Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership

The Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership (UWP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Colorado. Established in the spring of 2007, the organization became a registered nonprofit in 2013. Its mission is to protect the natural, scenic, and economic values of the Upper Uncompahgre River Watershed.

History

The UWP was founded when regional groups and concerned citizens applied for a watershed-planning grant. Over time, it has evolved into a collaborative entity that works with a wide range of stakeholders, including citizens, nonprofits, local and regional governments, and federal and state agencies.

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is focused on protecting the watershed from its headwaters to the northern Ouray County line. Its vision is to create a healthy watershed that is restored from past damages and adaptable to changing conditions, supported by a knowledgeable community dedicated to its protection and conservation.

Values

UWP values include:

• Educating and engaging the community in environmental stewardship.
• Science-based approach to understanding and addressing watershed challenges.
• Acknowledging natural challenges and ensuring feasibility and sustainability in projects.
• Partnerships with diverse collaborators.
• Appreciating diverse water users' needs.

Activities and Projects

The UWP conducts various educational and outreach activities:

• Watershed Science Lessons: Regular lessons and field trips for students in the Montrose, Ouray, and Ridgway schools.
• Community Events: Organizes events like the annual Ridgway RiverFest and the San Juan Mining & Reclamation Conference.
• Research and Data Analysis: Engages in water sampling and analysis to understand water quality and supply.
• Collaborations: Works with health departments and government agencies on initiatives like the West Central Public Health Private Well Water Quality Study.

Organizational Objectives

1. Monitoring and Analysis: Continuously monitor and analyze watershed health.
2. Ecosystem Preservation: Preserve and restore ecosystem functions to support high-quality waterbodies.
3. Education and Stewardship: Promote ongoing stewardship through robust education programs.
4. Sustainability: Ensure organizational sustainability with diverse funding and a strong board.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

UWP emphasizes creating an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse stakeholders and fosters equitable participation in all activities. It recognizes the importance of stakeholder diversity and seeks to advance efforts through planning, design, and community engagement.