CWCB awards $6.4M grant funding for 30 water plan projects in Colorado

During the March 19, 2025, meeting of the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB), significant discussions centered around the allocation of water plan grants, which are crucial for advancing the state's water management goals. The meeting highlighted the importance of these grants in supporting various projects aimed at enhancing water conservation, agricultural practices, and watershed health.

Janine Shaw, the grants section chief for CWCB, provided an overview of the water plan grants program, noting that since its inception in 2017, approximately $109 million has been awarded to various projects. This fiscal year, the board has allocated $23.3 million for grants, which are distributed in a three-year cycle. Shaw emphasized the rigorous review process that applications undergo, involving regional grant managers and technical leads to ensure that funded projects are viable and beneficial to the community.

A total of 38 applications were submitted in the latest cycle, with the board recommending funding for 30 of them, resulting in an impressive 80% success rate for applicants. The recommended funding amounts to approximately $6.4 million, with a strong representation across various categories, particularly in watershed health and recreation.

The board also discussed the competitive nature of the grant applications this cycle, noting that outreach efforts have significantly increased, with 176 activities conducted to encourage more robust applications. This proactive approach aims to ensure that future funding opportunities are maximized, especially as federal funding becomes available.

In conclusion, the CWCB's commitment to supporting water-related projects through these grants reflects a broader goal of enhancing water sustainability and management in Colorado. The board's actions during this meeting are expected to have a lasting impact on local communities, fostering collaboration and innovation in water conservation efforts.