Peak Environment

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

148: Before You Hire a Landscaper

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:47:00 -0400

What if ten weekends could change the way you see your land, your home, and your future?

Host Ally Richardson interviews three recent graduates of the 2025 Permaculture Design Certification Course where they share the moments that surprised them, the skills that reshaped their thinking, and the unexpected community they found along the way. Before you hire a landscaper, hear what a PDC can unlock. Step into your power and shape the land for good!

Mentioned in this episode:

2026 Permaculture Design Course

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s PDC follows the Permaculture Institute of North America curriculum and meets the 72 hour certification standard. The course emphasizes ethics, principles, whole systems thinking, and collaborative site design.

The program runs 10 weekends from February to August across Southern Colorado, with a few regional field trips. Lunches are prepared by students on rotation, with snacks provided. Children may attend with prior discussion.

Work trade options and financial aid are available. Few spots left, so sign-up today!

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

147: Cut Your Energy Bill with Help from Energy Resource Center

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:13:00 -0400

ERC helps cut wasted energy consumption through energy-efficient home upgrades, now available to all households in their 27-county service area, regardless of income level. Upgrades are free to income-qualifying households. ERC collectively saves $300,000 in utility bills each year by upgrading about 2,000 homes. Energy Resource Center Director of Programs Mike Mazzola fills us in on what ERC can do for you.

LINKS:

Sustainability & Resiliency Info and Networking Survey: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

Energy Resource Center: https://erc-co.org

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

146: Joyful Holiday Tips to Help Minimize Waste

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 16:01:00 -0400

Shrinking your holiday footprint on the planet can seem daunting – but this episode offers tips to make it a joy. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) is deviating from the norm this month. Instead of the usual live, third Wednesday Zoom event, the November Sustainability in Progress is this pre-recorded studio conversation.

This conversation is about the holidays, discovering local resources to give meaningful and lifelong gifts to reduce waste. Host Mary Barber of PASF is joined by Ally Richardson of Pikes Peak Permaculture and Dave Gardner of GrowthBusters (both are regular co-producers of the Studio 809 Podcasts Peak Environment podcast).

We’re considering making some changes in SIP, and we’re inviting collaboration. Help Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future and the entire sustainability/resiliency community make plans for 2026. Please take this poll: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69

LINKS MENTIONED:

Pikes Peak Bulletin Winter Holiday Calendar with local-maker markets: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/events/2025-winter-holiday-calendar-events-and-markets-in-the-spirit-of-the-season/

Colorado Springs Mom winter markets calendar: https://cospringsmom.com/parenting-wisdom/winter-markets-in-colorado-springs/

Downtown Shopping Gift Card: https://downtowncs.com/event/shop-local-win-local/

Resource Central Garden in a Box: https://resourcecentral.org/gardens/

Center for Biological Diversity’s Simplify The Holidays Helpful Tips: https://simplifytheholidays.org/

So Kind Gift Registry: https://sokindregistry.org/

Who Gives a Scrap for the crafty: https://whogivesascrapcolorado.com/

Volunteer with the City of Colorado Springs: https://hr.coloradosprings.gov/VolunteerOpportunities

Find opportunities at Flying Pig Farm, community farm practicing permaculture and building resilience: https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Divert waste with Galvanize Recycling: https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/

El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facility: https://communityresources.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

Compost with Food To Power: https://foodtopowerco.org/

Other holiday-related podcast episodes we mentioned:

Sustainable Holiday - Peak Environment episode #66

Have Yourself A Low Impact Holiday - Peak Environment episode #112

Plastic Bags Update & Moving Toward Zero Waste: Policy Wins, Advice and Resources - Peak Environment episode #115

Rebelling Against Black Friday Consumerism - GrowthBusters podcast episode #61

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

145: Bright Idea: Conserving Energy

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:59:00 -0400

Energy rates are changing, and so is the demand. Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Ally Richardson, frequent producer and cohost of the Peak Environment podcast, shares practical ways we can reduce energy use and rethink consumption. She’s joined by panelists Becky Elder (a permaculture instructor) and Scott Harvey (a structural and electrical engineer).

They delve into the current state of energy usage in the Pikes Peak region, examine the primary sources of energy and identify the sectors that consume the most. They also explore the factors driving changes in energy rates and demand, providing us with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face. Feel empowered to take action towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on October 14, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. You can view a video recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY

The October meeting was presented by Pikes Peak Permaculture, which is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to teaching principles and practices of permaculture design in the Southern Colorado region. The organization educates about working with nature instead of against it, building stronger connections with our landscape and all inhabitants, regenerating land, water, and food systems, and making sure our region thrives for generations to come.

Mentioned in this episode:

Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings

Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): https://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap

Colorado’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/weatherization-assistance-program

Project Cope. Donation based fund for community members utility bill assistance in time of crisis and emergencies: https://projectcopecs.org/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. Subscribe to receive email notice of news and events: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

144: Arts and Culture in the Pikes Peak Region

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:45:00 -0400

Unite Your World with the Arts! Some people might think that the concept of sustainability means only environmental sustainability. While sustainability does include nature and the environment, it also encompasses society or community, economy, and individual well-being. Arts and culture represents one aspect of social sustainability that sustains and improves our quality of life, which we explore through the region's leader in arts and culture, the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region.

Angela Seals, Executive Director of COPPR, provides an update on the 10-year cultural plan for the Pikes Peak Region: Arts Vision 2030. Ms. Seals tells us about October Arts Month activities and initiatives around the region coming in October.

The Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (a.k.a. COPPR) is the nonprofit local arts agency that serves the City of Colorado Springs and the greater Pikes Peak region (El Paso and Teller Counties). The Cultural Office works to ensure that the creative sector grows in economic vitality and depth of impact, that creative workers can thrive in our community, and that the arts are leveraged to positively address regional economic development, education, cultural tourism, and quality of life.

Angela Seals is a creative leader, project manager, public programs designer, and speaker with 20 years of experience working at arts nonprofits. She has worked with the Cultural Office in a variety of roles since 2013. Angela has built a reputation for dynamic and collaborative impact across her career in Colorado Springs and at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust / Pittsburgh Dance Council, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Corcoran College of Art + Design in Washington, D.C. She has been honored with awards for her service to the field, including the 2024 Women of Influence Award from Colorado Springs Business Journal and the 2022 Juneteenth Community Award from Pikes Peak Diversity Council.

LINKS:

October - Arts Month, download digital passport: https://artsoctober.com/

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region: https://www.culturaloffice.org/

Peak Radar: https://peakradar.com/

Arts Vision 2030: https://www.culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030/

Concrete Couch: https://www.concretecouch.org/

Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts: https://www.smokebrush.org/

Smokebrush Farm: https://www.facebook.com/smokebrushfarm

Visit Colorado Springs: https://www.visitcos.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 17, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Bright Idea: Conserving Energy

October Sustainability in Progress

Hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture

Join virtually or in person

October 15th, Noon to 1:15

In-person at UCCS Downtown, 102 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs

Virtually on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

143: Clearing the Air about Nuclear - Exploring the Pros and Cons of Nuclear Energy

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:34:00 -0400

We begin to unravel one of the most complex and timely topics in the global energy landscape. Whether you’re a student, a policy maker, a professional in the energy sector, or simply an engaged global citizen, this episode promises to broaden your horizons and foster informed dialogue.

As countries strive to decarbonize their energy sectors, the debate over nuclear power becomes increasingly vital. Nuclear energy offers a unique combination of high-capacity generation and low carbon emissions, positioning it as a potential linchpin in the global effort to combat climate change. However, high-profile accidents, long-lived waste, and economic considerations give rise to legitimate concerns. This discussion aims to navigate these complexities with clarity and candor and provide Alliance stakeholders with a strong background from which to further explore the topic.

Christopher Juniper provides a balanced examination of nuclear power, highlighting both its transformative potential and the valid concerns it raises. He addresses the following key areas:

· The Basics and Lifecycle of Nuclear Energy: How does nuclear power work? What is fission, and how is electricity generated from uranium or thorium?

· Advantages of Nuclear Energy: Explore the compelling benefits, from low greenhouse gas emissions to high energy density, reliability, and potential for innovation in reactor design.

· Drawbacks and Risks: Delve into the challenges, including extraction of uranium, radioactive waste, safety concerns, high upfront costs, and public perception.

· Future Outlook: A look at emerging technologies, such as small modular reactors and fusion energy, and their potential to reshape the energy landscape.

· Colorado Connection: Understanding the potential implications for Colorado.

· Interactive Q&A Session: Bring your questions and perspectives for an engaging dialogue.

Christopher Juniper, a Colorado native and Colorado College graduate, has tracked nuclear power for nearly 50 years as a sustainability economist, consultant, activist, and college instructor. He created the Sustainability Performance Lifecycle Management System in 2003 that his team used to evaluate energy sources available to the Pikes Peak region 2009-2011. He has served on the Colorado Springs Utilities’ EIRP technical advisory committee; co-authored certification study guides for the International Society of Sustainability Professionals; authored book chapters on climate risk economics; and served international sustainability-related projects and non-profit boards.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 20, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next Sustainability in Progress:

Arts & Culture: Angela Seals of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region

September 17, 2025, Noon to 1 PM

Virtual

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nuclear-Lifecycle-2025.pdf

Speaker’s Research Notes: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Nuclear-Power-Rsh-Notes-20Aug25.pdf

Colorado Energy Office: https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/

Visit Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future’s Website: https://peakallianceco.org/

Follow the Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr

Pikes Peak Permaculture: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org

Visit Fountain Creek Watershed District for upcoming cleanups, monthly Liquid Lectures, and other events

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

142: Water Crisis

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 08:21:00 -0400

Why is water such a hot-button issue in Colorado right now? Host/producer Ally Richardson dives into the heart of local water challenges with Dave Gardner, Mark Robinson, and Mike Callicrate. From policy to permaculture, they explore innovative solutions that could shape the future of our region’s most precious resource.

In the conversation today:

Farmer Mark Robinson from Green Hill Farm in Peyton, Colorado.

Mark hopes to have Grains & Vegetables coming soon! Find him at the Grain Chain: https://www.coloradograinchain.com/nexus/organizations/green-hill-farm

Rancher Mike Callicrate from Saint Francis, Kansas.

Mike has 2 local Colorado Spring stores, Ranch Foods Direct, that are worth a visit!

Find him at: https://www.mikecallicrate.com/

Dave Gardner from Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Dave manages Studio 809 Podcasts, where he produces some episodes of Peak Environment and co-hosts Loving the Springs. He also hosts the GrowthBusters podcast, which recently visited the water issue: https://www.growthbusters.org/growth-addiction-water-southwest/

Mentioned in This Episode:

2023 Colorado Water Plan: https://dnrweblink.state.co.us/CWCB/0/edoc/219188/Colorado_WaterPlan_2023_Digital.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities - Tiered Water Plans found here: https://www.csu.org/rates/tiered-water-rate

Zack Weiss creates brilliant videos to illustrate how water moves through land and atmosphere. https://waterstories.com

The Watershed Death Spiral: https://www.waterstories.com/story/the-watershed-death-spiral

The Revived Water Cycle: https://www.waterstories.com/story/the-revived-water-cycle

Denver 7 News Article by Brandon Richard, Foreign ownership of Colorado's agricultural land raising concerns found here: https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/foreign-ownership-of-colorados-agricultural-land-raising-concerns

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://coloradosprings.gov/gardens

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

141: Vermijo Community Garden

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 17:07:00 -0400

Stuck on how to grow food in our region of Southern Colorado? Don’t know where to start? Feeling overwhelmed? Or shoot, do you just want to pick good local food up? Peak Environment Cohost Ally Richardson joins Kristie Taylor at Vermijo Community Garden to talk about how the garden is transforming more than just the landscape. It’s sparking a movement, cultivating connections, and nourishing more than just vegetables.

Featured in This Episode:

Vermijo Community Garden

Contact: Kristie Taylor | vermijogarden@gmail.com

Find the garden on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575044404344 and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vermijocommunitygardencos/

Partnered with Flying Pig Farm https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Volunteer Day: Last Saturday of every month—drop in and lend a hand!

Find Community Gardens Near You

https://www.communitygardensppr.com/home

A Mom’s Guide to Survive

This nonprofit empowers Colorado Springs moms with resources, support, and a sense of community. Check out the Mothers Guide To Survive events on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/amomsguidetosurvive.

Sankofa Community Orchard

Located in Richmond, Virginia, this five-acre green oasis is dedicated to food justice and climate resilience, featuring over 100 fruit trees. Learn more at https://thenaturalfestival.com/sankofa/.

Pro Tip: Mulch!

Mulching is essential for building healthy soil and conserving water in our dry climate. Free mulch is available in a pile next to the train tracks near 1401 Recreation Way, courtesy of Colorado Springs Park & Recreation Department.

Upcoming Permaculture Workshop

Soil for Every Garden

Date: Saturday, August 2nd, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Location: Vermijo Community Garden

Struggling with high-altitude gardening or pests like grasshoppers? Join this interactive two-hour class to learn about building resilient soil and practical pest control techniques. Each participant will take home a jar of homemade garlic spray. Register at http://wildoasispermaculture.com/.

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a sponsor and content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit http://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture design – certifications, workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

140: Sustainability in Progress: Regional Transportation Planning Update

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:54:00 -0400

What can we expect in the future for both public and automobile transportation in the Pikes Peak Region? We hear from the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) and Mountain Metro (Colorado Springs’ bus system). John Liosatos, Transportation Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, discusses the recently adopted 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan for the Pikes Peak Region as well as the role the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG) plays in bringing together local communities. Jacob Matsen, Planning and Operations Supervisor for Mountain Metropolitan Transit, shares the agency’s short and long-term visions for improved public transit service throughout the Pikes Peak Region – including increased services, greater regional connections, innovative modes of transit, and more.

LINKS:

PPACG John Losiatos Presentation Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2050-LRTP-Presentation-for-SustainabilityInProgress.pdf

Mountain Metro Jacob Matsen Presentation Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Peak-Alliance-for-a-Sustainable-Future-2025.06.18.pdf

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Transportation Planning: https://ppacg.org/transportation/

PPACG Long Range Transportation Plan: https://ppacg.org/transportation/long-range-transportation-plan/

Mountain Metro Transit: https://coloradosprings.gov/mountainmetro

2050 Regional Transit and Specialized Transportation Plans: https://coloradosprings.gov/2050-regional-transit-and-specialized-transit-plans

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 18, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. We're taking some time off this summer, but be notified when the next SIP is planned: https://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Pikes Peak Permaculture: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado: https://350colorado.org/

GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

139: Promoting Housing Affordability, Access and Production in the Pikes Peak Region

Sat, 31 May 2025 14:24:00 -0400

The state of housing affordability and attainability in Colorado Springs, and what the Pikes Peak Housing Network is doing to improve it. “Colorado Springs and El Paso County aren't building enough homes that typical buyers can afford, while smaller houses and other types of housing options are needed to make housing more attainable for many people, including young adults… and seniors….” That’s the conclusion of a recent report by the Pikes Peak Housing Network.

Jill Gaebler, Executive Director, tells us about how the PPHN is meeting the challenge of supporting “innovative and collaborative solutions to promote housing affordability, access and production” in the Pikes Peak Region. The Network’s mission involves advocating for sustainability principles like infill and redevelopment and access to transportation options, employment and living wages, cultural activities, green space, and more.

Affordable, accessible housing is key to the establishment of a regional culture and resilient, sustainable built environment essential to a healthy economy, quality of life, attractive workforce environment, and personal health now and in the future.

LINKS:

Pikes Peak Housing Network: https://pphousingnetwork.org

2024 State of Housing Report: https://pphousingnetwork.org/2024-PPHN-State-of-Housing-Report-1.pdf

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 21, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Regional Transportation Planning Update

John Liosatos, Transportation Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments

Jacob Matsen, Planning and Operations Supervisor for Mountain Metropolitan Transit

June 18, 2025

Noon to 1 p.m.

Virtual. Register here to get link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/pEktJ5xCR7O2PjS3265dSg

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

138: Examining Air Quality in Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region

Fri, 02 May 2025 14:27:00 -0400

Ever stopped to wonder what’s in the air you breathe? From invisible pollutants to visible smog, air quality affects us all—whether we realize it or not. Host Ally Richardson from Pikes Peak Permaculture sits down with activist and Peak Environment cohost Konrad Schlarbaum, alongside Pikes Peak Area Council of Government’s Air Quality Outreach Specialist Kenzie Courtney, to discuss air quality in the Pikes Peak region. In this episode, we’re diving into the challenges we face, the risks we can’t ignore, and the steps we can take to create cleaner skies for generations to come.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments https://ppacg.org/

Find the Air Quality Index here https://www.airnow.gov/

CDPHE Air Quality Division - Colorado Air Quality Summary https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/colorado_summary.aspx

CDPHE’s Air Quality Division daily reports https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/

The latest ways to get around in the Pikes Peak region https://ppacg.org/transportation/

Free Energy Audits for Businesses https://www.csu.org/business-efficiency/request-an-audit

Food To Power https://foodtopowerco.org/

PPAG will provide info through https://Pikespeakair.com

Bike Routes and Safety Information https://coloradosprings.gov/bikemap

Additionally, mark your calendars for Bike To Work Day on Wednesday, June 25th, where free breakfast will be provided at several bike stations throughout the city. Find more details here: https://coloradosprings.gov/biketowork

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture. Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

137: Fountain Creek Water Quality – What the Data Tells Us

Thu, 01 May 2025 19:46:00 -0400

What do 68 monitoring sites and over $1.3 million annual investment in data collection tell us about Fountain Creek? Colorado Springs Utilities water quality expert Annie Berlemann provides some answers. She is Fountain Creek Watershed Project Manager for the utility.

Fountain Creek is one of Colorado’s most closely monitored and ecologically diverse waterways—spanning urban neighborhoods, rural landscapes, and natural ecosystems from the top of Pikes Peak to Pueblo. The Fountain Creek Watershed tells a complex story of resilience, risk, and recovery. From the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest fires to the “Miracle May” floods – discover what it takes to track and improve water health for both people and wildlife, including the native Flathead chub, a species of special concern.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Watershed-101-and-Water-Quality.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities: https://www.csu.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 16, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The next event is:

Home Grown – Built to Live, Love, Last - Jill Gaebler of Pikes Peak Housing Network

May 21, 2025, Noon to 1 p.m., Virtual

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

https://www.denvergov.org/files/assets/public/v/1/public-health-and-environment/documents/eq/rules-and-regulations-governing-graywater-treatment-works-2024.pdf

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

136: Spring Cleaning - Every Nook & Cranny

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:31:00 -0400

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to revitalize your space with sustainability in mind! Join Ally Richardson and Aaron Shaha, local permaculturists who dive into Zone 0, sharing their journey, expert insights, and practical resources for greener living in the Pikes Peak region. This episode covers essential topics like energy efficiency, water conservation, food production, waste reduction, and holistic well-being—helping you create a more mindful and regenerative home.

Mentioned in this episode:

Informative Permaculture Forums can be found at https://Permies.com or reach out with questions to Pikes Peak Permaculture on website at https://pikespeakpermaculture.org

Zachary Weiss’s Water Stories can be found at https://www.waterstories.com

Video Reviving Rivers with Dr. Rajendra Singh https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N9PIBATSFw

Research on Fraudulent Organic Labeling:

Giannakas, K. and Yiannaka, A. 2023. Annual Review of Resource Economics. Food Fraud: Causes, Consequences, and Deterrence Strategies. Annu. Rev. Resour. Econ. 15:85–104. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-resource-101422-013027

Denver Laundry to Landscape:

Regulation 86- Reg. 86 – Graywater Control from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division. https://cdphe.colorado.gov/water-quality/clean-water/reg-86-graywater-control

Vitamin D Boosts from mushrooms! Visit local business Microvora for all your gourmet mushrooms, microgreens, and more. Questions or Wholesale Inquiries - Contact via email at hello@microvora.com. Storefront Open Daily from 10AM-6PM in Colorado Springs at 3685 S U.S. Hwy 85 87 Suite 2.

Resources for Household Waste:

Galvanize Recycling Services: https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/

The El Paso County Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHWF) is located at 3255 Akers Dr. Colorado Springs, 80922

For more information about what is accepted, please visit: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976

https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

http://aroundtheworldineightyyears.com

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

135: The Future of Fountain Creek - Panel and Community Discussion

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:08:00 -0400

A panel discussion with Fountain Creek Watershed District Executive Director Alli Schuch and Jim O’Donnell, author of Fountain Creek: Big Lessons from a Little River, followed by a dynamic community conversation.

Alli provides an overview of watershed basics and shares insights on the current state of Fountain Creek. She highlights future opportunities and challenges facing the watershed.

Jim dives into key themes from his new book. Together, they explore environmental issues, community engagement, and the economic and cultural dimensions of the watershed—while offering a forward-looking perspective.

Mary Barber of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future hosts, while Allen Beauchamp of Trails and Open Space Coalition moderates. Melody Daugherty delivers the land acknowledgment and blessing.

Presenters’ Slides: https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Complete-Presenters-Slides-SIP-March-19-2025.pdf

Thanks to These Hosts & Sponsors:

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://peakallianceco.org/

Fountain Creek Watershed District: https://www.fountain-crk.org/

El Paso County Parks and Recreation: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/parks-and-recreation/

Fountain Creek Nature Center: https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/nature-centers/fountain-creek-nature-center/

Peak Environment podcast: https://studio809podcasts.com/podcasts/peak-environment/

Thanks to These Participating Community Organizations:

Colorado Springs Stormwater: https://coloradosprings.gov/stormwater-enterprise

COS Creek Plan: https://coscreekplan.org/

Trails and Open Space Coalition: https://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/

Pikes Peak Chapter of Trout Unlimited: https://www.ppctu.org/

Jim O'Donnell, MCRP, CPD

Freelance Writer/Photographer

Fountain Creek: Big Lessons from a Little River https://www.aroundtheworldineightyyears.com/books/fountain-creek/

http://www.jimodonnellphotography.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 19, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Fountain Creek Water Quality – What the Data Tells Us

How fire, flood, drought, and human development are shaping the watershed—and how partnerships and science are helping to protect it. In this Earth Week presentation, water quality expert Annie Berlemann shares what we know from 68 monitoring sites.

April 16, 2025

Virtual only, noon to 1 p.m.

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Oan8kU2MR02EG_nmOT4J7Q

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

134: Connecting Colorado with the Outdoors - Great Outdoors Colorado and Generation Wild

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:16:00 -0400

Get an update on exciting Great Outdoors Colorado investments and work statewide, from Christopher Aaby, the Generation Wild Program Officer with GOCO. Great Outdoors Colorado invests a portion of the Colorado Lottery proceeds through competitive grants open to local governments and land trusts in Colorado. GOCO just released their 2024 annual report available here: https://www.goco.org/annual-report/2024.

Chris was an active board member of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, and hosted many of our Sustainability in Progress events. Join us in welcoming him for this visit.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 19, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

March 19, 2025, 12 Noon

The Future of Fountain Creek: Panel and Community Discussion

Attend in Person - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/march-sip-the-future-of-fountain-creek-tickets-1263008013969

Attend Virtually - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/5RNjoPyYRGCLUQ86pcZzJQ

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slides - https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SIP-Febuary-GOCO.pdf

Great Outdoors Colorado - https://goco.org/

Generation Wild - https://www.generationwild.com/

Local website – https://generationwildppr.org

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GenerationWildColorado/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/generationwildcolorado/

Kids on Bikes - https://kidsonbikes.net/

Mile High Youth Corps - https://www.milehighyouthcorps.org/

Blackpackers - https://blackpackers.org/

YMCA Camp Shady Brook - https://campshadybrook.ppymca.org/

Rocky Mountain Field Institute - https://www.rmfi.org/

Colorado Parks and Wildlife - https://goco.org/programs-projects/colorado-parks-wildlife

Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services - https://coloradosprings.gov/PRCS

Catamount Institute - https://www.catamountinstitute.org/

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/ your local bike shop since 1976

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

133: Wildtending, Ancient Skills, & Listening to Nature

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:23:00 -0400

Components of nature connection and the basic skills that everyone's ancestors practiced. Host/co-producer Ally Richardson and guests Iraiah & Austin – who run Smokebrush’s Earth Skill Club – talk about facilitating opportunities in our local community to foster deeper connections, not only with fellow humans but with all living things in our surrounding ecosystems. Deeply engage your senses, so together we can witness how living closely with our earth is practical, accessible, & tangible. Tune in to explore how these ancient practices can enrich our modern lives.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Earth Skill Club for three hands-on classes— 2nd Saturday of the month all spring long! ⏰12:30 pm - 2:30

Fiber & Cordage - March 8th. Learn the basics of fiber processing through cordage making, an essential for making tools, shelter, and clothing from the earth. Learn how to make rope with the help of your friends, tie knots to create proper leverage, and create an ultralight backpack tie.

Stone & Bone Tools - April 12th. Dive into the art of crafting tools from materials such bone and stone all stemming from the simplest of measures - a sharp edge. Play with nature as we create our own biodegradable, primitive cutting devices. Tap into curiosity as we listen to the density of rock’s sounds, observing what they can tell us to discover their best uses.

Friction Fire Building - May 10th. Ignite your instincts and get a work out as we tap into the age-old skill of fire building, a cornerstone of surviving and thriving. Practice creating a fire with sticks through the power of hand and bow drill friction kits, using different local woods to birth the coal that will provide nourishment to our bird nest kindling.

Earth Skill Club on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/EarthSkills-of-Manitou/100086610595176/

Earth Skill Club on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/earthskills_of_manitou/

Rocky Mountain Highway's Meadowgrass Music Festival

May 23, 10am - May 25 · 11:30pm https://meadowgrass.org/

Be sure to check out Smokebrush's Puppet Show!

Listen to last year’s Studio 809 podcast about Meadowgrass here: https://rockymountainhighway.org/meadowgrass-2024-featured-on-studio-809-podcast/

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s The Seed Garden Class

March 15, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Go to https://pikespeakpermaculture.org or click here to register: https://form.jotform.com/250237033443043

Join us for this class and discussion on the value of seeds. Learn about seed starting and saving techniques and participate in a seed swap. Learn the value of climate adaptation and landrace development in seed stock and how it helps to strengthen community food sheds. Build community and meet great people who face the same perils of gardening our region as you do.

An Amazing List of Resources our guests recommend! Check them out at your local library.

1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus, Book by Charles C. Mann

Tending the Wild: Native American Knowledge and the Management of California's Natural Resources, Book by Kat Anderson

What the Robin Knows: How Birds Reveal the Secrets of the Natural World, Book by Jon Young

Eavesdropping on Animals: What We Can Learn From Wildlife Conversations, Book by George Bumann

Forgotten Fires: Native Americans and the Transient Wilderness, Book by Omer Stewart

Edible Native Plants of the Rocky Mountains, Book by Harold Harrington

Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West, Book by Michael Moore

Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species, Book by Mark Elbroch

Participating in Nature: Wilderness Survival and Primitive Living Skills, Book by Thomas J. Elpel

Animal Tracking Fundamentals: Animal Track Identification, Flashcards by Silva Tracking

Colorado Wildflowers Search, Free App by Steve Sullivan (has a Columbine as the app image)

A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976 http://oldtownbikeshop.com/

And thanks to Becky Elder for her support. You can provide support here. https://www.patreon.com/studio809

This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a content partner with Studio 809 Podcasts. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture design – certifications, workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/COS-Creek-Plan-SIP.pdf

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

132: COS Creek Plan: Dramatic Changes for Monument and Fountain Creeks

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 14:47:00 -0400

Learn about the comprehensive vision for future investments and stewardship, with a focus on downtown Colorado Springs. We’ll hear from Chris Lieber, COO for Pikes Peak Waterways, Principal at N.E.S. Inc. and Chair of the Downtown Development Authority. He is joined by former city councilor Jan Martin, cofounder and board member for Pikes Peak Waterways.

The COS Creek Plan establishes a comprehensive vision for the future investments and stewardship of the Fountain Creek Watershed with a specific focus on segments of the Monument and Fountain creeks adjacent to Downtown Colorado Springs. The COS Creek Plan establishes an implementable vision, which respects our communities’ values, responds to infrastructure needs, and leverages opportunities. Implementation of the Plan is being pursued through a unique partnership between Pikes Peak Waterways (non-profit), the City of Colorado Springs (Stormwater Enterprise), and Colorado Springs Utilities. It is intended to create excitement, foster collaboration, and identify public and private partnership opportunities.

Pikes Peak Waterways is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded on the premise that visionary planning, research, and action is vital to making our region’s waterways sustainable and enjoyable for generations to come. Pikes Peak Waterways serves as a catalyst for change and is turning Fountain and Monument Creek’s challenges into opportunities: opportunities for restoration, opportunities for preservation, opportunities for recreation, and opportunities for community and economic development.

Chris Lieber is leading efforts to implement the COS Creek Plan and supporting the non-profit work of Pikes Peak Waterways. For nearly two decades Chris managed the Colorado Springs Parks, Trails and Open Space (TOPS) Program.

LINKS:

Presenters’ Slides

Pikes Peak Waterways

https://Ppwaterways.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 15, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

February 19, 2025, 12 Noon

Topic: Connecting Colorado with the Outdoors - Great Outdoors Colorado and Generation Wild

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture

Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

350 Colorado

GrowthBusters

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow Peak Environment on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

131: Art, Hope, and 2025 – an Update from 350 Colorado

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 18:55:00 -0400

Chelsea and Melissa at 350 Colorado discuss hope and art, in addition to specifics on exciting events in CO Springs coming up in 2025. This episode is a must listen!

Also discussed:

COP29
Climate Lobby Day – Friday, March 7

350 Colorado is the largest Colorado-based grassroots network focused on taking action to stop climate change. It’s an independent state affiliate of 350.org, the well-known global organization. Learn more at http://350colorado.org/, or email Melissa @ melissa@350colorado.org, and Chelsea @ chelsea@350colorado.org

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

130: Shifting the Status Quo of Development

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 23:26:00 -0400

There is a divide among sustainability advocates concerning urban development. At a glance, it may seem that halting all development would be beneficial. However, John Olson urges us to look beyond the surface and consider the implications of how we develop our cities, as well as the potential consequences of stopping development altogether.

He believes we need to shift the status quo mindset of development. Rapid urbanization, suburban sprawl, and the degradation of natural resources have strained infrastructure, exacerbated social inequalities, and threatened environmental sustainability. New urban planning approaches foster deeper human connections, mitigate climate change, and build communities that are resilient, equitable, and prosperous for future generations.

John’s passion and dedication is creating inspiring places that foster deeper connections with each other and our natural environment. With over two decades of experience integrating smart growth principles across various project types, his strength is creating innovative and sustainable solutions, engaging a wide variety of stakeholders, and leading projects from vision to implementation and beyond.

John earned his Landscape Architecture degree from Kansas State University. He has a passion and vested interest in projects that enrich the Colorado Springs area in which he and his wife of over twenty years have lived and raised their family of five.

His commitment extends to serving on multiple boards. Recognized for his impact, he currently serves as Chair of the Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority and Co-Chair of ULI Southern Colorado. He helped found the Colorado Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism, and Colorado Springs Urban Intervention. He is an Accredited New Urbanist, Registered Landscape Architect, and LEED Accredited Professional.

LINKS:

Video of this Presentation https://youtu.be/Wai4GHPGKGA

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Olson-Sustainable-Development-Nov-2024.pdf

Urban Landscapes https://urbanlandscapes.design/

Loving the Springs podcast https://studio809podcasts.com/category/loving-the-springs/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 20, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

January 15, 2025, 12 Noon Topic: TBA Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcpduuopzMuHdf7Nk4vUgzyYVjJ69f1d402

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

350 Colorado https://350colorado.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

129: Concrete Couch & Concrete Coyote – Art and Sustainability

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:33:00 -0400

Learn how local arts nonprofit Concrete Couch has turned a concrete dump into a community asset – a park and learning center. Caitlin Hannigan and Jorge Estevez also share how Concrete Couch has contributed to increasing interest and engagement in the arts and sustainability in Colorado Springs. Concrete Couch is a nonprofit that works with kids and community groups to create public art, build community, and create environments and experiences that humanize our world.

Speakers:

Caitlin Hannigan is the Education Director at Concrete Couch. She was raised in Colorado Springs and worked as a teacher in China before working at Concrete Couch. Over the last 4-years she has worked with Concrete Couch to help make Concrete Coyote into a 7-acre community park and helped design and develop educational programming for community members.

Dr. Jorge Estevez is an instructor with Concrete Couch. He has a doctorate in physics. He is passionate about trees, biking and the Colorado Springs community. With his work at Concrete Couch, he has helped plant over 50 native trees and plants and build over 2 miles of hiking and biking trails.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on October 16, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free), normally the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

November 13, 2024 John Olson of Urban Landscapes LLC Register here to receive Zoom link

LINKS:

Presenters' Slides

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Concrete Couch

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

128: Ecosystems as Models for Restoring our Economies (to a sustainable state)

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:48:00 -0400

Discover how the symbiotic relationship between our environment and our economic development can lead to a more sustainable future with national speaker and Colorado author, John Giordanengo. John has spent the last three decades in the trenches of conservation, restoration ecology, non-profit development, and small-business ownership. That work, coupled with investigative research from across the globe, led to his recent book, Ecosystems as Models for Restoring Our Economies, which was a finalist in the 2023 Colorado Book Awards. Drawing from his systemic experiences, Giordanengo will share insights on aligning environmental values with critical economic and social goals, bridging the gap between the inherent values of our environmental and economic systems in the Pikes Peak Region.

John Giordanengo began building his career in ecological restoration throughout the Western U.S. While studying business in the late eighties, he became intrigued by a universal challenge: preserving earth's ecosystems while meeting humanity's economic needs. Giordanengo offers lecture series at universities and public venues across the U.S. and several other countries, and works with entrepreneurs, non-profits, and industry leaders to create sustainable solutions to complex challenges. He lives in Fort Collins, where he plays music, gardens, and strengthens his professional networks.

If you wish to see John’s slides, view this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/eCyc2VTp2ew

LINKS:

Book: Ecosystems as Models for Restoring Our Economies - By John H. Giordanengohttps://economicrestoration.org/book

Economic Restoration Serviceshttps://economicrestoration.org/

Contact John: John at EconomicRestoration.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 18, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Concrete Couch October 16, 2024, Noon to 1 p.m. Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpcu6pqzIoHt1Djz6KOns5dM1rjdNDXm4-

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

127: Permablitz

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 12:23:00 -0400

What is a permablitz? Ally Richardson invites fellow permaculturists Alexandra Malecki and Beth Carbone to discuss this engaging social permaculture event. We couldn’t contain our giggles! Together, we share our experiences with these community gatherings, which we believe truly enhance our ability to achieve the impossible. In alignment with Mayor Yemi’s initiative on 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings Initiative, a permablitz not only tackles seemingly impossible tasks but also addresses mental health issues and isolation, all while offering support and sunshine. Find more information about a permablitz here: https://www.permablitz.net/

Since the recording in August, Alex Malecki has joined the 1,000 Neighborhood Gathering Initiative! We’re now at 767 gatherings. We need 233 more, with just over two weeks to go! Have you hosted a gathering recently? Register yours here: https://coloradosprings.gov/1000Gatherings

Mentioned in the episode:

The mystery book that was referred to by Beth, given by Alex, is the SKIP book by Paul Wheaton and Mike Hasaal. Skip is short for Skills to inherit property. There are many people who have built wonderful permaculture systems on their land, but with no heirs. This program allows for an opportunity to prove you have the skills to take care of the land. For more information on the SKIP program, look here: https://wheaton-labs.com/skip/

To purchase a physical copy of the book, look here: https://permies.com/wiki/160690/physical-copy-SKIP-book

Chip Drop was also mentioned. We love wood chips in permaculture. See more information here about getting your wood chips delivered: https://getchipdrop.com/

There is a free resource pile from the City Parks Department at 1601 Recreation Way in Colorado Springs.

Thanks to Old Town Bike Shop for sponsoring the Peak Environment podcast. Check them out at https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

126: Life Happens. Be Ready

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 02:00:00 -0400

Learn about the GRIT Program that offers training in a brief conversational intervention used to support effective coping for those in your natural social network. In these trying times, we could all benefit from free training in effective coping to build our collective grit. We get the details from Dr. Lauren Shaw, GRIT Program Manager at UCCS’ Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience. The program is intended to function as one element within more comprehensive planning to help individuals and communities to be as resilient as they can be in the wake of stress-related problems or disasters. In times of disaster, strengthening coping, spreading support, and providing resources can have a positive impact on healing and resilience for everyone.

Dr. Shaw is the GRIT Program Manager with the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience. She received her Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs in 2009, and her Psy.D. in Organizational Psychology, with a specialization in Health and Wellness, from the University of the Rockies in 2018. Her professional background includes teaching resilience, mindfulness-based training, and leadership development in military and organizational settings. Additionally, she holds certifications as a health coach and personal trainer from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).

LINKS:

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/GRIT-Presentation.pdf

GRIT Programhttps://grit.uccs.edu

Pikes Peak Rising 360https://www.elpasocountyhealth.org/prevention-services/pikes-peak-rising-360/

Contact Maggie Youkhana for a Pikes Peak Rising 360 platform demo: maggieyoukhana@elpasoco.com

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 21, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Ecosystems as Models for Restoring our Economies (to a sustainable state)Wednesday, September 18, from 12:00 - 1:00 PM Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAuc--vqj0uG9DCLX0N-3Bo4oyOLJu62nQa

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

125: A Fossil Free Future - Meet 350 Colorado

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 22:49:00 -0400

Learn how 350 Colorado can help you become a climate activist, or have more fun and be more effective if you’re already an activist. Chelsea Alexander and Melissa Burrell share what 350 Colorado is and does, and then drill down to some activities and events coming up in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

350 Colorado is the largest Colorado-based grassroots network focused on taking action to stop climate change. It’s an independent state affiliate of 350.org, the well-known global organization. After listening, you’ll understand why 350.org co-founder Bill McKibben said, “It’s hard to imagine a place more important to the climate fight than Colorado.”

In this episode:

Melissa BurrellDenver, Boulder, & CO Springs Team Coordinator, 350 Colorado

Chelsea AlexanderMovement Building & Volunteer Director, 350 Colorado

Dave Gardner, Peak Environment Host

Learn more and plug in at https://350colorado.org/

or find @350Colorado on social media

Join 350 Colorado, The Butterfly Pavilion, Rocky Mountain Bee Supply, Cronk Art, Rick's Garden Center, Pikes Peak Beekeepers Association, Heroes To Hives, and The Horticulture Society at:

Pollinating Climate ActionAugust 4, 2024 2 to 7 pmSoda Springs Park (at farmers market)Manitou Springs, COInfo & RSVP: https://secure.ngpvan.com/Yr2N45vPpUeOCLrrqK6oTA2

Contact Melissa for Colorado Springs specific questions or suggestionsmelissa@350colorado.org

Contact Chelsea, as wellchelsea@350colorado.org

Thanks to these Peak Environment underwriters:

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Old Town Bike Shop https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

124: Circular Economy Assistance for Colorado Businesses

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 22:40:00 -0400

Colorado’s Circular Economy Development Center facilitates connections in Colorado to create circular economy solutions using materials that Coloradans recycle. Archibald, Southern Front Range Satellite Office Coordinator for the CEDC shares details and case studies.

The Center’s mission is to assist companies striving for circularity by helping them advance their business or locate to Colorado. The goal is to create individual, scalable pathways toward circular economies—and step one is creating beneficial collaboration and innovation between Colorado businesses.

This program of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment provides end market solutions and fosters the round-table discussions that lead us to circularity. They engage and work closely with stakeholders to mediate solutions that work for our businesses, communities, and environment alike.

During Q&A, there is also an interesting discussion about efforts to have just one trash hauler picking up in each neighborhood, eliminating multiple trucks, reducing costs and cutting carbon emissions.

Alicia Archibald has been developing partnerships and assisting communities throughout Colorado for over 20 years. Most of her career has centered around waste diversion, sustainable procurement, and recycling systems. She’s based in Colorado Springs.

Speaker’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/CEDC-Intro-Deck-2024_AA-small.pdf

Circular Colorado & CEDChttps://coloradocedc.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on July 17, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Sustainability in Progress, Topic TBAAugust 21, 2024, 12 noon Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcucuGpqDosE9KbpycdFfUuRsv2kAxwPiYm

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oo-HyjwrsLM

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

123: Deep Nature Connection

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 16:52:00 -0400

Learn about deep nature connection, nature deficit disorder, great programming in the area, and ways we all can engage to feel a belonging amongst the other species that live in the lovely Southern Colorado region. Co-host Ally Richardson, from local nonprofit Pikes Peak Permaculture, is joined by three permaculture guests who work and teach in the region, all who steward the gift of nature connection: Brian Fritz from Pikes Peak Permaculture, Frank Cordova “Ranger Frank,” and Angelina Perez from Pueblo, CO.

Discussed in this episode:

Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center, Pueblo, Colorado https://hikeandlearn.org/

Nature School, Day and Overnight Camps, Trails, and Home School Programs!

Check out the programs here: https://hikeandlearn.org/programs-and-events-camps/

Jon Young- Deep Nature Connection - http://512project.com/

Richard Louv ‘Last Child in the Woods’ https://richardlouv.com/books/last-child/

Findhorn Gardening https://www.findhorn.org/

Heart Math Institute https://www.heartmath.org/

Upcoming Community Classes:

Catamount Institute https://www.catamountinstitute.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture, Manitou Springs, Colorado http://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org

Weeds have a story for you! July 20th, 2024, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Spend the day with Jayme Domejka at Fountain Creek Nature Center to learn about what the weeds in your landscape are telling you about your soil. Discussion will be surrounding specific weedy species, how and if they can be used, and what strategies you can use to get them to give way to other more desirable plants. Don’t want to miss this one!!

Flying Pig Farm https://flyingpigmanitou.org/

Traditional Ecological Knowledge Workshop with Michael Alcazar July 21, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

The event with include lunch featuring indigenous foods and a hands-on learning experience from an expert in the field. Register here: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/traditional-ecological-know

Farm and Art Camp July 29 - Aug 2, 2024 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Grades 2nd - 8th Growing relationships to their food and the natural world in a safe, supportive, and fun environment.

Grades 9th - 12th Learn cooking and leadership skills as assistant counselors and chefs, with activities like clay work, construction, animal and plant care, food harvesting, and many more…

A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – your local bike shop since 1976https://oldtownbikeshop.com

KJS Auto Hail Repair, your go-to when your vehicle gets hail damage- $100 discount for mentioning Studio 809https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

122: Plants – Those That Take Care of Us

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 19:48:00 -0400

Join host Ally Richardson as she ventures to the opposite slope of Pikes Peak to converse with master herbalist Mari Marques. Explore how plants nurture us, followed by a tour of her stunning and bountiful gardens. Discover additional advantages and applications for the plants thriving in our area, including those often deemed invasive or labeled as weeds!

“Invasive plants are Earth’s way of insisting we notice her medicines.” -Stephen Herrod Buhner

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer https://www.robinwallkimmerer.com/books

United Plant Savers https://unitedplantsavers.org/

Ute County News Article - Wild Thing, You Make My Heart Sing by Mari Marguezhttps://www.utecountrynews.com/archives/2022/july-2022.pdf

Home Remedies and Healing with Plants w/ Mari MarquesJune 29th, 1:00-3:00pm

Enjoyed what you learned from the podcast? Join an upcoming class where Mari Marques delves further into cultivating plants and exploring those found in the wild, emphasizing their role in our healing and well-being. Mention your interest in joining Mari on a tour of her space that day! The class will be at the Florissant Fire Protection District at 2606 W Hwy 24, in Florissant. Registration is required due to limited seating.

Here is a link to register: https://www.rlifeskills101.com/book-online

Join Pikes Peak Permaculture for our upcoming class!

Weeds Have a Story For You! July 20th, 9:00-4pm

Discover what the weeds in your landscape reveal about your soil. We'll explore various weedy species, their potential uses, and effective strategies to encourage more desirable plants to thrive. This class will be held at the Fountain Creek Nature Center. 320 Peppergrass Lane, in Colorado Springs. Registration is required due to limited seating.

Here is a link to register: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/weeds-have-a-story-for-you/

A big thank you to sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop – Your local bike shop since 1976http://oldtownbikeshop.com/

KJS Auto Hail Repair – Your go-to when your vehicle gets hail damage$100 discount for anyone mentioning Studio 809https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

121: Native Yards for Native Pollinators

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 21:33:00 -0400

Discover practical ways to reconnect your home landscape with nature. Learn how to provide food, water, and shelter to support pollinator habitats in your yard. David Woolley, Science Educator and Founder of the Manitou Seed Library shares fascinating information about the many pollinators and their favorite plant varieties.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Native-Places-15-May-2024.pdf

Manitou Springs Seed Library https://www.facebook.com/ManitouSeedLibrary

To email David Woolley manitouseedlibrary@gmail.com

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 15, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

July 17, 2024 12 Noon Topic TBARegister here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYudu2sqTsuGNUTy-ZKggy_yzQumYhEf2Gq

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

120: Water Conservation: Where We’re At and How to Be Part of the Change

Wed, 01 May 2024 12:10:00 -0400

Learn about water resource limitations and challenges for Colorado and Colorado Springs. Scott Winter, project manager in Water Resources and Demand Management for Colorado Springs Utilities, shares work being done to ensure our community is as efficient and as resilient as possible. He also reviews how and what you can do to participate in the efficient use of water both inside and outside of your home.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/04172024-Peak-Alliance-for-Sustainable-Future.pdf

Water Conservation & Efficiency Resources – Colorado Springs Utilitieshttps://www.csu.org/Pages/WaterConservationEfficiency.aspx

Coffee and Conservation – First Saturday of each month May – October, 8 to noon at CSU Conservation Centerhttps://allevents.in/colorado%20springs/200026400462050

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 17, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Native Plants for Native PollinatorsDavid Woolley, Science Educator and Founder of the Manitou Seed Library May 15, 12 NoonRegister here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0kceuurzouHtOY5fWIjVpK3O3DOkU8Nlt2

Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors:

Old Town Bike Shop - your local bike shop since 1976 https://www.oldtownbikeshop.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

119: Overcoming Obstacles to Recycling

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 19:48:00 -0400

Learn about a great resource in the Pikes Peak Region to help you recycle many items you can’t just toss into curbside recycling. This conversation also explores some opportunities for how we might improve Colorado Springs poor recycling performance – we divert only 15% of our waste from the landfill into recycling. Loveland diverts 60%, Boulder 51%.

Mike Mazzola shares why he founded Galvanize Recycling and how this young business can solve many of our recycling challenge – whether you’re a family, a business, a neighborhood group or a city. We also learn about a great opportunity for businesses to sponsor local recycling events. Frequent Peak Environment hosts Ally Richardson and Dave Gardner shepherd the discussion.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Galvanize Recycling http://galvanizerecycling.com/

Request A Pickup with Galvanize Recycling - Order Formhttps://www.galvanizerecycling.com/pickup/

Front Range Waste Diversion https://www.coloradofrwd.org/

Join the movement! CONO's 1000 Neighborhood Events Initiative https://coloradosprings.gov/1000Gatherings

El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facilityhttps://communityservices.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/

El Paso County Recycling Directory 2024https://epc-assets.elpasoco.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/Recycling-Directory-2024.pdf

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

118: Transition Towns - Community, Resilience, Independence, and Permaculture

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 16:56:00 -0400

The Transition Town grassroots movement is a way you can impact your own neighborhood. Learn more about this as Peak Environment co-host Ally Richardson explores Transition Towns with Becky Elder and Brian Fritz from Pikes Peak Permaculture.

If you would like to find out more about public forums, lectures, and community green movies, or if you would like to host such an event, please send Pikes Peak Permaculture an inquiry at https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/contact-us/

Pikes Peak Permaculture is a Southern Colorado 501c3 nonprofit that educates adults and the youth on the wide world of nature and permaculture.

Our upcoming class…. Weeds Have a Story for You! Fountain Creek Nature Center on July 20th, 2024 from 9am - 4pm. Learn more and register: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/weeds-have-a-story-for-you/

Mentioned in this episode:

The Transition Handbook: From Oil Dependency to Local Resilience - by Rob Hopkins https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2932356-the-transition-handbook Free eBook: https://www.ic.org/community-bookstore/product/transition-handbook/

Transition US https://www.transitionus.org/

Transition Network https://transitionnetwork.org/

Nextdoor App- Social network of neighborhoods https://nextdoor.com/

TED Talk: Transition to a World Without Oil - Rob Hopkins https://www.ted.com/talks/rob_hopkins_transition_to_a_world_without_oil

Music on the podcast by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia. https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

117 City of Fountain Sustainability Update

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 23:37:00 -0400

Katie Helm, Conservation and Sustainability Program Manager for the City of Fountain, provides an update on the city's sustainability efforts. This episode includes an extensive impromptu discussion of recycling challenges and solutions across El Paso County.

Katie Helm is the Conservation and Sustainability Program Manager for the City of Fountain, where she manages energy and water programs. In previous roles she has worked as a Water Conservation Specialist for the City of Aurora, a Park Ranger for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and as a sawyer through Americorps. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. In 2017 she earned her Master of Science from Denver University for Environmental Management and Policy.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CAG-Water-Topics-3.24-small.pdf

Resource Centralhttps://resourcecentral.org/lawn

WaterWise Yards exampleshttps://waterwiseyards.org/inspiration-hub/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 20, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is:

Sustainability in Progress: Colorado Springs Utilities Water Conservation UpdateHear from Julia Gallucci, Water Conservation Supervisor at Colorado Springs UtilitiesApril 17, 2024 at Noon Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlc-qprzosHt3sT6MGLj5Um3boT49lewJq

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

116: Colorado Springs Sustainability Update

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:51:00 -0400

Learn about City of Colorado Springs sustainability efforts – from both a strategic and an operational perspective. Ryan Trujillo, Deputy Chief of Staff – Operations, updates us and answers questions. Topics include decentralization of the city’s sustainability efforts, status of the yet to be launched Sustainability Advisory Board, a waste characterization study to determine rates we’re diverting waste from landfills, micromobility, and the 2050 Regional Transit Plan (see link to sign up for updates).

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

2050 Regional Transit Planhttps://coloradosprings.gov/2050-regional-transit-and-specialized-transit-plans

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 21, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts sponsor KJS Auto Hail Repair. Save $100: Mention that you were referred by Studio 809 when you call, or on the contact form at https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://ecocycle.org/harmful-plastics

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

115: Plastic Bags Update & Moving Toward Zero Waste: Policy Wins, Advice and Resources

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 17:04:00 -0400

What’s the law on plastic bags and polystyrene cups and take-out containers? What other legislation is in effect or potentially coming soon to move the state toward zero waste? How can you receive funding to support your organizational efforts? How can we all take part in moving to reduce this kind of waste? Find out in this update from Rachel Setzke of Eco-Cycle.

In Colorado, restaurants have experienced as much as a 90% reduction in use (and costs) of single use items like straws, ketchup packets, etc. when they don’t automatically provide them, but first ask if a customer wants them. Get this and other useful bits of information in this episode!

Eco-Cycle is one of the oldest mission-based recyclers and Zero Waste organizations in the US, and an innovator in resource conservation. They operate the Boulder County Recycling Center, provide Zero Waste business services, and created the nation’s first Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials (CHaRM). They also run the Green Star Schools program, Community Carbon Farming program, a recycling helpline (303-444-6634), created the A–Z Recycling Guide, and advance Zero Waste policies at the local, state, and national levels.

MORE INFORMATION:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Colorado-legislation-wins-for-recycling-composting-and-waste-reduction-for-Co-Springs-group.pdf

Front Range Waste Diversion Enterprise Fund programs informationhttps://www.coloradofrwd.org/

Producer Responsibility Acthttps://www.recyclingforallcoloradans.org/

https://www.plasticfreerestaurants.org/

https://www.chefannfoundation.org/

Bag Fee, Ban Materials & Resourceshttps://ecocycle.org/PPRA

Thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts sponsor KJS Auto Hail Repair. Save $100: Mention that you were referred by Studio 809 when you call, or on the contact form at https://kjsautohailrepair.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 17, 2024. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Register for the February Sustainability in Progress: COS Sustainability and Strategic Doing February 21, 2024, 12 noon MST https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsc-GhpjorHNR7orAohu2U6jUEq2Nrz2fy

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://www.arborday.org/trees/bulletins/coordinators/resources/pdfs/059.pdf

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

114: In and Outs of a Permaculture Design Certification

Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:33:00 -0400

Why might you want to attend a permaculture design certification course offered in our region? Ally Richardson, a permaculture educator and Peak Environment podcast co-producer, discusses this with other members of Pikes Peak Permaculture: Becky Elder, Brian Fritz, and Jayme Domejka.

Mentioned in this episode:

Pikes Peak Permaculture’s 2024 Permaculture Design Certification

Since the early 1980s, permaculture has been taught through hands-on courses – PDCs – with experienced mentors handing down their knowledge to passionate students.

We are beginning March 8th and will finish September 22nd. Work Trade available- ask for details!

Permaculture Potpourri

Come join us at High Prairie Library on February 3rd, 2024 for a FREE class on many topics we cover as permaculturists. From soil to social systems- we have solutions.

Location: 7035 Old Meridian Road, Falcon, Colorado 80831

Weeds Have A Story For You!

Spend the day with us and learn on July 20th to learn about what the weeds in your landscape are telling you about your soil. We will discuss specific weedy species, how and if they can be used and what strategies you can use to get them to give way to other more desirable plants.

Class Fee $35; Location TBD.

Tree City USA Bulletin #59 Permaculture and the City. Arbor Day Foundation

Music on the podcast by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia. https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

113: Poor Richard's Rubbish Roundup

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 16:40:00 -0400

Richard Skorman shares an environmental vision and a unique community building opportunity that can help with the restoration efforts of our local watershed - creating natural landscapes that everyone can enjoy: Poor Richard's Rubbish Roundup! Join the weekly trash roundup team and help keep our community clean. Or, better yet, reach out to Richard for support in starting your own volunteer group near your local waters.

The episode is hosted by Ally Richardson, a permaculture educator and Peak Environment co-producer.

Richard Skorman served thirteen years on Colorado Springs City Council, including two as vice mayor. He was on the initial board of the Fountain Creek Watershed District. In 1975, he launched what is now Poor Richard’s Downtown collection of shops – a book and gift shop, a toy store, a restaurant and a coffee cafe/wine bar. He founded the U.S. Environmental Film Festival in 1991, and was a founder of Citizens Project.

Mentioned in this episode:

Poor Richard's Rubbish Roundup- Beginning Again on January 9th, 2024. The volunteer group meets every Tuesday from 3pm to 5pm to clean up Monument Valley Park - South.

For more information: https://www.poorrichardsrestaurant.com/event/richards-rubbish-roundup-every-tuesday/

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control & Greenway Districthttps://www.fountain-crk.org/

Induced Meandering MethodThe technique of meandering the creek to recharge groundwater, which in turn recharges flowing waters on the landscape and wetlands. The edges that are created from the natural flowing pattern create habitat and forage- for birds and insects, as well as for other fauna which inhabit earth and need to survive.

Biochar & Permaculture Design for Fire Mitigation and Soil Regenerationhttps://pina.in/engage/february-2023-ferp-webinars/

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australiahttps://formidablevegetable.com.au/

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of Pikes Peak Permaculture, celebrating 15 years of Permaculture education, inspiration, and support throughout Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region. We provide several Design Certification Courses, and have graduated upwards of 60 new Permaculture designers. Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

112: Have Yourself a Low Impact Holiday

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 14:41:00 -0400

Do you approach the holidays mindful of the environmental impact of shopping, gifts and food? This episode explores sustainable options for this holiday season. Konrad Schlarbaum, sustainability director for the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, shares low-impact practices for gifts, food, decorations, and transportation.

Konrad Schlarbaum is the Director of Sustainability at the University of Colorado–Colorado Springs (UCCS). He also serves on the Board of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, the Sustainability Committee at Thomas MacLaren School, and the Planning Committee for the Pikes Peak Children’s Water Festival. He holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in sustainability and is certified in LEED and Permaculture.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sustainable-Holiday-Practices.pdf

Bear Creek by Candlelight – December 1 5 to 8 p.m.https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/bear-creek-candlelight-2/

Center for Biological Diversity’s Simplify the Holidays (gift guides and other green holiday info)https://simplifytheholidays.org/

SoKind alternative gift registryhttps://sokindregistry.org/

Makeover Your Holiday Plate with MyPlatehttps://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2013/11/21/make-small-changes-healthy-holiday-makeover-your-holiday-plate-myplate

Holiday Travel Methods, Ranked from Most to Least Eco-Friendly - Brightly Bloghttps://brightly.eco/blog/holiday-travel-sustainability

A Thankful Feast, Not a Wasteful One - Natural Resources Defense Councilhttps://www.nrdc.org/bio/andrea-spacht-collins/thankful-feast-not-wasteful-one

E-Tech Recyclershttps://etechrecyclers.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 15, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

111: Colorado Clean Energy Legislation

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 15:36:00 -0400

Current and upcoming legislation that will impact greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, zero emission vehicles and consumer energy costs. Chris Piper, Director of Legislative Affairs at the Colorado Energy Office shares this and much more, in a very engaging presentation and discussion.

Colorado Energy Officehttps://energyoffice.colorado.gov/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on October 18, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Have Yourself a Low Impact HolidayNovember 15, Noon to 1 PM Register Here

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

110: Permaculture Principles - Part 2 of 2

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:47:00 -0400

Continue your deep dive into permaculture principles in the second part of a series hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture. Acknowledging and practicing permaculture principles can lead to wonderful experiences - which will guide you to understanding how natural systems work in our environment and our climate.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is a Southern Colorado 501c3 nonprofit that educates adults and the youth on the wide world of nature and permaculture.

Thank you to our supporters and community members who came out to Ranch Foods Direct and helped make our September 16th fundraising event possible!

Food to Power- https://foodtopowerco.org/compost

Food To Power makes it super convenient for residents and businesses to keep food, paper and yard “wastes” out of the trash and instead have it turned into compost. Event inquiries are available.

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australiahttps://formidablevegetable.com.au/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

109: How to Love the Outdoors: Leave No Trace

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 11:07:00 -0400

We can enjoy the great outdoors most when we love and protect our cherished spaces. In this episode we get to know longtime nonprofit Leave No Trace organization, its principles and its programs. Frequent host Dave Gardner is joined by guest co-host Bob Falcone, co-host of the Outdoors with Hiking Bob podcast, and guest Andrew Leary, Director of Sustainable Tourism and Partnerships at Leave No Trace. Andrew and Bob also explain some of the basics of how we can love and protect the outdoors. It’s easier than you think.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Leave No Tracehttps://lnt.org/

Take the free Leave No Trace 101 Coursehttps://learn.lnt.org/

Care for Colorado https://oedit.colorado.gov/care-for-colorado-program

Hiking Bob – Podcast, Book, Photography & Newshttps://hikingbob.com/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

108: Permaculture Principles Part 1 of 2

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 12:53:00 -0400

Pikes Peak Permaculture begins a deep dive into permaculture principles in this Part 1 of 2 episode. Acknowledging and practicing these principles can lead to wonderful experiences which will guide you to understanding how natural systems work in our environment and our climate.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is a Southern Colorado 501c3 nonprofit that educates children, and adults, on the wide world of nature and permaculture.

Join us on Saturday, September 16th from 12 to 6 for Pikes Peak Permaculture’s first fundraising event, as we inform the community of ways towards resilience and sustainability within our homes and our community. Many of the things discussed in the podcast will be available to view at the event, such as rainwater harvesting, composting techniques, and much more.

The event will take place at Ranch Foods Direct East at 4635 Town Center Dr . Just by coming to the event, you are supporting educational programs and outreach, and you will also have an opportunity to meet with local farmers, enjoy LIVE music, engage at educational booths, learn creative activities for children, like natural painting and seed balls. We will have local vendors, and food trucks. Door prizes and a silent auction add excitement to that day.

For more information, visit https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/pikes-peak-permaculture-fundraiser/

Mentioned in today’s podcast:

Rainwater, Storm Water & Graywater https://dwr.colorado.gov/services/water-administration/rainwater-storm-water-graywater

Regulation #86, Graywater Control Regulation https://cdphe.colorado.gov/wqcc-rulemaking-proceedings

Calculate your footprint here: https://www.footprintcalculator.org/home/en

Pikes Peak Library Repair Café https://ppld.org/repair-cafe

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australiahttps://formidablevegetable.com.au/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

107: Denver Public Schools’ Climate Action Plan

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:50:00 -0400

Learn how Denver Public Schools' Climate Action Plan was developed and is being implemented. DPS policy is to “be a national leader in establishing an organizational culture anchored in sustainability, climate action, and environmental justice in both the conservation of natural resources and in minimizing the carbon footprint of DPS’ practices.”

LeeAnn Kittle, director of the Sustainability Team at Denver Public Schools, shares the details on that climate plan. She’ll also highlight the significance of GHG inventory storytelling and financial impact assessments, which have played a critical role in driving sustainable change across the school district.

LeeAnn holds a Master's in Business Administration and a B.S. in Environmental Science. She is passionate about educating and inspiring her community on sustainability initiatives to address pressing climate issues. She works hard to change the narrative from climate crisis to one of bold action, innovation, and accountability. Kittle has served on several boards across the front range, including organizations such as US Green Building Council, Recycle Colorado, and Colorado Association for School District Energy Managers. LeeAnn also took part in NREL’s Energy Executive Leadership Program and was recently named Energy Manager of the Year for the Central and South US through the Association of Energy Engineers.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/AUG-2023_SIP-PRESENTATION_DPS.pdf

Denver Public Schools Climate Action Planhttps://sustainability.dpsk12.org/2023/01/06/see-the-dps-climate-action-plan/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Monthly Newsletterhttps://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr

Pikes Peak Permaculture Fundraiser - September 16 https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/pikes-peak-permaculture-fundraiser/

The Brewshed Alliance Liquid Lecturehttps://www.fountain-crk.org/liquid-lecture-series

Fountain Creek Watershed’s 10th Anniversary Creek Week Cleanup Registrationhttps://www.fountain-crk.org/creek-week-2023-registration?fbclid=IwAR17qEUuoOIrjcV4dPytDVhIZq-OJ2deuZ9ZDb-JcNn7yjrwPVOyfydIkLU

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 16, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Building High Efficiency, All-Electric Homes – Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity - September 20 at noonhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAocOCppjwuHNZFUr8MeMV8K6pJa0IA-WGy

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

106: How the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center is Meeting Environmental Challenges

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 12:43:00 -0400

Learn about the environmentally sensitive design and construction of the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center and the Living Building Challenge certification process. Sandy Elliott, Parks Operations Administrator for Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, shares the fascinating details.

Speaker's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Peak-Alliance-Presentation.pdf

Pikes Peak - America's Mountain https://coloradosprings.gov/drivepikespeak

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on July 19, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Register here for the August 16 SIP, Denver Public Schools' Climate Action Plan https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZctcu-srz0uHtTWIXd_vjdZGva87qykG6NR

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

105: Connecting Children to Nature with Permaculture

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 15:56:00 -0400

Permaculture elementary Environment Club, permaculture Earth Day Celebration, and a youth permaculture design course. Pikes Peak Permaculture discusses the importance of permaculture education to connect our children to nature, and how impactful it was in a local school.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is an educational 501c3 nonprofit serving Southern Colorado in the nature and ways of permaculture. If you would like to find out more about permaculture and our programs, please visit our website at pikespeakpermaculture.org.

Come join us at our upcoming sustainable fundraiser event on September 16th, 2023. We are growing in big ways and we are trying to reach you! At our event, we will have a silent auction, door prizes, music, games, local vendors, food trucks, and lots of hand-on permaculture activities will be available for everyone to try.

We need help- Interested in volunteering? Contact us: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/contact-us/

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Flying Pig Farm’s Barak Ben-Amots PEAK ENVIRONMENT Podcast # 98 Building Resilient Community Relationships with Land https://studio809podcasts.com/resilient-community-relationships-with-land/

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

104: Sustainability in Progress: Wildfire Mitigation

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:57:00 -0400

How homeowners and the community can reduce wildfire risk and prepare for a wildfire event. Ashley Whitworth, Wildfire Mitigation Program Administrator for the Colorado Springs Fire Department, brings us up to speed on defending against wildfire. She also tells us about the Division of the Fire Marshal, and Peak Alerts. Ashley served as a Wildland Firefighter on the Waldo Canyon and Black Forest Fires.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Presenter's Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Peak-Alliance-Presentation.pdf

Outdoor burning guidelines, burn bans, burn restrictionshttps://www.coswildfireready.org/

719-444-7000 – non-emergency number to report violations

Ashley Whitworth Office: 719-385-7342Ashley.Whitworth@coloradosprings.gov

Please take the Green Drinks Meetup surveyhttps://forms.gle/QGYCaQ1JXvJoNk1p6

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region group on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/47914284779

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 21, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

July's event:

Sustainability in Progress: How the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center is Meeting Environmental ChallengesJuly 19, Noon to 1 pmLearn about the environmentally sensitive design and construction of the new Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center and the Living Building Challenge certification process. Sandy Elliott, Parks Operations Administrator for Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, will share the fascinating details. Reserve here to receive a link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwscuqorDwjHNSUN7Dg-H9PNEJeQBmsAvUS

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Pikespeakpermaculture.org http://pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

103 Permaculture Education in the Pikes Peak Region

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:38:00 -0400

Have you heard of Permaculture? Join the Pikes Peak Permaculture's team as we introduce ourselves, permaculture and our mission here in the Pikes Peak region. Learn about the programs we offer, including certifications, teacher training, classes and workshops.

Pikes Peak Permaculture is an educational 501(c)3 nonprofit educating Southern Colorado in the ways and nature of permaculture.

In September, our organization will be holding its first fundraiser event with live music, food and fun. We are planning to have many opportunities for people of all ages to learn about permaculture.

We are growing by leaps and bounds with goals to have big impacts in the community. We are hosting this fundraiser to provide funds for programs for schools, teens, and community members.

We are looking for volunteers. If you can help reach out!https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/contact-us/

Music by Charlie Mgee from Formidable Vegetable, a permaculture-based musical band out of Australia https://formidablevegetable.com.au/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://coloradosprings.gov/gardens

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

102 Community Gardens, Sustainable COS and Westside Community Center

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 21:08:00 -0400

If you’re looking for a place to grow delicious produce this summer, get the scoop here. Colorado Springs Sustainability Program Administrator Samantha Bailey provides an update on city sustainability initiatives and a new website to help you find a garden plot. She is joined by Westside Community Center’s Felicia Barnhart, who updates us on what’s happening there (including LOTS of available community garden space).

Samantha provides details about:

Sustainable COS (Sustainability Action Plan) – using the Pikes Peak Region 2030 Plan – to improve or create a more robust sustainability program for the city for the next 10 years.

COS Love My Air –we now have air quality monitoring stations in each council district measuring ozone and particulate matter.

SmartCOS – using technology to increase efficiency and improve city life

LINKS:

https://coloradosprings.gov/innovation

https://coloradosprings.gov/smartsustainability

https://coloradosprings.gov/westsidecommunitycenter

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

101 Plans for Trails, Open Space and Parks

Wed, 31 May 2023 14:00:00 -0400

What does the April ballot success of the Trails and Open Space tax renewal tell us about our community, and how might we use that to address shortfalls in county and city parks funding? Susan Davies, Executive Director of the Trails and Open Space Coalition (TOSC), fills us in. She shares highlights of our areas parks and open spaces, and discusses ways we can improve funding for future needs.

After a 30-year career as a TV journalist in various markets around the country, Susan took the position leading TOSC in 2009. Under her leadership TOSC has tackled several large initiatives including completing the Ring the Peak Trail, supporting Friends Groups across the region, starting a Trail Ambassador and Get Out/Get Healthy Program, empowering neighborhood groups committed to improving trails and parks in underserved areas and most recently the extension of the City's TOPS (Trails, Open Space and Parks) tax.

LINKS:

Presenter's Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/SIP-presentation.pdf

Trails and Open Space Coalitionhttps://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/

Info about Colorado Springs Trails, Open Space and Parks Programhttps://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/tops/

Pollinator Festivalhttps://manitoupollinators.org/pollinator-festival-2023

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/47914284779

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 17, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The June 21, 2023 SIP will be: Wildfire Mitigation - with Ashley Whitworth of CSFDRSVP and get the zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwoce6hqDMoGteK4y9gy1FvOXmVvomlhaxO

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

100 El Paso County Parks Master Plan

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:51:00 -0400

Learn about the 2022 county parks master plan, including updates to future open space and park areas, revisions to trail alignments, and an asset management plan to outline critical needs. Jason Meyer, Planning Supervisor for El Paso County Parks and Community Services, shares how the plan was created, and highlights of the plan.

El Paso County's regional park system has over 8,000 acres of park and open spaces, and over 200 miles of regional trails. Popular parks include Bear Creek Regional in Colorado Springs, Fox Run near Monument, Fountain Creek in Fountain, and Paint Mines near Calhan. County Parks also operates the Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers. Planning in underway to add a third nature center in Fox Run Regional Park.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/El-Paso-County-Parks-Presentation-4-19-2023.pdf

El Paso County’s Parks Master Plan https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/parks-planning/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 19, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

The May 17, 2023 SIP will be: Plans for Trails, Open Space and Parks - with Susan Davies of TOSC

RSVP and get the zoom link here:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUuc-CpqDgtGdOZV27D17F7KQbi5rX7dhl0

Thanks to sponsors Pikes Peak Permaculture (link below) and Becky Elder.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

99 Where to Get Great Local Food

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 16:12:00 -0400

Hungry for good, local food? CSA’s, community gardens, farmer’s markets and the Hunt or Gather Buying Club are discussed by local food experts and champions, Michele Mukatis and Megan Andreozzi Harris.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Hunt or Gather Buying Club https://www.facebook.com/HuntOrGather/ huntorgatherivywild@gmail.com

New Roots Farm https://newrootsfarmllc.com/

Ellen’s Flowers https://www.ellensflowers.com/

Olde Owl Bread Co. https://www.facebook.com/oldeowlbreadco

Nightingale Bread https://www.nightingalebread.com/

Switchback Coffee Roasters https://switchbackroasters.com/

Colorado Produce Calendar https://ag.colorado.gov/sites/ag/files/documents/ColoradoProduceCalendar_0.pdf

Colorado Farm Fresh Directory https://drive.google.com/file/d/1f5ScQ3MVvvroOLQnKsGqmVXMResyAVHm/view

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

https://www.facebook.com/flyingpigmanitou/

Thanks to Gold Hill Mesa https://www.goldhillmesa.com/ for their support of Studio 809 Podcasts.

And thanks to Becky Elder for her support. You can provide support here: https://www.patreon.com/studio809

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

98 Building Resilient Community Relationships with Land

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 15:41:00 -0400

Food cultivation, land-based learning in empowering youth, and the central role of farmers as caregivers in our region are essential parts of building resilient community relationships with land. Barak Ben-Amots updates us on his efforts as executive director of Flying Pig Farm, a community learning garden growing at the base of Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs, CO. He has worked over the last eight years to help learners of all ages connect with land, natural systems, our ecological family, and themselves. Raised in Colorado Springs as the child of two artists and professors, he is passionate about creativity, resilience, and life-long learning.

LINKS:

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 15, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

97 RetoolCOS: Modernizing Colorado Springs’ Zoning and Subdivision Policies

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:16:00 -0400

How will Colorado Springs’ updated zoning and subdivision ordinance make our community more sustainable and resilient? City of Colorado Springs Planning Supervisor Morgan Hester shares important details about RetoolCOS.

The City of Colorado Springs City Council recently adopted the first comprehensive update of the City’s zoning and subdivision ordinance in several decades. The 3-year process has been spearheaded by the Planning Department and is known as the RetoolCOS project, which will result in a Unified Development Code (UDC) to establish a new, modern, and more user-friendly approach to zoning and subdivision regulations as directed by PlanCOS, the 2019 Council-adopted comprehensive plan, to fit the needs of the City.

The zoning and subdivision ordinance governs how property owners can use their land, including regulations such as building height, setbacks between properties and rights-of-ways, and what uses are permitted. The zoning and subdivision ordinance also describes the procedures for subdividing property or undertaking a development project. Learn more at https://coloradosprings.gov/project/retoolcos-zoning-ordinance-update.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 15, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.co/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

96 Waste and Recycling in Colorado

Sat, 28 Jan 2023 13:27:00 -0400

The new disposable plastic shopping bag “ban” and Colorado’s miserable recycling rate (15%) are among the topics as we hear from Liz Chapman, Executive Director of Recycle Colorado. Chapman shares information about new waste policies being implemented or voted on in 2023, plus other efforts to improve recycling and reduce waste statewide.

Of particular interest is the Producer Responsibility for Recycling Act, passed in 2022 and being fully in effect in 2026. It will make it easy for all Coloradans to recycle more plastics, aluminum cans, glass bottles, cardboard, and printed paper. It will also help manufacturers and businesses by creating a more resilient domestic supply of recycled materials to make new products.

Recycle Colorado is a statewide non-profit organization working to advance infrastructure, end markets, and state and local policies in waste reduction, recovery and diversion. Recycle Colorado has over 300 members from across the state—from the public, private and non-profit sectors.

LINKS:

Speaker's Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/1.18.23_PEAK_Alliance-presentation.pdf

Recycle Coloradohttps://www.recyclecolorado.org/

Producer Responsibility for Recyclinghttps://www.recyclingforallcoloradans.org

Ecocyclehttps://www.ecocycle.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 18, 2023. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

95 Sustainability in Progress: Climate Change in Colorado

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 22:06:00 -0400

Learn about the changing climate in Colorado with Peter Goble of the Colorado Climate Center. Peter is a climatologist and research associate.

The Colorado Climate Center is located at Colorado State University, in Fort Collins, Colorado, within the Department of Atmospheric Science. As a recognized State Climate Office, the Center strives to collect and observe data with the purpose of monitoring the climate, placing individual events into historical perspective, disseminating climate information to the user community, and providing climate expertise as part of the decision-making process.

Colorado Climate Centerhttps://climate.colostate.edu/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 16, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. Subscribe to receive meeting notices and other updates from Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future: https://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

94 Arts and Culture in the Pikes Peak Region

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 12:22:00 -0400

In observance of arts month, get arts and culture updates from Andy Vick, executive director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region; and Natalie Johnson, executive director of the Manitou Art Center. Andy shares about the community’s new cultural plan, Arts Vision 2030, and some of the work it has already inspired. Natalie shares about some of the specific programs and initiatives that the Manitou Art Center has undertaken to support sustainability efforts.

LINKS:

Andy Vick’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SIP-PowerPoint-10-19-22.pdf

Natalie Johnson’s Slides

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Regionhttps://www.culturaloffice.org

Arts Vision 2030https://www.culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030/

Manitou Art Centerhttps://www.manitouartcenter.org/

Military Arts Connectionhttps://militaryartsconnection.org/

November’s Sustainability in Progress

Climate Change in Colorado with Becky Bolinger, Ph.D. (she/her), Assistant State Climatologist, Colorado Climate Center, CSU Dept. Atmospheric Science

Wednesday, November 16, from 12:00 - 1:00 PMThis is a virtual event. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtcOmrrDwpGNMQetZ55X-sXH8rPpPF6BLv

Featured Community Events

Green Drinks RebootA monthly casual networking event where sustainably-minded people meet over drinks.

Thursday, October 27 from 6:00 - 8:00 pmIvywild School, Bristol Brewing CompanyInfo and RSVP: https://fb.me/e/ePzF22UL9

Seeking Board Members

Do you have a passion for sustainability?

Do you want to promote sustainability efforts happening in the region?

Do you have about five hours per month to dedicate to this cause?

Do you have or are willing to develop skills in:

Marketing
Fundraising
Communication
Financial Management
Event Management

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is a 501c3 non-profit organization that strives to promote sustainability in the Pikes Peak region and to advance the regional sustainability plan called Looking to Our Future: Pikes Peak Region 2030. You can read the plan here: http://peakalliance.org/uploads/pdf/Final%20PPR%202030%20Plan.pdf

Contact Mary Barber

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on October 19, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

93 Colorado Water Plan 2023

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 10:03:00 -0400

An update on the Colorado Water Plan from Jeff Rodriguez, Regional Water Coordination Specialist with the Colorado Water Conservation Board. The 2023 Water Plan, to be finalized in January, builds on a legacy of integrated statewide planning for water in Colorado. This updated plan continues to focus on collaboration between the state and the water community on-the-ground. To help Coloradans take action, the plan incorporates state-of-the-art tools and data focusing on four major interconnected action areas: Vibrant Communities, Robust Agriculture, Thriving Watersheds, and Resilient Planning.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Water_plan_rodriguez.pdf

To read the draft plan or share a water story, visit https://engagecwcb.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 21, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. Next program:

Arts and Culture in the Pikes Peak RegionOctober 19, 2022 12:00 Noon Mountain TimeRegister in advance for this meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcodO-oqTstHNHEUOk5WCIzqNmAjx2gz030

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

92 Green Standards for Stormwater Infrastructure

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 13:15:04 -0400

Stormwater management is a critical environmental concern for a large urban area like Colorado Springs. City of Colorado Springs Stormwater Enterprise Manager Richard Mulledy discusses the city’s new green infrastructure standards for development and redevelopment. He also shares some planned and some completed capital projects, and gives us an overview of the strategic vision of the Stormwater Enterprise. LINKS: Presenter’s slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/SWENTGreenInfra_7.20.2022.pdf City of Colorado Springs Stormwater Enterprisehttps://coloradosprings.gov/stormwater-enterprise This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on July 20, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Colorado Springs Office of Innovation Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Pikes Peak Permaculture Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

91 Native Plants Support a Healthy Watershed

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 13:49:08 -0400

Learn about the newly revived Kathleen Marriage Garden at Sondermann Park, and how you can incorporate native plants into your landscape and help support a healthy watershed. Colorado Native Plant Society Executive Director Maggie Gaddis and Fountain Creek Watershed District Interim Executive Director Alli Schuch talk about the history of the garden, how it was brought back to life, and how native plants help support a healthy watershed. They also discuss National Pollinator Month.

LINKS:

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District https://www.fountain-crk.org/

Fountain Creek Watershed info https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/FCWatershed.jpg Fountain Creek Watershed Map https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fountain_Creek_Watershed-map.pdf Fountain Creek Brewshed Alliance Map https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/FCWD-Brewshed-Poster-2022.pdf

Colorado Native Plant Society https://conps.org/

Register to Virtually Attend the Next Sustainability in Progress meeting Sustainability in Progress: Stormwater Green Infrastructure Plan Jul 20, 2022 08:00 AM City of Colorado Springs Stormwater Enterprise Manager Richard Mulledy will share about the enterprise’s Green Infrastructure plan. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMsde2sqzMpHd3HfEPDlGRTFT3KFjPPU6W8

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 15, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

90 Conserving Water at Home

Tue, 31 May 2022 21:36:09 -0400

A dry winter, long-term drought, and record low levels in major Colorado River reservoirs have all of us wondering what we can do to minimize our water consumption. Kate Larson of Resource Central shares how the organization is helping communities implement programs to encourage homeowners to conserve water.

City of Fountain Conservation and Sustainability Manager Katie Helm also shares the response from community members and why being able to partner with another organization to administer these services is so invaluable. (Resource Central is helping the city of Fountain with Lawn Replacement, Slow the Flow (irrigation evaluations), a smart controller program, and seminars).

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slideshttps://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Resource-Central-SIP-5.18.2022_v2.pdf

Resource Centralhttps://resourcecentral.org/

City of Fountain Conservation & Sustainabilityhttps://fountainco.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapJournal/index.html?appid=8af6d3c2308b4909a1820b4337bb38b5

Source of information and inspiration - property owners can share water conservation tips and experiencehttps://waterwiseyards.org/

Three Videos Shown by Kate:

Lafayette Waterwise Yard Transformationhttps://youtu.be/UVyV-I5O5mg

Bee Friendly Yard Beautifies the Neighborhoodhttps://youtu.be/bxMfWP9m2gI

Lawn Replacement Program: How It Workshttps://youtu.be/dQtzodxoOUI

Resource Central YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/user/ReSourceConservation

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region - Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/srppr

Receive Notifications of Future Sustainability in Progress Meetingshttps://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 18, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Sustainability in ProgressJune 15, 20228 to 9 amIn-Person or VirtualSondermann Park740 West Caramillo StreetColorado Springs, CO 80907

Planting for a Healthy Watershed

Join CO Native Plant Society Executive Director Maggie Gaddis and Fountain Creek Watershed District Interim Executive Director Alli Schuch at the newly revived Kathleen Marriage Garden at Sondermann Park. We'll talk about the history of the garden, how it was brought back to life, how you can incorporate native plants and help support a healthy watershed. This is an outdoor event at the garden.

Advance registration required to attend the virtual version of this meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtduqppjwtG9f1Y2WlqJRbvaQOzwu3hnLf

Cob Oven WorkshopJune 11-12, 2022Smokebrush Farm302 El Paso Blvd.Manitou Springs, CO

For information and registration, call Dylan Roberts: 719-650-5697

Permaculture Design WorkshopJune 24-26, 2022Orient Land TrustMoffat, CO

For information and registration: permaculture@olt.org

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

89 Our Water System and Meeting Future Demand Our Water System and Meeting Future Demand

Sun, 15 May 2022 14:41:01 -0400

How will Colorado Springs meet its water needs for the next 50 years? Our water system is complex and far-reaching – spanning more than 100 miles. Colorado Springs Utilities Senior Conservation Education Specialist Birgit Landin shares what it takes to acquire, treat and deliver water to our community every day. She also explains the challenges we face and Utilities’ roadmap for a cost-effective water supply for the next 50 years.

Next Sustainability in Progress meeting:

Wednesday, May 18, 2022 from 8 to 9 amVirtual only. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIofuCuqDgqHNOYJg6cYzTpKl91s5AnLPoO

Conserving Water at HomeA dry winter, long-term drought, and record low levels in major Colorado River reservoirs have all of us wondering what we can do to minimize our water consumption. Kate Larson of Resource Central shares how the organization is helping communities implement programs to encourage homeowners to conserve water.

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Water-System-and-Future-Planning-2022.pdf

Colorado Springs Utilities Rebates and Showerheads https://www.csu.org/Pages/ResidentialRebates.aspx

Receive Notifications of Future Sustainability in Progress Meetingshttps://tinyurl.com/4h4ujnya.

Sustainable and Resilient Pikes Peak Region Facebook grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/47914284779

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Thanks also to the MeadowGrass Music Festival. This wonderful outdoor music festival in the Black Forest happens Memorial Day weekend. Tickets and info here: https://meadowgrass.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 16, 2022. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

88 City of Colorado Springs Sustainability Efforts

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 12:36:26 -0400

Colorado Springs Sustainability Coordinator Samantha Bailey fills us in on her current efforts, the new SustainableCOS project, and her goals for the future of Colorado Springs. SustainableCOS is a city-wide sustainability action plan.

LINKS:

Samantha Bailey's Slide Presentation https://studio809podcasts.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/03152022_SustainableCOS_PASF.pdf

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation https://coloradosprings.gov/office-innovation

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

87 Convert Your CO2 Emissions into Energy Savings and Pollution Reduction for Families in Need

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 21:29:09 -0400

Learn how to calculate the carbon footprint of some of your common activities and convert that it into work that reduces overall carbon emissions. Carbon Cut Colorado is a website and program of Colorado Springs-based Energy Resource Center (ERC). ERC Development Director Mike Mazzola sat down for this conversation with Peak Environment co-producer and co-host Ellen Johnson-Fay, to explain Carbon Cut Colorado, as well as the other programs of ERC.

The funds donated through Carbon Cut Colorado support the work of ERC – assisting income-qualified families through energy efficiency improvements. Work includes insulation, HVAC, hot water heaters, lighting, appliances, air sealing and more. These efforts save money on energy bills, reduce demand on natural resources by cutting energy waste, assist with the affordable housing crisis, and create a safe environment in which Colorado residents can thrive.

ERC also makes paid home energy audits and weatherization assistance to available to the general public. Fees from this work help support the assistance provided to families in need. Energy Resource Center serves 27 Colorado counties, with offices in the Pikes Peak Region, Denver Metro, the San Luis Valley and Northern Colorado.

LINKS:

Energy Resource Center https://www.erc-co.org/

Carbon Cut Colorado https://carboncutco.com/

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

86 Pups and Packs: Protecting Wolves in 2022

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 23:59:38 -0400

Get the state of the science and public policy related to wolves in the U.S. today. Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) hosted this virtual conversation in a January 25 webinar. See the video replay here, or listen to this podcast replay.

Learn about the history of gray wolf persecution and recovery, PEER’s unique approach using the Pittman-Robertson Act, hear from a notable scientist about the state of the science about liberalizing wolf-killing, and explore an indigenous perspective for a new vision for wolves based on an ancient relationship. The webinar included Q&A from participants and a call to action for participants to protect wolves in 2022 and beyond.

Featured Speakers:

Adrian Treves PhD Professor and Founder of the Carnivore Coexistence Lab

Adrian conducts independent research and advocates for future generations of all life, for scientific integrity, and for sovereign publics worldwide. He studies and speaks about the public trust doctrine and intergenerational equity around the world. Adrian earned his PhD at Harvard University in 1997 and is a Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and director of the Carnivore Coexistence Lab since 2007. For the past 27 years, his research focuses on ecology, law, and human dimensions of ecosystems in which crop and livestock ownership overlaps the habitat of large carnivores from coyotes up to grizzly bears.

Peter David Wildlife Biologist

Peter David a wildlife biologist with the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, where he assists GLIFWC’s member tribes in the implementation of their off-reservation, treaty-reserved rights. He received his education (bachelors and master’s in wildlife ecology) from UW-Madison, and from the tribal elders and members for whom he has worked for the last 35 years. At the Commission, he has had the opportunity to work with a variety of natural resources – or “more than human beings” in the Ojibwe world view - ranging from wild rice to wolves.

Dave Parsons

Dave Parsons received his Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from Iowa State University and his Master of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology from Oregon State University. Dave is retired from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service where from 1990-1999 he led the USFWS’s effort to reintroduce the endangered Mexican gray wolf to portions of its former range in the Southwest.

Chandra Rosenthal Attorney, Rocky Mountain PEER Director

A Colorado native, Chandra heads up the office as Rocky Mountain PEER Counsel. Chandra, formerly staff attorney with Defenders of Wildlife specializing in endangered species and public lands issues, has also worked for the U.S. Department of Justice and, under a legal fellowship, worked on a Superfund site with the Department of Energy. Chandra earned her law degree in 1993 at the Lewis and Clark Northwestern School of Law, where she focused her studies on environmental law.

Moderator

Hudson Kingston Policy and Litigation Attorney at PEER

Hudson, a born and raised Minnesotan, helps public employees hold governments to account for environmental harm in the Midwest and across the country. He comes to PEER after working with public health, consumer protection, and environmental organizations in both Washington DC and the Midwest. Over the course of his career, he has worked on litigation and policy related to climate change, addressing the water pollution impacts of mining, pesticide regulation, the environmental and health impacts of e-cigarettes, and environmental injustices perpetuated by the administrative state. It has been his honor to partner in this work with tribes, local nonprofits, low-income advocates, coalitions of environmental and social justice groups, and local/state/territorial/federal public employees. Hudson received his law degree from the University of Iowa School of Law, and two Masters of Laws degrees in human rights and international law from New York University and the National University of Singapore. He received his bachelor’s degree in French and English Literature from Carleton College, in Minnesota.

Call to Action Participants are encouraged to call Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland at (202) 208-3100 and encourage her to: (1) Use Pittman-Robertson funds as a lever to compel states to protect native predators and (2) Issue an immediate emergency listing of the Grey Wolf as an endangered species.

Links:

A Review of the Effects of Liberalizing the Killing of Wolves(Pre-print of the peer-reviewed publication) http://faculty.nelson.wisc.edu/treves/publications.php

Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission https://glifwc.org/

Video Replay of this Webinar https://peer.org/webinar-pups-and-packs-saving-wolves-in-2022/

Speakers’ Slides https://peermd.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/all-staff/Ebi7scQF_OBGhX0TIxworGQB5xA7569EzDhDBdXse7-URw?e=uUBOg3

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility https://peer.org/

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

85 Arts Vision 2030

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 18:26:08 -0400

An introduction to Arts Vision 2030, the new cultural plan to support arts and culture in the Pikes Peak Region. It was developed by, of, and for the community, under the stewardship of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPeR), the Bee Vradenburg Foundation, and a diverse steering committee of 24 local creative leaders. COPPeR Executive Director Andy Vick introduces the plan, and he shares how it was created and how we can all be a part of its implementation.

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slide Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Arts-Vision-2030-10-Minute-Presentation.pdf

Arts Vision 2030 Document https://culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 17, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Veo https://www.veoride.com/colorado-springs/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

84 Car-Free Transportation in the Pikes Peak Region

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:01:26 -0400

Learn about opportunities to lower your carbon footprint by getting around town without a car. Electric scooters, all-electric buses and trains are among the topics.

SPEAKERS: Jeff Hoover - Veo Brian Vitulli - Planning Supervisor, City of Colorado Springs Public Works, Transit Services Division (Mountain Metropolitan Transit)

LINKS:

Mountain Metro https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro

How to Ride (Mountain Metro bus services) https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro/page/how-ride?mlid=8456

Metro Rides – Alternative Commuting https://coloradosprings.gov/mountain-metro/page/metro-rides-alternative-commuting?mlid=8506

Bustang Intercity Bus Service https://ridebustang.com/

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on October 20, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

83 Environmental Design Projects: Integrating Social, Financial, and Legal Systems

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 14:44:37 -0400

What should be considered in designing projects to address environmental issues, and how can we best integrate these? In designing projects to address environmental issues, we often underestimate the influence of social, financial and legal systems. Konrad Schlarbaum explores these systems using a permaculture framework and a real-world example. Konrad is Sustainability Coordinator at Pikes Peak Community College.

LINKS:

Presenter’s Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Integrating-Social-Legal-Financial-.pdf

Office of Sustainability, Pikes Peak Community College https://www.ppcc.edu/sustain

Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/

This program was recorded at the October 22, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. The Forum is now taking a break. Learn about future plans or luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for updates as we evaluate our future.

Environmental Forum Sponsors:

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

82 Profiting from the Peak

Sat, 23 Oct 2021 16:53:45 -0400

How and why has Colorado Springs grown to be the second largest city in Colorado, and what are the environmental implications of this? John Harner, author of the new book, Profiting from the Peak, shares highlights from the book. Harner is a professor of Geography at UCCS.

LINKS:

Speaker’s Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/harner_podcast.pdf

Profiting from the Peak: Landscape and Liberty in Colorado Springs – by John Harner https://upcolorado.com/university-press-of-colorado/item/4028-profiting-from-the-peak

Video – John Harner presentation at UrbanCOS Series in 2020 https://youtu.be/GN9oQU35S-U

Lost & Preserved in Colorado SpringsEpisode of Colorado Experience series by Rocky Mountain PBS https://youtu.be/q09ALRrY6Dw

This program was an encore presentation of the September 24, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. The Forum is taking a break following its October, 2021 meeting. Learn about future plans or luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for updates as we evaluate our future.

Environmental Forum Sponsors:

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

81 Creek Week 2021 and the Watershed

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 19:53:52 -0400

Creek Week events give you an opportunity to take care of our local water resource. It’s the largest watershed clean-up in the state of Colorado. Fountain Creek Watershed Outreach Coordinator Alli Schuch shares the exciting events offered during Creek Week, September 25 – October 3, 2021. Also get an update on the projects of the Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District – from Executive Director Bill Banks.

LINKS:

Slides from Bill Banks Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Speakers-Bureau-updated-2021-Sept-15.pdf

Slides from Alli Schuch Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Sept-2021-SIP-Presentation.pdf

Creek Week Events and Registration http://www.fountain-crk.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Creek-Week-2021-Public-Events-FINAL-1.pdf

Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District https://www.fountain-crk.org/

Creek Week 2021 Commercialhttps://youtu.be/9-ZwiUlpwrA

Stella fixes a leaky flapper! – YouTube Video https://youtu.be/diJ3xuZJTXk

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 14, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

80 Quality of Life Indicators – Local Government Council Report

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:56:42 -0400

How do our local city and county governments compare to other communities in Colorado and the nation? How does this affect our quality of life? Get an advance look at the Local Government section of the Pikes Peak United Way Quality of Life Indicators Report, Peak Progress.

Andy Gunning, Executive Director of Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, and Deb Hamilton, Strategic Services Librarian of the Pikes Peak Library District, share some of the data collected by the Local Government council for the Quality of Life Indicators report.

LINKS:

Presenters’ Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Data-Presentation-Local-Government-No-data.pdf

PEAK PROGRESS Quality of Life Indicators https://www.ppunitedway.org/peakprogressqli/

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://www.peakalliance.org

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on August 18, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

September's SIP will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 8 am. RSVP here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIsceiupzwrGd1TJP7WZZfFaDdW1fdUfWGs

Special thanks to Studio 809 Podcasts Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

79 Quality of Life Indicators: Demographics

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 15:26:41 -0400

The Demographics council of the Peak Progress Quality of Life Indicators Report share the contributions they’re making to the next version of the report. They’re providing tools to make it easier to understand who lives in our region and how that is changing over time. Data can be overwhelming but it can tell us a lot about the place that we live.

The 2030 Sustainability plan was heavily informed by the past QLI reports. The next several Sustainability in Progress meetings will feature reports on different sections of the QLI report.

Speakers:

Introduction by Audrey Carlson, QLI Coordinator at Pikes Peak United Way
Rebecca Theobald - UCCS Department of Geography and Environmental Studies
Matthew Gottfried - UCCS Geospatial Technologies Specialist
Matt Cooney - Colorado College GIS Technical Director

LINKS:

Peak Progress: Quality of Life Indicators (includes the video played in this session) https://www.ppunitedway.org/peakprogressqli/

2007 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/2007-QLI-Report.pdf

2010 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2010-QLI-Report.pdf

2011 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2011-QLI-Report.pdf

2013 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2013-QLI-Report.pdf

2016/2017 Report https://www.ppunitedway.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/QLI-FULL-REPORT_web.pdf

UCCS Geocivics website on redistricting https://geocivics.uccs.edu/

Representable – free, open-source tool for creating maps of communities of interest https://www.representable.org/

League of Women Voters of the Pikes Peak Region (good source of redistricting info) https://www.lwvppr.org/

The 15 Most Transient American Citieshttps://roanoke.com/lifestyles/the-15-most-transient-american-cities/article_90f3788d-157b-5660-9257-4d6ea44424ee.html

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on July 21, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

August's SIP will be held on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 8 am.

El Paso County Planning and Development

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

78 New El Paso County Master Plan

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:30:03 -0400

Get a tour of the new El Paso County Master Plan recently adopted by the county commissioners. Mark Gebhart, Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development for the county, provided this overview at the June 16, 2021 Sustainability in Progress meeting.

LINKS:

Your El Paso Master Plan – project website

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on June 16, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

August's SIP will be held on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 8 am.

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

77 Environmental Education in Colorado

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 00:11:19 -0400

How do we ensure all Colorado children are engaged in outdoor learning experiences? Appreciation for nature, the great outdoors, conservation and sound environmental stewardship don’t just happen. They are the result of positive experiences and good information and education. In this episode, we hear from two environmental education leaders who are providing these experiences and education for the children of Colorado. Environmental education across the state of Colorado and getting kids learning outside can support our sustainability goals.

Katie Navin, executive director of the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education, shares information about updating the Colorado Environmental Education Plan, as well as two important pieces of legislation. Christopher Aaby, executive director of Catamount Institute, fills us in on the excellent youth education programs provided by the Catamount Institute as well as a few other programs.

LINKS:

Catamount Institute

Organizations Offering Educational Programming

Colorado Environmental Education Plan - draft

Executive Summary

Carbon Cut Colorado – Offset your carbon emissions by providing energy-efficiency ugrades to income-qualified families, thanks to Energy Resource Center

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on May 19, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

July's SIP will be held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at 8 am.

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

76 Backyard Gardens and Local Food

Thu, 06 May 2021 15:49:45 -0400

Why do we need to grow more of our own food? According to local garden expert Larry Stebbins, Colorado Springs is behind many other cities in local food sufficiency. He explains why urban gardening plays a critical role in our resilience and food supply in the face of a growing population and shrinking farmland. He also shares some of the opportunities in the local area for embracing urban farming. This includes the Backyard Garden Project – launched this year – which helps local food-insecure families start their own raised-bed gardens.

Michael Rigny fills us in on a survey and mapping project he and Larry are conducting to help track progress on some of the stretch goals of the 2030 Sustainability Plan – increased regional farming and more people growing their own food.

Ruthie Markwardt of Flying Pig Farm and Colorado Farm and Art Market updates us on current status and plans for the markets.

LINKS:

Slides accompanying Ruthie's CFAM update http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/CFAM-Slides.pdf

The Garden Father (Larry Stebbins’ website) https://thegardenfather.com/

Backyard Garden Project info https://thegardenfather.com/garden-blog/f/backyard-garden-project-you-can-help

Colorado Farm and Art Market https://farmandartmarket.com/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 21, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

May's SIP will be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 8 am.

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

75 Creating a Community Built Park: You Can Do It!

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 15:30:50 -0400

An ambitious new project near downtown is cleaning up an old construction materials dump and turning it into an amazing community treasure. A lot of creativity is going into this site, including letting nature do what real estate developments typically pour concrete to do (manage stormwater). If you see mosaics on light poles, concrete benches inlaid with tiles, murals and other street art around Colorado Springs, there’s a good chance this is the work of Concrete Couch. This nonprofit works with kids and community groups to create public art, build community, and create environments and experiences that humanize our world.

Executive Director Steve Wood and Community Coordinator Christine Flores share the story of creating an interactive, creativity-inspiring, community wonderland they call Concrete Coyote – complete with bike trails, a natural playground, gardens, and a stone climbing wall. Their model to develop a community-designed-and-built park requiring zero public funds and marshaling hundreds of volunteers can be used for different types of projects! Community, recycled materials, shared skills, and creative fundraising go a long way. Learn how the work gets done!

This program was recorded at the March 26, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

The next Pikes Peak Environmental Forum takes place April 23. Samantha Bailey and Josh Handley of the Colorado Springs Office of Innovation will update us on: Our Journey to Establishing a Smart & Sustainable Future. This event will not be available later as a podcast, so be sure to RSVP here and plan to attend this free virtual event: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PeSISEqORCa-JpjohXMVRQ

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com

LINKS:

PowerPoint Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Welcome_to_Concrete_Coyote.pdf

Non-Profit Rehabilitates Dump Site into Community Wonderland (video shared in this presentation) https://www.rmpbs.org/blogs/rocky-mountain-pbs/nonprofit-rehabilitates-illegal-dump-site-into-community-wonderland/

Concrete Couch http://www.concretecouch.org/

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

74 Going Solar Made Easy – Solar United Neighbors

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 16:51:07 -0400

A new non-profit co-op is working in Colorado to help people go solar, simplifying the process and reducing costs. Bryce Carter, Colorado Program Director for Solar United Neighbors (SUN) shares details about how it works. The co-op launched in Colorado Springs at the end of March, 2021.

This event was co-hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future and Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society.

LINKS

Speaker’s PowerPoint Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Colorado-Springs-Solar-Information-Session-Presentation.pdf

Solar United Neighbors in Colorado Springs https://www.solarunitedneighbors.org/coloradosprings

Colorado Springs Utilities – how to buy into green power https://www.csu.org/documents/greenpowerfaq.pdf

Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society https://www.cres-energy.org/southeastern-colorado-secres.html

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on March 17, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

April's SIP will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2021 at 8 am. The program will be about Backyard Gardens and Local Food. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUscuquqjsrHdSAnMRDqjRh928S7aK3jDhf

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

73 Jack's Solar Garden

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 00:01:50 -0400

Boulder County told Byron Kominek you cannot put solar panels on agricultural land; it violates zoning. But Byron persisted. Agrivoltaics are a global phenomenon in which solar panels and agriculture share land. The county eventually amended its code. Today there are about 3,000 panels on Jack’s Solar Garden, which Bryon created. In addition to helping small farms turn a profit, the panels provide benefits to the crops, and the crops actually provide benefits to the panels. What might those benefits be? Listen to this episode to learn all the details about Byron’s journey and what he has learned. Byron is in the process of launching the Colorado Agrivoltaic Learning Center, the largest agrivoltaic research site in the U.S.

This program was recorded at the February 26, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

LINKS:

Speaker's Slide Presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Jacks-Solar-Garden-Presentation_26Feb2021.pdf

Jack’s Solar Garden http://www.jackssolargarden.com

Colorado Agrivoltaic Learning Center https://www.coagrivoltaic.org/

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

72 Why the Climate Crisis is a Concern for Conservatives

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 15:27:51 -0400

There are plenty of good reasons for political conservatives to be concerned about the climate crisis. We explore them in this conversation with three gentlemen from the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, or CCL:

Steven Moses, a physicist
Don Parcher, a retired Navy pilot
Nate Hochman, a Colorado College senior and Conservative Outreach Fellow at CCL

Citizens' Climate Lobby (CCL) is a nonpartisan group that's focused on a carbon fee and dividend, which would put a price on carbon at the source, and the proceeds of the carbon fee would be distributed back to households in the form of a dividend. This proposal has garnered a lot of attention recently, and was introduced in Congress as the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (https://energyinnovationact.org/).

Links:

Citizens’ Climate Lobby https://citizensclimatelobby.org/

CCL Colorado Springs Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/ColoradoSpringsCCL

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

71 A New Era for the Bureau of Land Management?

Sat, 13 Mar 2021 21:02:08 -0400

What steps can the Biden administration take to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Bureau of Land Management to better address its conservation and climate change goals? This question was addressed in a lively online discussion hosted by PEER (Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility). Panelists discussed the results of a recent employee survey, trends in land management planning, problems in BLM’s management culture, and questions from the webinar participants. This discussion was held on February 24, 2021.

Panelists included:

Moderator: Rebecca Leber of Mother Jones

Chandra Rosenthal, Director of Rocky Mountain PEER

Laurel Williams, Officer for U.S. Public Lands and Rivers Conservation at the Pew Charitable Trusts

Richard Spotts, former Planning and Environmental Coordinator at the BLM Arizona Strip District Office

Mary Jo Rugwell, former BLM State Director for Wyoming.

LINKS:

Presenter Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BLM-A-New-Era-PPT-2-25-21_slides-FINALwPew.pdf

Presenter Slides From This Event http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BLM-A-New-Era-PPT-2-25-21_slides-FINALwPew.pdf

Video of this Webinar https://www.peer.org/webinar-new-era-bureau-of-land-management/

2021 Bureau of Land Management Employee Survey Report https://www.peer.org/report-2021-bureau-of-land-management-employee-survey/

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) https://www.peer.org

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

70 CO Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:52:55 -0400

Will Toor, Executive Director of the Colorado Energy Office, provides a summary of State/CEO projects, activities, and initiatives, and shares the Colorado Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Pollution Reduction Roadmap.

This event was co-hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society, Green Cities Coalition, and the Energy Resource Center.

LINKS

Speaker’s PowerPoint Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Toor.GHG-Roadmap.pdf

Resource Guide https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/786dca153b1f4275946530d56ccdced4

Energy Code Adoption Toolkit https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/climate-energy/energy-policy/building-energy-codes/energy-code-adoption-toolkit

Contact local government coordinator Christine Berg with Questions christine.berg@state.co.us

Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society https://www.cres-energy.org/southeastern-colorado-secres.html

Green Cities Coalition https://www.facebook.com/groups/gccppr

Energy Resource Center https://www.erc-co.org/

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on February 17, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

March's SIP will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at 8 am. The SIP speaker will be, Bryce Carter, Colorado Program Director for Solar United Neighbors. Solar United Neighbors (SUN) is a nonprofit helping people go solar, join together, and fight for their energy rights. SUN is launching across Colorado including a Colorado Springs Co-op at the end of the month. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIpdO-hpjgpH9QPoNV4GdhpfA_87bCNvB_o

While Solar United Neighbors in Colorado Springs doesn't launch until later this month, YOU get an early peek.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

69 Drake is Closing - Now What?

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 13:54:52 -0400

What can you do to create a sustainable, just, and carbon-free city? Hear what’s next in the closure of the fossil-fuel powered Martin Drake Power Plant in Colorado Springs, and learn about three local campaigns on which you can take action. This is audio from a live webinar held on February 19, 2021 – organized by a group of Colorado College students. It was described as speed-dating for climate action.

This event includes a brief update on Drake from David Padgett, General Manager of Environmental Services at Colorado Springs Utilities.

Campaigns Discussed:

Gas-Free BuildingsJenny Wilford, Clean Energy Advocate, Sierra Club

Zoning OrdinancesMax Kronstadt, Co-Founder of The COS Pro-Housing Partnership

Protecting Public LandsPublic Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) Chandra Rosenthal, Rocky Mountain Office Director and Kevin Bell, Staff Counsel

PDF of Event Slides http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Drake-panel.pdf

Thanks to CC Student and Sierra Club Student Campaign Organizer Filip Carnogusky for playing a lead organizing role, and to the following:

Organizing Groups:

Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal (Carbon) Campaign https://coal.sierraclub.org/campaign

350 Colorado Springshttps://350colorado.org

Co-Sponsors:

Sierra Club https://coloradosierraclub.org

The Colorado Springs Pro-Housing Partnership (PHP) https://coloradospringsprohousingpartnership.com

Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER)https://www.peer.org

Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society (SECRES)https://www.cres-energy.org/southeastern-colorado-secres.html

Sunrise (Colorado Springs chapter) https://www.sunrisemovement.org/?ms=SunriseMovement

Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) http://www.peakalliance.org

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum https://www.facebook.com/PikesPeakEnvironmentalForum/

Pikes Peak Permaculturehttps://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org

Chinook Centerhttps://www.chinookcenter.org

Studio 809 Podcasts http://studio809podcasts.com

Shout Out to:

Students for Environmental Awareness and Sustainability at UCCS https://seas.uccs.edu

Food to Power https://foodtopowerco.org/

Conscious Living Shop https://www.consciouslivingshop.com

Eclectic COhttps://shopeclecticco.com/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

68 Northern Water’s Regional Water Efficiency Program

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 19:37:07 -0400

What are 33 Colorado cities doing to conserve water? Frank Kinder, Water Efficiency Program Manager for Northern Water, updates us on the conservation work of this regional water provider.

LINKS:

Frank Kinder’s slide presentation http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/2021-Presentation-FK-PPENV.pdf

The Colorado-Big Thompson Project - video shown during presentation https://youtu.be/wQkMdlvCgP0

2020 in Review: Water Efficiency Programs – video shown at end of presentation https://youtu.be/p8zNT2aPrAU

This program was recorded at the January 22, 2021 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

View Filip's slides here.

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

67 Colorado College Students Take Local Action

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 01:13:18 -0400

Colorado College students demonstrate just how engaged and activated their generation can be. Filip Carnogursky and Liam Reynolds share two initiatives they started because they saw a need and weren’t going to wait around for someone else to do it. They’re doing something about addressing climate change and addressing unaffordable housing and unsustainable urban development. Learn all about Climate Action and the Colorado Springs Pro-Housing Partnership.

Filip, a Sierra Club intern, and the fellow students he assembled have organized the 2021 Climate Justice Action Panel, which takes place on February 18.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on January 20, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. Register here for the February 17 Sustainability in Progress.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Konrad’s Slide Presentation

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66 Sustainable Holiday

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 12:56:12 -0400

The holidays are coming and that means shopping, gifts, and food. Do you approach the holidays mindful of the environmental impact of all these activities? This episode explores sustainable options for this holiday season. Konrad Schlarbaum, sustainability coordinator for Pikes Peak Community College shares low-impact holiday gift-giving practices, and fills us in on the virtual PPCC Green Holiday Fair. Lorrie Myers, of Who Gives a SCRAP, updates us on the shop’s just completed move to larger quarters at 810 Arcturus Drive, which expands the shop’s offerings.

Who Gives a SCRAP is a donation based scrap store that carries arts, craft and hobbies supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. The store was founded on the belief that the reuse of goods and materials is the most efficient, environmentally friendly and economically viable way to reduce the waste stream. In its five years of existence, Who Gives a Scrap has diverted over 213 tons of clean, reusable materials from ending up in the landfill.

LINKS:

PPCC Green Holiday Fair (virtual) On Instagram On Facebook

Who Gives a Scrap On Facebook On Instagram

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on November 18, 2020. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

1.5 Degree Lifestyles report

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

65 Does This Flight Make My Footprint Look Big?

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 23:58:44 -0400

Flying, driving, bus, train, bicycle, on foot, even staycations. What do we need to know to make responsible decisions about the way we move about? Dave Gardner, host of the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living, shares data and tools to guide us.

LINKS:

Presentation Slides

GrowthBusters – Free Black Friday Screening (view 11/26/20 to 11/29/20)

The Four Lifestyle Choices that Most Reduce Your Carbon Footprint (Lund University Study ranking carbon reduction actions)

Vacation Traveler Carbon Guide – Quick Reference Chart and the stuy behind it (Union of Concerned Scientists)

Getting There Greener – full report behind the above vacation guide

Skyscanner greener flight booking site

UCS web tool for EV efficiency in your area

Carbon Offset Info and Programs

American Idling: The Ecological Cost of Keeping the Engine Running

Climate Perks

The future of conference: Will events remain virtual after lockdowns?

This program was recorded at the October 23, 2020 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

PDF of presenters' slides

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

64 New Energy Plan

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 19:49:16 -0400

Christian Nelson and Michael Avanzi of Colorado Springs Utilities share the future of energy production in our community. The Colorado Springs Utilities Board approved an Integrated Resources Plan (IRP) portfolio in June of 2020 that represents a significant departure from the utility’s heavy reliance on coal and natural gas generation. What does this mean for the Pikes Peak region and renewable energy?

LINKS:

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on September 16, 2020. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. During COVID we're meeting virtually on the third Wednesday of most months from 8 to 9 a.m.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's

63 The New Energy Market

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 23:21:45 -0400

What’s happening and what can we expect in terms of how we get electricity to power our homes, business and industry? How clean can it be, and what it will cost? Over the past twenty years, the energy market has shifted dramatically. The unsubsidized cost of wind and solar energy, with battery storage, has dropped below the cost of fossil fuel generation. The US Energy Information Agency expects the trend of dropping renewable energy and storage costs, and rising cost of coal, to continue. The shift to renewable energy for electric generation brings more significant benefits than lower electric rates.

This episode features a presentation by Jim Riggins at the September Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. Jim retired after 30 years in the US Air Force, serving as a research engineer, pilot, operational planner, and weapon systems programmer. He also served as an operations group commander, and vice wing commander. He is a retired small business owner as a Home Energy Rater and Professional Building Analyst, providing consulting to builders and architects on energy efficient building construction and residential and commercial energy audits. Jim holds Masters degrees in electrical engineering, Military Art and Science, and National Security Strategy. He is a Senior Executive Fellow from the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government. He currently sits on the board of Mountain View Electric Association and serves as a volunteer on the Pikes Peak Habitat for Humanity building committee.

This program was recorded at the September 25, 2020 meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

LINKS:

Slides for the presentation in this episode

Levelized Cost of Energy and Levelized Cost of Storage – 2020

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

62 Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative Kick-Off

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 02:33:37 -0400

Indigenous permaculturalist, designer, builder and educator Michael Alcazar led this ceremony on September 18, 2020 at Flying Pig Farm. This ceremony kicked off the Manitou Springs Forest Garden Initiative, in which Manitou will be planting tree guilds (natural communities of tree/plant relationships) that will act as natural education sites for the community for learning how to grow food, provide pollinator and bird support, and help mitigate climatic changes. The initiative began with three planting sites. Volunteers met the next morning to begin planting. Masks were worn and social distancing was practiced at this ceremony. To volunteer, please call or email Becky Elder (719-685-0290. The ceremony, and this episode, were presented by Pikes Peak Permaculture. Michael Alcazar also spoke about his 1 Million Trees project for Colorado.

LINKS:

1 Million Trees project for Colorado

Flying Pig Farm

Upcoming Virtual Events:

October 21, 2020, 8 am Environmental & Social JusticeSustainability in Progress peakalliance.org for info

October 23, 2020, 12 Noon Does this Flight Make My Footprint Look Big?Shrinking the carbon footprint of your travel habitPikes Peak Environmental Forum Register here

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

61 Creek Week Cleanup 2020

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 16:36:51 -0400

Don’t miss the 7th annual Creek Week Cleanup, September 26 – October 4th.

Every year citizens of Southern Colorado step up, put on their environmental steward hats, and join with friends and neighbors in what’s become the largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado. In this episode, Alli Schuch shares how we can all participate this year. Safe, socially-distanced, outdoor activities are on the agenda. Last year, 3,200 volunteers from Palmer Lake to Trinidad removed over 14 tons of litter.

Peak Environment host and co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay interviews Alli Schuch, who coordinates outreach for the Fountain Creek Watershed Flood Control and Greenway District.

Registration is now open for the 7th Annual Creek Week Cleanup. There are over 40 public events to choose from, or you can organize your own Creek Crew and Alli’s team will help you find a site. Learn more and register at fountaincreekweek.com

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

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60 Voices for Wolves - Proposition 114

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 09:57:53 -0400

The 2020 election in Colorado is shaping up to be historic, but not for the reasons you might think. Voters in Colorado will get the chance to direct wildlife managers to reintroduce gray wolves, nearly 80 years after they were eradicated on behalf of the livestock industry.

In this interview, Delia Malone, Mike Phillips, and Rob Edward, three friends and longtime wolf advocates, discuss the importance of wolves to Colorado's future.

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth’s ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

For more information:

www.sierraclub.org

www.wolfactionfund.com

Colorado Wolves FAQ CHCC – A website developed at Colorado State University by the Center for Human and Carnivore Coexistence

Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030 plan

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59 Updating the Regional Sustainability Plan

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 16:14:42 -0400

How can we improve the Pikes Peak Region 2030 Plan? Several municipalities and organizations in the Pikes Peak Region came together to develop a long-range sustainability plan, completed in 2012 and adopted by some cities and organizations (but not by the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments, interestingly). In this episode, Konrad Schlarbaum (director of Green Cities Coalition) discusses his recommendations for improvements to the regional sustainability plan (PPR 2030). The City of Colorado Springs has adopted the plan and is interested in doing an update. Ellen Johnson-Fay interviews Konrad here.

Konrad invites you to comment with questions or suggestions, or to express interest in getting involved in this project.

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of the Green Cities Coalition, communicating the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

LINKS:

PDF of Konrad’s Proposal

PDF of Konrad’s Powerpoint Presentation

Green Cities Coalition (Facebook)

City of Colorado Springs Office of Innovation

Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments (PPACG)

Pikes Peak Community College Office of Sustainability

Manitou Springs Climate Action Workgroup

Manitou Springs sustainability

Sierra Club – Pikes Peak Group

Southeast Colorado Renewable Energy Society (SECRES)

350 Colorado Springs

Colorado Farm and Art Market

Colorado Farm and Art Market – order online at Open Food Network

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Pikes Peak Community College – Office of Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

58 Indigenous Land Management for Growing Food Locally

Fri, 15 May 2020 23:52:49 -0400

What can we learn from indigenous people about caring for the land on which we depend for our food? This episode is a recording of the keynote address by indigenous permaculture designer Michael Alcazar at the 2020 Pikes Peak Foodshed Forum. The forum was hosted by Green Cities Coalition and Pikes Peak Community College on February 8, 2020.

Indigenous permaculture designer Michael Alcazar is a master educator with over 30 years of designing, teaching, facilitating, building, and coaching experience. His various life experiences have uniquely given him the opportunity to explore areas of art, building, design, anatomy and physiology, health and human services, as well as Permaculture - all from the perspective of his indigenous ancestral lineage of traditional ecological knowledge and application.

Thanks to event sponsors Pikes Peak Community College, Pizzeria Rustica, and the PBS POV series.

LINKS:

Michael Alcazar's Slides

Pizzeria Rustica

POV on PBS

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Slides for the presentation in this episode

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

57 The PFAS Story in El Paso County CO

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 22:43:26 -0400

You can’t escape toxic PFAS chemicals. They are everywhere. Get an update on what we know and what’s being done about water contamination by PFAS (Perfluoroalklsubstance). Groundwater and surface water in portions of the Pikes Peak Region is known to have PFAS contamination, due to years of firefighting exercises at Peterson Field and the Air Force Academy (PFAS have been an ingredient in firefighting foam for decades).

This February, 2020 update is presented by Dr. Tyler A. Cornelius, Visiting Assistant Professor in the Environmental Program, and Eli Fahrenkrug, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, both at Colorado College. Fahrenkrug and Cornelius have been monitoring and studying the contamination just south of Colorado Springs via the Fountain Valley Water Project, which they launched for this purpose.

This program was recorded at the February 28, 2020 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

LINKS:

Fountain Valley Water Project

Fountain Valley Clean Water Coalition

Sierra Club PFAS information page and listserv signup

PFAS: What You Need to Know About Your Water

Episode 45 of Peak Environment: PFAS Water Contamination Panel – Peak Environment Podfest

Episode 21 of Peak Environment: PFAS Contamination in our Water (3/20/19 PASF Presentation)

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Adams Bank & Trust

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

https://www.wolfactionfund.com/

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

56 Colorado Needs Wolves

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 16:29:08 -0400

Colorado needs Wolves – not merely to restore a natural balance or the wildness that we all seek – though wolves will do that if they are present for long enough, in sufficient numbers and with wide enough distribution – but also to ensure that we pass on a Colorado intact, with a complete suite of native wildlife, to enrich future generations.

This episode explores the issue of wolf reintroduction in Colorado, including Initiative 107, which will facilitate reintroduction of gray wolves to the state. Cathy Herzog, Wildlife Chair for the Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club interviews Delia Malone, an ecologist who lives and works on Colorado’s west slope. She’s conducted ecological and biological surveys for streams and wetlands, and rare plants, animals and communities for the purpose of informing conservation. Delia is Wildlife Chair for the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and a member of the Science Advisory Team for the Rocky Mountain Wolf Project, which has a campaign to restore Gray Wolves to Colorado.

Find additional information on this issue at the end of these show notes.

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

LINKS:

http://www.eaglesummitwilderness.org/newsletter_200201.htm

http://www.mtoutlaw.com/where-wolves-dare/

https://mountainjournal.org/lessons-learned-25-years-after-wolves-restored-to-yellowstone

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Accessing Clean Water: The PFAS Story in El Paso County, COPikes Peak Environmental Forum Friday, February 28, 2020 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Permaculture Design Course 2020Pikes Peak PermacultureFirst class - March 13, 2019Information and Registration

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Colorado Springs zoning code update

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

Additional Information:

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Colorado Needs Wolves. Elk Need Wolves – the magnificent bull elk, so coveted by hunters, is a result of eons of selective predation by wolves;

Beaver Need Wolves, to prevent ungulates from devouring the willows that they need for food and to build their dams, that store the water, that helps maintain stream flows in the arid west;

We Need Wolves to restore the natural balance that is our life support system – a natural balance that begins with a balance between predator and prey.

--------------------------------

SO WHY ARE THERE NO WOLVES IN COLORADO’S WILDLANDS?

Renee Askins explains: “In the span of less than fifty years man had systematically, consciously, intentionally killed every wolf in the West . . . Hundreds of thousands of wolves were killed—some in the name of protecting livestock, some for their pelts, some because we believed it was our inalienable right, and some just out of cold, hard vengeance and cruelty, a cruelty we so often attribute to the wolf”.

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Science documents what the land is telling us: Wolves keep ecosystems healthier by balancing species populations with ecological carrying capacity.

Wolves keep elk herds healthy by removing vulnerable, sick or old animals (Lukens 2006) and they keep landscapes healthy by keeping elk within the carrying capacity of their environment.

Although Colorado has more elk by far than any western state all is not well: Elk exceed CPW’s population objectives – i.e. ecological carrying capacity - in over half of Colorado’s elk management units; and Chronic Wasting Disease occurs in at least 16 of Colorado’s 43 elk herds and 31 of 54 deer herds

As the preeminent wolf biologist, Dr. David Mech, stated “…the preponderance of scientific evidence supports the view that wolves generally kill the old, the young, the sick and the weak…” and further states: “Based upon everything I’ve seen over the course of my career, I generally stand behind the assertion that wolves make prey populations healthier...The evidence to support it is overwhelming.”

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IV. SO WHY DOES WOLF RESTORATION STRUGGLE? WHY DO WOLVES REMAIN RESTRICTED TO 15% OF THEIR HISTORIC HABITAT DESPITE AN ABUNDANCE OF SUITABLE HABITAT, MUCH OF IT IN WESTERN COLORADO?

The doomsday scenarios predicted when wolves were restored to the northern rocky mountain states have not come to pass. There is no indication that they would do so in Colorado either.

Evidence indicates that:

…wolves have not decimated prey populations.

…wolves have not reduced hunter success.

… wolves haven’t negatively impacted the ranching industry

…wolves pose an infinitesimal threat to humans

Facts are that with 1,900 gray wolves in the Northern Rockies in 2015 and with the total number of 1,980,600 cattle in the same region as gray wolves, confirmed losses of to wolves in 2015 was 148= 0.007%

Facts are that elk populations and hunter success in the Northern Rockies is either stable or increasing since wolf restoration.

Fact are that in Yellowstone National Park from 1995-2018 with 101,070,722 visitors, none were injured by a wolf and among 2.7 million tent campers in Yellowstone from 1995 to 2018, no camper was injured by a wolf.

---------------------------------------

COLORADO’S WEST SLOPE IS IDEALLY SUITED TO WOLVES – prey base and public lands are key determinants of suitable wolf habitat – Colorado’s west slope has an abundance of both.

While it’s true that Colorado’s population is growing, it’s also true that, according to the State Demographer, 84% of Colorado’s population will settle on the Front Range, 11% on the western tier counties and the remaining 5% divided between the Central Mountains, the Eastern Plains and the San Luis Valley (https://demography.dola.colorado.gov/demography/infographics/#a).

A VIBRANT WOLF POPULATION WOULD BE AN ASSET TO COLORADO BUT WOLVES CANNOT GET TO COLORADO ON THEIR OWN.

The journey is simply too dangerous, with too many mortality hazards between the Northern Rockies and Colorado for a sufficient number of wolves to wander to Colorado, find one another, and survive long enough to give birth to the countless litter of pups needed to give rise to a viable, ecologically effective wolf population

---------------------------------------

VIII. RESTORATION IS IMPERATIVE IF COLORADO IS TO HAVE ANY CHANCE OF AN ECOLOGICALLY EFFECTIVE POPULATION OF GRAY WOLVES,

In 25 years since wolf restoration to Yellowstone National Park only about 10 wolves have made it to Colorado – 3 were killed and 1 was never again seen. And the six that have recently been seen in Colorado near the Wyoming border are closely related. These six do not carry sufficient genetic diversity to establish a healthy, viable population and six is nowhere near the number Colorado needs for an ecologically effective population.

Coloradans stand ready to achieve a breakthrough, decades in the making — reintroducing the gray wolf and in so doing, beginning the journey to restoring a natural balance to the Wildlands of Colorado’s West Slope.

Initiative 107 is a grassroots path to restoration – a pathway that gives all Coloradans a voice as to the management of their public lands.

107 requires that Gray Wolves be restored to Colorado by December of 2023 and directs Wolf management to be guided by best science.
107 also directs that ranchers be fairly compensated for any livestock losses to wolves.

If you’re a Colorado voter, please vote for initiative 107 on the 2020 Colorado ballot. Vote to restore a natural balance for now and future generations of Coloradans.

55 Tiny Homes, Big Questions

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 03:26:44 -0400

Big things are happening for tiny homes in Colorado Springs. Colorado Springs Principal Planner Lonna Thelan fills us in on how city planning and zoning issues affect tiny home locations, and Shelley Jensen, founder, CEO and chief community strategist of We Fortify, shares details of her first development, Working Fusion at Mill Street.

Working Fusion is a sustainable tiny-home development in the Mill District that will allow young renters to be more functional earlier into their next phase of housing and establishes trust and responsibility. Each tiny home is designed with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living space. Each new renter receives a bed, bedding, television, silverware, dishes, artwork and a community picture to care for and take with them when they move to more permanent digs. Additionally, KP17 - in collaboration with other organizations - will program community activities such as yoga, summer concerts, community gardening education, poetry slam, and financial wellness classes.

We Fortify is a non-profit homeless prevention organization that creates permanent generational shifts by providing creative, dignified, and environmentally friendly housing solutions in socially supportive neighborhoods.

This program was recorded at the January 17, 2020 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

LINKS:

Lonna Thelan’s Slides

Shelley Jensen’s Slides

Short Term Rentals information at City of Colorado Springs website

Working Fusion at Mill Street

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

Adams Bank & Trust

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Permaculture Design Course 2020Pikes Peak PermacultureFirst class - March 13, 2019Information and Registration

Signup for Smokebrush Farm email list

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

54 Smart Cities for a Sustainable Future

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 00:13:41 -0400

Does the City of Colorado Springs have a plan in case of a Zombie Apocalypse? Find out on this episode of Peak Environment. Learn about the myriad projects and initiatives managed or assisted by the City of Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability. Ryan Trujillo, the city’s Director of Support Services, fills us in. Ryan’s department includes the Office of Innovation, whose functions include sustainability and the Smart Communities Program. The Office is now advertising its first full-time, city-funded, sustainability position.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on January 15, 2020. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

Note: we may be changing locations, so send Studio 809 a note requesting you be placed on the Sustainability in Progress email list.

Edited by: Katie Lawrie

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the

53 Smokebrush Farm Feeds Mind and Spirit

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 19:09:38 -0400

Learn all about a very unique community asset. Smokebrush Farm is a small, biodynamic farm in Manitou Springs that serves as an educational model as well as a retreat center. Yoga classes, an art club, Indian dance class and artist residency programs are part of the program, which is part of the Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts.

Chris Collinge, the farm manager, explains everything happening here, including a local herd share for raw goat’s milk, plans to launch an internship program in 2020. Chris also provides a brief overview of biodynamic agriculture.

Since 1992, the Smokebrush Foundation For The Arts has produced and presented innovative arts experiences that foster creativity and collaboration, inspiring positive change in the Southern Colorado community and beyond. The farm is part of its Sun Mountain Center.

We recorded this episode at the November 21, 2019 Green Drinks gathering at the Red Crags House at Smokebrush Farm. Green Drinks is hosted in a different location each month, by the Green Cities Coalition, generally on the fourth Thursday of every month.

The Green Cities Coalition communicates the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

Special thanks to Adams Mountain Café for providing food for this month’s Green Drinks event.

LINKS:

Smokebrush Farm

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Flying Pig Farm (mentioned by Kara Stutzman

Adams Mountain Café

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Tiny Homes, Big QuestionsPikes Peak Environmental ForumFriday, January 17, 2020 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd. Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Grain School 2020Thursday, November 17-19, 2020 UCCS Program, Registration, Location Info Happy Hour and Free Public Forum Saturday, January 18, 5-9:30 pm

Drake in 2020: Climate of ChangeSierra Club Beyond Coal and 350 ColoradoFriday, January 21, 2020 6 to 8 pmThe Barrel Aging Room IvyWild School 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs Info & RSVP Here Event is free; come learn about activism plans for 2020 around accelerating the closure of Martin Drake Power Plant

Energy Planning WorkshopColorado Springs UtilitiesFriday, January 29, 2020 6 to 8 pm Library 21C 1175 Chapel Hills Drive Permaculture Design Course 2020Pikes Peak PermacultureFirst class - March 13, 2019Information and Registration

Slides for The State of Recycling in Colorado

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

52 Reducing Waste

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 15:08:41 -0400

Did you know less than 15% of donated clothing in the U.S. ends up in our second-hand market? Or that each cycle of a washing machine can release more than 700,000 plastic fibers into the environment? Paper and paperboard account for 29 percent of our municipal waste stream, and yard trimmings and food scraps account for another 27 percent.

The November Sustainability in Progress meeting featured very informative presentations about reducing waste:

The State of Recycling in ColoradoAlicia Archibald of A2 Solutions gives an overview of waste and recycling, and provides an update on issues and progress in the state of Colorado. See link below for her slides.

Textile RecyclingLiz Kettle, director of Textiles West, weaves tales of good and bad practices in sustainability related to our clothing and textiles. See link below for her slides.

This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on November 20, 2019. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable FutureThe mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach.

About A2 Solutions Alicia Archibald has significant experience in the field of waste and recycling. She currently offers business consulting services to help businesses manage their environmental impact.

About Textiles West:Textiles West aims to inspire widespread awareness, participation and appreciation of textile and fiber arts with an understanding of the impact of textiles on the planet. We teach simple ways to reduce the toxic textile footprint in each of our lives. By providing access to skills and tools in our classroom and makerspace, we encourage action to create more eco-conscious lifestyles.

Join Textiles West for the second installment in our free film festival series, Blue Alchemy: Stories of Indigo, a 2011 feature-length historical documentary by Mary Lance. Blue Alchemy is a celebration of indigo, the iconic blue dye plant that people have been using for centuries. Thursday January 16, 2020 6-8pm pm at Textiles West North Academy location. It’s free, but please register here so they make enough popcorn!

LINKS:

Slides for Textile Recycling

A2 Solutions

Textiles West

What is Waste? (video produced by Colorado College students)

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Smart Cities for a Sustainable FutureSustainability in ProgressWednesday, January 15, 2020 7:30 to 9:00 am Ivywild School - Wildcat RoomFree Coffee and pastries provided

Tiny Homes, Big QuestionsPikes Peak Environmental ForumFriday, January 17, 2020 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd. Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Green DrinksThursday, January 23, 2020 5:30 to 7:30 pm Location TBA

Speaker’s Slides and Notes

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

51 The Dark Side of Renewable Energy

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:28:46 -0400

The future looks bright for renewable energy, according to Joe Jenkins, Principal at Environmental Compliance Systems LLC, but there is a dark side. In this lively and popular presentation, Jenkins explores the hidden environmental and social impacts of the renewable energy supply chain, but emerges with a positive outlook for a renewable future.

This program was recorded at the October 2019 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

LINKS:

A Finer Future

Presenting Sponsors:

Additional Sponsors:

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Sustainability in Progress Wednesday, January 15, 2020 7:30 to 9:00 am Ivywild School - Wildcat RoomFree Coffee and pastries provided

Tiny Homes, Big QuestionsPikes Peak Environmental Forum Friday, January 17, 2019 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Green Drinks Thursday, January 23, 2020 5:30 to 7:30 pm Location TBA

Permaculture Design Course 2020Pikes Peak PermacultureFirst class - March 13, 2019Information and Registration

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

50 Leading the Way: Libraries and Sustainability

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 15:26:39 -0400

Your local library may not be the first thing you think of when you consider sustainable practices in your community, but sustainability is a core value of librarianship. You might be surprised at all the ways your library contributes to sound environmental stewardship. The American Library Association Council passed a resolution in 2015 on the importance of sustainable libraries. The resolution notes that libraries play an important and unique role in wider community communications about resiliency, climate change and a sustainable future. This resolution was adopted as the ALA’s 12th core value of Librarianship in January of 2019.

John Spears, Chief Librarian and Chief Executive Officer of the Pikes Peak Library District and Jenny Pierce, Director of Collection Management, join Co-Chair Debbie Vitulli and Bill Thomas of the library district’s Green Team to discuss sustainable library practices in the Pikes Peak region.

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of the Pikes Peak Library District Green Team. Our purpose is to recommend strategies to PPLD to become an organization that embraces and implements sustainable practices. Sustainable practices are those that provide for the long term viability of economic, human and environmental resources. This is accomplished through reduction, reuse and recycling of consumable goods. We promote a culture of sustainability throughout the library district, and model environmental stewardship in the Colorado Springs Community.

PPLD Green Team hopes you will SEEK sustainable practices, ENGAGE in earth-wise living, and TRANSFORM the world to be an even better place for our children and generations to come! Check us out at PPLD.org or our Facebook page.

Links:

American Library Association Sustainable Library Certification Program Core Values of Librarianship Resolution on Importance of Sustainable Libraries American Library Association Statement on Global Climate Change and a Call for Support for Libraries and Librarians Sustainable Libraries Initiative

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Sustainability in Progress Wednesday, December 18, 2019 7:30 to 9:00 am Ivywild School - Wildcat RoomFree Coffee and pastries provided

Photos of Westside Community Garden

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49 Westside Community Garden

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 04:15:09 -0400

A one-of-a-kind approach to community gardening pulls out the stops on community building. Richard Mee and a few fellow community garden advocates wanted to take the “my” out of community gardening and make it “ours.” They charted new territory in their effort to launch the Westside Community Garden in Colorado Springs.

Building community was as important to the group as growing food, so they strived to make it truly community run. This cooperative concept builds community, educates gardeners, eases vacation absences, and provides a higher probability of success.

LINKS:

Explanation of how the garden is run

Application to join the garden

This episode was recorded at the October Green Drinks event hosted by the Green Cities Coalition. The Green Cities Coalition communicates the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Sustainability in Progress Wednesday, December 18, 2019 7:30 to 9:00 am Ivywild School - Wildcat RoomFree Coffee and pastries provided

Colorado air quality forecast summaries, hourly data, alerts and advisories

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

48 Air Quality in the Pikes Peak Region

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 21:01:46 -0400

Colorado Springs was recently teetering on the edge of violating ground level ozone standards, but we had a good summer. Meanwhile, reducing greenhouse gas emissions to avoid the worst of the climate crisis is on all our minds. In this episode, learn about progress, challenges and initiatives pertaining to environmental air quality in the Pikes Peak Region (as defined in the regional sustainability framework PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach.

LINKS:

Gordon's PowerPoint Slides (PDF)

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Sustainability in Progress Wednesday, December 18, 2019 7:30 to 9:00 am Ivywild School - Wildcat RoomFree Coffee and pastries provided

Colorado Springs Utilities – EIRP info

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

47 C Springs Energy Future Panel – Peak Environment Podfest

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 14:21:26 -0400

How do you like your electricity? Hot and fresh from burning polluting and CO2-emitting coal? Or clean and green from the sun and the wind? Colorado Springs Utilities is in the early stages of updating its EIRP – the Electric Integrated Resource Plan, a road map for the city’s electric generation mix over the coming years. Studio 809 assembled a panel of experts to educate us and offer their views on the subject.

Also: Singer/songwriter Lindsay Facknitz entertains with an original song on the subject, and Dave Gardner shares details about the podcasts and the genesis of Studio 809. Emcees are Debbie Vitulli and Dave Gardner. The podfest was co-hosted by Studio 809 and Stargazers Theatre & Event Center.

Peak Environment is the Pikes Peak region’s podcast about environmental stewardship and sustainability. This episode is courtesy of the Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club. We recorded this episode in front of a live audience at the Peak Environment Podfest, October 19, 2019 at Stargazers Theatre & Event Center.

The panel:

Jane Ard-Smith, Moderator

Scott Harvey Vice Chair, Utilities Policy Advisory Committee Colorado Springs Utilities Civil and architectural engineer, Art of Engineering, Inc (Scott is speaking as a citizen; not representing Utilities here)

Jim Riggins The New Energy Market

Anna McDevitt Senior Campaign Representative, Beyond Coal Campaign

LINKS:

Sierra Club Beyond Coal

Martin Drake Power Plant Retirement Club

Lindsay and Jeremy Facknitz - Music

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Green Drinks Thursday, November 21, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Smokebrush Farm (Red Crags Estate)302 El Paso Blvd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 Potluck contributions welcome Some refreshments provided $5 donation requested Parking is limited; please carpool if you can

Take Colorado Springs Utilities Energy Planning Survey

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

46 Making Local Food Flourish Panel – Peak Environment Podfest

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 18:13:04 -0400

Less than 1% of our food was grown within 50 miles of Colorado Springs, estimates Larry Stebbins. Larry is one of the panelists gathered by moderator Ellen Johnson-Fay to discuss what is needed to help local food flourish in the Pikes Peak region.

This panel discussion took place on October 19, 2019 as part of the Peak Environment Podfest, recorded in front of a live audience and co-hosted by Studio 809 and Stargazers Theatre & Event Center.

The panel:

Ellen Johnson-Fay Convener of the Green Cities Local Food Coalition www.greencitiescoalition.net

Michele Mukatis Owner, Cultivate Health LLC www.cultivatehealthcolorado.com

Larry Stebbins The Garden Father www.thegardenfather.com

Kara Stutzman Teacher & Farmer Flying Pig Farm Facebook.com/flyingpigmanitou

Steve Oliveri Front Range Liaison for Tap Root Cooperative www.taprootcooperative.com/

This episode is courtesy of the Green Cities Coalition. The Green Cities Coalition communicates the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

Ultimately, our goal is to celebrate with you the achievements of those who contribute to the preservation and health of our local natural and human environments. We invite you to Communicate, Collaborate and Celebrate all things sustainable with us! Join us at our next Green Drinks gathering, Thursday, November 21, 5:30-7:30 pm at Smokebrush Farm.

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Fountain Valley Water Project

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

45 PFAS Water Contamination Panel – Peak Environment Podfest

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 12:39:46 -0400

Is your water safe to drink? Is your soil safe to grow veggies? These questions are front of mind for many residents of the Pikes Peak region. For years, firefighting exercises at air bases in Colorado Springs used chemicals that we now know have contaminated area groundwater and are bad for our health. Find out what we know, and what’s being done about it, from an expert panel convened at the Peak Environment Podfest.

The podfest featured three panels recorded in front of a live audience on October 19, 2019, at Stargazers Theatre & Event Center. This panel, moderated by Colorado State Senator Pete Lee, discusses the hazardous traits of PFAS, a family of “forever chemicals” that take a long time to go away. Senator Lee co-sponsored House Bill 1279 which outlaws the foam's use for training and in firefighting equipment.

Panelists include:

Dr. Tyler A. Cornelius Visiting Assistant Professor, Environmental Program Colorado College

Eli Fahrenkrug Ph.D Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Colorado College

Liz Rosenbaum Founder, Fountain Valley Clean Water Coalition Candidate for House District 21

Fran Silva-Blayney Colorado Chapter Chair Sierra Club Fountain Creek Water Sentinels

Mike Fink, P.E., Water Superintendent, City of Fountain Water Utility

Producer: Debbie Vitulli Editor: Katie Lawrie

Special thanks to our co-host for this event, Stargazers Theatre & Event Center.

LINKS:

Fountain Valley Clean Water Coalition

Sierra Club PFAS information page and listserv signup

PFAS: What You Need to Know About Your Water

Episode 21 of Peak Environment: PFAS Contamination in our Water (3/20/19 PASF Presentation)

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Take Colorado Springs Utilities Energy Planning Survey

Clint's Powerpoint Slides

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

44 The Wonder of Dark Skies

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 14:17:11 -0400

Light pollution is the one pollution that costs less to solve than it does to continue polluting. It also represents a lot of wasted energy and has potential negative health effects. Plus, the lights of the city hide the wonders of the night sky from us. Clint Smith reacquaints us with what we’re missing and tells the story of how the Wet Mountain Valley (Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, CO) became the first International Dark Skies Community in Colorado. One accomplished amateur astronomer started crying when he experienced the night sky in this valley.

Clint explains light pollution and what communities around the world are doing about it. He and other volunteers with Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley hold star parties throughout every summer.

This program was recorded at the September 27, 2019 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

LINKS:

Smokey Jack Observatory

Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley

International Dark Skies Association

Sunday Today feature (video)

Where Are the Stars? See How Light Pollution Affects Night Skies (video)

SPONSORS:

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Green Drinks Thursday, October 24, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Westside Community Center1628 W Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Get a garden tour. Refreshments provided $5 donation requested

Pikes Peak Environmental ForumThe Dark Side of Renewable EnergyOctober 25, 2019 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

43 Planet in Peril – Senate Candidate Forum Part 2

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 17:05:16 -0400

Candidates for Colorado’s U.S. Senate seat up for grabs in 2020 share their positions on issues related to the climate crisis. This candidate forum was hosted by Indivisible Denver and fourteen other organizations (links below), held at the Ent Center for the Arts in Colorado Springs on October 6, 2019. Ten candidates (links below) participated. U.S. Senator Cory Gardner and former Governor John Hickenlooper did not. This is part 2, the last half of that forum.

Moderators:

Tania Van Pelt, event co-organizer, writer/producer
Philip Oke-Thomas, President UCCS College Democrats
Brent Wilkerson, Vice President, UCCS College Democrats
Keah Schuenemann, Professor of Meteorology at Metropolitan State University

CANDIDATES:

HOST ORGANIZATIONS:

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Peak Environment PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pm Stargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes More Info Learn from 3 important panels at this free event:

Groundwater Contamination (firefighting foam - PFAS)
Making Local Food Flourish
Colorado Springs' Energy Future

Green Drinks Thursday, October 24, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Westside Community Center1628 W Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Get a garden tour. Refreshments provided $5 donation requested

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

42 Planet in Peril – Senate Candidate Forum Part 1

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 17:29:05 -0400

Moderators:

Tania Van Pelt, event co-organizer, writer/producer
Philip Oke-Thomas, President UCCS College Democrats
Brent Wilkerson, Vice President, UCCS College Democrats
Keah Schuenemann, Professor of Meteorology at Metropolitan State University

CANDIDATES:

HOST ORGANIZATIONS:

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Sustainability in ProgressAir QualityWednesday, October 16, 2019 7:30 to 9:00 am Wildcat Room at Ivywild SchoolFree Event. Coffee & pastries provided Peak Environment PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pm Stargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes More Info Learn from 3 important panels at this free event:

Groundwater Contamination (firefighting foam - PFAS)
Making Local Food Flourish
Colorado Springs' Energy Future

Green Drinks Thursday, October 24, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Westside Community Center1628 W Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Get a garden tour. Refreshments provided $5 donation requested

The Overpopulation Podcast

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41 Podcasting to Save the Planet

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 18:34:02 -0400

Learn what’s going on at the podcasting hub of the Pikes Peak region, the Studio 809 podcast collective. Over a dozen podcasts originating in the area can be found at studio809podcasts.com. Studio 809 founder Dave Gardner fills us in specifically on the environmentally focused podcasts originating in the “basement studio” – Peak Environment, the GrowthBusters podcast about sustainable living and The Overpopulation Podcast.

Also, local activist and singer/songwriter Lindsay Facknitz shares a couple of original songs and provides information and perspective on the current Colorado Springs Utilities initiative to create an updated Electric Integrated Resource Plan (EIRP).

Thanks to Pikes Peak Lemonade, Java Mountain Baking, Cindy Gardner, and Hobbs Family Farm for refreshment donations.

Be sure you’ve got the Peak Environment Podfest on your calendar for the afternoon of October 19. You’re invited to be part of the live audience at Stargazers Theatre & Event Center from noon to 4 as we present three panels and record their conversations to be episodes of the Peak Environment podcast. It’s free, and your chance to watch a podcast being made, AND be a part of it by asking questions or sharing a comment.

Invite friends, family and colleagues you think will be interested.

Noon – Doors open
12:30 – Groundwater Contamination (firefighting foam)
1:40 – Making Local Food Flourish
2:45 – Colorado Springs’ Energy Future

LINKS:

Studio 809 Podcasts

Peak Environment podcast (archive and info page) (see buttons below to access in your app)

GrowthBusters podcast

Colorado Springs EIRP

Pikes Peak Lemonade

Hobbs Family Farm

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Community Tree Planting in Manitou SpringsSaturday, October 12, 2019 10 am to 2 pm Meet at Manitou City Hall Info and Sign UpEvening Potluck after the Planting Bring hand tools, water for your own hydration, sack lunch, gloves, hat, sunscreen.

Sustainability in Progress Wednesday, October 16, 2019 7:30 to 9:00 am Wildcat Room at Ivywild SchoolFree Event. Coffee & pastries provided Peak Environment PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pm Stargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes, Learn from 3 important panels at this free event:

Groundwater Contamination (firefighting foam - PFAS)
Making Local Food Flourish
Colorado Springs' Energy Future

Green Drinks Thursday, October 24, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Westside Community Center1628 W Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Get a garden tour. Refreshments provided $5 donation requested

Andy Vick’s Arts Month PowerPoint Visuals

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40 Sustainability in Progress: Arts in C Springs

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 19:00:25 -0400

Have at least one “arts and culture” experience this month. Art and culture have a lot of value to our community both in quality of life and economic impact. Just the non-profit arts in our region generate 153 million dollars of economic activity annually. The most recent Sustainability in Progress gathering at Ivywild School featured two speakers telling us about arts and culture happenings during Arts Month and year-round as part of a sustainable community.

Andy Vick, executive director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPeR), talks all things Arts Month and the importance of keeping the region’s arts and culture flourishing. During this 6th annual Arts Month, he encourages residents to experience one new cultural experience during the month of October. He also talks about the office’s collaboration with Creek Week, an example of how temporary public art can be integrated into sustainability efforts. Vick also shares plans to develop a new 2020-2030 Cultural Plan.

Steve Wood, director of Concrete Couch, shares how the organization builds community through art and education, building fantastical art pieces with recycled materials and teaching kids, teens, and adults new skills. Steve also details plans and progress to create Concrete Couch’s new campus in the Shook’s Run neighborhood. Recent projects have involved trail building, hillside stabilization, building soil, water testing, and a bio-retention system, along with internship and educational opportunities for kids and teens.

This episode was recorded at the September 2019 Sustainability in Progress meeting hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us the third Wednesday of every month (7:30 – 9:00 am) at Ivywild School for coffee, pastries and enlightening presentations. It’s free to attend. Send us a note to request meeting notices by email.

Producers: Dave Gardner and Ellen Johnson-Fay Editor: Katie Lawrie

LINKS:

Arts Month

Peak Radar community events calendar

Concrete Couch

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Groundwater Contamination (firefighting foam - PFAS)
Making Local Food Flourish
Colorado Springs' Energy Future

Green Drinks Thursday, October 24, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Westside Community Center1628 W Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Get a garden tour. Refreshments provided $5 donation requested

Creek Week Events on Facebook

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

39 Creek Week 2019

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 13:15:44 -0400

What is about 40 times as heavy as a hippopotamus, 180 times as heavy as a grand piano, and 42 times as heavy as a car? Listen to this week’s episode to find out.

You can pitch in to have clean, healthy waterways in the Pikes Peak Region, starting September 28, in the 2019 Creek Week. Debbie Vitulli, co-chair of the Pikes Peak Library District’s Green Team, along with Green Team member Bill Thomas, talks to Alli Schuch about the upcoming Creek Week and how the event has grown since its inception in 2014. Schuch is outreach coordinator for the Fountain Creek Watershed District.

Learn surprising facts about our watershed and how much our collective and individual actions impact the water around us. Alli explains water quality issues our region faces and ways to participate in Creek Week, a popular annual event attracting hundreds of volunteers throughout the community.

Creek Week kicks off on September 28, 2019. You can form your own creek crew or join in one of over 40 public clean-ups. This is a fun opportunity to give back, and to enjoy and protect our public parks and trails.

LINKS:

Creek Week

Creek Week Events

Creek Week Kickoff at Fountain Creek Regional Park Includes breakfast by The Picnic Basket

Clean n Crawl October 5 at the Peaks N Pines Brewery in Fountain (reserve a spot)

Fountain Creek Watershed District

About the PPLD Green TeamThe Green Team is one of the partner organizations creating the Peak Environment podcast on Studio 809. The PPLD Green team recommends strategies for the library district to embrace and implement sustainable practices. Sustainable practices are those that provide for the long-term viability of economic, human and environmental resources, generally accomplished through reduction, re-use and recycling of consumable goods. The team promotes a culture of sustainability throughout the library district and works to build awareness of responsible environmental stewardship in the Colorado Springs community.

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Green Drinks Thursday, September 26, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Energy Resource Center114 W Rio Grande St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Pikes Peak Environmental ForumSouthern Colorado Dark Skies InitiativeSeptember 27, 2019 Noon to 2 pmMargarita at Pine Creek 7350 Pine Creek Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80919 Event is free; you buy your lunch RSVP here; very important

Creek Week 2019September 28 - October 6, 2019Largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado. All citizens are encouraged to participate individually in a public event or form a Creek Crew of your own! More information here

Peak Environment PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pmStargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

38 Shave Your Utility Bill – Energy Resource Center

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 13:04:26 -0400

It’s one of the best-kept secrets in town! There is a service that can evaluate your home’s energy-efficiency and potentially trim your utility bill by 25%. Energy Resource Center is a non-profit that focuses on providing the service at no cost to families that most need the help. But homeowners who don’t qualify can still use the service, paying market rates (which helps ERC do work at no charge for those in need). ERC technicians are experts in heating, air conditioning, hot water heaters, insulation, etc. It’s the biggest, most reputable weatherization company in the nation.

In this episode, Mike Mazzola of Energy Resource Center sits down with Peak Environment Co-Producer Ellen Johnson-Fay to give her the full picture – including the fact that ERC has offices in Alamosa, Denver, and Loveland, in addition to Colorado Springs. If this episode whets your appetite for more information, or if you just want to see the place, put the September 26 Green Drinks event on your calendar (details under events below).

LINKS:

Energy Resource Center

ERC’s YouTube Channel

This episode is presented by the Green Cities Coalition. The Green Cities Coalition communicates the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

Co-Producers: Dave Gardner and Ellen Johnson-Fay Editor: Dave Gardner

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Green Drinks Thursday, September 26, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Energy Resource Center114 W Rio Grande St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Peak Environment PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pmStargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes

Pike & San Isabel National Forests Motorized Travel Management (MVUM) Analysis

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

37 How Should Colorado Springs Generate Its Electricity?

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 19:37:18 -0400

Coal, gas, solar, wind? How should each of these factor into our utility’s future energy plans? CSU is beginning to develop a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan (EIRP), and the utility wants your help. Michael Avanzi, Energy Planning Manager for the utility, provides an overview of the process, and Jim Riggins, president of Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society, provides an engineer’s perspective on why renewable energy is not just the wisest, most responsible generation resource, but is also now the most economical.

The schedule for retiring the remaining two units of the Martin Drake Power Plant will, of course, be impacted by this EIRP. These presentations provide evidence of the resilience, cost-effectiveness and reliability that renewable energy options can bring to the city. Also discussed: the social costs renewable energy can mitigate, promoting health and sustainability in the region.

Note: Colorado Springs Utilities is simultaneously conducting a gas integrated resource plan.

This episode was recorded at the August Sustainability in Progress meeting hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us the third Wednesday of every month (7:30 – 9:00 am) at Ivywild School for coffee, pastries and enlightening presentations. It’s free to attend. Send us a note to request meeting notices by email.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable FutureThe mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's

36 Protecting At-risk Public Lands and Values in Central Colorado

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 19:24:10 -0400

When the Trump administration messes with Central Colorado’s public lands, the results are not pretty. Hear what’s happening and what you can do to help protect our “Big Back Yard.” Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club Wilderness Chair John Stansfield and Conservation Chair Jim Lockhart discuss multiple planning projects underway, some of which are nearing the end of their public comment period.

The Bureau of Land Management is preparing a resource management plan (RMP) and environmental impact statement to provide comprehensive management direction for all resources and uses within the Royal Gorge Field Office in eastern Colorado. The BLM manages over 650,000 acres of surface land in Eastern Colorado and over 3 million acres of subsurface mineral rights, including “split-estate” lands in which the federal government owns the mineral rights, but private landowners own the surface. Jim and John share some of the details.

The RMP will consider every aspect and impact of federal land use, from air to water to mineral extraction, what areas to protect and what areas are open to exploitation. The final opportunity for citizens to provide comments on the current draft of the plan closes on September 20. Oil production on BLM land in southern Colorado could more than double and natural gas production could more than triple, tripling carbon emissions under one scenario under consideration. See the links section below to review the plan and/or comment.

The BLM is also considering a proposal by the Army at Fort Carson to allow Army training over wildlands managed by the federal government, with helicopters landing on 43 remote sites in Teller, Fremont and Park counties. Jim and John share some of the details. Comments on this proposal are due by September 11th. See the links section below for information and commenting.

The BLM is also working jointly with the U.S. Forest Service on a resource management plan for the new Browns Canyon National Monument. A draft plan and environmental impact statement are expected to be released this Fall. See the links section below for information.

This episode is courtesy of Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club. The Pikes Peak Group is part of the Colorado Chapter of the Sierra Club and represents members in the greater Pikes Peak region as well as communities to the east and west of the region. The purpose of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; and to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment.

We invite you to join in our events, hikes, and discussions. For more information about the Group’s activities and events, follow Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook (links below).

LINKS:

BLM Eastern Colorado Resource Management Plan – info and to submit public comments

The public can also mail comments to: BLM Royal Gorge Field Office 3028 East Main Street Canon City, CO 81212

Fort Carson High Altitude Mountain Environment Training (helicopter training) – info and to submit public comments

Browns Canyon National Monument Resource Management Plan (draft to be release fall of 2019)

Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club on Facebook Website

Pike and San Isabel National Forests

Browns Canyon National Monument

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

National Drive Electric WeekSeptember 21, 2019Wasson Academic Campus 2115 Afton WayColorado Springs, CO 80909More information, register, volunteer

Green Drinks Thursday, September 26, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Energy Resource Center114 W Rio Grande St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Environmental PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pmStargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes

Manitou Springs Heritage Center

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

35 Glimpse of Manitou at Green Drinks

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 14:09:25 -0400

Manitou Springs has a rich history, and is taking action on climate change. If you missed the July 2019 Green Drinks event at the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, this episode is the next best thing to being there. Michael Miao gives us the lowdown on this museum, and Manitou Mayor Ken Jaray shares about a proposed Manitou resolution for city action to reduce the city’s net carbon footprint. Manitou senior planner Karen Bechtold also speaks about progress in Manitou to help homeowners apply low impact development and other water conservation/erosion control measures.

Food was provided by Adams Mountain Cafe, Manitou French Bakery, and The Loft. The Heritage Center provided Manitou Lemonade. Green Cities Coalition provided Organic Cherry Juice.

This episode was recorded at the July 25, 2019 Green Drinks gathering. Green Drinks is hosted by the Green Cities Coalition, generally on the fourth Thursday of every month. The Green Cities Coalition communicates the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

LINKS:

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

2019 Colorado Permaculture ConvergenceAugust 31 - September 1, 2019Sunrise Ranch, Loveland, COMore information here

Green Drinks Thursday, September 26, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pm Energy Resource Center114 W Rio Grande St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

National Drive Electric WeekSeptember 21, 2019Wasson Academic Campus 2115 Afton WayColorado Springs, CO 80909More information, register, volunteer

Environmental PodfestOctober 19, 2019, Noon to 4 pmStargazers Theatre & Event CenterJoin the live audience participating in 3 podcast episodes

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

34 Voices of Sustainability from Sustain-a-Fest 2019

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 11:56:18 -0400

If you missed Sustain-a-Fest, this is the next best thing to being there. Over 50 exhibitors and hundreds of Colorado Springs residents and visitors converged on Acacia Park July 27 to crank up the volume on sustainable living. In this episode, Peak Environment Co-Producer Dave Gardner visits with several exhibitors and with Ryan Trujillo, the city’s Innovation & Sustainability Manager, at the event, to bring us perspectives and stories of sustainability efforts in the Springs.

Producer: Dave Gardner Editor: Katie Lawrie

Those interviewed include:

Pikes Peak Urban Gardens - Speak about the (thriving!) state of different community gardens in the area and a little bit about new community gardens in the works.

UCCS Office of Sustainability - Display activities and initiatives that students have taken part in or built themselves - They talk bike generators, special courses on solar technology, lead gold building initiatives, and Farmhouse Fridays.

Pikes Peak Children’s Museum -Speak about how repurposed materials can be used for inventive play among children to help develop problem-solving skills and ingenuity.

Aim High Solar -This local group sells low-cost residential solar energy systems. -The Colorado Springs-based group speaks to the podcast about different expandable options for its clients.

Biketricity - Converts regular bicycles into electric bikes at an affordable price - Speak about the way electric bikes can help those who are less mobile or who want to get back on the road

Yobel Market -This fair trade fashion store speaks about the importance of making sure workers behind its products are paid a fair, living wage. - Leather products, jewelry, home goods

350 Colorado Springs - Speak about the Martin Drake Coal Plant and efforts to close the plant. - Coalition with Sierra Club and upcoming events

Ahavah Community Initiative - partner with a regenerative agriculture farm- hand-based, year-round farming based in Peyton Colorado - provide local, organic food to local needing families, offer classes for adults and children about regenerative agriculture and sustainability

Ryan Trujillo, Manager of Innovation & Sustainability - Behind much of the work that goes into hosting Sustain-a-Fest - speaks about the city’s sustainability office - asks Colorado Springs residents what the most pressing issue surrounding sustainability is (to be brought to a meeting concentrating on the sustainability plan re-write)

Kids on Bikes - local non-profit concentrated on getting children in Southeast Colorado Springs outdoors and on bikes through earn-a-bike programs

Techwears -Speaks about wearable technology- turns recycled circuit boards into wearable art - Hopes to make a statement about the extent of planned obsolescence involved in the tech industry

Old Town Bike Shop - impact of the event on the community - Energy efficiency and heath benefits of bicycling - How riding a bike makes folks more present in their communities

LINKS:

On Facebook

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Thursday, August 22, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pmGreen DrinksPodcasting to Save the PlanetStudio 809 / Citizen-Powered Media 2930 Orion Drive Includes a musical performance by Lindsay Facknitz More information here

2019 Colorado Permaculture ConvergenceAugust 31 - September 1, 2019Sunrise Ranch, Loveland, COMore information here

Creek Week 2019September 28 - October 6, 2019Largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado. All citizens are encouraged to participate individually in a public event or form a Creek Crew of your own! More information here

Generation Wild of the Pikes Peak Region

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

33 Developing Ecological Stewards: Catamount Institute

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 01:15:18 -0400

When kids put their hands in the dirt and connect with nature, the results are awesome. Catamount Institute is dedicated to connecting kids with nature and helping them develop into ecological stewards. In this episode, recorded at the June Green Drinks event of the Green Cities Coalition, we learn about the activities of Catamount Institute and Generation Wild, a special Colorado program to provide nature experiences for youth.

Speakers:

Konrad Schlarbaum, Chair of Green Cities Coalition

Beth Austin, Education Program Coordinator, Catamount Institute

Nancy Perez, Marketing & Outreach for Generation Wild

Producers: Ellen Johnson-Fay and Dave Gardner

LINKS:

Catamount Institute

Survey: how can Green Cities Coalition improve Green Drinks?

Green Cities Coaliton

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Creek Week 2019September 28 - October 6Largest watershed-wide cleanup in Colorado

All citizens are encouraged to participate individually in a public event or form a Creek Crew of your own! More information here

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

32 Navigating Climate Chaos Resiliently

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 17:23:34 -0400

How do we navigate a time of ecological crisis? It’s not too late to add joy, kindness and beauty to our lives. Carolyn Baker recommends rekindling our love affair with nature and living contemplatively. She believes learning to grieve is a critical resilience skill.

Pikes Peak Permaculture leaders Brian Fritz and Becky Elder sit down with Carolyn Baker for an intimate conversation about finding ways to live well as we observe and experience climate disruption, species extinction, and the many other effects of humankind living outside planetary boundaries.

Baker is a former Jungian-oriented psychotherapist and a current professor of psychology and history. She authored Dark Gold: The Human Shadow and the Global Crisis and Love in the Age of Ecological Apocalypse: The Relationships We Need to Thrive. With Andrew Harvey she co-authored Return to Joy and Savage Grace: Living Resiliently in the Dark Night of the Globe.

She invites us to confront our predicament honestly, and to reframe questions of purpose and meaning in a time of extinction. "People are carrying enormous amounts of grief,” she says. “We need support in learning grief as a major resilience skill... so that we can not feel so overwhelmed.”

This conversation was recorded with Carolyn while she was visiting Colorado Springs to deliver two workshops hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture, Placing Climate and Other Catastrophic Events Within a Larger Story – An Evening with Carolyn Baker and Living Resiliently in the Dark Night of the Globe – A Workshop with Carolyn Baker.

This episode of Peak Environment comes to us courtesy of Pikes Peak Permaculture, celebrating 15 years of Permaculture education, inspiration, and support throughout Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region. We provide several Design Certification Courses, and have graduated upwards of 60 new Permaculture designers.

Producers: Ellen Johnson-Fay and Dave Gardner Editor: Katie Lawrie

LINKS:

Carolyn Baker

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

August 2-4, 2019 People's Tiny House Festival5:30 to 7:30 pmThe event celebrates all facets of simple living including tiny houses, converted vans, container homes, and converted school buses. The event is family-friendly and dog-friendly.

Thursday, August 22, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 pmGreen DrinksPodcasting to Save the PlanetStudio 809 / Citizen-Powered Media 2930 Orion Drive

In addition to our usual networking opportunity, we’ll get a tour of the studio where Peak Environment and other Studio 809 podcasts are recorded, and host Dave Gardner will share details about his communication efforts as an “ad agency for the planet.” We’ll also be treated to a musical performance by local singer/songwriter and activist Lindsay Facknitz. Refreshments provided.

Sustain-a-Fest information

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31 Sustain-a-Fest 2019

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 16:56:13 -0400

Join the crowd and get your sustainability game on at Acacia Park in downtown Colorado Springs on Saturday, July 27, 2019. In this episode, Peak Environment co-producers Ellen Johnson-Fay and Dave Gardner are joined by Ryan Trujillo, Innovation & Sustainability Manager for the City of Colorado Springs. Ryan fills us in on the upcoming Sustain-a-Fest event, and also answers questions about the interesting activities of his office and staff. Innovation can play a key role in slimming the ecological and carbon footprint of our city.

2019 brings the 3rd annual Sustain-a-Fest. This event is a community celebration of “Earth Day Every Day” with sustainability exhibits & activities, along with local food trucks, live music, demonstrations, and family friendly activities. It runs from noon to 7 pm on Saturday, July 27. Admission is free. On stage will be musical performances by Tejon Street Corner Thieves, Wendy St. Cyre Band, and Spur.

There will be opportunities to learn about water and energy conservation, composting, trails and parks, and much more. Colorado Springs EV Club will be there showing off electric vehicle, and PikeRide will have a booth where you can see their newest electric-assist bikeshare bicycles. Bring your own reusable water bottle. Colorado Springs Utilities will refill it free with frozen margaritas (not! but it will be fresh, cold water). Studio 809 will have a booth and we’ll be recording an episode of Peak Environment. Stop by and say hello!

Producers: Ellen Johnson-Fay and Dave Gardner Editor: Katie Lawrie

LINKS:

Sustain-a-Fest Facebook event page

Sustain-a-Fest free tickets

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

On Facebook

Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030The Pikes Peak region’s sustainability plan

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Thursday, July 25 5:30 to 7:30 pmGreen DrinksManitou Heritage Center517 Manitou Ave. Visit the Manitou Community Market across the street (3 to 7 pm), then join us for networking at 5:30 and a finger-food potluck. Mineral springs lemonade will be on hand. We'll take a guided tour and discussion of mineral springs. $5 donation requested. Take the Green Drinks survey to help us make this program work for you.

Saturday, July 27 Noon to 7 pm, Acacia Park Sustain-a-Fest All age groups are welcome to join in the fun! Come walk the park and experience booths, live music from Tejon Street Corner Thieves and more, local food trucks, and family-friendly activities such as crafts, face painting, mobile cave (CaveSim), bouncy house, and more! Hosted by the Colorado Springs Office of Innovation and Sustainability.

Slide Presentation to accompany this talk

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30 State of Pikes Peak Region Sustainability

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 16:32:14 -0400

How are Pikes Peak Region sustainability efforts doing? What are the challenges, achievements, strengths, weaknesses, progress and setbacks? This episode provides a valuable history of efforts to promote sustainable policy and practice in Colorado Springs, and a snapshot of where we are today. It’s all explored in this community dialogue recorded at the June 17 Sustainability in Progress meeting of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future.

Peak Alliance Chair Mary Barber shares most of the story, and moderates the ensuing conversation. Barber has long been a community sustainability leader. She was sustainability manager at Fort Carson when the base first developed the Fort Carson Sustainability Plan. Mary reviews the ten goals in the Pikes Peak region’s sustainability plan (link below) and gives us a status report on each. The conversation brings light to those who have been doing valuable work in the Colorado Springs community and beyond. The group discussion explores ways to promote more collaboration, raise public awareness and inspire participation.

LINKS:

Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030 sustainability plan

This presentation was made at the monthly Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on June 17, 2019. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

29 Forest Gardening

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 16:03:00 -0400

You can fight Mother Nature or you can work WITH her. Forest gardening is a way of landscaping that saves time, money, water…and the planet. Learn all about this ethical style of Earth care, and how you can practice it in your own garden, from permaculturist Becky Elder. This episode is a recording of her Forest Gardening class at the 2018 People’s Tiny House Festival.

This episode of Peak Environment comes to us courtesy of Pikes Peak Permaculture, celebrating 15 years of Permaculture education, inspiration, and support throughout Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region.

LINKS:

People’s Tiny House Festival

Becky, the Gardener, LLC

Edible Forest Gardens

Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Colorado Farm and Art MarketNow in full bloom! Wednesdays at the Pioneer Museum 3-7 pm Saturdays at Margarita at Pine Creek 9 am – 1 pm

Starlight Spectacular Saturday, June 15, 2019, 9 pm to 2 am Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 Tickets

Food for Change film screening Event link Independent Film Society of Colorado, Ivywild School and Pikes Peak Local Foodshed Forum Ivywild School Monday, June 17, 2019, 7 - 9 pm Free (donations appreciated)

Manitou Community Market Farm to Table Potluck Manitou Springs Memorial Park June 20, 2019, 3 - 7pm (The Manitou Community Market is every Thursday from 3 pm to 7 pm starting June 20th through October 3rd.)

Pollinator Gardens class High Prairie Library 7035 Old Meridian Rd. Peyton, CO 80831 Saturday, June 22, 2019, 10 am – noon Free, no registration required

Green Drinks Thursday, June 27, 2019, 5:30-7:30 pm Catamount Institute 740 W. Caramillo St., Colorado Springs

Navigating Climate Chaos Resiliently - Carolyn Baker Workshop Friday, June 28, 7 – 9 pm Saturday, June 29, 9 am – 4:30 pm Pikes Peak Permaculture Unity Spiritual Center in the Rockies 945 Mesa Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Bike to Work Day - June 26June 26, 2019, 6 - 9 am

Sustain-a-FestSaturday, July 27, 2019 Acacia Park

Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

28 Cooperatives and Solidarity Economy for Colorado Springs

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 22:52:54 -0400

Can cooperation and collaboration trump competition and profit maximization in generating community wealth? Matt Noyes, son of Chinook Bookstore founders Dick and Judy Noyes, shares his vision for the variety of ways Colorado Springs can benefit from models of cooperative organization and solidarity economy. There are several cooperatives today in the city of Colorado Springs. The state of Colorado has some of the best cooperative law; it’s a great place to form a cooperative. Listen and learn a lot!

Matt studied Applied Social Economy at Mondragon University in Spain after living and working in New York City and Tokyo. He’s done extensive research into cooperatives and solidarity economy. He returns to Colorado Springs bringing his passion for sustainability, workers movements, equity and environmental and food justice, and love of good local food.

LINKS:

Colorado Farm & Art Market

Better Work Together

Colorado: The Delaware of Cooperative Law

We’ll See It When We Know It: Recognizing Emergent Solidarity Economy by Matt Noyes (This is a study Matt did of El Paso County) Part One Part Two

The Colorado Cooperatives Study Circle

Everything for Everyone: The Radical Tradition that Is Shaping the Next Economy by Nathan Schneider

Solidarity Economy Roads by Luis Razeto Migliaro (A great introduction to solidarity economy. Matt Noyes is translating this book, and it is being published serially on Grassroots Economy Organizing)

Worker Self-Directed Nonprofits

Intercontinental Network for the Promotion of the Social Solidarity Economy (RIPESS)

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Rainwater Harvesting class Rockrimmon Library Saturday, June 8, 2019, 10 - 11 am Free, no registration required

Colorado Farm and Art Marketstarts June 12 at Pioneer Museum Wednesdays at the Pioneer Museum 3-7 pm Saturdays at Margarita at Pine Creek 9 am – 1 pm

Starlight Spectacular Saturday, June 15, 2019, 9 pm to 2 am Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 Tickets

Pollinator Gardens class High Prairie Library 7035 Old Meridian Rd. Peyton, CO 80831 Saturday, June 22, 2019, 10 am – noon Free, no registration required

Green Drinks Thursday, June 27, 2019, 5:30-7:30 pm Catamount Institute 740 W. Caramillo St., Colorado Springs

Bike to Work Day - June 26June 26, 2019, 6 - 9 am

Sustain-a-FestSaturday, July 27, 2019 Acacia Park

PeakRadar area events calendar

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

27 PikeRide's Contributions to Sustainability

Fri, 31 May 2019 20:41:31 -0400

Everything you want to know about the PikeRide bikeshare program in Colorado Springs. How does bikesharing help us achieve the objectives of our sustainability plan (Looking to Our Future – Pikes Peak Region 2030)? What are the various ways it serves the needs of, and provides joy to, city residents and tourists?

If you heard our interview with PikeRide Executive Director Jolie Nesmith in episode 25 of Peak Environment, this episode will take you farther and deeper.

We recorded this episode at the May 23, 2019 Green Drinks gathering at Local Relic. Green Drinks is hosted by the Green Cities Coalition, generally on the fourth Thursday of every month.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Rainwater Harvesting class Rockrimmon Library Saturday, June 8, 2019, 10 - 11 am Free, no registration required

Colorado Farm and Art Marketstarts June 12 at Pioneer Museum Wednesdays at the Pioneer Museum 3-7 pm Saturdays at Margarita at Pine Creek 9 am – 1 pm

Starlight Spectacular Saturday, June 15, 2019, 9 pm to 2 am Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 Tickets

Pollinator Gardens class High Prairie Library 7035 Old Meridian Rd. Peyton, CO 80831 Saturday, June 22, 2019, 10 am – noon Free, no registration required

Green Drinks Thursday, June 27, 2019, 5:30-7:30 pm Catamount Institute 740 W. Caramillo St., Colorado Springs

Bike to Work Day - June 26June 26, 2019, 6 - 9 am

Sustain-a-FestSaturday, July 27, 2019 Acacia Park

LINKS:

Local Relic

PikeRide

GrowthBusters podcast

Dr. Houser's Vaping Slide Presentation

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

26 Health and Sustainability

Thu, 23 May 2019 11:27:57 -0400

Everything you wanted to know about vaping, but didn’t know who to ask. How much do you know about the dangers of vaping? Did you know e-cigarettes contain toxins and carcinogens? That youth who vape are four times as likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes? That second-hand vape smoke can affect the health of bystanders?

Our health and the health of those in our community is an essential part of sustainability. Looking to Our Future, the Pikes Peak region’s 2030 sustainability plan states:

By 2030, the Pikes Peak region ranks in the top 10 for the United States for individual and population health and well-being.
By 2030, health and wellness care is accessible and affordable for every resident.

Grace Houser, MD, Assistant Professor, Pediatric Pulmonology at Children's Hospital Colorado gives us a preview of the new Children’s Hospital opening in May or June, 2019 in Colorado Springs, and what that means for access to health care in our community. She also provides an eye-opening education on the dangers of vaping, and efforts to protect people – especially adolescents – from those risks.

During questions and answers, El Paso County Public Health officials Dacia Hudson and Jenny Best, who oversee the Tobacco Education and Prevention Partnership, were in the audience and provided useful information.

The moderator was Chris Aaby, Executive Director of the Catamount Institute and of Generation Wild of the Pikes Peak Region, and board member of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future.

LINKS:

Children's Hospital Colorado

Looking to Our Future: Pikes Peak Region 2030 sustainability plan

Vaping FAQ

Vape: Myths vs. Facts

Children's Hospital Vaping Handout

El Paso County Youth Tobacco & Vaping Statistics

Get Outdoors Day Colorado Springs June 1, 2019

This presentation was made at the monthly Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on May 15, 2019. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Thursday, May 23 Green Drinks Green Drinks - at Pike Ride, then Local Relic5:30 to 7:30 pm

Green Drinks is organized by the Green Cities Coalition. It encourages people to Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate all things sustainable in the Pikes Peak region! Bring $5 in cash or check to pay it forward for the next Green Drinks or donate online here.

Downtown Colorado Springs

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

25 Bikesharing in Colorado Springs

Thu, 16 May 2019 12:35:22 -0400

Did you know there are over 200 bikes in a 12 square mile area of central Colorado Springs available for you to borrow? Over a million calories have been burned by riders on PikeRide bicycles since bikesharing began in Colorado Springs ten months ago. Jolie Nesmith, Executive Director of PikeRide Bike Share, fills host Ellen Johnson-Fay in on how bikesharing works, the genesis of the bike share system in Colorado Springs, and the benefits of bikesharing.

Get the full story and try PikeRide out on Thursday, May 23 (2019) when Green Drinks convenes at PikeRide and then pedals over to Local Relic. Nesmith and Johnson-Fay discuss the details of that event in this episode:

Green Drinks at PikeRideMay 23, 2019, 5:30 pm PikeRide -739 E. Pikes Peak Avenue we’ll ride from Pike Ride to Local Relic 320 South Weber

LINKS:

PikeRide

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

24 Who Gives a Scrap?

Thu, 09 May 2019 22:36:09 -0400

Who Gives a Scrap is a donation based scrap store in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins that carries an impressive mix of arts, craft and hobby supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. At the April, 2019 Green Drinks, co-founders Jayne Blewitt and Lorrie Myers shared their story and how the store works. It’s an excellent resource for teachers, and it’s a beautiful alternative to tossing scraps and supplies you no longer need. Visit www.WhoGivesaScrapColorado.com for locations and information about what they accept and what you’ll find.

“A woman’s craft room is the same as a man’s garage.”

Join us at our next Green Drinks gathering, Thursday, May 23, 5:30-7:30 pm. This one begins at PikeRide, 739 E. Pikes Peak Avenue. We’ll have the opportunity to try out their bikes on a ride to Local Relic for refreshments and further conversation.

LINKS:

Who Gives a Scrap

May 23 Green Drinks at PikeRide

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

23 Getting the Word Out on Sustainability

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 21:39:38 -0400

How do we get the sustainability message beyond the choir? Social media is an opportunity to tell your story, capture people’s attention, engage with supporters and build community. Skyler Leonard, digital communications specialist for the City of Colorado Springs, shares how to better engage the community about sustainability using social media. He highlights best practices and effective messaging to reach a wider audience, and to engage with other interested citizens in the community.

Skyler Leonard helps manage the City website and social media accounts. He is a graduate of Colorado State University with a degree in English and journalism. Community awareness and citizen engagement with regard to sustainability supports all of the goals in Looking to Our Future: Pikes Peak Region 2030, the Pikes Peak region’s sustainability plan.

The moderator was Chris Aaby, Executive Director of the Catamount Institute and of Generation Wild of the Pikes Peak Region, and board member of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future.

LINKS:

Slide Presentation

Energy Vision

Energy Vision survey

Main City of Colorado Springs Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Accounts:

@cityofCOS

City of Colorado Springs Office of Innovation and Sustainability on Facebook:

@COSsustainability

Hemingway Editor

This presentation was made at the monthly Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on March 20th, 2019. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Thursday, April 25 Green Drinks Thursday, April 25 Green Drinks - at Who Gives a Scrap5:30 to 7:30 pm

Green Drinks is organized by the Green Cities Coalition. It encourages people to Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate all things sustainable in the Pikes Peak region! The theme for April's Green Drinks is reuse. Who Gives a SCRAP is a donation based scrap store that carries an impressive mix of arts and craft and hobbies supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. Bring $5 in cash or check to pay it forward for the next Green Drinks or donate online here.

Friday, April 26 Mile High Youth Corps Providing lifetime skills for youth in the arenas of energy conservation and trail building Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP)

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Slide Presentation Part 1

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

22 Fungi, the Forgotten Kingdom

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 22:11:49 -0400

“All mushrooms are edible – at least once,” quips environmental scientist and mushroom expert Mike Essam, president of the Pikes Peak Mycological Society. Mike shared the wonders of fungi in this very popular talk at the March 22 luncheon of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The photographs Mike showed are a key part of the presentation, so it’s recommended you view the slides (see the links below) while listening.

The mushroom is just the fruit of the mycelium fungus. Most of it is in the soil or in a log or tree. Did you know there can be as much as six miles of mycelium filaments in a cubic inch of soil? There are mushrooms that are poisonous, mushrooms with medicinal properties, mushrooms that are very tasty, and some are, well, “magic.” Mike explains how they are identified.

The Pikes Peak Environmental Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

PPEF presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

Slide Presentation Part 2

Slide Presentation Part 3

LINKS:

Join Pikes Peak Mycological Society. It's inexpensive and you get hands-on help!

Telluride Mushroom Festival

Manitou Mushrooms

The Fungal Pharmacy by Robert Rogers

Fungi Magazine

Radical Mycology by Peter McCoy

Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation by Tradd Cotter

Edible Mushroom Hunt class at The Survival University

SPONSORS:

Adams Bank and Trust

Art of Engineering

Becky Elder, The Gardener, LLC

PeakRadar.com

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Thursday, April 18 Utilities Energy Vision Open House Leon Young Service Center6 to 8 pm Learn more and share your feedback. Energy Vision info Online Survey

Saturday, April 20 Earth Day Celebration at Garden of the Gods9 am to 3 pm

Thursday, April 25 Green Drinks - at Who Gives a Scrap5:30 to 7:30 pm Green Drinks encourages people to Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate all things sustainable in the Pikes Peak region! The theme for April's Green Drinks is reuse. Who Gives a SCRAP is a donation based scrap store that carries an impressive mix of arts and craft and hobbies supplies in addition to unique vintage finds. Bring $5 in cash or check to pay it forward for the next Green Drinks or donate online here.

Fountain Valley Water Project

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

21 PFAS Contamination in Our Water

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 00:17:35 -0400

The chemicals used in firefighting foam, Teflon, stain-resistant carpet, outdoor sports apparel, and even the lining of your movie theater’s popcorn bags, are everywhere. Since they were first developed in the 1950s, they’ve become so widely used that traces of them have been found in the most remote regions of the globe, and in the blood of over 99% of the U.S. population. They’re correlated with several types of cancer, and are believed to disrupt hormone balance and be particularly harmful to young, developing children. Locally, they’ve been a hot topic because unhealthy levels of the chemical have been found in the groundwater of communities just south of Colorado Springs: Fountain, Widefield and Security.

Learn all about PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds, sometimes called PFCs) in this fascinating presentation by Dr. Eli Fahrenkrug - Assistant Professor of Analytical and Materials Chemistry at Colorado College. Fahrenkrug, along with Dr. Tyler Cornelius, launched and runs the Fountain Valley Water Project, the first non-profit, non-partisan research group entirely focused on PFAS water quality in Southern Colorado.

CC chemistry student Keenan Wright, who played a significant role in the launch, also shares about the water analysis and data collection project he’s handling (people in affected areas can get their water tested by the team for free).

The Water Quality goal from Looking to Our Future: Pikes Peak Region 2030 (2012): ”Ground and surface water quality is better than designated water quality standards that are in place to protect classified uses (recreation, aquatic life, agriculture, water supply,and wetlands)."

LINKS:

Slide Presentation

The Lawyer Who Became DuPont’s Worst Nightmare(2016 New York Times story)

Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Drinking Water Leave Military Families Reeling(2/19 New York Times story)

The Devil We Know(Documentary about PFAS)

Why We Can't Run from PFAS Chemicals

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

20 Moving Colorado Springs Beyond Coal

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 21:30:49 -0400

Singer/Songwriter and climate/energy activist Lindsay Facknitz joins host Ellen Johnson-Fay to share how and why she added activism to the busy life of a mother of two young children. From January 2019 through August of 2020 Colorado Springs Utilities is developing a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan. Lindsay wants to mobilize citizens to let our utility know they want the coal-fired Martin Drake Power Plant closed as soon as possible, and to urge the municipal energy provider to adopt renewable power sources more quickly.

They also discuss city council candidates who can be counted on to embrace these changes.

Lindsay also shares a song she wrote about climate change.

LINKS:

UPAC (Utilities Policy Advisory Committee) - Info and Meeting Schedule

Energy Vision (Colorado Springs Utilities "Energy Vision" information, including April 18, 2019 Energy Vision)

Green Cities Coalition on Facebook

Lindsay and Jeremy Music

MENTIONED:

Leadership Pikes Peak

Dave Grossman (utilities UPAC liaison)

Beyond Coal info

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of the Green Cities Coalition, communicating the promise of embracing sustainable actions in our environment and with one another. We strive to collaborate in positive ways and create partnerships with other people and organizations inside and outside of the sustainability community.

Mountain Mama Natural Foods

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

19 Open Mic at Green Drinks Feb 2019

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 22:00:48 -0400

Local food and farmers, composting, permaculture, renewable energy and recycling are among the topics of conversation and announcements as we try something different – “Open Mic” at a Green Cities monthly Green Drinks event. At every Green Drinks attendees get the chance to introduce themselves and make announcements about important local environmental issues and events. We usually exclude these from the Peak Environment podcasts, but decided to experiment and make those announcements the featured content of this episode. Let us know if you find this informative or inspirational. We may do an open mic episode a few times a year.

This episode was recorded at the February 28, 2019 Green Drinks held at Mountain Mama Natural Foods. In addition to “open mic,” Roxanne, Mountain Mama’s Kitchen Manager and Head Chef, describes the breakfast and lunch menus, which include bread baked fresh daily, breakfast burritos, and three kettles of soup. Mountain Mama is a family-owned and operated natural food store located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The store features natural grocery, organic produce, vitamin/supplements, natural body care, perishables, frozen foods, bulk foods, and bulk herbs as well as an in-house bakery and delicatessen. Mountain Mama is a west side landmark just minutes away from Colorado College, The Broadmoor and Downtown Colorado Springs.

LINKS:

Green Cities Coalition on Facebook

Pikes Peak Farm to School on Facebook

News Story about the Summit

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

18 Environmental Action Summit

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 18:51:20 -0400

The Colorado Springs Environmental Action Summit on March 5, 2019 brought together organizations and individuals working on environmental action – in order to coalesce a more effective environmental movement. Members and leaders from over 50 organizations, including Sierra Club, 350.org, ENACT, Green Cities Coalition, the Pikes Peak Justice & Peace Commission, and GrowthBusters.

Kevin Mitchell of Empowerment Solidarity Network provided the keynote address, which was followed by a panel that included Ian Johnson, Director of the Colorado College Office of Sustainability; Bryna Coyle, Zero Waste intern at the CC Office of Sustainability; Amy Gray, Volunteer Coordinator for 350 Colorado; Eli Fahrenkrug, Professor of Chemistry at Colorado College; and Sabrina Cotta, Innovation and Sustainability Analyst at the Colorado Springs Innovation & Sustainability Department.

LINKS:

Colorado College Office of Sustainability

Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability

350 Colorado

GrowthBusters Podcast

Presenter's PowerPoint Slides (PDF)

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

17 What You Wear Matters

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 01:16:36 -0400

We've heard about our Watershed and Foodshed, but did you know we have a Fibershed? Learn why it matters what cloth you choose and where you acquire it.

Judith Rice-Jones shares what she has learned about the clothes we wear, the fabrics from which they’re made, and our “fibershed,” a concept originated by Rebecca Burgess. Judith is an ecological and edible gardener, master gardener, native plant master, and wildscaping instructor.

This program was recorded at the February 22, 2019 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page, or contact us to be put on the email list for meeting notifications.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky Elder the Gardener and Peak Radar.

LINKS:

Video Shown During This Presentation: Rebecca Burgess of Fibershed at RFRS Picnic

Fibershed

CalCAN Healthy Soils Program

Marin Carbon Project

Harvesting Color by Rebecca Burgess

Mountain and Plains Fibershed

Textiles West

Care What You Wear (Organic Consumers Association)

Local Food Shift magazine

SPONSORS:

Adams Bank and Trust

Art of Engineering

Becky Elder, The Gardener, LLC

PeakRadar.com

Mark Gebhart’s Powerpoint Slides

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

16 Sustainability in Progress: Water Quantity

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 16:22:50 -0400

Water is in short supply on the Front Range of Colorado. You probably knew this, but the details might surprise you in this episode of Peak Environment. Where will the 20-plus metropolitan water districts in El Paso County get their water in the future? Water rights are already being shifted from farms in the Lower Arkansas Valley to cities in the I-25 corridor. What’s being done to protect farming?

These are presentations made at the monthly Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on February 20th, 2019. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

Speakers:

1. Mark Gebhart, Deputy Director, Planning and Community Developement, El Paso County

2. Ed Roberson, Conservation Director, Palmer Land Trust

LINKS:

Ed Roberson’s Powerpoint Slides

El Paso County Water Plan

Palmer Land Trust

Peak Radar calendar

Where the Water Goes by David Owen

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Wednesday, March 20, 2019 Built and Natural Environment: Water and Air Quality Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future - Sustainability in Progress 7:30-9am, Ivywild School - Wildcat Room Friday, March 22 Fungi, the Forgotten Kingdom, Mike Esom Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP) Friday, April 26 Mile High Youth Corps Providing lifetime skills for youth in the arenas of energy conservation and trail building Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP)

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future

The mission of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach.

Food Not Bombs Colorado Springs

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

15 Life, Laughter, & Love of Green

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 14:41:12 -0400

From growing gardens to creating community to transforming lives, take a peek at what your community library's Green Team is all about. Pikes Peak Library District Regional Manager Michael Doherty and Senior Library Assistant Debbie Vitulli join host Ellen Johnson-Fay for a tour of the Green Team’s many activities.

LINKS:

Green Team on Facebook

Contact the Green Team

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Friday, February 22, 2019 Fibershed - Care What You Wear, Judith Rice-Jones Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP) Wednesday, March 20, 2019 Built and Natural Environment: Water and Air Quality Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future - Sustainability in Progress 7:30-9am, Ivywild School - Wildcat Room Friday, March 22 Fungi, the Forgotten Kingdom, Mike Esom Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP) Friday, April 26 Mile High Youth Corps Providing lifetime skills for youth in the arenas of energy conservation and trail building Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP)

About the PPLD Green Team

The Green Team is one of the partner organizations creating the Peak Environment podcast on Studio 809. The PPLD Green team recommends strategies for the library district to embrace and implement sustainable practices. Sustainable practices are those that provide for the long-term viability of economic, human and environmental resources, generally accomplished through reduction, re-use and recycling of consumable goods. The team promotes a culture of sustainability throughout the library district and works to build awareness of responsible environmental stewardship in the Colorado Springs community.

Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil

Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

14 Foodshed Forum 2019

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 22:06:34 -0400

Keeping our local farms intact and productive is in everyone’s best interest, but it takes much more than just shopping at the farmers market. Creating, nurturing and growing local agriculture will be explored at the Foodshed Forum in Colorado Springs February 22-23, 2019. In this episode of Peak Environment, co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay discusses the forum with Sean Svette, Asst. Manager of the SWELL program at UCCS.

“This is about making really nutritious food available to everyone,” Ellen reminds us. “And it’s possible!” Highlights of the Forum will include an address by Rebecca Jewett of the Palmer Land Trust. LiveWell Colorado is a funding partner in this year’s Foodshed Forum.

For more information about the forum, including registration, email Sean Svette. Also, if you’d like Ellen Johnson-Fay to start emailing local food information to you, send an email to her.

Join us at our next Green Drinks Thursday, February 28, 2019, 5:30-7:30 pm Sweet Elizabeth’s Organics 1625 W. Uintah Ave. (in the Mountain Mama Shopping Center)

TOGETHER, WE CAN GREEN THE REGION!

13 Sustainable Palm Oil

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 13:27:35 -0400

You’ve probably heard palm oil production is causing deforestation and biodiversity loss on a massive scale. You might be surprised, however, how many products contain palm oil. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Tracey Gazibara shares how the zoo protects species and habitat by supporting efforts to produce Sustainable Palm Oil.

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo was the first zoo to join the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil. Over a dozen other zoos followed. Tracy explains why we shouldn’t boycott palm oil, but should instead support certified sustainable palm oil.

Pikes Peak Environmental Forum presenting sponsors are Becky, the Gardener, LLC and PeakRadar.com.

LINKS:

Sustainable Palm Oil Shopping App by Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – links at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – Palm Oil Crisis page

Rainforest Action Network video about orangutans and palm oil

SPONSORS:

Adams Bank and Trust Art of Engineering Becky, the Gardener, LLC Black Hills Energy Environmental Compliance Systems Old Town Bike Shop PeakRadar.com Terra Essentials

This program was recorded at the January 25 luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum. The Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import.

Our monthly luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to sustainable energy solutions. Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world. Learn about future luncheons at our Facebook page.

UPCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS:

Wednesday, February 20, 2019 Water in our RegionPeak Alliance for a Sustainable Future - Sustainability in Progress 7:30-9am, Ivywild School - Wildcat Room Friday, February 22, 2019 Fibershed - Care What You Wear, Judith Rice-Jones Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP) Wednesday, March 20, 2019 Built and Natural Environment: Water and Air Quality Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future - Sustainability in Progress 7:30-9am, Ivywild School - Wildcat Room

Friday, March 22 Fungi, the Forgotten Kingdom, Mike Esom Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP) Friday, April 26 Mile High Youth Corps Providing lifetime skills for youth in the arenas of energy conservation and trail building Pikes Peak Environmental Forum Noon to 2 pm, Margarita at Pine Creek (Please RSVP)

12 Brief Intro to Permaculture

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 04:59:02 -0400

What is permaculture? According to Becky Elder, it’s not what you do, but how you think about what you do, using nature as a guide. The co-founder and chair of Pikes Peak Permaculture joins host Ellen Johnson-Fay for a very brief permaculture primer. The conversation includes a great tip on eliminating some or all of your lawn. Also, why you may not need or want to do battle with weeds. Becky provides an interesting perspective on “weeds.”

This episode of Peak Environment comes to you courtesy of Pikes Peak Permaculture. While this episode spends most of its time in the garden, permaculture is so much more. Learn about it and find information about classes offered in the Pikes Peak region at www.pikespeakpermaculture.org

Upcoming Classes:

Drought Prepared Gardens - March 9 at Ute Pass Library

Introduction to Permaculture - March 30 at the Sustainacenter, hosted by Pikes Peak Urban Gardens

Edible Gardens – Date Unknown at Monument Library

Containers and Pot Gardening - April 13 at Sand Creek Library

LINKS:

Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute

Becky Elder the Gardener (formerly Blue Planet Earthscapes)

11 Sustainability in Progress: Local Agriculture

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 23:25:12 -0400

Agriculture and local food play a vital role in the Pikes Peak Regional 2030 Sustainability Plan. Three local food practitioners share how local groups are promoting agriculture and local food in the Pikes Peak region. The speakers share how their work is supporting the goals to:

promote urban agriculture and knowledge about food
encourage regional collaboration and cooperation
promote healthy behaviors around food and food waste

Speakers:

Barbra Gibb - Pikes Peak Urban Gardens View her slide presentation, Local Food Literacy Initiative

Nat Stein - Colorado Food Rescue and Soil Cycle program View her slide presentation, Soil Cycle

Ellen Johnson-Fay - The Local Food Coalition View her slide presentation, The Local Food Coalition

Notes:

1) The Grain School mentioned by Ellen Johnson-Fay as happening “this weekend” happened on January 18 and 19 of 2019. These presentations were made on January 16, 2019.

2) The email address given out for the Pikes Peak Library District’s Green Team ends in .org (not .com)

This was the January 2019 Sustainability in Progress presentation. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

LINKS Mentioned in this Episode:

Colorado Food Rescue and Soil Cycle program

Pikes Peak Urban Gardens

The Local Food Coalition (a part of the Green Cities Coalition)

Pikes Peak Foodshed Forum (February 22, 2019) (we'll post this link when we have it)

BrownsGreens (compost pickup west of I-25)

Sustainable Palm Oil presentation January 25, 2019 (Pikes Peak Environmental Forum)

10 Sustaining Communities with Local Food – 2019 Grain School

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 15:52:42 -0400

Locally grown grains are essential to successful and sustainable local food economies. Beyond environmental impacts, there are also social, health and economic benefits to our communities. UCCS Sustainability, Wellnss & Learning Manager, Associate Professor of Health Sciences, and mastermind behind Grain School, Nanna Meyer, joins Peak Environment Co-Producer Ellen Johnson-Fay to briefly describe her local food and nutrition activities at UCCS and to offer details about the upcoming Grain School at UCCS (January 18-20, 2019; open to the public).

To inspire a revival of localized grain systems across the Rocky Mountain West, Grain School offers innovative curricula and access to experts to help train and empower people to grow, mill, and steward heritage grains in their communities. By returning heritage grains into active production, we can help restore cultural pride and prosperity in our communities, linking together bakers, maltsters, brewers, chefs, and consumers.

LINKS:

Grain School at UCCS

Free Public Forum

SWELL (Sustainability, Wellness & Learning

The Flying Carrot

9 Rainwater Harvesting

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 21:58:05 -0400

Now that Coloradoans ARE able to collect rainwater, with some limitations, you’ll want to pick an expert’s brain about smart rainwater harvesting. In this episode of Peak Environment, we’re sharing permaculturist Becky Elder’s “Rainwater Harvesting” class from the 2018 People’s Tiny House Festival.

This episode of Peak Environment comes to us courtesy of Pikes Peak Permaculture, celebrating 15 years of Permaculture education, inspiration, and support throughout Colorado’s Pikes Peak Region.

LINKS:

People’s Tiny House Festival

Becky, the Gardener, LLC

Subscribe (free) on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode:

8 Our Community of Giving

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 23:52:46 -0400

Local nonprofit organizations play a key role in creating a healthy, sustainable community. Many nonprofits are working towards the goals of the 2030 Sustainability Plan and need community support in various ways. This episode features a discussion of the giving nature of the Pikes Peak Region.

This episode of Peak Environment is courtesy of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. It features presentations made at the organization's November Sustainability in Progress meeting. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided. (NOTE: there will NOT be a December, 2018 meeting).

Speakers:

Amber Coté - Colorado Nonprofit Association of the Pikes Peak Region (View her slides here)

Barb Van Hoy - Indy Give! Campaign (View her slides here)

LINKS:

Colorado Nonprofit Association – Pikes Peak Region

Give! Campaign

Bleating Heart Night at Goat Patch Brewing Dec. 4

7 Communicate, Collaborate, Celebrate

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 14:57:02 -0400

There is a lot of good sustainability practice happening in the Pikes Peak region. The Green Cities Coalition was formed in 2008 to connect the good people and organizations working in this area and foster collaboration.

In this episode of Peak Environment, Green Cities Chair Konrad Schlarbaum chats with podcast co-producer Ellen Johnson-Fay about the history of the Coalition, and exciting future plans. Ellen is also a member of the Green Cities Coalition Steering Committee and Green Cities Local Food Coalition Convener.

Included: you’re invited to a holiday edition of Green Drinks November 29 at Ranch Foods Direct.

Holiday Green Drinks November 29, 5:30 to 7:30 pm Ranch Foods Direct 1228 E. Fillmore Street Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Links:

Pikes Peak Region 2030 Sustainability Plan

6 For Love of Bluegrass (Or Maybe Not?)

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 00:46:37 -0400

“Stop Dissing the Grass,” was the cry of turf expert Nick McNamee to permaculturist Becky Elder. In the arid southwestern United States, thirsty, manicured grass lawns have been getting a bad rap. Is it deserved? Or is there more to the story? This episode of Peak Environment brings you a fascinating discussion held at the October luncheon meeting of the Pikes Peak Environmental Forum.

The Pikes Peak Environmental Forum informs the community in Colorado Springs on issues of environmental import. Our luncheon meeting topics have ranged from how earthquakes can predict weather events to the giraffe breeding program at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the built-natural environment interface to sustainable energy solutions, agriculture and more and more! Each month we learn something we weren’t necessarily aware we needed to know, but in broadening our knowledge, we deepen our understanding of, and our connection to, the world.

Thanks to our sponsors, Adams Bank & Trust, Art of Engineering, Black Hills Energy, Becky Elder the gardener, Horizons Sustainable Financial Services, Old Town Bike Shop and Terra Essentials.

The Forum meets the fourth Friday of most months. To receive meeting notices, email us. Follow us on Facebook for more.

5 Be a Civic Superhero

Tue, 23 Oct 2018 00:54:32 -0400

October’s Sustainability in Progress meeting, hosted by the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, gives us a glimpse of the amazing powers at the disposal of Colorado Springs citizens through the city’s website and its app for smartphones. Jay Anderson, Open Data and Citizen Engagement Administrator for the city, provides a tour of the myriad ways you can get information about what’s important to you, and inform the city of issues it needs to know about.

Drew Johnson of TechWears emceed the meeting.

This meeting was sponsored by the Energy Resource Center. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided. (NOTE: the November 2018 meeting will be the SECOND Wednesday).

LINKS:

Colorado Springs Civic Superhero Info & Resources

Energy Resource Center

#4 Sustainability and Art

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 10:30:10 -0400

Arts and culture are an important part of a vibrant community, and strong community ties are crucial to a resilient, healthy economy. The Pikes Peak Region is lucky to have many organizations dedicated to Art in its many forms. September’s Sustainability in Progress meeting, hosted by the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, provided a preview of Arts Month (October), plus a glimpse at two exciting venues – the Manitou Art Center and the Ent Center for the Arts.

Your emcees are Drew Johnson of TechWears and Christopher Aaby of the Catamount Institute.

Speakers:

Andy Vick - Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region

Natalie Johnson - Manitou Art Center

Aisha Ahmad-Post - Ent Center for the Arts, University of Colorado-Colorado Springs

This was the September 2018 Sustainability in Progress presentation. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

LINKS:

Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (COPPeR)

Manitou Art Center

Ent Center for the Arts (UCCS)

Creek Week

#3 The Joy of Environmental and Geologic History

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 23:55:39 -0400

Is your house going to erupt in flames or be buried in a landslide? Who are “boosters” and what have they done for Colorado Springs? And how do we measure environmental impact? Who said geology and history are dull? This episode’s stories about environmental and geologic history in the Pikes Peak Region will keep you on the edge of your seat.

This episode, courtesy of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future, features these presentations from the August 15, 2018 Sustainability in Progress program:

Environmental History of the Pikes Peak Region: Katherine Sturdevant, Department of History at Pikes Peak Community College
Mapping Natural Hazards in Colorado Springs: Eric Billmeyer, Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Measuring Environmental Impacts: Devin Moeller, Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at University of Colorado, Colorado Springs

This was the August 2018 Sustainability in Progress presentation. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

LINKS:

Environmental Hazards website referenced in Eric Billmeyer’s presentation

#2 Sustainable Landscapes

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 14:12:34 -0400

What does it take to have sustainable landscapes in our city? Does this mean removing all plants and putting rocks in our yards, or cutting down all the trees to save water? Heck no! Learn from experts in lawn care, utilities, and the city’s foresters.

Speakers:

Catherine Moravec, Water Conservation Specialist at Colorado Springs Utilities
Steve Moll, Owner of Clean Air Lawn Care
Dennis Will, Forestry Division of City of Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation

This was the July 2018 Sustainability in Progress presentation. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month 7:30-9:00 a.m. in the Wildcat Room at the Ivywild School. Coffee and pastries are provided.

Thanks to Clean Air Lawn Care for sponsoring July’s session.

LINKS: