Winter 2026 MPCD News

The image shows a map of Colorado's river basins, indicating the percent of median snow water equivalent across different regions. — Snowpack as of January 6, 2026. The Colorado Headwaters Watershed is currently at 60% of normal according to the USDA's CO Snow Products page.

View in your browser: Winter 2026 MPCD News

Winter is supposedly here, but it sure doesn't look or feel like it!

This winter has been dismally dry and warm. Hopefully, the first few months of 2026 bring significant snow to make up for the lack thereof at the end of 2025.

We hope the articles below inspire you to have conservation conversations with your friends, family, and colleagues.

2026 NRCS Funding Deadline - January 15th

January 15th is the deadline to sign up for the first round of funding through NRCS for popular conservation programs like EQIP and CSP.

A dog watches people paddleboarding on a lake, surrounded by mountains and a clear blue sky.

Unseasonably warm December as Colorado snowpack remains poor

This winter has been unusual for sure.

The image shows a drought map for Colorado, indicating varying drought intensities from none to exceptional as of December 2025.

US Drought Monitor

See how bad the drought is by checking out the weekly US Drought Monitor update.

Five tree seedlings labeled Engelmann Spruce, Ponderosa Pine, Douglas Fir, Lodgepole Pine, Blue Spruce, displayed against a wall with a hand for scale.

Spring 2026 Tree Sale Now OPEN

Our Spring Tree Seedling Sale is now open. Order NOW (or through the winter) and pick seedlings up in Granby, Kremmling, or Frisco at the end of May.

River flowing through a landscape with trees under a sunset sky; labeled "Open Lands, Rivers, and Trails Advisory Committee."

OLRT Funding for Water Quality & River Restoration - Deadline March 6

Apply for funding to implement water quality and river restoration projects in Grand County through MPCD.

A person is working on large white pipes with a valve, with a dog nearby and a wooden structure in the background.

Working Thru the Shutdown

This fall's federal government shutdown affected many. Through our office was closed, we still worked through the shutdown to get projects done.

The image shows a dam on a river surrounded by rocky cliffs and some snow, with flowing water and a clear blue sky.

MPCD Supports Shoshone In-Stream Water Rights

Read this Statement of Support for the Shoshone In-Stream Water Rights sent to Sky-Hi News reporter Gino Savaria in December 2025.

The image features the word "LEGACY" and highlights "stories of healing and hope" in both English and Spanish, with agriculture logos.

Legacy - Mental Health in Colorado's Modern Day Agriculture

This film documents the beautiful and sometimes painful stories of a deep love for agriculture in the State of Colorado.

The image shows a single deer antler lying on a grassy, rocky terrain with mountains in the background.

Antler Shed Hunting - Banned from Jan 1-Apr 30

Shed antler and horn collection on all public lands west of I-25 is prohibited from January 1 through April 30, annually. Learn about the reasons and fines if caught.

A snowy landscape with a group of sheep in the foreground and an elk in the background, surrounded by mountains.

Winter Maintenance & Care of Livestock

When winter actually hits, these tips will be beneficial for keeping your stock warm and healthy on those frigged winter days and nights.

A green tractor working on striped fields of freshly cut grass, with rolling hills and cloudy skies in the background.

$100M ranch above Colorado River secures its future with conservation easement

Learn about this ranch that received a conservation easement through the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust.

A close-up of a green frog resting on a leaf, showcasing its vibrant color and detailed features against a blurred background.

Frog News

Check out these new and interesting articles about frogs, including a frog that could be the key to cancer treatment and the discovery of a new species.

The image features a wolf partially hidden behind a tree, with text discussing non-lethal wolf management and reimbursement issues.

Failed Illusions - Wolf Management

An interesting article about range riding as a wolf management practice. *This article does not necessarily portray the opinions of MPCD or its board or employees.*

A close-up of an owl sitting on the ground in a rustic environment, showcasing its unique feathers and striking yellow eyes.

January 5th - National Bird Day

Did you know that January 5th is National Bird Day? It’s a moment to celebrate the beauty of birds that grace our skies and landscapes, and to remind us why birds matter.

2025 Annual Report

Check out our 2025 Annual Report detailing work performed, our annual revenues and expenses, and educational partnerships.

The image displays the words "BURN PERMITS" in bold, distressed lettering on a wooden background.

Slash Pile Burning - Grand County

Learn all about the Open Burning Season in Grand County and how to apply for a burn permit.

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Newsletter Disclaimers

The content of this newsletter is for Educational Purposes ONLY. In some cases, we highlight newsworthy articles from outside sources. Opinions…

Winter is supposedly here, but it sure doesn't look or feel like it!

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