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Blogs created by individuals who have visited or experienced the Cache NHA in some way. These posts are created to explore the heritage area through a new light.

Feb 27
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Community Engagement as the Foundation for Watershed Restoration

By Guest Blog, Sponsor Highlights

By Chloe Lewis, SWCA Environmental Consultants

Across the West, communities are facing intensifying water challenges driven by growth, drought, wildfire, and high-water events. Addressing these pressures requires more than strong technical analysis—it requires shared learning, the development of long-term goals, and sustained collaboration. Community events, such as the Poudre River Forum, are essential to balancing ecological health, water use, heritage values, and community needs.

For watershed restoration projects, effective community engagement brings together agencies, water managers, residents, nonprofits, agricultural producers, and municipalities to shape a unified path forward for watershed health. When diverse voices come together, the process becomes more than planning—it becomes an opportunity for communities to deepen their understanding of their watershed systems, the stressors affecting them, and the actions needed to preserve them for future generations.

The lesson for watershed and environmental restoration efforts everywhere is clear: meaningful community engagement is not supplemental to the work—in many cases it is the work.

For example, the recent River Health Assessments along the Poudre River can serve as a unifying foundation for collaboration by providing a shared, science-based understanding of current conditions, stressors, and opportunities for improvement. Future conversations can be grounded in this shared, science-based understanding while also incorporating community values. The assessment helps partners align around a common vision for river health and prioritize coordinated, achievable restoration actions.

Engaging a consulting team, such as SWCA Environmental Consultants (SWCA), can help prioritize and facilitate broad public participation from the project outset. Early engagement creates space for stakeholders to define shared values, identify watershed restoration priorities, and contribute local knowledge that strengthens technical analysis.

”If people don’t see their voice reflected in the outcomes, the plan won’t live beyond its adoption. Engagement is what ensures a plan can continue to guide action.”

SWCA Environmental Consultants

This approach builds ownership—not just awareness. It fosters collective learning and positions community members as active stewards of their watershed rather than passive recipients of a plan.

Collaboration Drives Lasting Outcomes

Watersheds do not follow jurisdictional boundaries, and no single entity controls all factors that influence water quality, habitat health, and resilience. Counties, municipalities, utilities, landowners, and nonprofits must work together to protect and restore shared resources.

The Larimer County Water Plan, led by the County and supported by SWCA’s water resource and community engagement specialists, provides a recent example of successful and effective collaboration around water resource planning. Through facilitated dialogue, participants identified priorities that extend beyond infrastructure to include water literacy, habitat preservation, watershed stewardship, risk management, and alignment between land use and water planning. These shared commitments strengthen trust across sectors and create a durable foundation for restoration projects, funding partnerships, and adaptive management over time. The final plan is available on Larimer County’s website.

Ultimately, restoration in the Poudre River watershed will be most successful when it is grounded in science, informed by community learning, committed to sustainability, and carried forward by a culture of stewardship.

SWCA is grateful to participate in the 2026 Poudre River Forum and connect with community members in person. Learn more about how SWCA can bring their technical expertise and professional community engagement expertise to your next project: SWCA Environmental Consultants

The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area is grateful for SWCA Environmental Consultants’ support of the Poudre River Forum. Learn more about how to get involved here.

Feb 24
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Antoine Janis and the Naming – the Shaping – of the Poudre River

By Guest Blog, Historic Stories, Sponsor Highlights

By Donald E. Frick, P.E., Esq.    

The Cache la Poudre River has long been both a working system and a shared lifeline. Long before formal water law, flow measurement, or infrastructure shaped its use, the river supported travel, survival, and early settlement. This piece looks back at the origins of the Poudre’s name and the early decisions that began shaping its role in the valley.

Fur Trade Beginnings

Long before irrigation networks crossed the valley and before Larimer County was formally organized, a young Antoine Janis rode west with French fur trappers under the leadership of his father. The Rocky Mountain fur trade was still active, and trapping brigades moved along river corridors in search of beaver, navigating by water and experience rather than surveyed maps. Rivers were highways, lifelines, and measures of survival.

It was during this era that the river we now call the Cache la Poudre received its name.

“Cache la Poudre” — Hide the Powder

According to accounts handed down from the trapping period, a party of French trappers traveling along the river were overtaken by an early autumn snowstorm. Fearing moisture would ruin their gunpowder—their most essential supply—they buried, or cached, it along the riverbank before seeking shelter. The river became known as Cache la Poudre— “Hide the Powder.”

Whether refined over time or told precisely as it occurred, the story captures the precariousness of frontier life. Powder meant protection, food, and trade. The riverbank became a vault against the storm. When Janis accompanied the brigades, the name would have been newly spoken in French among men who depended entirely on rivers like the Poudre.

From Fur Trapper to Irrigator

As the fur trade declined in the mid-nineteenth century, many trappers moved on. Janis did not. Having traveled the region extensively, he understood the terrain and the seasonal rhythms of the river. Rather than remain part of a mobile trade economy, he chose permanence.

In 1861, Janis dug one of the earliest irrigation ditches in Colorado, diverting water from the Cache la Poudre to his lands near Laporte. That early diversion would later evolve into what became known as the Jackson Ditch. This act marked a turning point not only for Janis but for the valley itself.

These early diversions preceded the formal codification of Colorado’s prior appropriation doctrine — “first in time, first in right” — yet they laid the practical groundwork for it. The Poudre Valley would become one of the most intensively appropriated river systems in the state, shaped by the belief that water, if carefully managed, could anchor permanent community.

From Diversion to Measurement: A Lasting Legacy

The original point of diversion associated with Janis’s early ditch would later become significant in another chapter of Colorado water history. In the early twentieth century, engineer Ralph Parshall established a research station at that location to develop improved methods for measuring irrigation flows. His work led to the invention of the Parshall Flume, a standardized device for accurately measuring open-channel flow.

The Parshall Flume remains in use throughout the American West and around the world today. Its development reflects the next evolution in the valley’s relationship with water: not merely diverting it but measuring and managing it with precision. From buried gunpowder to early ditches to engineered measurement devices, the Cache la Poudre has continually shaped innovation.

A Physical Link to the Present

Today, one of the most tangible reminders of Janis remains standing in downtown Fort Collins. His original 1858 cabin has been preserved in Heritage Courtyard at Library Park. It is among the oldest surviving European-built structures in northern Colorado.

Visitors can stand beside its rough-hewn logs and consider the arc of history it represents: a young man riding with fur trappers along a newly named river; a settler carving one of Colorado’s earliest irrigation ditches; an engineer developing tools to measure and refine the use of that water; and a valley transforming from frontier corridor to agricultural center.

Why Janis Matters

The name “Cache la Poudre” preserves a moment of urgency—men burying powder along a riverbank to protect their future. The 1861 ditch preserves something equally powerful: the belief that water could sustain that future. The Parshall Flume preserves the commitment to measure and steward that water responsibly.

Janis was present at the river’s naming and at its early agricultural shaping. His legacy extends beyond settlement into the ongoing refinement of water management that continues today. The Cache la Poudre carried trappers who hid their powder from the snow. It carried settlers who diverted its waters to grow crops. It continues to carry a community committed to shaping its future with knowledge and care.

The Poudre River Forum brings together people with different perspectives but a shared commitment to a healthy, working river. The history traced here reflects a long tradition of adaptation, measurement, and stewardship that continues to shape how the Poudre is managed today. Moore Engineering and Lytle Water Solutions share in that legacy through decades of work supporting surface water management, water rights, modeling, and environmental permitting across Colorado’s river systems.

The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area is grateful for Moore Engineering, Inc.’s support of the Poudre River Forum. Learn more about how to get involved here.

Poudre River Forum Sponsor Highlights

About the Author

Donald E. Frick is a Senior Professional Engineer with Moore Engineering, Inc., where he focuses on water rights engineering. He previously served as General Manager for the Jackson Ditch Company, the Water Supply and Storage Company, and the Tunnel Water Company. Prior to his work in water management, he spent fifteen years practicing water law at Fischer, Brown, Bartlett & Gunn, P.C., working extensively on water rights, augmentation plans, and water court matters across Colorado.

Jul 25
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Dogs and Rivers: Navigating the Cache la Poudre River Safely

By Guest Blog

By Abbey Annis, Summit Dog Training ®

Enjoying the Cache la Poudre River with your pup is one of the many great things about living along the river. There are many access points to the river, whether you want to take a drive up the scenic Poudre Canyon or cool off in town. While there are many safe places to bring your dog along the river, there are also a few things to consider beforehand. 

Consider the River

The Poudre River water level drastically changes depending on the time of year. Significant rainfall may also impact the water quality. The peak flow of the river is typically mid-May through early July. During the river’s peak, some things to consider are the current being stronger and the eddies being smaller. Eddies are created by an obstruction in the river typically after a big bend in the river or behind a big rock, which can create a calmer place in the river that is safer for swimming. Eddies can be a great spot for your dog to jump in, but it is important to consider the stronger currents when the river’s water levels are higher.

Tip #1: Rapids are also much bigger during peak water levels, along with several diversion dams along the river. It is best to avoid these areas altogether due to their danger!

Tip #2: Keep your dog on leash and attached to a person. Choose an appropriate long-line leash to give your dog freedom to swim, but also can be used to anchor them to you. Our favorite long lines are biothane from Trust Your Dog! 

Tip #3: Have your dog wear a PFD (personal floatation device) when swimming. You may want a PFD for yourself as well if you are going to be near the water with your dog. 

It can be safer to bring your dog downstream of the canyon where the water is a bit lower during peak season. Some great places to enjoy the river in Fort Collins are the river access points at Lee Martinez Park, behind Watson Lake, or the Poudre River Whitewater Park. Signature Bluffs Natural Area along the Poudre River Trail in Greeley offers a variety of shaded trails for leashed dogs to enjoy. While not directly on the river, the Windsor Lake Dog Park offers swimming access within the fenced off area. Keep in mind, hazards are still something to consider year-round at the river.

Delilah and Banks at the Poudre River Whitewater Park.

Share the River

Another aspect to consider along the Poudre River is wildlife. Being the only Wild and Scenic River in the state, the Poudre River has tons of wildlife, specifically in the canyon. The Poudre Canyon is home to many species including moose, deer, big horn sheep, bears, and more. It’s a good idea to keep your dog on leash at all times to avoid close encounters with wildlife.

If you are looking to combine a hike with a cool swim afterwards, some of our favorite trailheads start right along the river. Hewlett Gulch Trail and Grayrock Trailhead start right along the Poudre River where you can find a place to let your dog cool off in the river before or afterwards. 

Tip #3: Avoid challenging hikes with your dog on hot weather days. Some trails are not fully shaded, and the river is only accessible at the beginning or end of the hike. 

If you are looking for water access without the hike, some areas with direct river access in the canyon include the Upper Landing eddy, which is a spacious spot to swim with a big beach. Picnic Rock is another quick trip from town up the canyon with great river access, as well as many established campsites. As always, be cautious considering the water levels and depending on the time of day. 

Tip #4: Share the river! There may be families or rafting companies utilizing eddies as well, making it crowded at certain times of the year. 

Lastly, it is extremely important to know the quality of the water you and swimming in. Harmful algal blooms and bacteria are more prominent during the hotter months and can cause serious sickness if ingested. 

Riley swimming in the river.

Jamie wading in the river.

Tip #5: The Colorado Environmental Public Health tracks algal blooms around the state. Make sure to check your location before heading out. You can find the tracker here!

Other things to consider that may be hazardous include river obstacles that can snag a dog leash or collar if they swim near it. Foot entrapments or leashes getting stuck under rocks if not attached to a human can lead to scary situations! 

Tip #6: Always remember to bring something to pack out dog waste! Help keep our natural water and wildlife safe by leaving no trace behind. 

Taking a dip in the Cache la Poudre River might be your favorite summer activity with your dog, but it is crucial to remember these safety tips to ensure everyone has a great time. We are so lucky to have free access to these natural resources right here in Fort Collins or just a quick few minutes’ drive up the canyon. Let’s keep the river safe and clean to enjoy for many years to come!

Ready to embark on your own adventures? Discover how Summit Dog Training ® can help you and your dog live a life full of adventures together!

Sep 17
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Making Waves of Fun: Windsor’s First Swimming Pool

By Guest Blog, Historic Stories

Guest Blog by Katherine Mercier, Windsor’s Museum Education Coordinator

If you have ever been to the Town of Windsor just north of the Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area, you have probably noticed water: Windsor Lake, the No 2 Ditch Canal, Chimney Park Pool, the Poudre River that snakes through the southern part of town. Windsor has grown up alongside water, following the Greeley # 2 Canal that was painstakingly dug in the early 1870s to bring much-needed irrigation to dry farm fields. In the 1800s, water meant survival for Windsor, but in the 1960s the role of water began to expand to something else: fun and recreation!  

If you were visiting Windsor in July 1964, in addition to the brand-new song “A Hard’s Day Night” by the Beatles, you would have heard discussions about the latest hot button topic in town: should Windsor get a swimming pool? The debate was intense. Some community members were in favor of creating a private, members-only pool funded by citizens. Others wanted a public pool funded by the town. Town leadership eventually decided that Windsor needed a pool that was open to all. 

In May 1965, the town parks committee announced exciting news: plans were in place for Windsor’s first town pool! The committee, which consisted of residents Harold Hettinger, Ed Eichorn, Glenn Anderson, Gene Morey, and Bill Kirby, was hoping to lease a plot of land in “Lakeside Park” (now Boardwalk Park) for the pool. In 1966, the committee received a $12,000 federal grant to help fund the pool. Additionally, the community came together to ensure the pool’s success. Town organizations fundraised for the pool; the Boy Scouts had a bake sale, and local businesses hosted a car wash and a hamburger sale. These extra funds enabled mayor Wayne Miller to break ground on the swimming pool on April 20, 1967. Conceptual drawings were published, and construction went quickly. 

Conceptual drawing of Windsor’s first swimming pool, April 27, 1967, Windsor Beacon. Notice the pool building at top left and the baby pool on the bottom left.  

Windsor pool groundbreaking, April 20, 1967, Windsor Beacon. L-R: Ed Brown, Mrs. Ruben Hergert, Mrs. Helen Casten, Mrs. William Haas, Jr., Cheryl Miller, Glenn Anderson, Mrs. Wayne Lutz, Mrs. Thelma Hemmerle, Rev E.F. Jensen (stooping with the spade), Wayne Lutz, Wayne Miller, and Leland Hull.  

Windsor’s first pool opened in July 1967 to wide acclaim and intense joy from the local children. By 1976, over 3,000 people were using the pool per month in the summer! Considering that Windsor had a population of less than 4,000 people at this time, this shows that the community truly embraced and loved the fun and recreation that this first pool provided. 

Windsor’s municipal swimming pool in Boardwalk Park, unknown date. Town of Windsor Museums Permanent Collection. 

The pool at Boardwalk Park was widely beloved and used for almost three decades. By the mid-1980s, deteriorating conditions at the pool led to the construction of what is now Chimney Park Pool on the east side of town. The municipal pool at Boardwalk Park did not open in 1987 but was used for a popular fishing derby. With the opening of Chimney Park pool in 1988, the old pool fell out of use. By the 1990s, it had been filled in and planted over with grass, and the Windsor Garden Club planted flowers in the old baby pool. On the old pool building, the Windsor-Severance Historical Society painted a large mural depicting scenes from Windsor’s past.  

Windsor pool building with mural, group of men and women in front: Charlie Manweiler, Lois Huckabee, Leona Bernhardt, Shirley Stein, Gloria Gaslin, Vic Bernhardt, Bertha Huwa, Cliff Boyd, and Virginia Boyd, 1990. Town of Windsor Museums Permanent Collection. 

Windsor History Museum, then the Windsor Centennial Museum and Pioneer Village, c. 1995. Photo taken by Gene Morey. Pool building with mural visible on the right. Town of Windsor Museums Permanent Collection. 

Today, no traces of the pool remain, but if you visit Boardwalk Park, you can see the large, open field where it once was by the Windsor History Museum Farmhouse. In fact, if you attend this year’s Poudre Pour with the Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area, you will be enjoying drinks and live music right on top of the old pool! The pool may be gone today, but its story is not lost. Windsor’s first pool continues to show us the enduring importance of water in northern Colorado—not just for survival, but also for fun.   

Former location of the Boardwalk park swimming pool, August 29, 2024. Image Credit: Town of Windsor Museums Staff 

Jun 10
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9 Reasons to Visit Fort Collins this Summer: Guest Blog

By Guest Blog

April 18, 2024 by Visit Fort Collins

1. VISIT HORSETOOTH RESERVOIR AND THE CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER

Cache la Poudre River Canyon

Whether you’re in Fort Collins for a weekend or two weeks, it’s nearly impossible to explore all of the trails, lakes, rivers, and streams in the surrounding foothills and mountains, so if you only have time to explore a few, we suggest experiencing Horsetooth Reservoir and the Cache la Poudre River.

Horsetooth Reservoir is one of Colorado’s most scenic outdoor utopias and it is located just minutes from the heart of Fort Collins. The reservoir also has quite the story of how it acquired its name from the distinctive rock formation that sits above the large body of water. There is an old Native American legend regarding this famous stone. The Valley of Contentment (today’s Horsetooth Reservoir) was once guarded by a giant so that no buffalo, deer, or antelope were hunted in the valley. Chief Maunamoku led Indians to slay the giant. In killing the giant, the Chief slashed at his heart, first in the center, then on the right, and then on the left with a tomahawk from the heavens. The next day the giant turned to stone and is now known as Horsetooth Rock.

Today, the 6.5-mile-long reservoir is a beloved recreation spot for activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, water skiing, hiking, and camping. There are tons of miles of trails surrounding the reservoir for mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking. The east side of the reservoir is one of the best spots in Colorado for bouldering. Horsetooth Reservoir is open year-round and includes RV spots, campsites, and cabins, managed by Larimer County Natural Areas. If camping isn’t your forte, you are welcome to relax in one of the condos or bed & breakfasts in the area and you can rent a boat, kayak, SUP board, and more at the local marina.

The Cache la Poudre River Canyon truly is something to behold. Surrounded by magnificent cliffs and captivating rock formations, encased in ponderosa and lodgepole pine trees, sagebrush, mountain mahogany, and aspen – the canyon is nothing short of a wonderland. The Poudre River also happens to be Colorado’s only nationally designated “Wild & Scenic” river. Colorado Highway 14, the road which follows much of the river, is a designated Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway as well.

2. SUMMERTIME FESTIVALS AND EVENTS IN FORT COLLINS

Artist performing a concert at Taste of Fort Collins

Fort Collins plays host to some of the greatest festivals and events in the state of Colorado each and every year. Enjoy summertime events celebrating everything great about our town from craft beer to bikes to music and food. See Visit Fort Collins’ event blog and calendar here.

3. FORT COLLINS AS A WELLNESS TRAVEL DESTINATION

Wellness is a way of life in Fort Collins and our city facilitates many opportunities to treat yourself right while visiting. Enjoy all kinds of outdoor recreation from outdoor yoga to hiking to kayaking. Summertime in Fort Collins additionally offers amazing running events to participate in. For passionate cyclists, The FoCo Fondo offers many biking events that provide for both heart-healthy exercise and opportunities to explore beautiful Northern Colorado.

4. FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVITIES

Fireworks on the Fourth of July

The 4th of July celebration in Fort Collins is a sight to behold, with events happening all around town, there are ways to celebrate all day long. Enjoy family-friendly celebrations such as the annual parade that rolls through the historic streets of Old Town traveling east on Mountain Avenue, beginning at Jackson Avenue and ending at Meldrum Street. After that, enjoy a day of live music, food, and vendors at City Park as the night culminates with a spectacular firework show in Fort Collins’ oldest recreational park.

5. OUTDOOR LIVE MUSIC

Outdoor concert in Old Town square in Fort Collins.

Celebrating music, musicians, and providing opportunities for visitors and community members to take part in the music scene is a big part of the Fort Collins culture. Summertime is outdoor live music season and on any given weekend, and often weekdays, you will find live music in Fort Collins. Venues like The Lyric, Wolverine Farm Publick House, and our craft breweries frequently host outdoor live music events.

6. NEW BELGIUM BREWING’S TOUR DE FAT

Tour de Fat event at New Belgium Brewing.

The slogan for this annual costumed bike and beer parade festival says it all: Bikes, Beer, and Bemusement. Get out and have a ball at this eccentric festival hosted by New Belgium Brewery on August 24th. This is your chance to ride your bicycle in your best costume from Old Town to City Park while enjoying a day full of wacky carnival fun, live performances, and delicious New Belgium Beer. Welcome to the home of New Belgium – Fort Collins, CO.

7. HIKE THE AMAZING TRAILS OF FORT COLLINS

HORSETOOTH FALLS

Dog standing at the bottom of the Horsetooth Falls.

Located in the gorgeous Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, Horsetooth Falls is truly one of the most family-friendly hikes you can find in and around Fort Collins. It’s a little less than 2.5 miles roundtrip and rated as easy to moderate skill level. There is beautiful scenery all around this trail, from open meadows to green wild grass and beautiful wildflowers with the payoff of a waterfall at the end, this hike is truly spectacular. Pack a lunch and have a picnic when you get to the waterfall and go ahead and dip your feet in the water, and if you really want, you can cool down and dip your head under the falling water as well.

ARTHUR’S ROCK

Photo of Arthur's Rock and the trail leading up to it.

Set with the stunning natural background of Lory State Park, Arthur’s Rock offers some of the most magnificent views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the city of Fort Collins. Arthur’s Rock is a very short drive from Fort Collins and is also a relatively short intermediate hike. This approximately two-mile trail bends through open meadows and brilliant mountain views on the way to the summit of Arthur’s Rock, which ascends to an elevation of 6,780 feet. The hike does gain in elevation quickly, which means it’s climbing up on the way to the top and shooting down on the way back to the bottom. There is also a fantastic natural stairway leading you to the top of the rock which provides a perfect setting for a picnic if you pack a lunch.

HORSETOOTH ROCK

Horsetooth Rock with the sun behind it.

Views upon views upon more spectacular views describe this hike in a nutshell. There is an incredible feeling that overcomes you when standing atop Horsetooth Rock while staring down into beautiful Horsetooth Reservoir. Just as impressive is the opposite view of the rolling hills to the west. Not to mention, Horsetooth Rock is one of the more unique rock formations you’ll ever come across. There truly is nothing that looks quite like Horsetooth Rock. This hike is 5 miles roundtrip and is a moderate skill level hike.

GREYROCK

A person jumping over a creek on the Greyrock trail.

This fantastic hike resides in Cache la Poudre River Canyon and is less than 20 minutes from Old Town Fort Collins. This moderate skill level hike has two trail options: the Meadows trail (approximately 7.4 miles roundtrip) and the Greyrock Summit trail (approximately 5.5 miles) with both offering stunning views equipped with ponds that live atop the summit of the rock. The elevation gain on this hike is nearly 2,000 feet with the summit sitting at 7,480 feet. This hike is definitely a bit of a challenge that comes with a little bouldering toward the end. But the payoff is worth it as it offers outstanding 360-degree views of Poudre River Canyon.

8. RIDE YOUR BICYCLE

Bikes along the street in Old Town, Fort Collins.

Biking might be the best way to get to know Fort Collins. The city boasts a reasonably flat terrain, extremely wide bike lanes, and trails that follow the Cache la Poudre River and Spring Creek. Plus, biking is an enjoyable, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to get around. Whether you’re discovering some of Fort Collins’ 285-plus miles of trails or riding in the mountains, you’ll recognize why Fort Collins is a platinum-level bike-friendly city. Cycle to Old Town or pedal to one of the 20-plus local breweries and you just might come across more bikes than cars on the road on any given day.

9. MAP OUT A BREWERY ADVENTURE

Inside Odell Brewing brewhouse.

Every town has an identity, a way of life, a certain aura-something that specifically defines why the town is special. For Fort Collins, that certain something is craft beer and the culture that has grown around it. The relationship between the brewing industry and the town of Fort Collins is more than just a business correlation, it’s a societal culture – a culture that has been around for over 25 years.

There are numerous ways to explore each of the 20 and counting breweries in Fort Collins. You can go on a beer and bike tour, take a magic bus ride, or indulge in a self-guided tour. There are so many unique ways for everyone of age to experience the incredible beer that resides in Colorado’s craft beer capital. We encourage you to partake in what is such a big part of the Fort Collins community. We promise you will not be disappointed – cheers!

CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

When you are exploring the wonders of Fort Collins, remember you are in a national heritage area – how cool is that! The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area extends 45 miles and includes the lands within the 100-year flood plain of the Cache la Poudre River. It begins in Larimer County at the eastern edge of the Roosevelt National Forest and ends east of Greeley, 1/4 miles west of the confluence with the South Platte.

Oct 10
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The Cache Pass: Connect with the Community

By Guest Blog, News

As a whole, the Cache Pass is a wonderful resource for locals and tourists to experience and electric mix of breweries, museums, and restaurants in Northern Colorado. The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area provides a beautiful backdrop to connect with regional history, natural areas, and businesses.

Site #1: 1883 Water Works

Upon a visit to the 1883 Water Works, guests take a journey into the past and discover how the facility began delivering locals’ most precious resource to an eager town in 1883. With every conversation, volunteers with the Friends of the 1883 Water Works exude a passion for preserving, restoring, protecting, and interpreting the architectural and cultural heritage of the beautiful property. It was an exciting opportunity to experience the site during the Big Splash celebration which commemorated the 140th anniversary of when the historic facility first delivered water to Fort Collins.

1883_Water_Works_apple_orchard
The apple orchard at the 1883 Water Works.
1883_Water_Works_front_elevation
The front elevation of the 1883 Water Works.

Site #2: Strauss Cabin

Beautifully situated between the Cache la Poudre River and Rigden Reservoir, the Strauss Cabin illustrates the trials and tribulations of the innumerable “seekers and settlers” of the region. Visitors, myself included, try to imagine what the original structure entailed for early homesteader, George Robert Strauss, and the many iterations it has undertaken since the 1860s. At present, the ruins of the Cabin juxtapose the fullness of nearby foliage and water features while prompting passers-by to consider how Fort Collins and the Cache la Poudre River corridor have changed over time.

Strauss Cabin looking out towards Rigden Reservoir.
Strauss Cabin ruins.

Site #3: Morning Fresh Dairy

Since 1894, an absolute must-see for any visitors of the beautiful Pleasant Valley is Morning Fresh Dairy, a fifth-generation dairy farm owned and operated by the Graves family.  Locally sourcing all milk from cows in Bellvue, Morning Fresh features a myriad of delectable treats available for purchase at the Howling Cow Cafe coupled with the magnificent views of the rolling hills. During my afternoon at Morning Fresh, I enjoyed a cold glass of milk, soaked up the sunny skies, and explored the grounds of the Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse, conveniently located on the Farm’s property. For a truly well-rounded experience of the Cache la Poudre River Heritage Area, I would highly recommend Morning Fresh Dairy for a stop, sip, and the sights!

Howling Cow Cafe with salted caramel milk in Morning Fresh Dairy’s new reusable cups. Morning Fresh Dairy in the background.
Morning Fresh Dairy with Pleasant Valley Schoolhouse in the background.

The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area provides a beautiful backdrop to connect with regional history, natural areas, and businesses for a one-time payment of $10. All that I have been able to explore with the Cache Pass has amounted to huge rewards in knowledge of the river corridor, discounts on beverages and admission fees, as well as an appreciation for my local community. Truly, there is no better way to check-in at and check-out participating businesses to redeem various deals and discounts along the Cache la Poudre River! 

A huge thank you to Linnea Wuorenmaa for the photos and write-up of this blog post!

Jul 05
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Guest Blog: Audubon Rockies

By Guest Blog, News

Western Water Initiative

Stream Restoration Legislation Will Benefit Birds and People in Colorado

Our decisions about the health and functioning of our streams and rivers reflect our priorities and values and influence all areas of life for people, birds, and nature. This legislative session, SB23-270, Projects To Restore Natural Stream Systems, was passed by the Senate, then the House, and then signed into law on June 5, 2023, by Governor Polis. SB23-270 is a solid win for Colorado’s streams and a good first-step opportunity to steward our rivers back into health. The bill was led by the Department of Natural Resources staff and sponsored by Senators Dylan Roberts and Cleave Simpson, along with Representatives Karen McCormick and Marc Catlin.

Through numerous meetings, outreach events, and late-night (or early morning?) committee hearings, SB23-270 moved through substantial changes from when it was first introduced. Audubon Rockies, Colorado Healthy Headwater Working Group, and Water for Colorado partners worked with agencies, lawmakers, water conservation districts, and other partners for the best possible outcome for healthy, functioning, and resilient river systems for people and birds—the natural water systems that we all depend upon.

Why the Need for Stream Restoration Legislation in 2023?

The need for stream restoration clarity around water rights administration is mainly three-fold.

First, existing Colorado water administration creates substantial regional variability, uncertainty, and even barriers to restoring the valuable natural processes of stream corridors. Legal clarity for stream restoration can reduce barriers for these important projects to get off the ground.

Second, the majority of our stream corridors have been degraded by more than two centuries of hydrologic modification, agricultural land use practices, roads and development, channelization, mining, and climate-driven disasters. The good news is that case studies of Colorado and other Western states’ stream restoration projects have proven successful in improving human and environmental health and reducing vulnerability to fire, flood, and drought. Thus, it was critical to provide clarity on how stream restoration could be done without needing to obtain a water right. The uncertainty around water rights was causing many projects to be put on hold.

Third, the timing of the currently available once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive funding from federal programs for stream and watershed restoration is critical so that we can have healthy streams and rivers for decades into the future.

The Evolution of the Bill

The bill moved through significant water community dialogue, education, and input throughout the arc of the legislative session. Significant amendments during the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee hearing resulted in unanimous support and forward movement through the General Assembly for the final version that passed.

The original bill draft was based on the science of utilizing the “historic footprint”* for where stream restoration could take place without enforcement actions. The historical footprint is how stream restoration has operated in Colorado for more than 30 years. However, that was not a concept that many legislators and water stakeholders were familiar with, so the language evolved to things they were familiar with.

The final bill defines a set of minor stream restoration activities that are not subject to water rights administration. These include stabilizing the banks or substrate of a natural stream with bioengineered or natural materials, installing porous structures in ephemeral or intermittent streams to stop degradation from erosional gullies and headcuts, and installing structures in stream systems to help recover from and mitigate the tremendous impacts that occur to water supplies from wildfires and floods. The language in SB23-270 provides clarity for project proponents and the water rights community. It also provides protections for completed stream restoration projects and those that have secured permits before August 1, 2023.

While this bill is an important step forward in facilitating stream restoration activities that improve the health and resilience of our streams and landscapes, Audubon and our partners will continue to work with stakeholders and regulators to clarify a path forward for stream restoration projects that do not fit within the minor stream activity categories.

Senator Roberts remarked at the SB23-270 bill signing on June 5th, 2023, “This bill is taking away the red tape that has gotten in the way of some of these projects and costs barriers that have gotten in the way of these projects. We can do this type of work in so many parts of our state. That’s so important right now, as we know as we try to do everything we can to conserve and protect our water. This bill started off with a very contentious idea. We made some amendments that made it a little less contentious. We know we will continue to work on this issue as it goes forward. But we are making major progress here today.”

What’s Next?

In the coming months, the Colorado Department of Natural Resources will work closely with the Division of Water Resources to interpret the language signed into law. Following this, Audubon and the Healthy Headwaters Working group will facilitate outreach and training events on SB23-270 for stream restoration practitioners and interested organizations. And most importantly, we will continue to educate decision-makers on the evolving state of river restoration science and the benefits of healthy functioning floodplains and river corridors for birds and people.

Thank You!

Thank you for your interest and engagement during the 2023 Colorado legislative session on stream restoration! More than 300 people attended the live Audubon-Colorado Department of Natural Resources stream restoration webinars, part 1 and part 2. And 1,266 Audubon members sent supportive comments to legislators. Canyon Wrens, Yellow Warblers, and Belted Kingfishers depend on you to support our healthy rivers, wetlands, and watersheds for all of us. Audubon will continue working with agencies, lawmakers, and partners to prioritize water security for people, birds, and the healthy freshwater ecosystems we all depend upon.

*Historic footprint references the historic riverine footprint encompassing the stream channel, associated riparian zones, and floodplain.

Link to the original article: Stream Restoration Legislation Will Benefit Birds and People in Colorado | Audubon Rockies

May 25
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Guest Blog: City of Greeley Museums

By Guest Blog, News

Celebrating Greeley’s Trees

The City of Greeley has been designated Tree City USA for over 40 years. The award, given by the National Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities across the nation for outstanding tree care based on four criteria. Communities must have an active forestry department or volunteer tree board, effective tree ordinances, host Arbor Day celebrations every year, and spend at least $1 per capita on community trees.

Greeley’s dedication to its trees stems from the Union Colony’s earliest days. Eager to establish trees in the new community, founder Nathan Meeker ordered a boxcar full of young trees from an Illinois nursery in June 1870. Despite his efforts to plant both shade and fruit trees, most did not survive the arid climate and died within the first two years. Greeley resident David Boyd later reflected, “It is worthy of remark that we at length learned how to grow evergreens, and many beautiful ones now adorn our lawns and sidewalks, and that Mr. Meeker kept planting until he, among the first, succeeded…The day may come when the hardier apple trees will also succeed.”

You can learn more about the City’s current tree planting efforts here.

Originally printed in the Greeley Tribune in 2016.
Written by Holly Berg, Curator of Exhibits
Updated 4/21/2023 by Katie Ross, Curator of Collections

City officials gather to celebrate planting trees around the Civic Center Complex, June 12, 1969.
COGM~1969.67.0006

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