For Colorado's rivers, communities, and local economies . . .
Just Add Water.
Our Impact
Since 2001, Colorado Water Trust has restored...
23.9
Billion Gallons of Water
73,242
Acre-feet
612
Miles of Colorado's Rivers
Help us ensure Colorado has enough water for our rivers and our people
The mission of Colorado Water Trust is to restore water to Colorado's rivers.
We are a home-grown, statewide 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Since 2001, we’ve restored 20.82 billion gallons of water to 600 miles of rivers and streams across the state. We work collaboratively with our partners so that our projects benefit both the people we work with and our rivers.
Featured Projects
Upper Yampa River – Stagecoach Reservoir
Reservoir releases near Steamboat Springs, Colorado benefit multiple water users and the environment during periods of low flow in the Yampa River.
Little Cimarron River – McKinley Ditch
A groundbreaking split-season water sharing agreement between agriculture and the environment.
Colorado River – 15-Mile Reach
This project restores water to nearly 100 miles of the Colorado River, including the important 15-Mile Reach, home to threatened and endangered fish species, near Grand Junction.
Latest News & Stories
What's Happening
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We hope you’re enjoying the weather, whatever it’s doing near you! Thanks to one of our amazing volunteers for this awesome photo. 🌈💦 #coloradowatertrust #justaddwater
Congratulations to Angélica Breña, our 2nd place writing contset winner! Read her piece Canto porque el río suena on our blog. About the author: "I was born, raised, and a resident of Mexico City until 2010, when I went camping with my actual husband on his new property by mile 7 of the Frying Pan River Road. We continued during summer until we finished our small cabin in 2014. We live happily in this Valley and enjoy the river every single day. I am a Retired Literature professor and active in programs for the latinx community like Voices, Forest Conservancy volunteers, and Basalt Regional Library. I still love books and enjoy biking, hiking, kayaking, music, and salsa dancing."#coloradowatertrust #justaddwater
Every spring, Colorado Water Trust staff begin outreach to our project partners to analyze streamflow forecasts and determine which rivers will most likely be in need of water. This year, we are pleased to say that things are looking pretty good! That said, we know that conditions can change at any time and a good spring forecast does not necessarily mean healthy flows during the dry summer and fall season. However, forecasts help us plan ahead and to raise funds to purchase or lease water if our rivers are in need. With that, please read our full streamflow forecast for 2024 on our blog. #coloradowatertrust #justaddwater
A New Beginning, by Diane Falconer, won first place in the 2024 Water Trust Writing Contest. Read it on our blog!
About the author: “I am a retired school librarian. My husband Dave and I retired from Michigan to Littleton, then moved to charming Salida two years ago. We enjoyed Michigan’s countless lakes, but love the beautiful Arkansas River now. Fishing, floating, and FIBARK! I volunteer with the Colorado Environmental Film Festival and know how vital our rivers are to our ecosystems and our economy. I’m concerned for the welfare of our new immigrants and support efforts for more affordable housing here in Salida, so my story encompassed all those issues. In my spare time I enjoy photography, skiing, pickleball, and travel, and watching our grandchildren grow.”
#coloradowatertrust #justaddwater
