Commissioners send letter to River Network in support of De Beque’s grant application

The Board of Mesa County Commissioners unanimously approved a letter of support to River Network for the Town of De Beque's Rooting Resilience application for a $75,000 grant. If granted, the funding will provide grant dollars and technical assistance to community-based projects that build resilience and enhance our community’s ability to plan and carry out forestry projects.

De Beque plans to use the potential funds in collaboration with the Middle Watershed Council on a proposed tree canopy project that will engage the community through events and educational programs that emphasize the importance of planting and caring for trees.

Read the full letter: 

I am writing to express my support for the Town of De Beque’s grant application to the Rooting Resilience Program. The town will collaborate with Middle Watershed Council, a local nonprofit organization that is dedicated to enhancing and protecting water for all users and the environment. De Beque is a disadvantaged community facing socioeconomic challenges due to the Oil and Gas Industry, resulting in unpredictable changes to the town budget and making it difficult to plan for and provide community-based projects that build resilience and enhance our community’s ability to plan and carry out forestry projects. 

The proposed tree canopy project is not just about planting trees; it's about fostering community engagement through vibrant events and educational programs that emphasize the importance of tree planting and care. By highlighting the myriad benefits of trees in supporting and creating habitats, this initiative will help mitigate scorching heat during the summer months and conserve water by replacing invasive species with native trees. The impact of supporting this project cannot be overstated. It will tangibly enhance the quality of life for the residents of De Beque. 

Thank you for considering the Town of De Beque's application for the Rooting Resilience program. I am truly appreciative of the potential for positive change that your support could bring. I appreciate your consideration for funding.