fbpx

The I-70 Scout & Eastern Colorado News

Blog

  • Tests came back negative for blue-green algae at Chatfield State Park

    Tests came back negative for blue-green algae at Chatfield State Park

    LITTLETON, Colo. — All tests for blue-green algae at the dog off leash area at Chatfield State Park have come back negative.

    Water samples taken from the ponds at the dog off leash area were tested by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environmental (CDPHE) Labs, specifically looking for toxins related to blue green algae (microcystin, cylindrospermopsin, anatoxin-a and nodularian). None of those were present in the samples taken from the dog off leash area.

    Tests were administered after a report of a dog that died following a visit to the dog off leash area. The veterinarian had told the dog owner the cause of death in that dog was similar to symptoms associated with blue-green algae.

    Following that report, inspections of the ponds took place, initial water samples were tested and came back negative before further lab work was sent in to the CDPHE Labs. Those results were confirmed by the CDPHE as negative on the evening of Friday, Aug. 16.

    “We will continue to monitor the water quality throughout the park and if anything changes, alerts will be made to inform the public,” Chatfield State Park Manager Scott Roush said. 

    Be Algae Aware, arm yourself with knowledge and know the options on how you can help be apart of the solution. Below is a Q&A with general information on blue-green algae.

    What should a person watch for?

    People and their pets should avoid ingesting or swimming in water with heavy accumulations of algae.

    Are some lakes more susceptible to algae than others? 

    Most algae is harmless and an important part of the aquatic food chain. Lakes with high nutrients are more susceptible to blue-green algae, which is the specific type of algae that is capable of producing toxins.

    What conditions cause high algae levels?

    High nutrient levels (nitrogen and phosphorus in particular) are the biggest factor. Warm temperatures, and calm conditions also contribute. 

    What can you do? 

    Don’t feed the algae: Nitrogen and phosphorus in excess grow scummy algae in a lake. The public can help with water quality of our lakes, reservoirs and streams by using phosphorus free fertilizers and picking up after their dog.

    How do they test for it?

    Colorado Parks and Wildlife goes through several steps when an algae bloom occurs. We identify the species to determine if is a blue-green algae, and if that species is capable of producing toxins. If it is potentially toxic, we use strip tests that can tell if toxins are present. The strips take about one hour to run. If the strip is positive, we work with WQCD and CDPHE for further lab testing. 

    Is there a safe level for algae?

    Most algae is safe and cannot produce toxins. It is an integral part of the aquatic food chain.

    Who is in charge of the inspections?

    Each lake owner is responsible for their own lake. CPW monitors blooms in our State Parks and State Wildlife Areas, and in partnership with the Water Quality Control Division in CDPHE. WQCD monitors lakes statewide, not just CPW lakes.

    What prompts an inspection, is it routine?

    CPW does routine visual monitoring for blooms. If we see a suspicious bloom, we identify the algae. If the algae is capable of producing toxins we do further testing in partnership with WQCD and CDPHE. 

    Does it take a death to prompt an inspection?

    No, the presence of an algae bloom at a CPW lake prompts further investigation.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Third bear attack this year in Aspen highlights serious concerns about bears roaming populated areas looking for easy meals

    Third bear attack this year in Aspen highlights serious concerns about bears roaming populated areas looking for easy meals

    ASPEN, Colo. — Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Aspen Police officers responded to the 300 block of East Hopkins Avenue in Aspen at 11:30 last night after a large black bear bit a local restaurant manager, resulting in four deep puncture wounds to the man’s leg.

    According to CPW Area Wildlife Manager Matt Yamashita, the man was attempting to scare a bear out of a dumpster after his employees refused to throw away trash due to fear of the bear. While the manager stood next to the dumpster, the bear climbed out and bit the man on the leg, then ran off.

    “By attempting to scare the bear out of a dumpster, the man exposed himself to significant danger,” said Yamashita. “It is likely the bear felt cornered and it reacted aggressively. As we have warned over and over again, this is the exact scenario that can happen when people and bears interact, and why it is so dangerous for bears to be around people.”

    Yamashita questioned why the dumpster was open in the first place, allowing the bear to find an easy meal.

    The victim described the black bear as approximately 350-400 lbs, considered large for the species. According to the CPW officer that examined the bite, the dimensions of the puncture wounds on the man’s leg confirmed the bite came from a large animal.

    In the hours after the attack, Yamashita and local CPW officer Kurtis Tesch searched the alley for any additional physical evidence, as well as worked with the Aspen Police Department to search the area for signs of the bear. As part of the ongoing investigation, CPW officers will attempt to collect DNA samples from the man’s clothing to help identify the correct, offending animal.

    “It’s unfortunate, but this bear will be put down when we find it,” said Yamashita. “We’ve told people over and over, this is what typically happens when bears get comfortable around humans. We are going to act to protect people, but if some folks can’t be bothered to protect themselves, we hope they at least act to protect bears.”

    Prior to this incident, a 230 lb bear bit a woman as she hiked on the Hunter Creek Trail, May 27. CPW officers killed the bear several days later. A necropsy revealed the bear’s stomach was full of birdseed obtained from backyard bird feeders. On July 27, an approximately 500 lb bear swiped at a man at the Aspen Meadows Resort resulting in torn clothing and a scratched arm. Several witnesses reported that the bear had previously approached several people, exhibiting no fear. CPW officers are still looking for that bear.

    “In Pitkin County, every single night there are reports of bears in occupied homes, or attempting to break into homes or cars, in dumpsters, in downtown areas, alleys and backyards, the middle of the street, in trees, porches, breaking into businesses, approaching people, and so on,” said Yamashita. “This is extremely worrisome. If people do not take this issue seriously, I believe it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed. We as a community have been lucky that injuries to humans this summer have been relatively minor, but these attacks should be taken as a serious warning to take action now.”

    For more information about being bear aware, visit www.cpw.state.co/bears.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Ajay Menon named President and CEO of the Colorado State University Research Foundation

    Ajay Menon, a two-time dean at Colorado State University, has been named the next leader of the Colorado State University Research Foundation, the CSURF Board of Governors announced this week. Menon, who currently serves as dean of CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences, will step into the new role October 1, following the retirement of long-time CSURF leader Kathleen Henry.

    “CSURF is extremely lucky in that we have had a real superstar in Kathleen, and we are hiring a real superstar in Ajay. We look forward to a dynamic future,” said CSURF Board Chair Don Marostica.

    As President and CEO of CSURF, Menon will be responsible for the protection, management and commercialization of intellectual property resulting from research at CSU and will oversee the services that CSURF provides to both CSU and the CSU System. These services include the coordination and management of non-campus real estate holdings on behalf of CSU, CSU-Pueblo, CSU-Global and the CSU System and the provision of debt financing expertise and capabilities to those entities.

    Menon has served as dean of CSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences and director of the Colorado Agriculture Experiment Station since July 2015. Prior to this appointment, from 2002 until 2015, he served as the dean of the CSU College of Business.

    From November 2011 to August 2013, as appointed by Governor John Hickenlooper, Menon served in a dual role as the state’s first Chief Innovation Officer. In that role, he helped establish and lead the Colorado Innovation Network to develop an ecosystem in Colorado that cultivates entrepreneurial and innovative activities.

    In his role as Dean of the College of Business, Menon led the college’s transformation to a high-performing and entrepreneurial school within a large land-grant state university. While leading the College of Agricultural Sciences, he was involved in guiding the college toward a vision of unquestioned global preeminence.

    “I want to recognize and thank Kathleen Henry for her outstanding service to CSURF and our University community – and to congratulate the CSURF Board for persuading Ajay Menon to step into the role with her retirement,” said CSU Chancellor Tony Frank. “Ajay is a respected and visionary leader who has a remarkable capacity to work thoughtfully with a wide range of constituents and industries. Having led two of our most publicly engaged colleges and served in the Governor’s Cabinet, his experience, reputation, and deep knowledge of the university and state have prepared him exceptionally well to head up the innovation arm of the University.”

    Menon holds a Ph.D. in Marketing and joined CSU in 1991 as a member of the Marketing Department faculty. His teaching and research expertise lie in the areas of International Marketing, New Product Development and Management and Strategic Market Planning. His research interests lie in the areas of customer loyalty, new product management and strategy implementation. Menon’s research has appeared in numerous preeminent publications in the field, including the Journal of Marketing, Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science and Journal of Business Research.

    In addition to his academic and administrative work, Menon has served as a management consultant to local and multinational companies on issues related to customer satisfaction and loyalty. He has also served on the Boards of Directors or Advisors to for-profit and non-profit organizations including the Colorado Innovation Network; Junior Achievement – Rocky Mountain, Inc.; Colorado National Bancorp; World’s Fresh Waters, Chile; Convera Corporation; Women’s Vision Foundation; Envirofit Corporation; and the Better Business Bureau of Northern Colorado.

    Menon has received numerous teaching awards, including “Professor of the Year” from the CSU College of Business.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Algae blooms: what to know and what you can do

    Algae blooms: what to know and what you can do

    DENVER — Late summer is the time of year when we see the majority of algae blooms in Colorado. Algae is naturally occurring, we do have blooms across the state and there are public health guidelines to be followed. Be Algae Aware, arm yourself with knowledge and know the options on how you can help be apart of the solution.

    What should a person watch for?

    People and their pets should avoid ingesting or swimming in water with heavy accumulations of algae.

    Are some lakes more susceptible to algae than others?

    Most algae is harmless and an important part of the aquatic food chain. Lakes with high nutrients are more susceptible to blue-green algae, which is the specific type of algae that is capable of producing toxins.

    What conditions cause high algae levels?

    High nutrient levels (nitrogen and phosphorus in particular) are the biggest factor. Warm temperatures, and calm conditions also contribute.

    What can you do?

    Don’t feed the algae: Nitrogen and phosphorus in excess grow scummy algae in a lake. The public can help with water quality of our lakes, reservoirs and streams by using phosphorus free fertilizers and picking up after their dog.

    How do they test for it?

    Colorado Parks and Wildlife goes through several steps when an algae bloom occurs. We identify the species to determine if is a blue-green algae, and if that species is capable of producing toxins. If it is potentially toxic, we use strip tests that can tell if toxins are present. The strips take about one hour to run. If the strip is positive, we work with WQCD and CDPHE for further lab testing.

    Is there a safe level for algae?

    Most algae is safe and cannot produce toxins. It is an integral part of the aquatic food chain.

    Who is in charge of the inspections?

    Each lake owner is responsible for their own lake. CPW monitors blooms in our State Parks and State Wildlife Areas, and in partnership with the Water Quality Control Division in CDPHE. WQCD monitors lakes statewide, not just CPW lakes.

    What prompts an inspection, is it routine?

    CPW does routine visual monitoring for blooms. If we see a suspicious bloom, we identify the algae. If the algae is capable of producing toxins we do further testing in partnership with WQCD and CDPHE.

    Does it take a death to prompt an inspection?

    No, the presence of an algae bloom at a CPW lake prompts further investigation.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Front Range Ozone Action Day Alert

    Front Range Ozone Action Day Alert

    The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Regional Air Quality Council have issued an OZONE ACTION DAY ALERT at 4 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2019 for the Front Range Urban Corridor from El Paso County north to Larimer and Weld counties, including the Denver-Boulder area, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins and Greeley.

    Stagnant weather conditions on Friday will result in ozone concentrations reaching the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category in southern and western portions of the Denver metro area, including Highlands Ranch, Chatfield State Park, Golden, and adjacent foothill locations. Ozone concentrations will improve to the Good to Moderate range on Saturday.

    This Ozone Action Day Alert will remain in effect until midnight, Friday night, August 16, 2019.

    For statewide conditions, forecasts and advisories, visit:
    https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/colorado_summary.aspx  

    The highest Ozone related AQI at 1 o’clock PM Mountain Standard Time on August 16, 2019, is 41 which indicates Good ozone air quality. It was recorded by the CHAT ambient ozone monitor.

    The highest Particulate Matter (PM2.5) related AQI at 1 o’clock PM Mountain Standard Time on August 16, 2019, is 59 which indicates Moderate Particulate Matter (PM2.5) air quality. It was recorded by the BOU ambient monitor. Respiratory symptoms possible in unusually sensitive individuals, possible aggravation of heart or lung disease in people with cardiopulmonary disease and older adults. Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion.


    Front Range Air Quality Forecast & Colorado Smoke Outlook

    FRONT RANGE AIR QUALITY FORECAST:
    Friday, August 16, 2019, 2:15 PM MDT

    Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range on Friday and the Good to Moderate range on Saturday.

    — On Friday, ozone concentrations in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category will mainly be confined to southern and western portions of the Denver metro area, including the adjacent foothills. In these areas, active children and adults, and people with lung disease, such as asthma, should reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion until 10 PM Friday evening.

    — Elsewhere across the Front Range region, unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion from noon until 10 PM on Friday and Saturday.

    Fine Particulate Matter concentrations are expected to be in the Good to Moderate range on Friday and the Good category on Saturday. Moderate concentrations of fine particulates will mainly be contained to locations within the Denver metro areas. In these areas unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion until midnight Friday night.

    Carbon Monoxide concentrations are expected to be in the Good category on Friday and Saturday.

    Nitrogen Dioxide concentrations are expected to be in the Good category on Friday and Saturday.

    Visibility on Saturday is expected to be Good.

    COLORADO SMOKE OUTLOOK
    Friday, August 16, 2019, 2:25 PM MDT

    Out-of-state wildfires may transport occasional smoke into portions of southern and western Colorado over the weekend. Hazy skies and light concentrations of smoke are possible at times, but no public health impacts are expected.

    Light to moderate concentrations of smoke are also possible near small wildfires and prescribed burns around the state.

    What if there is a wildfire or smoke in your area?
    The focus of the Colorado Smoke Outlook is on large fires (e.g., greater than 100 acres in size). Nevertheless, smoke from smaller fires, prescribed fires, and/or smoke from new fires not yet known to CDPHE air quality meteorologists may cause locally heavy smoke. If there is smoke in your neighborhood, see the public health recommendations below.

     

    Public health recommendations for areas affected by smoke:
    If smoke is thick or becomes thick in your neighborhood you may want to remain indoors. This is especially true for those with heart disease, respiratory illnesses, the very young, and the elderly. Consider limiting outdoor activity when moderate to heavy smoke is present. Consider relocating temporarily if smoke is present indoors and is making you ill. IF VISIBILITY IS LESS THAN 5 MILES IN SMOKE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD, SMOKE HAS REACHED LEVELS THAT ARE UNHEALTHY .

    Summer Ozone Program

    Ground-level ozone is an air pollution problem that impacts the health of all Coloradans. Exposure can cause acute respiratory problems and trigger asthma attacks. During Ozone Action Alerts, avoid rigorous outdoor activity during the heat of the day. Prolonged exposure can cause long-lasting damage to your lungs.

    You CAN make a difference by doing your part to improve air quality along Denver’s Front Range. Combining or skipping just two car trips a week has a positive impact on our air quality. Find other easy solutions that fit your lifestyle from Simple Steps. Better Air. (http://www.SimpleStepsBetterAir.org) , a program of the Regional Air Quality Council.

    Additional Information

    WHAT IS AN ACTION DAY?: An Action Day for fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone or other pollutants indicates that either current air quality is unhealthy or conditions are expected to worsen later in the day or on the next day. Action Days for air pollutants generally indicate that air quality will be in either the Unhealthy or Unhealthy-for-Sensitive-Groups categories according to the Air Quality Index. Action Days always convey overarching public health recommendations, and, according to season, trigger a variety of mandatory and voluntary pollution prevention measures. For example, during the summer open burning is prohibited when an Action Day for ozone and/or fine particulates is in effect. During the winter, residential burning restrictions are in effect when an Action Day for Visibility is in effect.

    For a detailed description of both the AIR QUALITY INDEX and the VISIBILITY STANDARD INDEX please visit https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/brochure.aspx

    COLORADO OPEN BURN FORECAST: For those with permits for open burning, that is the burning of waste materials or vegetation outside, check the following webpage to find out if open burning is allowed today. Keep in mind that open burning is prohibited when an Action Day is in effect:
    https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/burn_forecast.aspx

    FOR CURRENT FRONT RANGE ACTION DAYS/ADVISORIES:
    https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/advisory.aspx

    FOR CURRENT AIR QUALITY CONDITIONS STATEWIDE:
    https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/air_quality.aspx

    SOCIAL MEDIA:
    https://www.facebook.com/cdphe.apcd
    https://twitter.com/cdpheapcd

    AIR QUALITY NOTIFICATIONS:
    https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/request_alerts.aspx (CDPHE automated e-mail alerts)
    http://www.enviroflash.info/signup.cfm (CDPHE forecasts via automated e-mails from the EPA)

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Public Health and Safety Advisory

    Public Health and Safety Advisory

    August 16, 2019 – The Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR), in conjunction with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), is issuing a health and safety advisory due to the identification of potentially unsafe levels of microbial contamination on medical marijuana and retail marijuana produced by Herbal Wellness LLC. CDPHE and DOR deem it a threat to public health and safety when marijuana is found to have levels of microbial contaminants above the acceptable limits established in MED Rule M 712 and R 712. The DOR has also identified harvest batches of medical marijuana and retail marijuana produced by Herbal Wellness LLC that were not tested in accordance with MED Rules M 1501 and R 1501. Consumers who have these affected products in their possession should return them to the retail store from which they were purchased so they can be properly disposed of. All affected marijuana has a label affixed to the container that, at a minimum, indicates the license number of the medical or retail marijuana business that cultivated the marijuana as well as the Harvest Batch number assigned to the marijuana. Consumers should check the label of their medical marijuana or retail marijuana for the following License Numbers and Harvest Batch Numbers. Any inconsistencies in the Harvest Batch Number formats are a result of the licensee labeling procedures. Look for this specific language on the label of your marijuana product. Medical Marijuana Cultivation Facility License 403-01050 and/or Medical Marijuana Center License 402-00698

    Contaminated Harvest Batch numbers:

    • Lemon Train (07/09/19)

    • King Jack (07/01/19)

    • Chernobyl (07/01/19)

    • Sunburn (6/28/19)

    • Jesus OG (6/28/19)

    • Bruce Banner (5/23/19)

    • Wedding Cake (5/23/19)

    • King Jack (5/21/19)

    • Cookies & Dream (5/21/19) •

    Sour Diesel (5/13/19)

    • Black Medallion (5/13/19)

    • Lemon Train (05/06/19)

    • Jesus OG (3/18/19)

    • The Animal Untested Harvest Batch numbers:

    • Wedding Cake (05/06/19)

    • Sour Diesel (04/17/19)

    • Pandora’s Box (3/18/19)

    • Black Medallion 3/5/19

    • Deep Purple 2/5/19

    • Qleaner 2/5/19

    • Gorilla Glue #4 2/5/19

    • Lemon Train 2/5/19

    • Commerce City Kush 1/18/19

    • Cotton Candy X Sour Diesel 1/2/19

    • Pineapple Express 12/31/18

    • Chocolopez 12/31/18

    Contaminated Harvest Batch numbers:

    • Chocolopez (7/16/19)

    • Bruce Banner (7/16/19)

    • Lemon Train (7/15/19)

    • Chernobyl (07/02/19)

    • Jesus OG (07/01/19)

    • King Jack (07/01/19)

    • Chernobyl (07/01/19)

    • Wedding Cake (06/28/19)

    • Lemon Train (06/27/19)

    • Commerce City Kush (06/26/19)

    • King Jack (6/26/19)

    • Chernobyl (6/26/19)

    • Jesus OG (06/26/19)

    • Pineapple Express (6/25/19)

    • Jack The Ripper (06/25/19)

    • King Jack (6/25/19)

    • Lemon Train (6/4/19)

    • Lemon Train (5/30/19)

    • Biesel (5/24/19)

    • Chernobyl (5/24/19)

    • King Jack (5/23/19)

    • Cookies & Dream (5/21/19)

    • Lemon Train (5/21/19)

    • Dairy Queen (5/20/19)

    • Black Medallion (5/13/19)

    • Wedding Cake (5/14/19)

    • Commerce City Kush (04/17/19)

    • Chocolopez (04/03/19)

    • Tribal Delight (3/27/19)

    • King Jack 2/26/19

    Untested Harvest Batch numbers:

    • Wedding Cake (6/5/19)

    • Blueberry Snow x Brutha Hood (5/24/19)

    • Jesus OG (5/22/19)

    • Sour Diesel (5/14/19)

    • Jack Skellington (05/06/19)

    • Jacks Cleaner (05/06/19)

    • Sweetest Peach (05/06/19)

    • Jack Skellington (04/30/19)

    • Sunburn (04/29/19)

    • Jack The Ripper (04/29/19)

    • Lemon Train (04/29/19)

    • Boss Hog (04/18/19)

    • Cinderella 99 (04/18/19)

    • Chem Thai (04/18/19)

    • Jack The Ripper (04/18/19)

    • Sunburn (04/18/19)

    • Tangberry Blue (04/18/19)

    • Boss Hog (4/17/19)

    • Jack The Ripper (04/12/19)

    • Ripped Bubba (04/04/19)

    • Red Headed Stranger 3/5/19

    • Lemon Train 2/26/19

    • Agent Orange 2/26/19

    • Commerce City Kush 2/26/19

    • Jack the Ripper 2/26/19

    • Sour Diesel 1/16/19

    • Red Rocket 1/15/19

    • Sour Diesel 1/15/19

    • Gorilla Glue 1/15/19

    • Pineapple Express 1/15/19

    • Jack the Ripper #10 1/10/19

    • Pre 98 Bubba 1/10/19

    • Grape Inferno #1 1/10/19

    • Jesus OG 1/9/19

    • Agent Orange 1/9/19

    • Durban Poison 1/9/19

    • Grape Inferno 1/9/19

    • Pre 98 Bubba

    • Jack the Ripper 1/9/19

    • Chernobyl 1/9/19

    • Brightberry Cookies 1/8/19

    • Sunburn 1/3/19

    • Cotton Candy X Sour Diesel 1/3/19
     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Record-challenging heat to surge, bake southwestern US again next week

    Record-challenging heat to surge, bake southwestern US again next week

    By Alex Sosnowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

    A lack of moisture associated with the North American monsoon will continue to play a role in surges of above-average and record-challenging temperatures in the southwestern United States next week.

    Following recent record-challenging heat, temperatures are forecast to throttle back into Saturday, before challenging record highs once again next week in the southwestern United States.

    Temperatures peaked in the 110s F over many of the desert areas of the Southwest on Wednesday and Thursday. In many cases, highs were within a degree or two of the record.

    A northward bulge in the jet stream, combined with high pressure at the surface, has been responsible for the recent surge in heat.

    When the jet stream bulges northward over a particular region, the air aloft is warm and it is easier for temperatures to soar near the ground as opposed to when the air aloft is chilly.

    SW This Weekend

    The jet stream is forecast to flatten southward for a time this weekend.

    As a result, temperatures will trend toward seasonable levels for the second half of August on Sunday, which is generally in the upper 90s to lower 100s.

    However, the jet stream is forecast to bulge northward once again next week.

    Record highs may again be challenged on Tuesday and Wednesday. Highs in some locations such as Phoenix, Las Vegas and Palm Springs, California, to name a few, are likely to be in the 110s.

    At this level, temperatures are about 10 degrees above average.

    West Next Week Heat

    While humidity levels are typically substantially lower than that of the Central and Eastern states, dehydration can sneak up on individuals who do not keep a steady intake of fluids in the extreme heat in the Southwest.

    A lack of shower and thunderstorm activity over the region is also contributing to the heat.

    While rainfall is typically lean year-round over much of this region, Phoenix has barely received 0.25 of an inch of rain since June 1.

    Flagstaff, Arizona, typically receives 4.50 inches of rain by this point of the summer months but has only picked up about 1 inch since June 1.

    9j(1).jpg

    On average, the North American monsoon delivers scattered downpours on a daily basis over the summer months. However, the monsoon this year has been late, generally weak and inconsistent.

    The monsoon season begins on June 15 and ends on Sept. 30 and is associated with a northward expansion of tropical moisture that is brought on by a light southerly breeze.

    Looking ahead, there are no signs of widespread shower and thunderstorm activity for the next one to two weeks.

    This spells good news for hikers across the region that are planning to summit exposed mountain peaks or hike though slot canyons.

    However, there may be a few storms that erupt over parts of the southern Rockies which may spread to a few desert locations during the middle to latter part of next week.

    In the meantime, areas of abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions are likely to continue to expand over the region. Only heavy rain and mountain snow from this past winter and resultant runoff into streams and rivers are holding back more serious conditions at this point.

    People are urged to be extra careful with campfires and power equipment anywhere the vegetation has dried out. Sparks or heat from the exhaust system of vehicles can easily start a blaze.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Join Commissioner Sharpe for Coffee and Conversation ☕

    Join Commissioner Sharpe for Coffee and Conversation ☕

    Did you know Arapahoe County is the fastest growing county in Colorado? We’ve been having a countywide conversation on how best to plan and manage for that growth. Join Commissioner Nancy Sharpe to learn more about the work of the county’s citizen advisory task force and the potential next steps for Arapahoe County.

    Enjoy free coffee and refreshments while asking questions. Help us plan our future together and let’s make our community a better place to live. We hope to see you there!

    August 20, 2019

    6:30 – 8 p.m.

    Greenwood Village City Hall

    6060 S Quebec Street

    Greenwood Village, CO 80111

    Location Map

    For more information, contact: 303-795-4630 or

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • CPW searches for aggressive bear after it confronted hiker and two dogs

    CPW searches for aggressive bear after it confronted hiker and two dogs

    COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Colorado Parks and Wildlife responded Thursday afternoon to a report of an aggressive bear after a hiker said it confronted him on a popular trail on the west side of Colorado Springs in the Red Rock Canyon Open Space.

    The hiker said he and his two dogs were just 100 yards up the trail at the start of his midday hike when the confrontation occurred.

    He said one dog, a Labrador, alerted at something in the thick scrub oak brush that surrounds the trail and it bolted, pulling its leash out of the hiker’s grasp, to go investigate. Soon, the hiker said he and his other dog, a Puggle mix breed, were confronted by a cinnamon-colored bear he estimated at 150 pounds.

    He said the bear showed no fear of him or the dogs. In fact, he said the bear aggressively pursued the smaller dog, which was still on its leash. The hiker said he kicked the bear in the head to stop it from attacking his pet.

    In the chaos, the hiker fell in gravel and suffered minor scratches on his legs. Again, he said, he kicked the bear in the head to prevent it from attacking his dog. The hiker said he was able to regain his footing and throw rocks at the bear, which turned and walked down the trail and disappeared. The bear never bit or clawed the hiker or his dogs.

    The hiker was treated at the scene for minor scrapes on his legs by CPW officers, gave an account of the incident and left the scene. The City of Colorado Springs closed all nearby trails at the suggestion of CPW officers.

    CPW also called in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) team, which helps CPW manage conflicts caused by wildlife for the protection of public health and safety. They intend to track the bear. If it is found, the bear will be euthanized because it poses an imminent threat to human health and safety. The public is asked to avoid the area until the search ends.

    The incident is an important reminder of the need to observe Bear Aware rules, especially when hiking in bear country. It’s best not to hike alone. Keep pets leashed. Carry a “rattle can” filled with rocks, or carry a can of bear spray to use if confronted by a bear.

    More Bear Aware tips can be found here and specific suggestions about hiking in bear country are at this link.

    For questions about city trail closures, please call Vanessa Zink, senior communications specialist for Colorado Springs, at 719-491-0363.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Bennet Calls on Forest Service to Quickly, Effectively Implement Fire Fix, 2018 Farm Bill

    Bennet Calls on Forest Service to Quickly, Effectively Implement Fire Fix, 2018 Farm Bill

    Washington, D.C. – After years of budget challenges at the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) which have burdened towns and counties across Colorado, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources Subcommittee, today urged the USFS to use the new funding and budget flexibility provided in the 2018 Omnibus federal spending bill and the new forest management authorities secured in the 2018 Farm Bill to invest in Colorado’s forests and watersheds.  

    In a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment James Hubbard and USFS Chief Vicki Christiansen, Bennet highlighted that the budget challenges the agency has faced for years increased the likelihood of wildfires, put water users at risk, and placed a significant burden on towns and counties across Colorado.

    “Chronic underfunding and years of fire borrowing have decimated the USFS’s ability to fulfill their mission,” wrote Bennet. “… budget constraints have also hampered the ability of the USFS to maintain our public lands and improve infrastructure to keep pace with our outdoor economy.”

    “… many [Colorado communities] have stepped up to foot the bill and keep their economies growing,” continued Bennet. “For example, Summit County, Pitkin County, Eagle County, Garfield County, and local municipalities are spending over $300,000 annually to fund seasonal rangers in the White River National Forest, which draws visitors from around the world.” 

    The letter goes on to highlight the measures that Bennet championed last Congress to reform the Forest Service budget, end fire borrowing, and provide innovative new tools for forest and watershed health, wildfire mitigation, and infrastructure projects in the 2018 Farm Bill. 

    “Congress recently worked to address these challenges by providing the Forest Service new budget flexibility and more tools to manage our forests,” wrote Bennet. “Once fully implemented, the 2018 Omnibus and 2018 Farm Bill will empower the Forest Service to better fulfill their mission.

    Bennet’s letter urges the USFS to use the new tools provided to the agency and the new funding that will be available in Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) to support projects in Colorado, such as successful collaborative forest restoration efforts, expedited wildfire mitigation treatments, investments in road and trail infrastructure, and local affordable housing projects.“The USFS now has a unique opportunity to put the funding and new authorities to work in Colorado and across the country,” continued Bennet. “Accordingly, I ask that you quickly implement the authorities provided in P.L. 115-141 and P.L. 115-334, adequately staff local and regional offices, and prioritize projects in Colorado.”

    A copy of the letter is available HERE.

    Background

    Since joining the Senate, Bennet has worked to end fire borrowing, improve how the federal government pays to fight wildfires, and provide the tools necessary to improve forest and watershed health. During the 115th Congress, Bennet pressed Senate leadership several times to include a fire fix in funding packages, delivered a speech on the Senate floor, and pressed Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue on a fire fix during his confirmation hearing, later meeting with him to address it again. In September 2017, Bennet introduced the Wildfire Disaster Funding Act (WDFA), which provided the framework for the fire funding fix that Bennet secured in the 2018 Omnibus.

    As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee’s Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources Subcommittee, Bennet has worked with Coloradans to write two bipartisan Farm Bills that focus on wildfire mitigation and forest health. The 2014 Farm Bill included Bennet-led measures to streamline wildfire mitigation treatments, reauthorize stewardship contracting, and expand good neighbor forestry agreements. The 2018 Farm Bill included Bennet-led provisions to double funding for community driven, science-based forest management through the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program (CFLRP) and support innovative forest health partnerships.

    This year, during the longest government shutdown in American history, Bennet demanded an end to the shutdown to allow forestry professionals and firefighters to prepare for the 2019 fire season. Last week, Bennet urged appropriators to reinvest the roughly $600 million in savings from Wildfire Disaster Account, created by the 2018 Omnibus, in Forest Service and Bureau Of Land Management (BLM) wildfire prevention projects, as intended.

    In addition to the 2018 Omnibus and Farm Bill, the letter references other Bennet-led provisions, such as the John S. McCain III 21st Century Conservation Service Corps Act,which passed into law as a part of the 2019 John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, and the 2016 Trails Stewardship Act, to help the USFS address Colorado’s needs.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US