That's the idea behind the Adopt-A-Waterway Program. The City of Colorado Springs Stormwater Enterprise encourages local businesses, civil and professional organizations, environmental groups, academic institutions, neighborhood groups, and other community-minded organizations to formally Adopt-A-Waterway for the purpose of protecting and improving water quality.
As an adopting organization, your group would be asked to participate in two cleanups a year and maintain your adopted waterway for a minimum of two years. A small commitment for your water quality! So find a waterway near by, and sign up today.
Adopting organizations can select their level of participation from two options. The Level 1 program involves simple trash cleanup and light maintenance. Our most popular program, this level is ideal for local community groups who want to make a difference, but on the "lighter" side. The Level 2 program is more extensive and is designed for groups interested in bank stabilization, re-vegetation, and overall stream restoration. This program is dedicated to larger scaled projects under the guidance of stormwater staff.
Each adopting organization:
Must include a minimum of 6 people and have at least 1 adult (21 years or older)
Must adopt at least a 1/4 to 1/2 mile stretch of creek or stream. Larger reaches must be approved by stormwater staff.
Adopts a waterway for a period of at least 2 years
Agrees to cleanup their adopted waterway at least two times ayear
Agrees to coordinate the group's activities with the City's Project coordinator.
Agrees to all safety requirements.
The City of Colorado Springs will recognize adopting groups by providing signage for the adopted waterway. The City also provides trash bags, trash pick up, safety vests (if needed), and other support necessary to adopting groups.
For more information, please contact Jeff Besse at 719-385-5566 or by email at jbesse@springsgov.com.
Remember, it's up to each of us to keep our waters clean...
