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The I-70 Scout & Eastern Colorado News

Category: Colorado News

  • Best 9 Coziest Small Towns in Colorado – To Visit This Winter [New Study]

    Best 9 Coziest Small Towns in Colorado – To Visit This Winter [New Study]

    It’s the time of year when we’re layering on sweaters and blankets, and to celebrate the winter season, the dating reviews website MyDatingAdviser.com has ranked the coziest small towns in the USA.

    These Colorado towns are considered the coziest: Breckenridge (ranked No. 5 coziest in the nation), Leadville (12th), Silverton (13th), Telluride (17th), Snowmass (26th), Steamboat Springs (63rd), Mancos (83rd), Aspen (86th) and Salida (103).

    To determine the coziest small towns in America, MyDatingAdviser compared 170 well-known small towns across the country on ten key metrics.

    They looked into winter temperature, average snowfall, cafes, bakeries, crafts, and bookshops, among other indicators of a cozy small town. By analyzing the data points, each town has been given a ‘Cozy Town Index Score,’ representing the level of coziness you might experience in that small town.

    If you’re in the mood for cozy towns to get into the winter spirit, here are some of the best small towns across the country to visit for some serious winter comfort.

    Here are the 9 coziest towns in Colorado: 

    1. Breckenridge

    You’ll find stunning Colorado mountain vistas year-round in this former gold rush town. In winter, powder hounds flock to Breckenridge’s ski resorts to shred powder. Once the weather warms up, outdoor pursuits like hiking and biking the Vail Pass Path and Boreas Pass Road become the main things to do. Regardless of the visit, you’ll discover plenty of breweries and distilleries to unwind after a busy day.

    • Rank: #5 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 24.5 °F, Winter Season: 4.1 months, Snowfall: 300 inches, Days Below Freezing: 252.8

    1. Leadville

    At around 10,000 feet, the country’s highest-elevation incorporated city—a former mining town that during the late 19th century had Colorado’s second largest population behind Denver—boasts all the goods for foodies and beverage snobs (including a brewery) and is a popular training spot for runners.

    • Rank: #12 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 17.5 °F, Winter Season: 4 months, Snowfall: 142.7 inches, Days Below Freezing: 254.9

    1. Silverton

    When prospectors headed west in search of precious minerals in the mountains, Silverton was established in 1874. As its name implies, silver was plentiful in the San Juan Mountains, where the small town is found. Although the mining camps are long gone, and the last mines closed in the 1990s, 630 people remain in the city, filled with its original architectural combination of saloons and churches—fun fact: Silverton is 9,318 feet above sea level.

    • Rank: #13 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 16 °F, Winter Season: 3.1 months, Snowfall: 173 inches, Days Below Freezing: 263.1

    1. Telluride

    With its pristine snow and quirky mountain town vibe, it’s no secret that Telluride is a cold-weather paradise for downhill skiing and other winter adventures. But the mountain town also shines during the spring and summer, whether you’re looking for bluegrass and film festivals or vibrant wildflower hikes. In addition to outdoor recreation, downtown Telluride is home to art galleries and independently owned shops selling perfect souvenirs, like belts and wallets at Crossbow Leather and your next favorite plane read at Between the Covers Bookstore.

    • Rank: #17 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 21 °F, Winter Season: 3.5 months, Snowfall: 167.2 inches, Days Below Freezing: 259.7

    1. Snowmass

    Skiers and mountain bikers love this tiny town but so do spa and dining enthusiasts, who can be kept busy for days thanks to resorts like the Westin Snowmass Resort and Viceroy Snowmass. In addition, Anderson Ranch Arts Center is an enclave for artists through its artist-in-residence program and hosts workshops, programs, and events.

    • Rank: #26 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 21.5 °F, Winter Season: 3.5 months, Snowfall: 191.3 inches, Days Below Freezing: 210.3

    1. Steamboat Springs

    Situated along the banks of the Yampa River, this northern Colorado town offers excellent skiing conditions, a community of friendly locals, and geothermal hot springs that are perfect after a long day spent on the slopes. Travel to Steamboat in the fall for brilliant foliage in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, or visit in the spring to see the cascades at Fish Creek Falls. Meanwhile, the whole family will enjoy rafting down the Yampa River.

    • Rank: #63 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 17.5 °F, Winter Season: 3.3 months, Snowfall: 184.5 inches, Days Below Freezing: 216

    1. Mancos

    Ranches, artist workshops, and nature coexist perfectly in beautiful Mancos. Stay at a ranch, enjoy outdoor activities at Mesa Verde National Park, or stroll through the town’s Creative District. Fun fact: Mancos has several Ancient Puebloan archaeological sites.

    • Rank: #83 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 27 °F, Winter Season: 3.1 months, Snowfall: 66.9 inches, Days Below Freezing: 174.2

    1. Aspen

    Aspen’s ski slopes bring in the masses as soon as the snow starts falling, a small town with a giant reputation. However, Aspen’s charm is seasonless, as its location in the Rocky Mountains guarantees year-round trails and hikes. Although the town had an affair with counter-culture back in the day, it now draws in those seeking pampering in the form of sophisticated cuisine and luxe lodging.

    • Rank: #86 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 23 °F, Winter Season: 3.5 months, Snowfall: 179 inches, Days Below Freezing: 14

    1. Salida

    What do you get when your town is home to FIBArk, the country’s oldest and biggest white water festival? A bunch of former river guides are running things. “We’re everywhere,” jokes Mike “Diesel” Post, Salida’s Director of Parks and Recreation, who says the Arkansas River is central to town life. “You can ski Monarch Mountain, then kayak, and have time left for mountain biking,” adds mayor emeritus P.T. Wood, who is—you guessed it—also a former guide. More of an artsy soul? Salida is also home to Colorado’s first Creative District, with many artist-owned galleries to visit.

    • Rank: #103 out of 170 cities

    • Average Winter Temperature: 27.5 °F, Winter Season: 3.2 months, Snowfall: 43 inches, Days Below Freezing: 204.6


    Find the 20 coziest small towns in the USA:

    1. Stockholm, Wisconsin

    2. Stowe, Vermont

    3. Stanley, Idaho

    4. Ellicottville, New York

    5. Breckenridge, Colorado

    6. Medora, North Dakota

    7. Lake Placid, New York

    8. Keystone, South Dakota

    9. Mackinac Island, Michigan

    10. Lake George, New York

    11. Deadwood, South Dakota

    12. Leadville, Colorado

    13. Silverton, Colorado

    14. Saugatuck, Michigan

    15. Leavenworth, Washington

    16. Kohler, Wisconsin

    17. Telluride, Colorado

    18. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

    19. Talkeetna, Alaska

    20. Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin


    Amy Pritchett, Editor-in-Chief at MyDatingAdviser.com, said:

    “We’ve swept the country to find some of the coziest towns in America for a winter weekend escape. Whether you’re looking for a ski lover’s paradise, a historic spot that’s still near a major metropolis, or a remote waterfront retreat, you’ll find it on this list.

    Winter can seem like a never-ending season dampened by drizzly weather, cold temperatures, and dark nights that can leave you in a miserable mood to match. Combat the seasonal blues by visiting some of the coziest small towns on this list, which can provide sanctuary and warmth while winter rages on outside.

    I encourage everyone to indulge in some cozy things. Drink hot chocolate, sit by a fireplace, read a book, enjoy warm meals, and curl up with someone special under a warm blanket.”


    What is Hygge? 

    Interestingly, the act of taking pleasure and contentment from a cozy environment is known as ‘hygge’ – a term coined by the Danes. Hygge is a central part of Danish culture, which perhaps explains why the Danes are some of the happiest people in the world.


    5 ways to stay cozy this winter

    1. Get your hygge on. Hygge is a Danish term that describes a general feeling of coziness, comfort, familiarity, and well-being. Danes embrace hygge all year and appreciate life’s simple pleasures like a scented candle, a good book, and a blanket.

    2. Cook up some comfort food. Warming yourself from the inside out is a great excuse to whip up some winter classics. Soups, casseroles, and curries are hearty favorites for a reason and are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

    3. Heat the hub. If you live in a place that’s cold enough to run a heater, think about the areas of the house that need to be kept warm and set the space up to capture the heat. Close the doors to rooms you’re not using and, if you’re able to, install unique purpose-built windows and door seals to stop the hot air escaping.

    4. Out with the old. With the weather so uninviting outside, take advantage of the warmth inside and use your extra time indoors to do a spring clean of your wardrobe. Pull out any clothes that don’t fit well or that you haven’t worn in a while.

    5. Soak those winter blues away. If all else fails, retreat to the bathroom and run yourself a warm bath. It may not quite get you through to September, but it’ll help warm you up!


    Methodology: 

    To determine the coziest small towns in the nation, MyDatingAdviser.com compared 170 well-known small towns across the following categories: 1) Weather, 2) Food, and 3) Activities.

    They then evaluated each area using 10 data points of cozy town friendliness—like average winter temperature, snowfall, cafes, bakeries, and craft shops.

    Please credit MyDatingAdviser.com: https://mydatingadviser.com/best-small-towns-in-america/.

    For more information, please contact Amy Pritchett ().

    MyDatingAdviser.com is a US dating website committed to offering singles advice and reviews. Amy Pritchett started her website in March 2019 and is passionate about providing people with love and relationship advice.

  • CPW asks residents to remove attractants and reduce bear conflicts during the fall season

    Helpful Links:
    Being Bear Aware
    Bearproofing Your Home
    Camping and Hiking In Bear Country

    DENVER – Colorado Parks and Wildlife received 3,614 bear reports from April 1 through Oct. 1, 2022, an increase from the 3,155 reports over the same timeframe the previous year. That number is growing as bears are now in hyperphagia, the period when they are preparing to den for winter and spend up to 20 hours a day on the hunt for 20,000 or more daily calories. 

    Most of the reports involve bears trying to access human food sources and CPW is calling on residents to remove attractants to reduce conflicts and keep you and the bears safe.

    “Bears are biologically driven to pack on calories in preparation for winter and they spend increasing amounts of time looking for the most efficient way to get food,” said Area 8 Wildlife Manager Matt Yamashita, whose region includes Eagle and Pitkin counties. “Residents must realize it is their responsibility to secure their trash, remove other food attractants such as bird feeders, and protect backyard livestock with appropriate electric fencing to avoid conflicts that arise from attracting bears to homes.”

    Bear reports are up statewide in 2022, and there are some areas of concern. CPW’s bear report numbers since the start of hyperphagia indicate the Aspen area is seeing more bear calls this year compared to the last two.

    Bear reports received, Aug. 1 – Sept. 30:
    2020: 1,698 statewide | 242 for Area 8 (Includes Aspen)
    2021: 887 statewide | 224 for Area 8
    2022: 1,571 statewide | 403 for Area 8

    “As usual, trash continues to be the number one attractant leading to reports this year,” Yamashita said. “The solution to controlling these artificial food sources is simple and the ability lies within the decision space of local residents and visitors. Without a change in human behaviors there is not likely to be a significant reduction in conflicts.”

    CPW promotes Bear Aware principles all year long, aiming to minimize interactions that put both humans and bears at risk. Being “Bear Aware” includes easy-to-execute behaviors such as securing trash cans and dumpsters, removing bird feeders, closing garages, cleaning and locking your car and house doors and calling CPW when bears become a nuisance. When you call to report a bear coming near your home, CPW can give you tips tailored to your situation to prevent them from coming around in the future. 

    Drought conditions and other factors that may influence the availability of natural food crops for bears varies across the state, as does the behavior of people when it relates to human-bear interactions. Those all play a role in the bear activity that we see annually. Below is a localized perspective on current bear activity across the state.
    Area 1 – Clear Creek, Gilpin, Park and west side of Jefferson counties
    “In Area 1, we had a good spring with moisture, and didn’t have the hard freeze other places had. Summer was good and had ample precipitation and the vegetation responded favorably. There were places with bumper crops of chokecherries and you would think bear-human conflicts would be down, but unfortunately that was not the case.
     
    “We continue to have issues with hobby livestock operations, mostly chickens, ducks and turkeys left unprotected. A lack of Bear Aware knowledge led to most of the conflicts we saw this year and continuing to spread awareness of best practices in bear country is vital to reducing conflicts. A few people were cited for intentionally luring bears (aka feeding). This is probably one of the most selfish acts people can do to bears. It impacts their neighbors and, most importantly, influences and changes bear behavior. 
     
    “Break-ins to unoccupied cabins and houses were way up in Area 1 and wildlife managers are trying to figure out why. It seems some rural/foothills bears have been habituated to living near humans who are not bear-wise. These bears’ behavior has progressed from wandering near homes, getting into trash/bird feeders, then going on decks to find more bird feeders/pet food, to becoming more habituated and entering houses. Fortunately, most houses that they have broken into have been unoccupied, but it is still a concerning trend.” ~ Mark Lamb, Area 1 Wildlife Manager
     
    Area 2 – Boulder County, Broomfield, the southern portion of Larimer County including Loveland, portions of southwestern Weld County
    “Human-bear interactions have been high this year in Area 2. Trash, bird seed, beehives, livestock, tents, homes/garages, vacation cabins, vehicles and pet food have all been targets. The public should haze bears using whatever methods they are comfortable with (noise, bear spray, water hose, etc.) Make sure to call CPW during business hours, or State Patrol Dispatch after hours (303-239-4501), to report any bear incidents so that we can respond appropriately.” ~ Jason Duetsch, Area 2 Wildlife Manager

    Area 3 – No reported bear activity in northeast Colorado

    Area 4 – Larimer and Weld counties
    “The natural forage for bears in Area 4 was fairly productive this year. Despite that, we did see more bear conflicts with automobiles and houses this year than we were expecting. The communities northwest of Fort Collins and the communities in the foothills experienced a high number of bears entering homes, automobiles, travel trailers and RVs. Fortunately, we did not have a large number of conflicts at campgrounds in the Poudre Canyon. This may be due in part to the U.S. Forest Service instituting regulations pertaining to bear-resistant containers as well as the installation of containers at some campgrounds. We did have several bears in the city of Fort Collins this year. We relocated several bears that were highly visible in neighborhoods and also removed a bear from CSU’s campus. Most of these were younger bears and they were getting into trash cans. Fortunately, we did not have any major issues in terms of conflicts within the city.”~ Jason Surface, Area 4 Wildlife Manager

    Area 5 – Denver Metro Area counties (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, Elbert, Jefferson and portions of Broomfield County)
    “Bear activity and human conflict continues to be an issue. Residents should be reminded to secure their trash and not put it out until the morning of trash pickup. Residents are also reminded to close their garage doors, lock their cars and remove bird feeders/hummingbird feeders to prevent bears from becoming habituated to human provided food sources. Drought conditions exist in most of Area 5 and natural food sources for bears remain inconsistent across the area. Residents are also reminded that feeding bears is illegal and creates a public safety issue.” ~ Matt Martinez, Area 5 Wildlife Manager

    Area 6 – Rio Blanco and Moffat counties
    “Area 6 has seen a higher number of human-bear interactions this year than in the past. The conflicts involve mostly younger bears looking for food and getting into the urban interface of their habitat. There was a late, hard freeze in May that has caused a loss of most of the berries and acorns so bears are looking for alternative food sources. Game damage claims with bears killing domestic sheep appears to be high this summer.” ~Bill de Vergie, Area 6 Wildlife Manager

    Area 7 – Grand Junction; Mesa and Garfield counties
    “This year from Fruita to New Castle we have seen more conflicts within town limits. Much of this activity is related to the food failure early this summer. We are seeing bears move into areas that we normally do not have them reported. We’re encouraging everyone to make sure that attractants like trash, bird feeders, and barbecue grills are properly stored to not attract bears. Additionally, residents should secure doors and close garages. If residents see bears in urban areas or have bears creating issues in the rural areas, please reach out to the local CPW office so we can prevent serious problems before they happen.” ~Kirk Oldham, Area 7 Wildlife Manager

    Area 8 – Aspen, Glenwood Springs; Eagle and Pitkin counties
    “Overall, the continued drought cycle has resulted in poor natural food production in most of Area 8. Natural berry and acorn crops were almost non-existent in many areas, similar to the past few couple years. However, bear litter sizes continued to remain high with several sows in the area having three or even four cubs. Considering the lack of natural foods, this indicates to local wildlife managers that supplementary food sources are helping bears circumvent natural control measures that mother nature employs to maintain sustainable populations. It’s no surprise that these supplementary sources continue to be unsecured trash, bird seed and residential fruit trees. As a result, there continues to be a high number of bears inhabiting municipalities across both valleys and a subsequently high number of human-black bear conflicts.” ~ Matt Yamashita, Area 8 Wildlife Manager
     
    Area 9 – Breckenridge, Hot Sulphur Springs and Granby; Grand and Summit counties
    “In Area 9, conflicts are up slightly from last year. We’ve seen a significant increase in unnecessary conflicts with bears in Grand County as result of poor trash management and bird feeding activities despite a decent natural food year. We are thankful that some residents are being responsible and have taken action to live with wildlife, but it ultimately takes a community effort. We continue to ask residents and guests to remove attractants, secure your homes, camp responsibly, and remember to lock your vehicles. It takes everyone doing their part to care for Colorado’s wildlife.” ~ Jeromy Huntington, Area 9 Wildlife Manager 
     
    Area 10 – Steamboat Springs; Jackson and Routt counties
    “In Routt and Jackson counties, we have had fewer reported human-bear interactions, but bear activity has remained steady within the city limits of Steamboat Springs. We are seeing more compliance with people having bear-resistant trash receptacles, but proper use still seems to be an issue. With bears continuing to get an easy meal at many places in town, it is not uncommon to see bears daily in most of our neighborhoods. These habituated bears have not learned a healthy fear of people, which has led to an uptick in bears entering unsecured homes. It is important that CPW is notified as soon as possible when conflicts arise so that we can help with the situation before a bear becomes habituated. In partnership with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, a new community Bear Aware program was initiated last winter that has reached several thousand visitors and locals to help spread the message about the importance of proper etiquette when living and visiting bear country.” ~ Kris Middledorf, Area 10 Wildlife Manager
     
    Area 11 – Pueblo, Trinidad, South-Central Colorado
    “Area 11 is having fewer human-bear interactions this year compared to last even with a significant freeze that occurred throughout the foothills and higher elevations. The late spring snow/freeze impacted acorn production but these impacts seemed to be sporadic and elevation dependent. Great summer precipitation has led to abundant fruit and grass production throughout the area. With bears having an increased utilization of fruit across the landscape, portions of Area 11 have seen an increase in bears being killed by vehicles as they travel to seek out those food sources. The majority of human-bear interactions within the area have been a result of unnecessary conflict due to poor trash management, storage of pet food, and unprotected beehives. Additional conflicts have arisen from leaving doors and windows open in addition to irresponsibly camping in bear country. We ask residents of southern Colorado to secure their trash by utilizing a bear-resistant dumpster. We also ask residents and visitors to lock their cars, secure their homes and remove any attractants to prevent any conflicts with bears. For advice and tips, folks can reach out to local district wildlife managers to help bear-proof their residence.” ~Mike Brown, Area 11 Wildlife Manager

    Area 12 – Las Animas, Baca and Otero counties
    “There have only been a few bear reports in southeast Colorado coming from Las Animas, Baca and Otero County.” ~ Todd Marriott, Area 12 Wildlife Manager.  

    Area 13 – Chaffee, Fremont and Lake Counties 
    “The Upper Arkansas Valley, including the area around Leadville, Buena Vista, Salida and Cañon City, had a late cold snap in the spring. Unfortunately, the cold snap was right when many fruit trees and shrubs were flowering, leading to very little fruit and acorn production as their flowers were lost to the freezing temperatures. The Upper Arkansas Valley did have regular rain throughout the summer and there are pockets of fruit and acorn production, but it is inconsistent. Bear activity has been steady throughout the area and there are still reports of bear issues around homes. We continue to encourage people to remove and minimize attractants around their homes. Attractants include bird feeders, any fallen fruit, and, of course, trash. Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommendations to reduce conflicts with wildlife, including bears, only work if homeowners and visitors consistently follow the suggestions. We have had success educating residents that have had bear problems and have been able to avoid trapping bears this fall.” ~ Sean Shepherd, Area 13 Wildlife Manager

    Area 14 – Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs; El Paso and Teller Counties
    “In the Colorado Springs area, we started out with a lot of conflicts due to the drought. Fortunately in mid-June, we received a lot of rain and have been getting plenty of moisture ever since. This improved the availability of natural food sources and led to a relatively mild year for bear conflicts. The city trash ordinance on the west side of town has helped reduce conflicts over the last few years. We did receive a late freeze in May that may reduce some of the mast crop in the area, so conflicts may go up again as we move into the fall, but only time will tell. We continue to encourage people to keep their garage doors closed and secure all food and scent attractants.” ~ Tim Kroening, Area 14 Wildlife Manager

    Area 15 – Durango
    “Area 15 had an average year for bear conflicts area-wide. Southwest Colorado received good moisture this summer and the availability of natural food sources has been good. The majority of conflicts reported were due to unsecured trash and other outdoor food sources. We would like to remind people to do their part in removing or securing all possible attractants and to work with neighbors or guests in doing the same. A couple of our communities received CPW bear grant funds this year and we are looking forward to these bear conflict mitigation resources being applied to help reduce conflicts in the future. Please continue to report bear conflicts to the local CPW Durango office in a timely manner so that we and other partners can provide assistance in mitigating conflicts before bears become habituated.” ~Adrian Archuleta, Area 15 Wildlife Manager

    Area 16 – Gunnison Basin, North Fork Valley
    “This year in Area 16, our bear conflicts are up compared to 2021. Mast production in the Gunnison Basin was good, but more spotty than last year, and we have continued to experience some bear conflict throughout September. In the North Fork Valley, a late freeze contributed to what appears to be a significant decline in mast crop production, particularly acorns in oakbrush habitats. Other mast species such as chokecherry and serviceberry may have also been impacted by spring cold snaps, and significant bear activity has been reported in and around the communities of Paonia, Hotchkiss, and Cedaredge. Bears will continue to be very active until hibernation, so we strongly encourage all of our local residents to assess their properties and remove potential bear attractants. These include trash, bird feeders, pet food, fruit trees and fruit waste. Homeowners can also help avoid bear conflicts by locking their car doors at night and securing lower-level windows and doors. CPW continues to seek long-term solutions for mitigating bear conflicts across our communities, but in the short-term we ask that the public continue to work with us to ensure that bears stay wild.” ~ Brandon Diamond, Area 16 Wildlife Manager
     
    Area 17 – San Luis Valley
    “It has been a pretty normal year for bear activity in our area. We did have really variable conditions this year. Early on, we had drought conditions. But once we started getting rain, there were available food sources for our bears. Our conflict areas have been the normal areas we usually see in Creede, South Fork and Crestone. We will always have some human-bear issues in those areas because the food is easy to get there and it’s been hard to dissuade those bears in those areas. But once the rains kicked in, it really seemed to help in most places. We’ve had a few problems, but it has been a manageable year and we haven’t had to handle many bears.” ~ Rick Basagoitia, Area 17 Wildlife Manager

    Area 18 – Incorporating Montrose, Delta, Mesa Ouray and San Miguel counties
    “Unfortunately, a late frost impacted many of our natural fruit and mast crops across the area. A long monsoon season brought much-needed moisture during the growing season so grasses and forbs grew well. However, berries, acorns, and nuts are very spotty this year. As fall progresses, we ask for increased diligence in keeping human and bird food sources put away so we don’t lure bears with high-calorie treats they want in preparation for winter.” ~ Rachel Sralla, Area 18 Wildlife Manager

    Become Bear Aware
    Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers a reminder that by taking some simple precautions, you can avoid human/wildlife conflicts and help to keep bears wild. 

    Bearproofing your home:

    • Keep garbage in a well-secured location. Only put out garbage on the morning of pickup.
    • Clean garbage cans regularly to keep them free of food odors: ammonia is effective.
    • Keep garage doors closed.
    • Use a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster.
    • Don’t leave pet food or stock feed outside.
    • Bird feeders are a major source of bear/human conflicts. Attract birds naturally with flowers and water baths. Do not hang bird feeders from April 15 to Nov. 15.
    • Don’t allow bears to become comfortable around your house. If you see one, haze it by yelling at it, throwing things at it and making loud noises to scare it off.
    • Secure compost piles. Bears are attracted to the scent of rotting food.
    • Clean the grill after each use, clean-up thoroughly after cookouts.
    • If you have fruit trees, don’t allow the fruit to rot on the ground.
    • Talk to your neighbors and kids about being Bear Aware.

    Cars, traveling and campsites:

    • Lock your doors when you’re away from home and at night.
    • Keep the bottom floor windows of your house closed when you’re not at home.
    • Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles.
    • When car-camping, secure all food and coolers in a locked vehicle.
    • Keep a clean camp, whether you’re in a campground or in the backcountry.
    • When camping in the backcountry, hang food 100 feet or more from the campsite; don’t bring any food into your tent.
    • Cook food well away from your tent; wash dishes thoroughly.

    Protecting your chickens, bees, livestock:

    • Keep chickens, bees and livestock in a fully covered enclosure, especially at night. 
    • Construct electric fencing when possible.
    • Don’t store livestock feed outside.
    • Keep enclosures clean to minimize animal odors. 
    • Hang rags soaked in ammonia and/or Pine-Sol around the enclosure as a scent deterrent.

  • Governor Polis Announces Fifth Annual Free Application Days

    Colorado colleges and universities will waive applications fees from Oct. 18-20 

     

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis and the Colorado Department of Higher Education announced the fifth annual Colorado Free Application Days, allowing students to apply for free from Tuesday, Oct. 18 through Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022, to public colleges and universities and several private institutions in Colorado. 
    The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) has posted admissions application and fee waiver information for each college and university participating in Free Applications Days and people may apply to as many participating institutions as they are interested in. The days cap off Colorado Applies Month, a five-week, statewide campaign that encourages high school juniors and seniors – and adults – to select an education or training option that’s best for them and apply to that program. This is the second consecutive year, the program has been extended from one day to three days.  
    “I am happy to be announcing this year’s free application days and hope that Coloradans considering going to college take advantage of this exciting opportunity. Removing application fees allows students to get one step closer to their dream school,” said Gov. Polis. “I am passionate about saving people money and making it possible for more Coloradans to reach their academic and life goals.”
    View Gov. Polis’ announcement in English and Spanish. 
    “Colorado Applies Month allows students to take some time to delve into future career aspirations and ventures,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, executive director of CDHE. “One of our priorities is to increase FAFSA and CASFA completion among high school seniors. Colorado Free Application Days not only supports that goal but also encourages residents to live up to their fullest potential.”
    The statewide push is designed to increase Colorado’s postsecondary-going and Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA) completion rates. The opportunity also hopes to encourage anyone who is considering applying to do so and to make it more accessible to apply and explore different options. During last year’s campaign, students turned in nearly 63,000 applications, almost half of which came from students of color and over a third from first-generation students. Statewide, 2021 application submissions were up 10% compared to 2020.   
    Colorado Free Application Days aims to improve access to further education and training, which is becoming increasingly critical for Colorado’s economy and workforce. In response to these workforce demands, the Colorado Department of Higher Education set a goal of reaching 66% credential attainment by 2025 in the statewide plan for higher education, Colorado Rises. Increasing postsecondary enrollment and reducing equity gaps are priority strategies to improve access and reduce costs for Coloradans.   
    For more information, visit the Colorado Free Application Day and Colorado Applies Month webpages.  

  • CDPHE amends PHO 20-20, reflecting updated CDC recommendations

    STATEWIDE — The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment amended Public Health Order 20-20 to reflect CDC’s updated infection prevention and control recommendations on October 11, 2022.


    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov. 

  • CDPHE, federal food program partners delivered nearly 1 million meals to seniors during the pandemic

    Denver, (October 10, 2022): The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and adult day care facilities across the state partnered to deliver nearly 1 million meals to seniors during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic from April 2020 to December 2021, according to new data released by the department today. 


    “Seniors often face physical or health-related issues that affect their nutritional needs,” said Naomi Steenson, CDPHE Child and Adult Care Food Program director. “We are extremely proud to have been a part of this community effort to support the state’s seniors during this unprecedented time.” 


    The Child and Adult Care Food Program reimburses participating child care centers, homes, and adult day care centers for nutritious meals and snacks served to children and adults. One of the program’s goals is to make it more likely that seniors—especially those with limited incomes—will have access to healthy meals to help maintain their health and prevent or delay assisted living and nursing home placements. Because many of those adult day care centers closed their doors for fear of spreading the virus following the pandemic’s start, many adults who would normally be served by those centers could not access those meals.


    To avoid cutting people’s access to healthy meals, CDPHE and participating Child and Adult Care Food Program adult day care centers moved quickly to take advantage of federal waivers allowing for the delivery of meals outside of the centers. Temporarily switching to a delivery model allowed participating Child and Adult Care Food Program centers to increase the number of people they served, with an average of 47,574 meals served every month between April 2020-December 2021, an increase of 15% over the pre-pandemic average.

     

    The United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Services funds the Child and Adult Care Food Program and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Nutrition Services Branch administers the program. Child and Adult Care Food Program adult day care centers follow USDA-FNS meal standards, which include milk, fruits, vegetables, grains and meat/meat alternatives. The meal standards allow for a wide variety of culturally sensitive foods, and participants have the opportunity to choose from a selection of foods at each meal. 


    While federal waivers allowing for food delivery during the pandemic expired at the end of June 2022, participating adult day care centers report sustained increases in the number of meals served every month. Adult day care centers in Colorado can learn more about the program and opt-in by calling 303-692-2330 or visiting cdphe.colorado.gov/CACFP.


    Nondiscrimination Statement Revised May 2022
    In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
    civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating
    on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual
    orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.
    Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons
    with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program
    information (Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact
    the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET
    Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay
    Service at 800-877-8339. To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant
    should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which
    can be obtained online, from any USDA office, by calling 866-632-9992, or by writing a
    letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address,
    telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in
    sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the
    nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or
    letter must be submitted to USDA by: Mail: US Department of Agriculture
    Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW,
    Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or email:


    —

    El Departamento de Salud y Medioambiente de Colorado y un programa federal entregaron casi un millón de comidas a adultos mayores durante la pandemia 


    Denver, (Octubre 10, 2022): El Departamento de Salud y Medio Ambiente de Colorado junto con centros destinados al cuidado de adultos mayores en el estado, entregaron casi 1 millón de comidas a personas de la tercera edad. Esto ocurrió durante el pico alto de la pandemia de abril 2020 a diciembre 2021, de acuerdo a nuevos datos publicados por el Departamento el día de hoy.


    “Los adultos mayores enfrentan problemas físicos o de salud que afectan sus necesidades nutricionales,” así dijo Naomi Steenson, directora del Programa de Cuidado Infantil y de Adultos del Departamento de Salud y Medio Ambiente de Colorado. “Estamos muy orgullosos de ser parte de este esfuerzo comunitario para apoyar a los adultos mayores del estado en estos tiempos sin precedentes”.


    El Programa de Cuidado Infantil y de Adultos reembolsa a los centros de cuidado infantil, casas y centros de cuidado para adultos participantes, las comidas nutritivas y refrigerios que se brinda a los niños y adultos. Una de las metas del programa es hacer que los adultos mayores, especialmente los de escasos recursos, tengan acceso a comidas saludables para ayudar a mantener su salud y prevenir o retrasar su ingreso a lugares de cuidado de adultos mayores. Debido a que muchos de estos centros de asistencia cerraron sus puertas por el miedo a la propagación del virus, muchos adultos que normalmente recibían comidas en esos centros, no tenían acceso a los alimentos.


    Para evitar cortar el acceso a comidas saludables, el Departamento de Salud y Medio Ambiente de Colorado y los centros de cuidado participantes del Programa de Alimentos de Adultos y Niños se movieron rápidamente para tomar ventaja de las exenciones federales permitiendo la entrega de alimentos fuera de los centros. Así, temporalmente se cambió a un modelo de entrega permitiendo a los participantes de los centros del Programa de Alimentos de Niños y Adultos a incrementar el número de comidas, con un promedio de 47,574 comidas servidas cada mes entre abril 2020-diciembre 2021, un incremento de 15% comparado con el promedio antes de la pandemia


    El Departamento de Agricultura de Estados Unidos y Servicios de Alimentos y Nutrición financian el Programa de Alimentos de Niños y Adultos y el Departamento de Salud y Medio Ambiente de Colorado con la División de Servicios de Nutrición administran el programa. Los centros de cuidado del Programa Alimentos de Niños y Adultos cumplen con los estándares de USDA-FSN, que incluyen leche, frutas, vegetales, granos y alternativas de carnes. Los estándares de los alimentos permiten una variedad cultural y los participantes tienen la oportunidad de escoger opciones en cada comida.


    A pesar de que las exenciones federales que permiten la distribución de la comida durante la pandemia expiró a finales de junio de 2022, los centros de cuidado de adultos reportan incrementos continuos en el número de comidas cada mes. Los centros de cuidado de adultos en Colorado pueden informarse más sobre el programa y participar llamando al 303-692-2330 o visitando cdphe.colorado.gov/CACFP.


    Declaración de no discriminación revisada en mayo de 2022. 
    De acuerdo con la ley federal de derechos civiles y el Departamento de Agricultura de EE. UU. (USDA) regulaciones y políticas de derechos civiles, esta institución tiene prohibido discriminar sobre la base de raza, color, origen, sexo (incluida la identidad de género y orientación), discapacidad, edad o represalia por actividad previa de derechos civiles. La información del programa puede estar disponible en otros idiomas además del inglés. Personas con discapacidades que requieren medios alternativos de comunicación para obtener el programa con información (Braille, letra grande, cinta de audio, lenguaje de señas americano), debe comunicarse a la agencia estatal o local responsable que administra el programa TARGET del USDA al 202-720-2600 (voz y TTY) o comuníquese con el USDA a través del Federal Relay Service al 800-877-8339 o escribiendo una carta al USDA. La carta debe contener el nombre del denunciante, dirección, número de teléfono y una descripción escrita de la supuesta acción discriminatoria en detalle suficiente para informar a la Subsecretaría de Derechos Civiles (ASCR) sobre la naturaleza y fecha de una supuesta violación de derechos civiles. El formulario AD-3027 completado o la carta debe enviarse al USDA por correo al Departamento de Agricultura de EE. UU. Oficina del Subsecretario de Derechos Civiles, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 o fax (833) 256-1665 o (202) 690-7442, o correo electrónico: . Esta institución es un proveedor de igualdad de oportunidades.
  • Join CPW in celebrating International Archaeology Day by attending a free expo to learn, explore, and experience archaeology first-hand

    Join CPW in celebrating International Archaeology Day by attending a free expo to learn, explore, and experience archaeology first-hand

    ROXBOROUGH, Colo. – Colorado Parks and Wildlife will host the 11th annual International Archaeology Day celebration outside Roxborough Intermediate School on Saturday, October 15. 

    Learn, explore, and experience archaeology from professional and avocational archaeologists from around the state who will demonstrate, discuss and bring to life the cultures of Colorado’s past. Experts at local sites, including at Roxborough State Park, will provide archaeological and historical tours.

    Outdoor exhibits at the expo will feature hands-on activities, demonstrations, and interactive discussions. Explore arts and crafts, musical lithophones, ancient skills, tool manufacturing, pottery, artifacts from the area, food processing, careers in archaeology, local / state archaeology organizations, animals hunted for food and clothing, Ute STEM, archaic snacks, grinding on a metate and a kids archaeological dig. 

    The first 20 children to visit the kids’ area get a prize.

    Location and schedule
    Saturday, October 15 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Roxborough Intermediate School, 7370 Village Circle East, Littleton, CO 80125.

    Pick up an event schedule for information and directions to the local site tours at Roxborough State Park, Lamb Spring and Ken-Caryl Ranch Bradford House. 

    Sign up for lectures and tours here.

    Indoors activities at Roxborough Intermediate School (masks encouraged)
    • 10 a.m. – Jack Warner: “Lamb Spring Archaeological Preserve: 60 years of Discovery and Research”
    • Noon – Rebecca Simon: “Archaeology for a Changing Colorado”
    • 2 p.m. – Garrett Briggs: “A Ute Perspective: Until Forever Comes” 

    Roxborough State Park site visit – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    • Walk and Talk: Lecture on patio and a short hike at 10 a.m. & noon
    • Rox Ride at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
    • Walk Through Time Poster Exhibit on the walkway
    • Archaeological artifacts on the patio
    • Leave No Trace on the patio
    • Archaeology exhibit and mammoth bones inside the Visitor Center.

    Programs, sponsored by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, are free; however, please remember that all vehicles entering the park must purchase a $10 daily pass or display a valid annual pass.
     
    For more information about IAD 2022 visit: https://www.communityconnections.biz/iad2022
     
    International Archaeology Day
    International Archaeology Day is a celebration of archaeology and the thrill of discovery. Every October the AIA and archaeological organizations across the United States, Canada, and abroad present programs and  activities for people of all ages and interests. Whether it is a family-friendly archaeology fair, a guided tour of a local archaeological site, a simulated dig, a lecture or a classroom visit from an archaeologist, the interactive, hands-on International Archaeology Day programs provide the chance to indulge your inner Indiana Jones. 

    Read more at http://www.archaeological.org/archaeologyday

  • Department of Natural Resources Announces October Meeting of Colorado Geographic Naming Advisory Board

    (DENVER) – The Colorado Department of Natural Resources is holding the October meeting of the Colorado Geographic Naming Advisory Board (Board). The Board was established by Governor Jared Polis to evaluate proposals concerning name changes, new names, and name controversies of geographic features and certain public places in the State of Colorado and then making official recommendations to the Governor. 

    The October meeting will initiate consideration of the renaming requests for Mount Evans.  As with most case considerations, the evaluation by the board will take multiple meetings, including an informational and fact-finding effort, stakeholder outreach and input, presentations by the proponents of the various naming proposals, public comment and deliberation.

    This  meeting will include Tribal presentations and discussion on the history and events of the Sand Creek Massacre and Territorial Governor Evans’ involvement and the importance of renaming this mountain. 

    Six unique proposals are currently pending to rename Mount Evans (US BGN Cases 5037 (Mount Soule), 5382 (Mount Rosalie), 5479 (Mount Blue Sky), 5556 (Mount Cheyenne Arapahoe), 5585 (Mount Evans), 5766 (Mount Sisty)). 

     

    WHO: Members of the Colorado Geographic Naming Advisory Board

    WHAT:  October meeting of the Colorado Geographic Naming Advisory Board

    WHEN: Tuesday, October 11, 2022, 6 PM to 8 PM

    WHERE: Find zoom contact info at: https://dnr.colorado.gov/initiatives/colorado-geographic-naming-advisory-board

  • Secretary Haaland Commits to Telling America’s Story at Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

    Secretary Haaland Commits to Telling America’s Story at Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

    EADS, Colo. — Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and National Park Service (NPS) Director Chuck Sams visited the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, which commemorates the November 1864 assault on an encampment of approximately 750 Native people. The leaders participated in an event with leaders from the Northern Arapaho Tribe, the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera, and other community partners including The Conservation Fund, Great Outdoors Colorado and the National Park Foundation.   

    “It is our solemn responsibility at the Department of the Interior, as caretakers of America’s national treasures, to tell the story of our nation. The events that took place here forever changed the course of the Northern Cheyenne, Northern Arapaho, and Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes,” said Secretary Haaland. “We will never forget the hundreds of lives that were brutally taken here – men, women and children murdered in an unprovoked attack. Stories like the Sand Creek Massacre are not easy to tell but it is my duty – our duty – to ensure that they are told. This story is part of America’s story.”  

    The ceremony included the announcement of the acquisition of an additional 3,478 acres for the National Historic Site was made possible through funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). The additional land will allow NPS to increase public opportunities to experience and interpret the site’s stories and history. In addition, theexpansion of the historic site will contribute to one of the most intact shortgrass prairie ecosystems within the National Park system, providing habitat for a wide range of plants, wildlife and species of special concern. The Conservation Fund was critical to facilitating the acquisition from a willing seller, with financial support from Great Outdoors Colorado and the National Park Foundation.   

    “The newly acquired property will help to protect the historic site and sacred Tribal lands,” said Janet Frederick, Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site Superintendent.“These new parcels include lands listed on the National Register of Historic Places for their significance to the devastating events of November 29, 1864. These lands also have significant archaeological remains of the massacre, including evidence of the village where Cheyenne and Arapaho families were camped, and an intact viewshed that is key to the historical integrity of the National Historic Site.”   

    On November 29, 1864, U.S. soldiers attacked an encampment of approximately 750 Native people. During the attack, they took shelter in the high banks along Sand Creek. As they fled, many were wounded and killed. Well over half of the 230 dead were women and children.  

    Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site was established in 2007 in southeastern Colorado near the Town of Eads. The site preserves lands where the massacre took place and adjacent features critical to the historic cultural landscape. The Northern and Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes consider these lands sacred.  

    The LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 to fulfill a bipartisan commitment to safeguard natural areas, water resources and cultural heritage, and to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans. The Great American Outdoors Act authorized permanent funding of LWCF at $900 million annually to improve recreational opportunities on public lands, protect watersheds and wildlife, and preserve ecosystem benefits for local communities. The LWCF has funded $4 billion worth of projects in every county in the country for over 50 years.  

  • CDPHE amends and extends Public Health Order 20-38

    STATEWIDE (October 7, 2022) — Today, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment amended and extended Public Health Order 20-38. The 22nd Amended Public Health Order 20-38 will expire at 12:01 a.m. on November 6, 2022 unless extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended.

     

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov. 

  • State Public Safety Tech Center, US Forest Service Partner to Fight Fire with Technology Advancements

    State Public Safety Tech Center, US Forest Service Partner to Fight Fire with Technology Advancements

    USFS and CoE personnel briefing firefighters on the Tamarack Fire on a technology pilot project – July 23, 2021
    Rifle, CO-The Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial Firefighting (CoE), the research and development organization within the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, has entered into a 5-year, $1.6 million agreement with the USDA Forest Service to develop innovative technologies for wildland fire management.

     

    “Wildland fire management is increasingly relying upon technology to support decisions and increase situational awareness,” said CoE Director Ben Miller. “Technology along with the fire environment is rapidly changing and we are excited to partner with the USDA Forest Service to allow for more efficient investment in wildland fire technology both in Colorado and nationwide.”


    The CoE will assist the Forest Service’s Fire and Aviation Management Tools and Technology Team with projects including broadening adoption of the Wildland Fire Team Awareness Kit (WFTAK) smartphone apps as well as building out capabilities to support public safety responders and wildland firefighters. 

    WFTAK provides up-to-the-second location tracking and mapping capabilities to firefighters, as well as cutting edge connectivity solutions and integrations of sensors and cameras for use by firefighters. These and related projects focus on addressing provisions in the 2019 John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act, Sec. 1114 Wildfire Technology Modernization.
     

    According to Sean Triplett, Forest Service Tools & Technology Team Lead, “this collaboration will allow the US Forest Service to operationalize technology quickly to get it into the hands of firefighters.  We look forward to this opportunity with CoE and are excited to kick off our agreement.”


    The CoE has formally collaborated with the Forest Service since 2020 and has demonstrated technologies at pilot project scale on wildfires in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Nevada.