We’re excited to introduce our next Colorado Project Accelerator partner communities! Through Project Accelerator, WaterNow supports local governments and water agencies in implementing innovative and community-oriented water management projects. Today, we welcome three new projects into our network of twenty-six Colorado Accelerators. We look forward to working with these communities to achieve their water conservation and efficiency goals.
Meet our Newest Partner Communities!
City of Boulder: Empowering Conservation Through Effective Communication
Since 1992, Boulder has built a strong foundation of water conservation programs, adapting to new technologies and evolving community needs. Now, the City is taking the next step by strengthening how it engages the community around water use. Through this partnership, WaterNow and River Network will work with Boulder to design a comprehensive communications strategy that makes conservation messaging more effective and inclusive—particularly for groups like renters who may have less control over their water use. Together, we’ll identify opportunities to improve current outreach, recommend best practices for reaching diverse audiences, and create messaging that inspires lasting behavior change. This effort will help Boulder broaden its reach, increase participation in conservation programs, and build a more water-wise community that supports the City’s long-term sustainability and resilience goals.
Grand County, CO: Uniting Grand County Communities to Conserve Water
Grand County, located in north-central Colorado at the headwaters of the Colorado River, has faced persistent drought for more than two decades. While several utilities and water districts in the county have their own conservation programs, there are currently no formal, coordinated efforts at the county level. To bridge this gap, and building on the foundation of the County’s stakeholder-led Drought Preparedness Program, Grand County seeks to establish a more unified, county-wide approach to water conservation that reflects community needs and delivers long-term savings. WaterNow will support this effort by conducting a water conservation needs assessment to evaluate existing utility and municipal programs, identify gaps and opportunities, and highlight strategies that reflect community priorities. The project will engage utilities, municipalities, and residents to explore practical, achievable water efficiency initiatives and will provide recommendations for launching and sustaining conservation programs that are both impactful and feasible. The resulting strategic roadmap will give Grand County a clear, community-driven framework for strengthening drought resilience and ensuring long-term water sustainability.
Lyons, CO: Strengthening Community Resilience Through Green Stormwater Infrastructure
The Town of Lyons, a small foothills community at the confluence of the North and South St. Vrain Creeks, faces stormwater challenges shaped by its geography, history of severe flooding, and recent wildfires. To protect residents, improve water quality, and build long-term resilience, Lyons seeks to integrate green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) into its planning and development efforts. WaterNow will support Lyons in assessing existing plans, policies, and funding mechanisms; researching best practices from peer communities; and engaging residents on the benefits of GSI. The project will culminate in clear, actionable recommendations for incorporating GSI into local ordinances and development codes. These outcomes will not only reduce flood risk and improve water quality, but also advance holistic One Water strategies that strengthen community safety, environmental health, and long-term sustainability.
Looking Ahead
As you may remember, our latest application cycle took place in January 2025, and we were impressed by each community’s strong ideas and strategies for advancing sustainable water management. With so many great applications, we are thrilled to announce this second group of selected projects, building on the momentum of the initial cohort launched in spring 2025. We’re excited to collaborate with these communities as they bring their projects to life, and we thank every applicant for their leadership and commitment to shaping a resilient water future.
Stay tuned for future Project Accelerator application rounds next year! We strongly encourage interested communities to apply.
Congratulations again to our three new Colorado Project Accelerator partner communities!