IBCC plans interactive C9 Summit on climate and water challenges in Lakewood

The Interbasin Compact Committee (IBCC) convened on July 8, 2025, to discuss plans for an upcoming summit and address critical water management issues in Colorado. The meeting focused on the agenda for the C9 Summit, scheduled for October 28, which aims to foster collaboration among various stakeholders in water resource management.

Key discussions included the structure of the summit, which will feature a mix of interactive sessions and panels. Day one will concentrate on "no regrets" topics and include a welcome reception, while day two will adopt a conference format with peer learning exercises and discussions on innovative coalitions. A significant highlight will be a panel reflecting on 20 years of the IBCC and the Water for the 21st Century Act.

Participants expressed a strong interest in addressing climate hazards, particularly the impact of wildfires on water supplies. The committee is also planning a statewide water communication campaign, with a budget of one million dollars aimed at improving public engagement and understanding of water issues. The campaign will focus on creating relatable messaging to reach a broader audience, especially younger generations who may not engage with traditional media.

The meeting also touched on the importance of enhancing roundtable engagement and recruitment, with suggestions for brainstorming sessions to invigorate participation. Members emphasized the need for unstructured time during the summit to facilitate informal discussions and networking, which have proven valuable in past gatherings.

As the committee prepares for the summit, they are actively seeking input from stakeholders to refine the agenda and ensure it meets the needs of the community. The next steps include finalizing the summit details and continuing discussions on effective messaging strategies to engage the public in water resource management.