35 Annual Headwaters Conference – Free

Generational Resiliency: Agriculture in the Gunnison Basin

The Clark Family School of Environment & Sustainability and Coldharbour Institute Presents:

The 35th Headwaters Conference – Generational Resiliency: Agriculture in the Gunnison Basin
October 25 & 26, 2024 – Free and Open to the Public

Agriculture is a key part of the history, identity and future of our valley, and really globally. This year’s Headwaters Conference will hear from local producers and our states first Water Policy Advisor, Robert Sakata. We will discuss holistic practices, new technology and the implications for water use and agricultural production in our valley.

Friday, October 25: Keynote Address & Panel

Keynote Speaker: Robert Sakata, Colorado Department of Agriculture Water Policy Advisor
Panel: Stacy McPhail, MJ Pickett, Andy Spann, Bill Parker
Time: 6:30-8 p.m.
Location: University Center Theatre

Learn more about the Headwaters Keynote speaker, Robert Sakata, here.

Saturday, October 26: Field Experiences

Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Multiple ranch locations across the Gunnison Valley. WCU vans leave from the parking lot north of Kelley Hall.

Participation, transportation, and lunch are provided free of charge.

Holistic Land Management Workshop with Calder Farms: MJ Pickett will introduce how the holistic management framework can be used for making decisions amidst the ever-changing conditions of the living world. Participants will learn about how Calder Farm uses holistic techniques to produce food for our growing community.

Fundamentals of Holistic Ecological Monitoring Workshop with Parker Pastures: This workshop will provide an overview of holistic grazing planning and ecological monitoring. Bill will introduce the core principles of holistic grazing and will teach participants about the practices and techniques he uses when ranching in the Gunnison valley.

Ranchland Operations & Conservation Tour with Gunnison Conservation Legacy: Learn about how conservation easements can be used as a tool for sustaining water and agricultural production. It will include an overview of the legal and environmental requirements of conservation easements and discussion of current agricultural practices specific to the Gunnison Basin on a tour of local conserved ranches.

Ranchland Technology & Innovation Tour: Participants will visit the Marten ranch in the Ohio Creek valley to learn about the implementation of a virtual fencing system on associated US Forest Service allotments, followed by a stop at automated head gates for water diversion, finishing with a visit to the Western Colorado University Verzuh Ranch in Crested Butte to learn how students are utilizing drone technology to inform land management and habitat restoration projects.