Projects

Lefthand Watershed Oversight Group

Contact Information:
OSM/VISTA: Matthew S. Palamara
Supervisor: Geneva Mixon
Address: P.O. Box 1074, Niwot, Colorado 80544
Phone: 303.530.4200 x216
Email: matthew.palamara@gmail.com
Website: www.lwog.org
US Congressional District: 2nd
County: Boulder

LWOG stresses the importance of community and stakeholder input and outreach.

Description of organization and mission:

Located north of Boulder, Colorado the Lefthand Watershed Oversight Group (LWOG) utilizes a community-oriented, grassroots approach to identifying and addressing water quality concerns held by its constituents. The primary function of the organization is to facilitate collaboration between local, state, and federal parties interested in various issues affecting the Lefthand Creek watershed. Since 2006 LWOG has lead groups of volunteers to monitor sites along the Little James and Lefthand Creeks, and recently completed a clean-up proposal for the restoration of the Porphyry Mountain waste rock pile.

"The mission of the Lefthand Watershed Oversight Group is to assess, protect, and restore the quality of the Lefthand Creek watershed, and to serve as a hub of communication about watershed issues through the fostering of stakeholder collaboration."

Environmental Education event by the Lefthand Watershed Oversight Group.

Goals of OSM/VISTA in the Lefthand Watershed Oversight Group:

The Lefthand Watershed Oversight Group received its first OSM/VISTA in the summer of 2009 with the goal of enhancing the organization's ability to further develop already existing programs. Although a predetermined work plan was established the incoming VISTA's role remains fluid, allowing LWOG the most efficient use of the additional capacity. Ultimately the outcome of the VISTA's assignment will be the continued expansion of community participation and outreach programs, and the strengthening of local and regional partnerships. While working with LWOG the VISTA will have the chance to assist in the broadcasting of information through activities such as the coordination of water sampling projects, and the recruitment of volunteers.

Along with the duties stated above the VISTA is charged with the task of locating relevant grant opportunities and successfully submitting proposals to funding agencies. Upon completion of the one year appointment LWOG will be secured with sufficient endowments to guarantee the continued pursuit of the organization's mission. Ensuring the organization has obtained comprehensive and sustainable sources of funding will be the essential responsibility of the VISTA, expectantly providing surplus resources for the next VISTA.