South Platte Forum to Focus on Recent Drought Impacts, Planning for Uncertain Future

The 14th Annual 2003 South Platte Forum, "Planning for Uncertainty," will be held Oct. 22-23 at the Raintree Plaza Conference Center in Longmont. The forum will focus on current hot topics in the South Platte and feature top decision makers.

Speakers include Attorney General Ken Salazar, State Agriculture Commissioner Don Ament, Rod Kuharich of the Colorado Water Conservation Board, Peter Binney from the city of Aurora and Colorado Farm Bureau President Alan Foutz.

"The South Platte Forum brings together people from different interests and backgrounds to discuss the past, present and future of Colorado’s most heavily used river," said Troy Bauder, Colorado State University Cooperative Extension water quality specialist and member of the planning committee. "This year’s conference looks at the recent drought conditions and their impact on wildlife, agriculture, municipalities and others that depend on the river. It is a reminder of the need to be constantly looking ahead to face challenges posed by uncertain water conditions."

Sessions include "Planning for an Uncertain Future," "Rural Economics – Thirsting for Water," "We’re All Tapped Out," "Will You Take a Rain Check From the Water Bank," "Crispy Critters – Past, Present and Future," and "Just How Abrasive IS Gravel?" There also will be legislative and climate updates, along with four keynote speakers.

The registration fee is $115 and registration is available at the door. Visit http://southplatte.jjbrown.com for a complete schedule. To register, or for more information, contact Jennifer Brown, (970) 576-8680, jennifer@jjbrown.com.

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