaningful jobs for people with disabilities in 4 communities while recycling nearly 7 million pounds of electronics.
“There are many reasons to be excited about the business environment of Colorado Springs. A growing economy, low unemployment, and many new opportunities resulting from investment in cybersecurity to new businesses in the Downtown area. The Better Business Bureau and Small Business Development Center have launched the Colorado Coalition for Social Impact which will create and drive more growth in the fourth sector. Colorado Springs is beginning a new era and we are excited to be a part of it!” - Jonathan Liebert, CEO, Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado
19 ECONOMIC ACHIEVEMENTS Increase jobs, expand the economic base, and increase business profitability: EPICENTRAL COWORKING Epicentral Coworking’s vision is to ■■ The Colorado Springs Regional Business Alliance plays a central invigorate the local economy by being a role in economic development in the Pikes Peak Region. In addition downtown epicenter of entrepreneurship, to helping current and future local businesses grow and prosper, the business, and creativity. Entering its 5th RBA advocates in state and local politics and works with the Colorado year in operation, Epicentral has been Springs City Council to ensure a business friendly environment. highly successful. With over 60 members, Epicentral has become a hub for ■■ The Pikes Peak Workforce Center promotes economic vitality by entrepreneurs, startups, and Community connecting area businesses with work-ready job seekers. The PPWFC events like Pitch Night, 1 Million Cups, offers a variety of skill building workshops, computer lab resources, and Go Code Colorado. Epicentral has resume building, aptitude assessments, career training assistance, significantly impacted the startup and and job search support all at no cost to the client. entrepreneurship ecosystem by providing entrepreneurs the resources to “work hard ■■ The Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center seeks to and do good.” help businesses maximize their economic potential in the Pikes Peak region. This is facilitated through one-on-one mentoring, specialized workshops and through community events like Small Business Week.
■■ The Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado helps consumers identify businesses which have proven their commitment to high ethics WHAT CAN YOU DO? and quality standards through their accredited business program. ■■ Support locally owned businesses Additionally, the BBB of Southern Colorado is spearheading an effort and attractions. to help businesses measure their Social Return on Investment and
plans to introduce an Accredited Social Impact program throughout ■■ Economic Development Attend 1 Million Cups at 9 am the BBB Internationally. Wednesday Mornings to network with local entrepreneurs. ■■ Colorado Springs is accelerating efforts to establish itself as a national cybersecurity hub and expand the reach of local companies in the ■■ Join a membership organization like industry. Governor John Hickenlooper announced the plan to repurpose the Better Business Bureau, Regional a former manufacturing plant near the University of Colorado Colorado Business Alliance, or the Downtown Springs into the National Cybersecurity Intelligence Center and Partnership. has secured $8 million of funding from the State Legislature with the remaining $7-12 million being raised from the industry and ■■ Attend Peak Startup’s “Pitch Night” foundations. The project will directly employ around 100 people and on the 3rd Thursday of each month. could generate thousands of new jobs from other businesses that want to locate near the Center and the established military presence ■■ Join a co-working space like in Colorado Springs. Epicentral, Catalyst Campus, or the Machine Shop. ■■ Colorado Coalition for Social Impact was founded in June of 2016 and seeks to support businesses and entrepreneurs that are interested ■■ Volunteer as a Service Corps of in generating social impact. The initial town hall meeting, facilitated Retired Executives (SCORE) mentor to by the Better Business Bureau and the Small Business Development help entrepreneurs find success. Center, showed a tremendous interest in making Social Impact a ■■ Subscribe to the Colorado Springs cornerstone of the Pikes Peak region’s economy and a national hub Business Journal and Gazette to stay for the movement. up-to-date on the business environment.
■■ The Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation opened in ■■ Support policies and candidates that 2016 and seeks to be a growth hub for echnology companies at every encourage American manufacturing. stage. The ability to rapidly prototype, connect with regional talent, and commercialize products makes state of the art resources available to entrepreneurs with limited budgets.
20 Diversify the economy into multiple sectors: Colorado Springs is Trending up! ■■ The recently formed Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance, led by a partnership between the Regional Business Alliance and the ■■ Ranked #5 Best City to live in - Colorado Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau, seeks to promote US News and World Report local recreation-related businesses and activities, both to our local community and as a key determining factor nationally for where ■■ Downtown Colorado Springs people and businesses wish to relocate. ranked #9 in the top 10 Best Downtowns of 2016 - Livability.com. ■■ Following the approval of a “Commercial Aeronautical Zone” around the Colorado Springs Airport in 2014, over $100 million ■■ A+ Ranking for small business in commercial aviation sector construction projects have been friendliness - Thumbtack.com completed, have begun, or are planned for the near future. ■■ Colorado Springs named Great
American Defense Community Economic Development A strong localized economy that reinvests in the region: by the National Association of Defense Communities ■■ Measure 2C, the 5-year road improvement tax approved by voters in Nov. 2015, provides approximately $50 million per year in revenue ■■ Designated an Aerospace and awards street paving contracts largely to local companies. City of the Future by fDi Intelligence Magazine ■■ Four unique and exciting venues are coming to Colorado Springs: A United States Olympic Museum and a Sports and Events Center ■■ #2 Best large city for veterans to be located downtown, a Sports Medicine and Performance to live - Military Times Center to the UCCS campus, and a Gateway Visitor’ Center to the Air Force Academy; creating new jobs, growing the local ■■ #1 most innovative Liberal Arts economy, and making the region an even greater national tourist College (Colorado College) - and academic destination. US News and World Report Makers Making it Happen:
■■ In a little over a year, the Pikes Peak Makerspace has become self-sustaining, boasting over 70 members and having launched 3 new companies and 5 new products. By offering accessibility to advanced manufacturing equipment as well as training on how to use the machinery, it is the place to go for rapid prototyping and product development. From changing people’s lives to having fun, the Pikes Peak Makerspace has engaged the community in a big way. They built a 3D printed hand for a 13-year-old girl who was born without a right hand and also set the world record for the highest terrestrial 3D printed object by printing a replica of Pikes Peak while at the summit. Key Industries ■■ The Pikes Peak Library District’s newest facility, Library 21C, was ■■ Aerospace/Aviation built for the needs of 21st Century patrons. With a Business and Entrepreneurial Center, a Makerspace, and a Center for Public ■■ Sports and Wellness Media, patrons can do anything from 3D printing to film a commercial ■■ Cybersecurity and IT for their company. Advanced software packages are available as ■ well as free training to use the equipment. With accessible space ■ Social Enterprise for business meetings and presentations, the 21C Library has ■■ Defense established itself as a valuable resource for entrepreneurs.
21 EDUCATION EDUCATION Access to quality, life-long education is a keystone component to the growth of wealth, increased public engagement in the arts, accessibility to health care, and overall improved well-being.
BASIC GOALS By 2030, comprehensive, affordable, life-long educational opportunities are available to all.
■■ All students have access to a 21st-Century K-12 PIKES PEAK education that prepares them for the future. ENVIRONMENTAL FORUM The Pikes Peak Environmental Forum (PPEF) started ■■ Affordable, high quality, early-childhood care and as a community service for legal and engineering education are available to all residents of the region to professionals to learn more about environmental issues ensure school readiness. affecting their businesses. It was set up and hosted by the law firm of Merrill, Anderson, King and Harris. The ■■ Regional higher education and professional and PPEF attracts everyone from professionals who want to technical skills training are increasingly available and understand more about a subject, to lay persons who just accessible to residents of the region. want to know how they can get involved. There is time for networking, allowing members of the community to create connections and further strengthen our ability to “The function of education is to teach create change and share information. Through the years, this series has garnered consistent community support. one to think intensively and to think The group has no board of directors and often members critically. Intelligence plus character of the community help to find speakers. The PPEF meets on the fourth Friday of the month from —that is the goal of true education.” noon-2pm at the Margarita at Pine Creek, January through April, September, and October. - Martin Luther King, Jr.
23 EDUCATION EDUCATION ACHIEVEMENTS CATAMOUNT INSTITUTE Catamount Institute is a Colorado based 501(c)(3) with a mission to Access to 21st-Century K-12 develop ecological stewards through education and adventure. They education for all: offer camping programs during the school day, after school, and during summer and winter using environmental education, science, technology, ■■ Proprius Learning Center has created and engineering E-STEM approaches. Partnering with schools and communities, they harness the power of the environment to inspire and alternative pathways for high school-aged equip the next generation of citizens and professionals to solve real students who have been unsuccessful in world problems. Their programs reinforce what students are learning in traditional schools. These students create the classroom, giving them a real world application for their knowledge. success in reaching their personally Public school, homeschool, community agency programs, and private school students aged 6 to 18 explore topics as varied as ecosystems, identified goals for a career and/or higher water quality and conservation, and renewable and nonrenewable education through self-paced learning. resources among others. Students are taught using hands-on, Colorado State Standards aligned curriculum.students aged 6 to 18 explore topics as varied as ecosystems, water quality and conservation, and renewable Affordable, high-quality, early and nonrenewable resources among others. Students are taught using childhood care and education: hands-on, Colorado State Standards aligned curriculum.
■■ Head Start is Community Partnership for Child Development’s (CPCD) largest and best known program and serves 1,031 local children. Through this program, CPCD provides educational, physical, and behavioral health and nutritional service for children 3 to 5 years old. Families of the children also receive education and support. Free preschool is provided by CPCD in every school district in the Pikes Peak region, with a total of 663 children ages 3 to 4 years served.
24 Higher education and professional and technical skills training: WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ Get involved or volunteer with your education ■■ Since 2014, all incoming Colorado College (CC) first- year students participate in a Sense of Place program system or local school. Functions such as a during New Student Orientation to encourage students parent-teacher organization, accountability to participate in the community. committee, teacher’s aide, tutor, coaching assistant, and school board play a vital role. ■■ Solar Ready Vets is a program that is offered in partnership with the Department of Energy’s SunShot ■■ Attend an educational event such as the Initiative that provides 5 weeks of rigorous training to Sustainability in Progress meetings or the prepare transitioning soldiers for employment in the solar Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Lunch. industry upon discharge. Participants learn how to design, install, or troubleshoot Photovoltaic (PV) Systems. At the end ■■ Attend a school board meeting for your local of the course, participants take the Entry Level Certification school district. Exam. There have been 3 classes, 67 TSMs/Veterans to date; all graduates passed the certification exam and ■■ Hug a teacher. engaged in interviews with leading employers in the
industry. Fort Carson was the first Army location. The EDUCATION program is in process to move under the Pike’s Peak Community College umbrella for sustainability purposes.
■■ UCCS provides college access to lower income students throughout Southern Colorado, with over 30 percent of students at UCCS being Pell Grant-eligible and almost 30 percent first generation.The UCCS Center for STEM Education (CSTEME) and PIPES, the UCCS Partnership in Innovative Preparation for Educators and Students program, seek to respond to the looming shortage of skilled science, technology, engineering and math workers and the lagging performance of students in science and math through innovative and supportive partnerships with parents, educators and professionals.
■■ Colorado Springs is home to 4 of 77 Academic Centers of Excellence certified by the National Security Agency: UCCS, the Air Force Academy, Regis University, and Colorado Technical University.
SUSTAINABILITY IN PROGRESS Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future was born out of the creation of the 2012 Regional Sustainability Plan. Peak Alliance’s mission is to promote regional sustainability and advance the PPR2030 through regional collaboration and outreach. One of the main outreach programs is the monthly Sustainability in Progress event held at the IvyWild School in Colorado Springs. The Sustainability in Progress or SIP as they have become known, feature speakers on the many different aspects of the sustainability plan. The events take place the third Wednesday of each month. These morning meetings are an opportunity for community members, business leaders, and others to come together and learn about various aspects of sustainability in our community.
25 energyAgriculture Energy, its use, and production must be sustainable to maintain our vibrant urban and rural communities, and it must not affect our health and well-being or our incredible surroundings. energy
Sustainable Energy—that which is produced from renewable sources that do not deplete or degrade our natural resources (air, water, land).
BASIC GOALS By 2030, the region has made considerable progress toward 100% sustainable energy usage.
■■ Renewable Energy - 50% of energy consumed in the region is renewable and/or sustainable, maximizing the amount of renewable energy produced in the region from a 2010 baseline.
■■ Energy Efficiency - Energy use in the region is reduced by 20% from a 2010 baseline (despite growth in population or commercial expansion).
ENERGY RESOURCE CENTER “In reality, studies show that investments Since 2012, the Energy Resource Center has served to spur renewable energy and boost over 3,000 homes—saving an average of 20% in energy usage while improving comfort and investing energy efficiency generate in the community, the environment, and the economy. ERC’s experienced energy auditors and technicians far more jobs than oil and coal.” diagnose needs in homes and apartments and perform upgrades, often at no cost to the consumer. Their - Jeff Goodell services also improve safety by addressing the dangers of carbon monoxide.
27 ENERGY ACHIEVEMENTS
Renewable and/or sustainable CSU energy produced and consumed: Colorado Springs Utilities has partnered with SunShare and the Clean Energy Collective to ■ ■ In 2011, the U .S . Air Force Academy built a 5.2 megawatt create 5 Community Solar Gardens, that produce solar array to offset its energy usage by up to 11%, saving the about 7.3 million kilowatt hours per year, from Academy and U.S. taxpayers approximately $500,000 annually. which an electricity consumer, who is either unable or unwilling to install solar on a home or ■■ Poor Richard’s Restaurant and retail outlets receive up to 50% business, can subscribe to purchase green energy of their electricity from a rooftop solar array. off the grid. The first garden, built in 2011, was the first in the country. ■■ Colorado College has added 400 kilowatts of solar to their campus buildings. With this onsite electric generation, in addition CSU is mandated by the state of Colorado to have 10% of its energy portfolio be renewable by 2020. to efficiency and conservation measures, CC’s total energy use The utility has created an even more ambitious goal has decreased 19% in the past 4 years, despite an increase in of achieving 20% by that time in their Energy Vision. buildings and enrollment. A new installation at Ft Carson and a 10 MW array at CSU’s Clear Spring Ranch (under construction), along ■■ Mountain Metro Transit installed solar panels on 29 bus stop with the 2017 retirement of the Martin Drake Power shelters. Plant #5 coal-fired turbine will further help them reduce greenhouse emissions and achieve their ■■ In October 2015, Black Hills Energy (BHE), which serves electric renewable energy goals. customers in Southern Teller County, received approval from the Public Utilities Commission for a 60 megawatt wind farm. The new project, called Peak View Wind, will complement BHE’s existing 29 megawatt Busch Ranch wind farm and will help them to meet their state-mandated renewable energy requirement of 20% by 2020. The new wind farm is expected to be completed by November 2016.
■■ In 2014, Manitou Springs signed a contract with a community solar garden to provide up to 100% of the electric needs for energy its facilities, reducing emissions and locking in energy costs at current rates. I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! - Thomas Alva Edison
FORT CARSON Balfour Beatty Communities, the Fort Carson housing partner, added 3 megawatts of rooftop solar on post, enough electricity to power 615 homes. Along with their 5 megawatts in 2 large solar arrays, the new rooftop arrays will add 2.5% to the 8-10% of energy on post that is already provided by renewables. With the recent extension of the federal solar tax credit, Fort Carson is hoping to add another 5-7 megawatts of solar, further helping them achieve their goal of net zero energy by 2020.
28 Reduced energy use through efficiency and conservation:
■■ Black Hills Energy, with its Small Business EE programs, has helped businesses, churches, and government buildings improve weatherization in Woodland Park. Their lighting incentives in southern Teller County have also retrofitted several casinos, the Cripple Creek-Victor School District, small businesses, and the cities of Victor and Cripple Creek with CFL and LED lights, saving over $500K in electricity every year.
■■ The Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society (SECRES) promotes energy efficiency and renewable energy through informative and educational seminars, consultation, and advocacy. Their 2015 Energy Efficiency series provided free, expert instruction for residents and businesses to improve their building’s energy profiles and costs.
■■ Colorado Springs Utilities’ Demand Side Management programs improve customers’ efficiency, reduce costs, lower overall usage, and conserve finite resources. As the state’s second largest electricity provider, CSU is one of only a few municipal utilities to provide rebates and incentives to businesses and homeowners.
■■ Colorado Natural Gas, through their Excess is Out program, has helped businesses, churches, and government buildings in Woodland Park achieve significant energy savings
■■ The new Tutt Library at Colorado College, to be completed in 2016, will be a net zero carbon and net zero energy building.
■■ The Energy Resource Center continues to offer free energy audits and weatherization services to income-qualified Pikes Peak area residents.
UCCS WHAT CAN YOU DO? energy Since 2007, UCCS has constructed over 12 high efficiency ■■ Conserve! Turn off lights and appliances buildings that have achieved over 30% reduced energy use when not in use. and achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold level certification. Features including natural and LED ■■ Implement energy efficiency measures lighting, direct/indirect evaporative cooling and high insulation in your own home. Adding insulation and values, along with conservations practices by students, weather sealing are among the most cost staff, and faculty, have greatly reduced building energy use. effective approaches. Installations of solar PV and investment in Renewable Energy Credits further reduce energy footprints and greenhouse gas ■■ Knowledge is power! Have an energy emissions, helping UCCS to be a leader in the Colorado new audit performed on your home to define energy economy. your greatest potential energy savings.
■■ Install a programmable thermostat.
■■ Purchase Energy Star rated appliances to save energy and money long term.
■■ Consider installing solar on your own home or purchasing renewable energy credits through your utility.
■■ Encourage businesses that support or use clean energy.
■■ Participate in local clean energy promotion with your utility and elected officials.
29 HEALTH The successful implementation of the health goals and strategies is imperative to the success of PPR 2030. There is no question that without sustaining healthy and thriving individuals, there can be no sustainable and thriving region. HEALTH
BASIC GOALS By 2030, the region’s population is healthy, long-lived, and has a good quality of life.
■■ By 2030, the Pikes Peak region ranks in the top 10 for the United States for individual and population health and well-being. HOLISTIC NETWORKERS ASSOCIATION ■■ By 2030, health and wellness care is accessible and Holistic Networkers Association was formed affordable for every resident. in 1995 in Colorado Springs. Its goal is to promote the holistic and spiritual link between our businesses and the Colorado Springs Community by providing support for holistic- “Early to bed and early to rise makes minded individuals, education to the community regarding the holistic approach to life, and a a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” social environment for connecting with like- minded people. - Benjamin Franklin
31 HEALTH ACHIEVEMENTS Individual and population health and well-being: HEALTHY EATING AND ■■ The Community Health Partnership has worked with Colorado ACTIVE LIVING (HEAL) Regional Health Information Organization (CORHIO) to The HEAL Cities & Towns Campaign of Colorado develop and test the first bidirectional exchange of ambulatory is designed to foster local government policies practice information in the Pikes Peak region. The goal is to help that improve access to healthy eating and active health care providers streamline care, cut costs, and reduce living in communities throughout Colorado. The duplicated services, such as X-rays or lab tests. City of Colorado Springs started the campaign in December 2014 at the “Active” level, which is ■■ Many Colorado Springs employers, including the Pikes Peak designated for those cities or towns that have at YMCA, School District 11, US Bank, Colorado Springs least one healthy eating and active living policy on their books before joining the campaign. Utilities, Penrose-St . Francis, and the City of Colorado Now, by adopting one new policy in each of the Springs have implemented corporate wellness programs to campaign’s policy areas—Healthy Food Access, keep employees healthy and productive. Healthy Workplace, and Active Community— Colorado Springs has moved up to the “Fit” level. ■■ Colorado Springs is home to two of the top five hospitals in the State of Colorado. US News and World Report lists Penrose-St . Colorado Springs has adopted the following policies to meet the criteria for the Campaign’s Francis Health Services #3 and Memorial Hospital #4 in the “Fit” level: State. Healthy Food Access: A food policy advisory ■■ In 2015, Colorado Springs ranked 23rd for Overall Well-Being board was created that promotes easier by Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index of 190 communities community access to healthy food options and across the United States. The ranking is measured by Americans’ provides citizens with additional healthy food perceptions of their lives and their daily experiences through choices in their everyday lives. five interrelated elements that make up well-being: sense of Healthy Work Place: The City Government purpose, social relationships, financial security, relationship to Building in downtown Colorado Springs community, and physical health. introduced Sit-Stand Desks. These desks allow employees to stretch and stand while they do their daily office work, increasing health, comfort, and productivity. The policy for the Sit-Stand Desks was adopted and accepted according to the HEAL resolution.
HEALTH Active Community: In the summer of 2015, road dieting was conducted on a few major roads in Colorado Springs. Road dieting is the process of converting one or two lanes of traffic on underutilized road ways into bicycle lanes. This helps make streets safer and more convenient to pedestrians and cyclists for commuting around Colorado Springs. Road dieting is one small step toward making Colorado Springs friendlier to cyclists and pedestrians. These three small improvements are meant to increase the quality of life and health in Colorado Springs. Completing these projects will provide opportunity for more Healthy Eating and Active Living endeavors in Colorado Springs. HEAL rewards a city for making small steps in a healthier and more active direction.
32 Accessible and affordable health and wellness:
■■ In 2015, 152,470 Coloradans from every county in the state signed up for coverage through the Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace, and 472 small businesses provided coverage to 2,598 employees. Connect for Health Colorado helped return $180,096,040 to Coloradans through Advance Premium Tax Credits.
■■ Each year Peak Vista provides approximately $8,068,293 in Charity Care provided for medical, dental, behavioral, and health education services to people in need. This equates to 82,550 patients, through 26 outpatient centers, in Colorado’s Pikes Peak and East Central regions.
■■ Holistic Networkers Association worked to pass legislation in Denver that allows consumers to choose their health options. The Health Freedom Bill passed. They are supporting the naturopathic doctors in their quest to be licensed.
■■ Community Health Partnership has helped 40 regional practices coordinate care for over 150,000 Medicaid clients.
■■ The first cohort of 22 medical students from theUniversity of Colorado School of Medicine have started clinical studies in Colorado Springs. Peak Vista has introduced a Family Medicine Residency program. This post-graduate clinical training of resident doctors will improve patient access and decrease workforce shortage. HEALTH
WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ Maintain your personal health through exercise and conscious eating.
■■ Visit a 9Health Fair or other health fair in your area.
■■ Meet with your doctor to create a personal wellness plan.
■■ Volunteer at one of the area hospitals or health organizations.
■■ Donate blood.
■■ Stop Smoking! Get help if needed.
■■ Get outdoors and be active in the beautiful natural spaces of Colorado Springs.
■■ Try to get between 7 and 8 hours of sleep.
33 MATERIALS MANAGEMENT How we use materials here in the Pikes Peak region is fundamental to many aspects of our economic and environmental future.
BASIC GOALS By 2030, the region has made significant progress toward a zero-waste future.
■■ There is a 70% reduction in solid waste sent to landfills.
■■ Household hazardous waste is minimized, managed, and properly disposed of, as reflected in a substantial increase in drops to regional hazardous household waste facilities.
■■ Individual, business, and government purchasing is guided by the tenets of reduce, reuse, recycle. All businesses
and public institutions have developed and are choosing to follow sustainable procurement guidelines. MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
“Here’s where redesign begins in earnest, where we stop trying to be less bad and we start figuring out how to be good.” - William McDonough, Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things
BLUE STAR RECYCLERS Blue Star Recyclers is an award winning 501(c)(3) social enterprise with a mission to use the ethical recycling of electronics to create jobs for individuals with autism and other disabilities. Founded in Colorado Springs in November 2009, Blue Star Recyclers opened a second facility in Denver in February 2015. Blue Star Recyclers provides residential and commercial customers a safe and ethical avenue to recycle electronics, bulbs, and batteries. Blue Star Recyclers currently employs twenty-six individuals with disabilities and has recycled over 10 million pounds of electronic waste to date.
FPO 35 MATERIALS MANAGEMENT ACHIEVEMENTS Reduction in solid waste sent to landfills:
■■ Bestway Disposal and A-1 Organics started the only commercial organic waste collection program in Colorado Springs. In addition, Bestway opened a materials recovery facility in Colorado Springs, which allows recyclable material to be processed in Southern Colorado rather than transported to Denver.
■■ Colorado Springs Food Rescue, a non-profit organization, began collecting and delivering otherwise wasted food to needy recipients. The organization has rescued over 200,000 pounds of otherwise wasted food to recipients since 2013.
■■ El Paso County began collecting single-stream recycling at its Household Hazardous Waste Facility, which allows El Paso and Teller County residents to participate in recycling even if their waste hauler does not offer recycling services. WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ Who Gives a Scrap, which diverts used materials from the landfill for creative and innovative uses, opened its first location in July ■■ Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. 2015. The company has diverted over 15,000 pounds of material ■■ Try backyard composting—visit http:// from the landfill since its opening and recently opened a second extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/ location. yard-garden/composting-yard- waste-7-212/ ■■ Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine recycles 600,000 lbs. of tires used for tire-derived fuel, crumb and mats for athletics, and blades ■■ Purchase products that contain less for graders. hazardous ingredients and packaging.
■■ University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado College, ■■ Whenever possible, buy in bulk. If bulk and Fort Carson all divert more than 40% of solid waste, purchasing isn’t an option, look for significantly higher than the state and national levels. products that contain less packaging.
■■ ■■ Colorado Springs Utilities has recycled 373 tons of porcelain, Think about recycling while mainly from toilets, for use as construction material. purchasing.
■■ Since 2006, Wine Punts has been turning used wine bottles into unique carafes, canisters, and drinking glasses.
Household hazardous waste is minimized, managed, and properly disposed of:
■■ In addition to operating the Household Hazardous Waste Facility MATERIALS MANAGEMENT year-round, El Paso County hosts several offsite collection events throughout the year.
■■ Companies that divert hazardous waste and either recycle or upcycle it are expanding—including TechWears, a manufacturing startup that uses scrap electronics to create beautiful wearable art.
36 Sustainable purchasing and procurement:
■■ Colorado College has developed sustainable purchasing guidelines that give equal weight to environmental and social considerations, price, availability, and performance criteria.
■■ Fort Carson hosts an annual Sustainable Procurement Expo, which provides training and demonstrations of sustainable products and services.
Reusing for Good
The Pikes Peak region is home to a number of organizations and companies that offer residents an opportunity to reuse goods and support worthy causes. For example, Mountain Equipment Recyclers, Inc. offers gently used outdoor gear and donates a portion of the proceeds to local military veterans and their families. Shift is a social enterprise that allows donors to choose a charity to benefit from the sale of gently used household goods.
Latest Trends in Materials Management: Upcycling
Upcycling is the reuse of discarded objects or material in such a way as to create a product of a higher quality or value than the original. Governor Hickenlooper declared November 18 as Colorado Upcycles Day—and Colorado Springs has been at the forefront of this creative revolution. From the reuse of discarded buildings, such as the Ivywild School, to companies that offer upcycled artwear, TechWears, to do- it-yourself opportunities, Who Gives a Scrap, the Pikes Peak region is quickly becoming an upcycling hub. MATERIALS MANAGEMENT WHO GIVES A SCRAP The mission of Who Gives a SCRAP is to foster conservation and reuse through creativity, education, and community building. They believe that the reuse of goods and materials is the most efficient, environmentally friendly, and economically viable way to reduce the waste stream. Their stores carry an impressive mix of vintage and up-cycled materials—everything from scrapbooking paper to game pieces, used books, and sewing patterns. Besides carrying a variety of used craft supplies, they offer crafting, art, and upcycling classes.
THE RECYCLING COALITION OF COLORADO SPRINGS The Recycling Coalition of Colorado Springs is a grassroots effort to promote recycling and other landfill diversion initiatives in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Region. Formed in 2000 to conduct a “Talking Trash” audit, the Coalition brings together waste haulers, individuals, and public and private sector organizations to promote the three R’s—reduce, reuse, recycle.
37 TRANSPORTATION Transportation binds people to create society and transfers products to consumers through supply chains. Future generations will need very different transportation modes that do not require fossil fuel to sustain their access to employment, goods, and services.
BASIC GOALS By 2030, the region has a sustainable, equitable, and affordable multi- model transportation system (roads, transit, bicycles, and pedestrian walkways) that efficiently and safely moves people and goods.
■■ The region financially sustains buildings and maintains roadway and bridge infrastructure, transit service, bike trails, pedestrian sidewalks, and hiking trails and supports human service transportation needs.
■■ There is increased accessibility, integration, and connectivity between where we live, work, play, learn, shop, and obtain basic services. OLD TOWN BIKE SHOP ■■ Half of all transportation-related fuels purchased in the region are Old Town Bike Shop is a local business in the renewable and/or sustainable, and transportation-related fossil heart of downtown Colorado Springs. Old Town fuel use is reduced by 40% from a 2010 baseline. encourages people to get out of their vehicles and on a bicycle. At educational events, owner John ■■ All transportation infrastructures are constructed, maintained, and Crandall proudly displays his “$72,000 dollar operated using sustainable practices. bicycle” to demonstrate just how much can be saved by commuting on a bicycle vs. a car. ■■ There is decreased reliance on single-occupancy-vehicle modes of travel with public transit’s share of trips increasing above 3%.
“Colorado Springs is a vibrant community where bicycling is integral to the City’s culture and quality of life for people of all ages and disabilities, where a well connected and well maintained network of trails and on-street infrastructure offer a bicycling experience that is convenient, safe, and inviting for transportation and recreational purpose.”
- Mission Statement for Colorado Springs Bicycle Master Plan TRANSPORTATION
Mayors Ride 2015 Bike to Work Day 39 TRANSPORTATION ACHIEVEMENTS Financial support of transportation infrastructure: THE POPCYCLE BRIDGE Completed in 2015, by Kids on Bikes and ■■ In 2015 Colorado Springs voters approved Issue 2C to increase the many community partners, the Popcycle sales tax by .62% (approximately $50 million annually for five years) Bridge includes a gathering space for trail for road repairs. Voters also supported Issue 2D, a revenue retention users, bicycle art, and a car-free roadway measure that will put more than $2.1 million into trail improvements, striped to mimic an active road where children and new cyclists can learn how to including Shooks Run, Skyline, and Pikes Peak Greenway. navigate bike lanes and intersections on the safety of a recreational trail. It connects the ■■ In 2015 Colorado Springs raised the transit budget by $750,000 . east and west spans of the Greenway to ■■ Colorado Spring’s Bicycle Excise Tax on new bicycle sales supports the north end of Monument Valley Park. bicycle infrastructure, one of the few in the country to have this tax.
■■ City of Colorado Springs Public Works staffing efficiencies resulted in $1 million savings and will be applied toward the Bike Master Plan and several other pedestrian infrastructure projects.
■■ El Paso County Parks and the City of Fountain received a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in 2015 to continue the Front Range Trail from the south end of Fountain Creek Regional Park to Hwy 85/87 in downtown Fountain. The trail will be installed in 2016. WHAT CAN YOU DO? ■■ The Stormwater Enterprise Cottonwood Creek project will fund the final ■■ Consider all ways of reaching a Cottonwood Creek Trail Link from Vincent to Academy Blvd. destination to include walking, ■■ The 2040 Moving Forward Plan, a Regional Transportation Plan, biking, carpooling, and taking the passed by Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) in 2015, bus. Think Sustainable Mobility! identifies existing and future transportation needs and strategies. ■■ Contact City and County leaders to encourage infill, complete streets, Increased accessibility, integration, and connectivity: and a focus on connectivity.
■■ Colorado Springs was designated a Silver-Level Bicycle Friendly ■■ Support development that creates City by the League of American Bicyclists in 2008 and 2012. A senior walkable communities. bicycle planner was hired in 2016 with the goal of pursuing a Gold-level recognition within the next five years. ■■ Get involved in the Colorado Springs Bike Master Plan process. ■■ The Pikes Peak Greenway runs 16 miles south from the Air Force ■ Academy boundary, connecting with 13 parks or trails along the way. ■ Consider purchasing a Low Emitting Fuel Efficient (LEFE) vehicle. ■■ UCCS achieved Bike Friendly University Bronze designation in 2014.
■■ Colorado Springs continues to add to its 100 miles of on-street bicycle routes, 4.5 miles of buffered bike lanes, nearly 120 miles of urban bike LEGACY LOOP trails, and more than 60 miles of unpaved mountain bike trails. The 10-mile Legacy Loop is underway and will dramatically improve the safety and ■■ PPACG Area Agency on Aging and Mountain Metro Transit have
TRANSPORTATION functionality of the Pikes Peak Greenway partnered to offer a Senior Ambassador Program to help seniors get creating a critically needed and regionally acquainted with the city bus system and increase ridership. significant east-west trail connection along the Rock Island Trail corridor. $1M was ■■ In March 2016 The Board of Directors of the Old North End Neighborhood received from Great Outdoors Colorado, GOCO, (ONEN) unanimously adopted A Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Plan in 2015, and $1.5 million is allocated from for the Old North End. The plan calls for concurrently “safety sizing” the City from PPRTA and TOPS. A community 4 major north-south arterial streets through the Old North End and 2 collection has thus far raised $20,000. east-west routes. 40 Reduction in transportation-related fossil fuel use:
■■ The Southern Colorado Clean Cities Coalition reports that in 2014 stakeholder fleets reduced their transportation fuel use by more than 2 million gallons saving 9,800 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
■■ At Fort Carson, 70% of non-tactical fleet vehicles use Flexfuel E85.
■■ The City has added 8 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations .
Decreased single-occupancy vehicles, increased public transportation:
■■ Mountain Metro Transit (MMT) provided over 3 million fixed-bus rides in 2015, a 19% increase since 2010. MMT also added two 15-minute service routes, Route 5 and the Nevada corridor, to increase ridership. MMT has a Summer Haul Pass for kids 18 and under for just $25.
■■ To enhance the flow of traffic, improve transit reliability, and make roads safer for all, Colorado created theYield to Bus Law . In 2016 Colorado Springs City Council passed an ordinance to enforce the law locally.
■■ In 2013, the Teller County Local Coordinating Council, as part of a long term, multi-county public transit and rideshare program, arranged the purchase of two high capacity and accessible shuttle buses and built two bus shelters in Cripple Creek and Victor. The shuttle provides previously unavailable service for low-income, disabled, and elderly residents, tourists, and students.
■■ Fort Carson significantly increasedshuttle riders on post from 3,800 per month in October 2013 to over 10,000 in May 2015.
■■ In 2015, City Council unanimously passed a resolution declaring June as Bike Month in Colorado Springs to raise awareness of cycling as a viable transportation option and its positive impact on the economy and on health.
■■ Starting in 2013, the Active Transportation Advisory Committee has provided input to the City Transportation Advisory Board on bicycling and pedestrian transportation projects.
■■ In 2014 Manitou Springs partnered with MMT to provide a free summer shuttle bus service . Over 115,000 rides were recorded for the 2015 tourist season, leading to expansion to year-round service.
■■ McCabe’s Tavern surrendered a parking space in front of its establishment for dedicated bicycle parking.
BUSTANG Bustang is the new Interregional Express Bus service from the Colorado Department of Transportation. Bustang connects commuters and travelers on I-25 and I-70 to and from Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Glenwood Springs, and more during peak TRANSPORTATION commuting hours, Monday through Friday.
BIKE CLINIC AND BIKE CLINIC TOO In 1993, Peter Sprunger-Froese, joined later by Brian Gravestock (above), started the Bike Clinic to assemble and distribute free refurbished bikes to the homeless. These used bicycles provided a way to seek employment, get to appointments, attend classes, and find independence. Demand was always significant, and in 2010 Brian opened the sister shop, Bike Clinic Too. Many partners have helped in the effort including Criterium Bicycles, which has provided the original space, Pikes Peak Community Foundation, Catholic Charities, and more. Criterium Bicycles and Old Town Bike Shop collect bikes and parts from those who wish to donate.
41 WATER QUANTITY The water quantity goals in PPR 2030 focus on a regional approach of meeting the water supply needs of the Pikes Peak region through efficient use of water from all sources and by leveraging reusable water supplies to the fullest extent.
BASIC GOALS By 2030, the region’s water use is met by currently-owned water supply and is as efficient as possible through application of best management practices.
■■ The region utilizes 100% of its reusable water supplies including but not limited to nonpotable water, water exchange programs, and transmountain water.
■■ Residential water use is at or below 80 gallons per person per day; 80% of commercial and industrial users in the region employ best water management practices.
■■ Landscaping for each intended use is resource-efficient.
“Water is the driving force of all nature.” -Leonardo da Vinci
COLORADO’S STATE WATER PLAN In 2013 Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper directed the Colorado Water Conservation Board to draft a water plan to address the state’s water challenges—drought, wildfire, flooding, climate change, and unprecedented population growth. The final water plan was released by the Governor on Nov 19, 2015 after a two-year collaborative process involving over 30,000 people around the state.
■■ Sets the first-ever statewide water conservation targets for cities and towns, prioritizing water conservation. WATER QUANTITY ■■ Creates guidelines so that any new laws and policies follow guidelines about water use and reuse in Colorado.
■■ Recognizes that to meet our future water needs, we must change the status quo from focusing on new, large transmountain diversions to prioritizing conservation, reuse, and recycling.
43 WATER QUANTITY ACHIEVEMENTS Reusable water supply utilization:
■■ Upon completion in 2016, the Southern Delivery System (SDS) will supply Southern Colorado partner communities with water through the next several decades. Beyond meeting growing demands, SDS diversifies water portfolios, helps protect against drought, and increases the reliability of existing water systems, using water already owned by the SDS partners.
■■ The Caitlin Pilot Project, approved in Jan 2015, will demonstrate an alternative to “buying and drying up” irrigated agricultural land. The pilot will use certain shares in the Caitlin Canal Company as a temporary municipal supply for the Town of Fowler and provide an additional municipal water supply for the City of Fountain and the Security Water District during the ten-year pilot period.
■■ Fort Carson has invested over $4 million to expand the reclaimed water system used to irrigate the post golf course since the 1970s to also include sports fields and other turf areas on post. This system allows for irrigation with treated water from the onsite wastewater treatment plant instead of with drinking water.
Lower residential water use and commercial/ industrial best water management practices:
■■ CSU completed an update of its Water Use Efficiency Plan THE CITY OF FOUNTAIN AND in 2015. Assuming a household size of 2.5 people, residential COLORADO SPRINGS UTILITIES (CSU) use averaged 94 gallons per capita per day from 2008 through The City of Fountain and Colorado Springs Utilities 2015. Usage from 2013 through 2015 was substantially lower use the Colorado WaterWise “Live Like You because of water restrictions and wetter than normal weather Love It” toolkit for educating constituents about (meeting the 2030 target of 80 GPCD for residential use in Colorado water, conservation, water quality, and 2015). water supply. CSU provides educational programs for residents, businesses, and schools, including ■■ The City of Fountain and CSU have set tiered water rates to 10,000 to 12,000 children a year. encourage lower water use. The lower the use, the lower the cost; the higher the use of water, the higher the cost.
■■ Municipal utilities also offered many rebates and incentives to residential, commercial, and industrial water users in 2015. Through the CSU WaterSense® showerhead exchange and retail markdown program, participating customers saved 15,006,567 gallons of water.
“Water makes the West as we know it. When you touch water, you touch everything, from
WATER QUANTITY WATER ski resorts to agriculture to towns and cities.” - Former U.S. Senator Mark Udall
44 Landscaping for each intended use WHAT CAN YOU DO? is resource-efficient: ■■ Conserve water indoors by using water efficient products. ■■ In 2015, more than 4,500 CSU customers attended 228 classes, presentations, and training sessions, including Xeriscape Basics, ■■ Landscape with native and water-wise Irrigation Efficiency, Drip Irrigation, Xeriscape Garden Tours, and plants suitable for your climate, sun, other water conservation courses. and soil conditions.
■ ■ In 2013, City Parks developed an ongoing program for reducing ■■ Mulch plants and amend soil with the amount of underutilized irrigated Kentucky bluegrass to help compost and organic products. maintain a healthier and more sustainable parks system. As a result, 15 acres of Kentucky bluegrass has been converted to ■■ Use stormwater that falls on hard native grass at Wasson and Keller Parks. surfaces as a resource to reduce irrigation needs. ■■ In 2015, CSU provided free irrigation system inspections and analyses of landscape irrigation efficiency to 30 commercial ■■ Adjust or use the existing rise and fall customers. CSU piloted a WaterSense® Builder Incentive of the ground to direct water slowly Program, the first of its kind in the nation. Since 2013, 22 new across your landscape. homes received WaterSense® certification and rebates. ■■ Put in a rain garden with plants that ■■ The City of Colorado Springs continued a cooperative program withstand short periods of standing with CSU to improve park irrigation efficiency. In 2014, the water as well as dry conditions. program led to 34 irrigation system audits, 17 park irrigation system retrofits covering 57 acres, and four new irrigation ■■ Include features such as pavers or rock controllers, which contributed to an estimated 9,564,900 gallons that allow stormwater to percolate into of water savings. Through 2015, nearly 80% of all neighborhood the ground. parks have received irrigation system upgrades, resulting in an ■■ Participate in public processes related overall irrigation efficiency improvement of nearly 20% savings. to integrated water and stormwater planning.
■■ Support new and redevelopment “If there is magic on this planet, projects that incorporate porous surfaces and low impact choices. it is contained in water.” ■■ Work with government officials to - Loren Eiseley adopt onsite, low impact stormwater management criteria and regulations. WATER QUANTITY PIKES PEAK PERMACULTURE Pikes Peak Permaculture provides communities and individuals with classes and landscape designs using organic gardening and permaculture techniques to create edible gardens and water-wise landscapes. Techniques such as improving soil conditions and shaping the landscape allow rain water to slow down, spread out, and sink in to support plants, reduce runoff, and recharge ground water.
45 Appendix
46 AGRICULTURE/FOOD Arkansas Valley Organic Growers: Community Supported Agriculture. http://headwatersgrowers.coop/
Care and Share: A food bank serving and distributing food throughout Southern Colorado. http://careandshare.org/AboutUs.aspx
Colorado Springs Food Policy Advisory Board: Established to advise City Council and the El Paso County Commissioners on matters of policies, programs, operations, and land use rights affecting local food issues. https://coloradosprings.gov/city-council/page/food-policy-advisory-board
Colorado Springs Food Rescue: Volunteers rescuing and delivering healthy food from local donors to community organization recipients, helping combat food waste and hunger. http://coloradospringsfoodrescue.org/
The Downtown Public Market Task Force: Promoting the establishment of a year-round Downtown Colorado Springs public market. http://cspublicmarket.com/
Farmers Market Schedule: http://springsbargains.com/colorado-springs-farmers-market-schedule/ Flying Pig Farm: Located in Manitou Springs, aims to share agricultural process and products with the community while pursuing Biodynamic certification and reconnecting with the art of agriculture. https://www.facebook.com/Flying-Pig-Farm-in-Manitou-Springs-CO-1462992640649458/
Green Cities Coalition Local Food Working Group: Dedicated to achieving tangible local food shift in our region. http://greencitiescoalition.net/
Local Food CS App: Easily find who is growing or producing local food, where to buy local food, and which eateries (and drinkeries) are sourcing local in Colorado Springs and throughout the Pikes Peak Region. http://www.localmotiveco.com/local-food-cs/
Local Food Shift Magazine: Launching in early September 2015 and publishing quarterly, Local Food Shift is a regional print and digital magazine providing a powerful platform weaving together the saga of the awakening Colorado foodshed and its shift from a globalized industrial food system to a localized regional food supply chain. http://www.localfoodshift.pub/
Peak to Plains Alliance: A coalition of community and agricultural leaders in Southeastern Colorado seeking to collaborate on a myriad of projects related to local agriculture and conservation. http://www.peaktoplains.com/
Pikes Peak Urban Gardens: Encourages local production and consumption by managing community gardens, providing education and connecting growers to the public. http://ppugardens.org/
Colorado State University Extension Office: Provides information and education, and encourages the application of research- based knowledge in response to local, state, and national issues affecting individuals, youth, families, agricultural enterprises, and communities of Colorado. Appendix http://extension.colostate.edu/ ■■ El Paso County Extension Office:http://elpasoco.colostate.edu/ ■■ Teller County Extension Office:http://www.extension.colostate.edu/teller/
Venetucci Farm: Known for its Pumpkin Patch, Venetucci is a working farm connecting community through education and through growing and distributing healthy food. http://ppcf.org/our-projects/venetucci-farm/
47 Appendix 48 http://woodlandparkarts.com/ and abroad-based as culture Alliance: art Serves lead organization Arts Woodland Park in Woodland Park and surrounding areas. http://uccs.edu/~goca/ for the people, with Art the people, by the people—free! Art: ofContemporary Gallery UCCS http://pikespeakartscouncil.org/ and encourages Council: Supports individual in allPikes artists disciplines. Arts Peak http://payo.org/ Youth to Colorado’s Brings Organization: the arts Arts youthPerforming for over years. 45 http://themat.org/ Creates Theatre: new and original for Pikes the live Peak region.Millibo performances Arts https://www.culturaloffice.org/ ininformation community. the cultural about services distributing and coordinating for organization lead the as Pikesthe of Serves Peak Region (COPPeR): Office Cultural http://cottonwoodcenterforthearts.com/ a thriving district. downtown arts Classes, galleries, Arts: the and for theater Center to promoteCottonwood the exploration of acreative life and development of http://csphilharmonic.org/ orchestra. Colorado’s resident professional only Philharmonic: Springs Southern Colorado http://www.csfineartscenter.org/ theater. arts performing and Cultural inspiration Center: through Fine Springs Arts architecture,Colorado education, arts multiple gallery exhibits, museum, http://coloradospringsconservatory.org/ region’s The Springs Conservatory: Colorado only pre K-12 conservatory. performing arts http://csartguild.org/ Guild: Dedicated to the advancement Art Springs and artists. ofColorado fine arts http://aratiartists.com/ from the Pikes of artists Peak Coop region Gallery: –painters, sculptors, Artist potters… Arati http://www.concretecouch.org/ and create environments and experiences that humanize our world. organization An Couch: dedicatedConcrete to working and with kids community groups to create public build art, community, AND CULTUREARTS
Appendix 49
http://www.fountain-crk.org/ Implements studies and projects to mitigate flooding, Fountain flooding, Creek Watershed Flood mitigate Control to projects and District: and studies Greenway Implements erosion and sedimentation; address water quality; protect drainage; open improve and space; develop recreational opportunities including open space. Offer program and events at two nationally recognized nature centers (Bear centers PasoEl County nature recognized Recreation & Cultural two Services: at nationally events Offer and program trails. of 85 and miles parkland, of acres 7,000 over County El Paso the Creek), Fairground, Fountain and Creek http://adm.elpasoco.com/CommunityServices/RecandCulturalSvc/Pages/default.aspx Promotes and protects public health and environmental quality in the community through people, people, through community the in quality environmental and health PasoEl County public protects and Health: Public Promotes and partnerships.prevention http://www.elpasocountyhealth.org/ Engaging citizens, leaders in local government, and the community in conversation about conversation in community the and government, local in Colorado leaders Springs Urban citizens, Intervention: Engaging environmental urban planning. PasoEl County Fountain Creek Nature Center: Through class field trips, recreation classes, community wide special events, visitors. and County El Paso to opportunities citizens entertainment and recreational, educational, provides Center the http://adm.elpasoco.com/CommunityServices/RecandCulturalSvc/Pages/default.aspx https://coloradosprings.gov/planning/page/infill-and-redevelopment/ https://www.facebook.com/BetterBlockPikesPeak Advises City leadership on strategies to support to Colorado and Springs strategies Infillon Steering andRedevelopment Committee: City Advises leadership the City. throughout redevelopment and infill encourage The recovery program is supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) National Service’s Black Footed Ferret Wildlife and Fish U.S. Recovery: the supported by is The program recovery Phoenix, Springs, Colorado in institutions as zoological northern in as well Colorado Conservation Center Ferret Black-footed animals excess provide and ferrets, captive raise and breed, husband, to continue will These facilities Toronto. and Louisville, County. Pueblo in efforts reintroduction as accomplished annual for 150-250) (approximately https://www.fws.gov/Endangered/news/episodes/bu-01-2012/black-footed_ferret/index.html The Arkansas Fountain wastewater Coalition for Urban independent (AFand Evaluation River CURE): 11 of An association counties. Pueblo and El Paso in located entities discharging http://afcure.org/ A national membership association of professional architects that promotes advocacy and and advocacy promotes that architects American professional of Institute association Architects: of membership A national communities. and between its members sharing information http://www.aiacolorado.org/aboutus/LocalChapters/AiaColoradoSouth.aspx BUILT AND NATURAL AND ENVIRONMENT BUILT Appendix 50 http://www.usgbccolorado.org/soco/index.html buildings. saving-green energy and efficient cost- through future sustainable and prosperous a to committed Building organization membership Green national US Council: A http://colorado.uli.org/ project tours, policy services. and work, advisory best practices in land Supports use Colorado: through education Institute programs, Land Urban mentoring, events, networking http://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/ bikeways and greenways for Pikes the Peak region. Trails Dedicated Coalition: Spaces Open and to preservation of open space and and parks, the creation of trails, of anetwork http://sierraclub.org/rocky-mountain-chapter/ advocacy. and activism Club: Sierra https://www.rmfi.org/ landscapes. Colorado southern protect and conserve engages Actively diverse on that community help volunteers projects Field corps Institute: and conservation Mountain Rocky http://www.ppacg.org/environment/ 1970s. PPACG led and administered the regional Plan. planning to create the PPR2030 effort Lake, Ramah, Victor, and Woodland PPACG Park. has coordinated plans to protect the quality of our air and water since the early Alma, Calhan, Colorado Springs, Cripple Creek, Fairplay, Fountain, Green Mountain Falls, Manitou Springs, Monument, Palmer governmentsand county aregional serving community. PPACG members include ElPaso County, Park County, Teller County, Pikes The ofGovernments: Council Peak CouncilPikes Area Area of Peak Governments is organization avoluntary of municipal http://palmerlandtrust.org/ Trust:Palmer Protecting Land farms and ranches, wildlife habitat, scenic corridors, and public open spaces in southern Colorado. BUILT ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL Works on alocal, state and national level to help citizens explore, enjoy and protect the environment through outings,
Appendix 51
An all-volunteer, non-profit group of local active and retired businessmen interested in helping you to help you startyou help to up a you helping in interested businessmen retired and active local of group non-profit SCORE: An all-volunteer, successful. more business small existing your make to or business https://coloradosprings.score.org/ http://ppwfc.org/ Pikes Peak WorkforcePikes Center: Workforce The Peak and job seekers Pikes Center connects with vital work-ready businesses services.employer-driven A membership network serving in the capacity of a “Green Chamber of of Peak SustainablePikes Chamber Business network Network: capacity a “Green the of serving in A membership practices. business sustainable and importance the green on of its members educating Commerce,” http://www.catamountinstitute.org/businesses/ppsbn/about-ppsbn/ Offers business consulting and training that maximizes the economic economic the maximizes that training and Center: Business Development Peak Small consulting OffersPikes business region. Peak Pikes the within entrepreneurs of potential http://www.pikespeaksbdc.org/ Providing resources and opportunities that change individual lives and build Peak Library build Library – Pikes and lives District: opportunities and individual 21C resources change that Providing Transform. Seek. Engage. community. Peak a Makerspace: membership composedPikes of Builders, Tinkerers, Engineers, Artist, Entrepreneurs, Designers, Educators education. for and fun for items physical create to people for equipment and space with a facility providing http://pikespeakmakerspace.org/ http://epicentral.org/ http://ppld.org/library-21c/ Invigorating the local economy by being a downtown epicenter of entrepreneurship, business, and creativity. and business, entrepreneurship, of epicenter a downtown being by economy local the Epicentral Coworking: Invigorating Downtown heart Springs. Partnership: Colorado civic of and cultural serves economic, as the Downtown that Ensuring http://downtowncs.com/ A membership network serving as the primary advocate of the Colorado Springs Springs Colorado the of network primary serving advocate as the Colorado A membership Business Springs Alliance: Regional growth economic regional building to and sizes all of serving business to dedicated community, business region’s Peak Pikes and and prosperity. http://www.coloradospringsbusinessalliance.com/ region. Peak Pikes the and Springs Colorado for resource Colorado news Springs Business Journal: Business http://www.csbj.com/ every stage. at companies technology growth for stimulate to designed Catalyst environment Campus: A holistic http://www.catalystcampus.com Better Business Bureau – Southern Colorado: BBB people helps find andrecommend businesses, brands,and charities they can trust. http://www.bbb.org/southern-colorado/ An event for local entrepreneurs to meet and present their startups to the thriving peer peer startups thriving their the to present and meet to Cups entrepreneurs Colorado local for 1 Million An Springs: event Springs. Colorado in network founders of http://www.1millioncups.com/coloradosprings/ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/GREEN BUSINESS Appendix 52 http://www.uccs.edu/ community. university vibrant a in academically with Provides students rigorous and life-enriching (UCCS): Springs experiences Colorado ofColorado University http://energy.gov/eere/sunshot/solar-ready-vets/ industry. energy solar in the careers SunShot Vets: Ready The Initiative’sSolar SolarReady Vets® program connects our nation’s skilled veterans to prepare them for http://www.rmfi.org/ volunteer-based trail and restoration environmental projects, education, and restoration research. Promotes Field Institute: the conservation Mountain and stewardshipRocky of public lands in through Rockies the Southern http://www.rmi.org/ spreading and innovation. barriers, busting and design,transforming identifying independent, An Institute: entrepreneurial, Mountain Rocky nonprofitthink-and-do tankthat drives progress chiefly by http://www.propriuslearning.org/ discovery. individual toward Fostering natural Center: learning Learning Proprius and personal by growth maintaining acollaborative community geared https://www.ppcc.edu/ and community needs.success College: ProvidingPikes Community Peak high quality, educational opportunities accessible to all, with afocus on student http://www.ppboces.org/ with their communities, our mission is to listen, lead, and help school students. districts serve connect helping training teacher to schools to education special From Services: Education ofCooperative Pikes Board Peak https://www.juniorachievement.org/web/ja-soco/colorado-springs/ Inspiring Colorado: Junior Achievement and ofSouthern preparing young people to succeed in aglobal economy. http://www.cpcdheadstart.org/ excellent comprehensive diverse with families in partnership childhood early services and community. the Prepares children Child Development for Start: –Head for success in Partnership school and inCommunity life by providing https://www.coloradocollege.edu/ their lives. College: DevelopingColorado habits of intellect and imagination that will prepare students for learning and leadership throughout http://www.catamountinstitute.org/ Conference. Sustainability activities for youth, and community awareness through the Pikes Peak Sustainable and Business Colorado Network and programs educational through stewardship ecological Environment): (see Promotes Natural also Institute Catamount EDUCATION
Appendix 53
Their Rocky Mountain Chapter promotes clean energy through their grassroots efforts to protect the air, water, land land water, efforts grassroots air, the their protect to through energy clean promotes Rocky: Their Chapter Mountain .
A grassroots movement committed to promoting the health and vitality of the region through education and advocacy of of advocacy and education through vitality region the and of health the promoting to committed movement org: A grassroots . clean energy. http://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/ 350 http://www.tellerenergy.com/ Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA): Offering energy audits and renewable energy credits to their electric County. customers Teller in and efficiency, water efficiency, energy for effective marketplace a robust, of advancement the Recharge Colorado: Promotes renewable energy projects Colorado in and beyond to benefit consumers and businesses. Southeastern Colorado Energy Society Renewable (SECRES): A regional nonprofit promoting, educating andadvocating for energy efficiency andrenewable energy. Sierra Club Office Energy the for promote Upper to Platte South the Energy:and Coalition Governor’s between the A partnership Teller energy conservation and efficiency Teller County. practicesfor http://www.erc-co.org/ http://irea.coop/ http://rechargecolorado.org/ http://secres.org/ and wildlife. http://sierraclub.org/rocky-mountain-chapter/ Assists income-qualified residents stay efficiently warm and safe by providing weatherization, furnace furnace weatherization, providing by safe efficientlyand Energy warm stay Resource Center:residents Assists income-qualified services. insulation and Black Hills Energy: utility An Hills Black investor-owned electricity, providing natural gas and energy efficiency services toresidents and County. Teller in businesses Colorado Springs Utilities: Providing electric, natural gas and water services to Colorado Springs. Also offering energy and water efficiency assistance,rebates andrenewable energyincentives. https://www.csu.org/pages/cec-r.aspx ENERGY (RENEWABLEENERGY ENERGY/EFFICIENCY/CONSERVATION) Colorado Natural Gas: Providing energy audits and efficiency rebatesTeller to Countynatural their gascustomers in through Excess Out program. is their http://coloradonaturalgas.com/ Colorado Springs Utilities Conservation and Center: Environment A one-stop-shop for to things related energy all and water efficiency. https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/ https://www.csu.org/Pages/default.aspx Appendix 54 https://www.penrosestfrancis.org/ Center. Medical Francis St. and Hospital Penrose-St http://www.peakvista.org/ medical, dental and behavioral health care in acollaborative for setting people of all ages. providingto dedicated exceptional Center Health Qualified Federally nonprofit A Centers: Health Community Vista Peak http://peakmilitarycarenet.org/about/ for information, navigation, and integrated services. community’s members, military service veterans, and their families to the highest quality resources by providing acentral source providers of service Anetwork and community that connect partners the needs Network: of our Care Military Peak https://www.uchealth.org/southerncolorado/pages/default.aspx 2012. since outcomes, ahealth of care UCHealth, Aproud system part recognized Hospital: Memorial anational as leader in quality, research, and https://about.livewellcolorado.org/home/ LiveWell Anonprofit organization Colorado: committed to reducingColorado in obesity by promoting healthy eating and active living. http://hnacolorado.com/ Together. Communities Business and Holistic Bringing the Association: Networkers Holistic http://www.elpasocountyhealth.org/services/healthy-eating-active-living/ living education, collaboration, and outreach County. throughout Paso El Public ElPaso County Living: Health’s Active Eating Healthy Community Educators Health focus on healthy eating and active http://www.elpasocountyhealth.org/service/healthy-community-collaborative/ people in ElPaso County. work together Community partners to create Collaborative: Communities Healthier an action plan to improve the health of the http://connectforhealthco.com/ in Colorado. insurance small purchasing health and employers individuals Colorado’s Colorado: Health for Insurance increasing - Marketplace Health Connect affordability, access, and choice for http://www.ppchp.org/ health of Pikes the Peak region through collaboration. Acommunity collaboration of local health providers Partnership: with the enduring Health purpose to improveCommunity the HEALTH Francis Health Services: Afull-service, Services: 522-bed Health .Francis acute care facility in Colorado Springs which includes Penrose
Appendix 55
fostering conservation, and reuse through creativity, education and community building. community and education creativity, Who through conservation, Gives reuse a Scrap: and fostering Managing and reducing waste from collection to disposal while recovering valuable resources and creating creating and resources valuable recovering while disposal to collection from waste reducing and Waste Management: Managing renewableclean, energy. http://www.wm.com/index.jsp http://www.whogivesascrapcolorado.com/ Turning recycled circuit boards into wearable art. wearable into boards circuit recycled Turning Techwears: http://www.techwears.com/ http://www.springbackco.org/ Fully recycling mattresses and box springs to achieve the triple bottom line: People, People, bottom line: triple the achieve to springs box mattresses and BackSpring Colorado recycling Mattress Fully Recycling: Planet, Purpose. https://www.facebook.com/Recycling-Coalition-of-Colorado-Springs-199461086739611/ Volunteers rescuing and delivering healthy food from local donors to community organization organization community to donors local from food healthy delivering and rescuing Colorado Springs Volunteers Food Rescue: combat foodrecipients, helping waste and hunger. Paso El County to County residents Household Hazardous County El Paso Teller all and for Waste Facility: program A free drop off household chemicals, electronics, medical waste and (pills, basic medicine), recyclables. to advocates recycling and haulers, waste governments, local supported by program A new on the Rise: Peak Recycling Pikes opportunities. recycling participation and existing in awareness public increase and organizations, entities, Coalition governmental of ColoradoRecycling business, of A Springs: coalition community individuals committed to increasing recycling in Colorado Springs. in leaders and individuals guides and supports, that educates, organization Colorado Association A membership for Recycling: resources. marketable into waste of amounts greater ever turns that action to take government and nonprofits, education, business, http://www.cafr.org/index.php http://coloradospringsfoodrescue.org/ http://adm.elpasoco.com/Environmental%20Division/Household%20Hazardous%20Waste/Pages/default.aspx http://www.indygive.com/participating-non-profits/community-building/pikes-peak-recycling-on-the-rise/ disAbilities. other and autism with people for jobs local create to materials other and electronics StarBlue Recycling Recyclers: http://www.bluestarrecyclers.org/ Single stream means customers can mix any acceptable recyclable items into a single a single into items recyclable acceptable any mix can customers means stream Bestway Single Disposal and Recycling: can. trash normal your like just left curb is the at that container http://bestwaydisposal.com/recycling/ MATERIALS MANAGEMENT (RECYCLING/WASTE/PROCUREMENT) Appendix 56 http://southerncoloradocleancities.blogspot.com/ fuels and advanced vehicles, fuel blends, fuel economy, hybrid vehicles, idle reduction, and alternative modes of transportation. alternative promote to Colorado in southern partnerships public/private Develops Coalition: Cities Clean Colorado Southern http://pprta.com/ Five local governments collaborating Authority: Pikes Transportation Rural Peak on aregional approach issues. to transportation https://www.pptrailmaps.com/collections/pikes-peak-region/ Pikes Region Peak Trails: A14 map series covering the entire Pikes Peak Region. http://www.traillink.com/trail/pikes-peak-greenway-trail.aspx to the ElPomar Park. Youth Sports Pikes Greenway Peak Trail: This trail runs throughout Colorado Springs, from just of south the Academy Force United Air States http://www.ppacg.org/transportation/tip/ improvement program to determine investment priorities for billions of dollars in federal, state, and local funds. transportation and plan regional maintains a and transportation area metro Springs Colorado the for (MPO) Organization PPACG is Program: the federally Transportation ofGovernments Council designatedPikes Area Peak Metropolitan Planning https://coloradosprings.gov/department/91/ Pikes Peak region. is Transit: the source primary of clean, MMT Metropolitan safe,Mountain and economical public in the services transportation http://www.ridebustang.com/ more. and Springs Collins, Glenwood Denver, from and travelers to and Fort Springs, Colorado Bustang: http://www.bikecoloradosprings.org/ for people on bikes. Springs: TransformingBike Colorado the Pikes Peak region into avibrant and connected community that is safe and accessible https://coloradosprings.gov/public-works/page/active-transportation-advisory-committee-atac/ limits.forms within of active city lifestyles the residents of from Colorado Springs the city advocates as who serve committee and on an cycling, advisory running and other asub-committee to the As Citizens Committee: Transportation Board. ATAC Advisory Advisory Transportation Active are http://www.ppacg.org/transportation/long-range-plan/ plantransportation identifies existing andfuture needstransportation for along strategieswith to addressthem. Plan: Adopted by the Pike Moving Forward Peak Council Area of Governments2040 in 2015, this long-range regional TRANSPORTATION A new Interregional from the of Colorado Bus service Transportation. Department Express connects Bustang commuters
Appendix 57
https://www3.epa.gov/watersense/ Seeks to provide education and instruction to the general public on the ethics, principles and applied applied and principles ethics, the on public general the to instruction and education Seeks Peak Permaculture: provide to Pikes technologies of the of discipline Permaculture. Springs, Colorado to Reservoir Pueblo in stored Arkansas water bring to River Southern project Delivery System: a regional SecurityFountain, West. Pueblo and high maintain and money save that choices smart water make consumers help seeks to WaterSense®: that program An EPA standardsenvironmental without performance. compromising http://www.lavwcd.com/ http://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ http://www.sdswater.org/ The LAVWCD’s mission is to acquire, retain and conserve water ArkansasLower conserve Conservancy water and Water retain Valley District: Theacquire, to LAVWCD’s is mission Arkansas the Lower within resources River. Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control District: and Greenway and funds the Manages, administers, capital improvements necessary the in Fountain Creek Watershed to mitigate flooding, erosion andaddress sedimentation; water quality improve issues; space. open including opportunities, recreational public develop and space; open protect drainage; http://www.fountain-crk.org/ Collaboration between public and private stakeholders will be critical to restoration restoration to critical be will stakeholders Fountain private Creek and Restoration between Committee: public Collaboration Fountain Creek. enhance to with the strong desire urban pressures projects, balancing http://restorefountaincreek.org/fcrc/ Colorado Springs Utilities Conservation and Center: Environment A one-stop-shop for to things related energy all and water efficiency. water demand-side and supply of Colorado Springs Use Utilities Efficiency – Water examination A detailed Plan: conservation measures. healthy supporting while needs water future Colorado’s meet that solutions planning Colorado supply State water Plan: Water watershedsand environment. efficient the use in leader. collaborative serving as the and resources, providing Colorado stakeholders, WaterWise: Connecting Colorado. in water urban of http://coloradowaterwise.org/ A fallowing-leasing pilot project to use certain shares in the Catlin Canal Company as an augmentation augmentation as an Company Canal Catlin the in certain use to shares project pilot Caitlin Project: Pilot A fallowing-leasing supply water municipal additional an provide to and Wells Fowler of Town the for supply a temporary municipal provide to source HB to 13-1248, pursuant period approval project pilot a ten-year during District Security the City the and for Water Fountain of CRS § 37-60-115(8)(2013). http://cwcb.state.co.us/water-management/water-projects-programs/Pages/Fallowing-LeasingPilotProjects.aspx https://www.csu.org/pages/cec-r.aspx https://www.csu.org/CSUDocuments/wateruseefficiencyplan.pdf https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cowaterplan/about-colorados-water-plan/ WATER 2016 PIKES PEAK Regional SUSTainability Report
The Appendix to this report, available only in the online version, provides a list of organizations involved in regional sustainability efforts. To join, support, or learn more about an organization please visit peakalliance .co. You’ll also find more information about Peak Alliance and the PPR2030 plan.