THE ROAD AHEAD FEATURE: Post-Wildfire Water Supply Resilience ARTICLE: EPIC Campus’ RV Training Program COLUMNS: Association News PS: Out & About in Colorado FALL/WINTER 2025: Vol. 21, No. 6 - $4.95
2┃ Colorado Public Works Journal
J O U R N A L Jo Taylor, Managing Editor The Colorado Public Works Journal - jo@coloradopublicworksjournal.com THE EDITOR REMEMBER that Colorado Public Works Journal can now be read online, on your phone, tablet or other mobile device. Please go there, take a look and let us know what you think at coloradopublicworksjournal.com FALL/WINTER 2025┃3 Has anyone been using the term “overwhelmed” recently? I know I have and a little too much, if I am honest. Being overwhelmed happens slowly at first but can build up quickly and can cause the mind and body to go into overdrive and spiral out of control which can result in illness, both mental and physical. We all know that this is not good, but often think we can’t do anything about it. Well, we can. The good news is you can manage these situations. You just need to know when and how to do it. Here is what I have learned: Step away from the situation and take a few deep breaths which helps to lower cortisol levels, clear mental fog and help you think more clearly about what really needs your attention. Go for a short walk if you can, or take your lunch to the park, just being in the fresh air helps. Unclutter your mind by making a to do list of what needs doing now, tomorrow, or next week. This I find is helpful to do at the end of the day, which allows you to sleep better without the worry that you will forget to do something, which will often wake you up in the early hours. Learn to say “No” to things that you simply don’t have the capacity to do. Others will prefer your honesty, trust me. Stop trying to control others and focus on what is in your control. Other people’s behavior is not your problem so don’t let it be. This small act instantly lifts anxiety and can calm the mind. Take time out for yourself to relax; make a cup of tea, talk to a friend, meditate, these small acts will help you return to the task recharged. Being overwhelmed is not necessarily a bad thing, you are not failing, you are human and your life is full. It’s how you handle it all that matters. Pause, prioritize, set boundaries and make time for yourself away from all the chaos. Life will become more enjoyable when you are thriving rather than just surviving. Now that we are at the end of 2025 I would like to thank you for your continued support of our publication, whether you are a reader, a contributor or an advertiser, or maybe all three. On page 61 you will find our 2026 Media Kit ready for your upcoming budget meetings. If you have an interest in seeing what we can do for your business please reach out. We value your trust in us to connect the industry through this platform and provide our readers information on products and services you need to do your work. If you know someone who would benefit from receiving CPWJ, have them subscribe.
4┃ Colorado Public Works Journal CONTENTS Cover Image: © City of Ft. Collins The Road Ahead: page 21 06 : Works News Equipment 08 : Works News Updates 10 : Works News People 12 : Industry Insights Christina Burri 18 : The New Normal: Planning for Post-Wildfire Water Supply Resilience 21 : The Road Ahead Fall 2025 50 : From Vision To Reality EPIC Campus’ RV Technology Program 52 : Association News APWA, NUCA, ACPA, CCA, CAPA, RTD, CDOT, CSSGA 62 : PS! (Parting Shots) Out and About at Events in Colorado 66 : Advertisers Index Our Corporate Partners FALL/WINTER 2025 : Volume 21 No. 6 The Colorado Public Works Journal is printed on 30% recycled paper and is FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certified. Paper used for this publication comes from sustainable forest management. COLORADO PUBLIC WORKS JOURNAL (ISSN 1555-8258) is published bimonthly in January, March, May, July, September and November CPWJ is published by PRIME Media, LLC, 11734 Elk Head Range Road, Littleton CO 80127 coloradopublicworksjournal.com Managing Editor: Jo Taylor, (720) 360-6737 jo@coloradopublicworksjournal.com Volume 21. No.6, November 2025 Production: PRIME Media, LLC Design: Taylored Graphics Printed by: One Stop Printing Subscription, Mailing Services and Accounting info@coloradopublicworksjournal.com Subscription $30.00 per year in the USA Periodicals Postage Paid in Denver, Colorado. Postmaster: Send address changes to: PRIME Media LLC, 11734 Elk Head Range Road, Littleton, CO 80127. Contents copyright © 2025 by PRIME Media, LLC All rights reserved Colorado Public Works Journal is an independent publication designed to be of service and interest to those providing civil services related to infrastructure construction and maintenance and allied fields, including government officials, heavy/civil contractors, engineers and architects, distributors, dealers and manufacturers of equipment and materials, and providers of services to government agencies and the construction and development industry Colorado Public Works Journal accepts no responsibility or liability for the validity of information and articles supplied by contributors, vendors, advertisers or advertising agencies. Opinions expressed are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily represent the views of the publishers of CPWJ. THE ROAD AHEAD FEATURE: Post-Wildfire Water Supply Resilience ARTICLE: EPIC Campus’ RV Training Program COLUMNS: Association News PS: Out & About in Colorado FALL/WINTER 2025: Vol. 21, No. 6 - $4.95
FALL/WINTER 2025┃5 303.295.2885 OJ WATSON EQUIPMENT 5335 Franklin St., Denver, CO 80216 932 D Street, Greeley, CO 80631 Colorado Department of Transportation award 371002081 Call us for your upcoming bucket truck needs! AN AUTHORIZED DUR-A-LIFT DEALER
6┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Works News E Q U I P M E N T 4Rivers will now sell Trimble grade control, site positioning systems and correction services technology directly to customers using John Deere construction equipment. Trimble technology from 4Rivers includes the Trimble Works Subscription bundles, offering contractors simple, low risk ways to scale operations, providing flexibility in selecting and utilizing the right civil construction technology, hardware coverage and price point for their business needs. Trimble Technology Outlets are a new and important part of Trimble’s civil construction distribution strategy. By adding authorized resellers representing a wide variety of manufacturers to the Trimble distribution channel, it is easier for users of a wide NOW PROVIDING TRIMBLE TECHNOLOGY TO CUSTOMERS ACROSS ENTIRE 4RIVERS FOOTPRINT KOMATSU INTRODUCE DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES PLUS ADVANCED EQUIPMENT BOOST BUSINESS PERFORMANCE range of machine types to purchase, install and utilize Trimble technology for improved jobsite productivity and profitability. “4Rivers has earned a reputation for integrity, respect and a commitment to finding solutions to their customers’ challenges for nearly 100 years, and we are excited to announce that those solutions now include Trimble technology,” said Ron Bisio, senior vice president, field systems at Trimble. “The goal of our expanded distribution network is to make it easier for customers of all machine types to integrate Trimble technology into their workflows, and we look forward to working with 4Rivers to make this vision a reality for their customers.” As an authorized Trimble Technology Outlet, 4Rivers will offer Trimble grade control solutions — including site positioning systems and correction services — to customers in Colorado, New Mexico and the El Paso, Texas area. 4Rivers customers can expect to receive the same superior level of support, including installation, service and training, of which the Trimble dealer channel is known to deliver. “Our John Deere customers have been wanting easier access to Trimble technology, and we are pleased that we can finally meet this demand,” said Danny Bratton, general manager at 4Rivers Equipment. “We know that grade control, site positioning and correction services technology helps improve accuracy, productivity and profitability on construction jobsites, and we are excited to offer these benefits to our customers through the use of Trimble solutions.” Many of the most successful contractors are finding new ways to improve job site performance, especially technologies like GNSS that enhance accuracy, deliver real-time insights and connect field and office. Komatsu’s intelligent machine control (IMC), built into excavators and dozers, helps automate complex grading and digging tasks, reducing the need for rework and supporting operator efficiency from day one. Smart Construction software solutions seamlessly integrate with IMC to save time and boost efficiency: •Smart Construction Remote gives you access to machines on the job s ite without being there. Remotely upload files, assist operators in real time and resolve issues faster. • Smart Construction Dashboard transforms as-built data from machines (like IMC ones) with design data and drone surveys into 3D visualizations and progress reports to help you make informed decisions. • Smart Construction Fleet Lite gives you near-real time payload tracking. Together, these solutions help you take control of your operation — from anywhere.
FALL/WINTER 2025┃7 Works News E Q U I P M E N T HOLMS ATTACHMENTS TO DISTRIBUTE SERCO SKAALA ZOOM PLOWS IN NORTH AMERICA Cooperation to introduce a new and unique product to the market Hickory, NC, USA— September 4, 2025 — Holms Attachments AB (Motala, Sweden) and JPT Serco Oy (Köyliö, Finland) announce a cooperation to sell the innovative Serco Skaala Zoom plows to the US and Canadian markets through the US based Holms, Inc. The SERCO brand has its roots in Finland’s Ostrobothnia, where the manufacture of road maintenance devices began in 1994. This is the first cooperation between the two companies and the first time Serco products have been available to the market. Inventory is already in place in Hickory, NC, USA. Adjustable width snow pusher is a game changer The Skaala plows are fixed-wing plows that can be hydraulically widened. Closely resembling a snow pusher, these units are different because the width can be adjusted on-the-move. “There’s no product in our market that allows operators the flexibility to adjust widths,” says Dan Snedecor, President/GM of Holms, Inc. He continues, “snow pushers are popular for clearing large areas but the width is limited by road lane widths when moving from site to site, with the Serco you can, for example, have a 15’ wide pusher that reduces to less than 8’ for travel and transport.” A different approach Instead of traditional spring edges or floating blade sections all Serco Skaala Zoom Plows are equipped with spring-loaded side wings and a floating, spring-loaded quick coupler with suspension dampeners. This simple but clever solution insures that the plow will stay on the ground on uneven surfaces and conform to the shape of the surface while providing the brute force needed for breaking up hardpack and ice. The cylinders are powerful enough to open and close the plow under load while plowing. BIG DIG OF NORTHERN COLORADO RAISES OVER $131,000 IN SUPPORT OF PEDIATRIC CANCER RESEARCH 2025’s Big Dig of Northern Colorado expanded on its ongoing stellar success, raising over $131,000 in support of pediatric cancer research for the American Cancer Society (ACS) this year. Taking place on Saturday, September 6, and once again hosted by Richie Bros. Auctioneers in Longmont, Colorado, 2025’s event sold out completely for the second year in a row. 4Rivers Equipment was once again proud to be one of the key sponsors of Big Dig of Northern Colorado 2025 and contributed by bringing a 70-foot obstacle course and a variety of mini-excavators for children and families to operate. The event offered a fun, hands-on experience for kids while supporting a vital cause in the fight against childhood cancer. “We are so grateful that the community supports this event,” said Associate Director Rachel Befort of the American Cancer Society. “We have kids here today who are facing a cancer battle, and we have kids here that have faced that battle and won, so it just brings home the impact that ACS has on people right here in our community.”
8┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Works News U P D A T E S Douglas County Are Sharpening Skills Before the Storm Construction Workforce Foundation Scholarship Awards Earlier this month, Douglas County Public Works hosted its annual Snowplow Training Event. Designed for both new and seasoned operators, the event provided hands-on training with snowplows and other essential equipment. Supervisors also used the sessions to assess techniques and guide professional growth. A standout moment came with the keynote from Alison Madison of Wisconsin Salt Wise, who highlighted the environmental impact of The Colorado Contractors Association (CCA) hosts the Construction Workforce Foundation of Colorado’s 2025 Scholarship Awards, presenting scholarships to twelve students from universities across Colorado. Each recipient was recognized for their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to the construction industry’s future. Among them were Aiden Hall, Jenna Young, Jose Pina, Omar Ramirez, Zachary Shilliday, Bryce Gregg, Hunter Gottschalk, Claire Harvie, Thomas Nordell, Anthony Didonato, James Collin, and Stephen Rappenecker. Congratulations to all the recipients as they begin their career in the Construction Industry. excessive salt use and encouraged sustainable snow removal practices—a message that resonated strongly with attendees. This year, 14 staff members from Douglas County and the Town of Parker successfully completed the training, underscoring the commitment of local communities to safety and preparedness. Beyond sharpening technical skills, the event fostered valuable networking and collaboration across municipalities. The Snowplow Training Event remains a cornerstone of operational excellence, equipping teams not just with practical know-how, but also with shared purpose as winter approaches. A special thank-you goes out to our vendors—CIG for their amazing graphics, along with Wagner CAT, Compass Com, Transwest, OJ Watson, United Health Care, and Empower Retirement—for their invaluable support in making this event a success. RTD’s no-cost bus shuttle – the 16th Street FreeRide – is cruising the full length of 16th Street from Denver Union Station to Civic Center again. The FreeRide, formerly known as the Free MallRide, was rebranded earlier this year to reflect the iconic corridor’s new name. The FreeRide’s detours from 16th Street began in 2022 when Denver’s multi-year construction began on the pedestrian mall. RTD’s bus shuttles, which run approximately every five minutes, are one of the most visible parts of the corridor, attracting thousands of boardings every day. As blocks were completed and reopened, overall ridership on the 16th Street FreeRide increased. The shuttle has averaged more than 170,000 monthly boardings in 2025 compared to 125,000 monthly boardings in 2024. FreeRide Cruises 16th Street Again
FALL/WINTER 2025┃9 Works News U P D A T E S Power Equipment Company Unveils Flagship Headquarters in Brighton Power Equipment Company has opened the doors to its impressive new headquarters in Brighton, Colorado — a facility designed not just to showcase growth, but to set a new operational standard across its network. President Mark Dowdell describes the move as a milestone for the company. “We’ve combined three local facilities into one,” he explains. “The goal wasn’t just a fresh coat of paint or new brick and mortar — it was about creating a functional, efficient space that helps us better serve our customers and support our people.” At the heart of the new building is a centralized dispatch center, a strategic shift from the traditional branch-based service model. “Instead of each branch managing its own field service, we coordinate everything for the entire Front Range from this one location,” Dowdell says. “That gives us flexibility and ensures every customer gets the right technician, fast.” The facility’s automated parts warehouse is another highlight. Stocking over 40,000 line items, it uses a computerized inventory system to manage fast-moving parts and maintain optimal stock levels daily. “It’s all about efficiency and reliability,” Dowdell notes. On the north side of the shop, a new remanufacturing facility is under development, set to become a certified rebuild center for Bomag and Volvo equipment in the Western United States. The shop itself features thirteen double-length service bays — the equivalent of twenty-six standard bays — allowing technicians to handle a wide range of heavy equipment. Training is also a key focus at Brighton. The new training center accommodates up to 50 people in a classroom setting, with the ability to move directly into the shop for hands-on instruction. “We can simulate real equipment faults so technicians can diagnose and repair them,” says Dowdell. “It’s a great resource for developing our own team and offering customer training.” From this central hub, Power Equipment Company supports a growing network of locations — five in Colorado(Brighton, Aurora, Colorado Springs, Grand Junction, and Durango), as well as sites in New Mexico, Wyoming, Missouri, Utah, and Calgary, Alberta. Roughly 70 to 80 employees are based in Brighton, with about 220 company-wide. As Dowdell sums it up, “This facility represents who we are — forward-thinking, customer-focused, and committed to supporting our people. It’s not just our headquarters; it’s the foundation for our next chapter.” The Vice President of the Southern Twig of Women of Asphalt Colorado, Shawna Olsen, organized a private tour for a group to visit the United Companies a CRH Company, Asphalt Plant in Pueblo. This took place on Saturday, October 11th. The group with an age range from 16- 81 were educated on how the plant functions, the intricate use of specific mix designs and more. “The plastics in the bag literally smelled like chocolate”. said one attendee. This facility in Pueblo is just one of the locations across Colorado where United Companies a CRH Company can provide materials and services to fulfill your construction needs. United Companies and Women of Asphalt Colorado Springs Host Pueblo Asphalt Plant Tour
10┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Works News P E O P L E The recipient of this award is an individual who displays the character, integrity and leadership of Mr William Korbitz, the American Public Works Association Colorado Chapter’s first president. The recipient is evaluated on general accomplishments over their career including leadership characteristics that have positively impacted their agency, department, staff and community. Michelle has displayed all of this and more with her contributions to APWA ,both within the Colorado Chapter and beyond. Michelle exemplified and embodied every aspect of the selection criteria for this award. Michelle Stevens (principal at Felsburg Holt & Ullevig) was proud to be awarded the William E Korbitz Award in front of her daughter at the APWA 2025 Conference. Michelle Stevens Receives the William E. Korbitz Award for 2025 We are pleased to announce that Brandon Brever, P.E. has joined CAPA as Director of Engineering & Technology. Brandon comes to Colorado from Minnesota, where his previous position was as the Director of Technical Services with the Minnesota Asphalt Pavement Association (MAPA). In the position he collaborated with MnDOT and local agencies to advance key specification improvements while helping contractors adopt data-driven construction technologies. He has been active in applied research through the National Road Research Alliance (NRRA), technical advisory panels with MnDOT, and the Minnesota Local Road Research Board. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Please join us in welcoming Brandon to the CAPA team! Members interested in technical support, training, or specification discussions can reach him at brandonbrever@co-asphalt.com (320)760-4707. Natalie has worked in the construction industry for 27 years, specializing in estimating and project management within the asphalt, concrete, and utility sectors. Natalie has recently joined ESI as the Southern Colorado Business Development Manager. Before moving to Colorado in 2015 to continue her career in construction, Natalie served 4½ years in the U.S. Naval Reserve, where she proudly became a Seabee. In 2018, Natalie founded the Annual Angel Tree program to support underprivileged children in her community. Each year, they help more than 230 kids experience the joy of a memorable Christmas. Natalie has been an active member of the El Paso County Contractors Association (est.1970), serving as Vice President in 2024 and now as President—the first woman to hold either position. Her passion is all about giving back, particularly by supporting high school students and teachers throughout the county. Alongside three other women, Natalie co-founded the Colorado chapter of Women of Asphalt, serving as Treasurer for three years. She also volunteers with the Southern Colorado Career Days event at Norris Penrose, where more than 650 high school students participate in 50 hands-on activities presented by local general contractors each year ESI are thrilled to have Natalie on board and the value that she can bring to their business. Natalie Ulven joins Elite Surface Infrastructure NAWIC BOARD Members 2025/2026 President ~ Morgan Trujillo Vice President ~ Katie Blaalid Treasurer ~ Sarah Kotzen Secretary ~ Connie J Gentle Directors Jacqueline McLain Codi Cox Beverly Rice Welcome Brandon Brever, CAPA’s New Director of Engineering & Technology Hannah Ross Paulina Dunn Calli Dalal
FALL/WINTER 2025┃11 Works News P E O P L E CASI is pleased to welcome Shaun McCreight as our new Estimator/ Project Manager. Shaun spent 13 years as a Real Estate Agent in the Denver Metro Area. From there he went on to be an Outbound Sales Representative For Comcast Business and a Territory Sales Executive for Aramark. In 1996, Shaun joined Colorado Asphalt Works and spent the next 7 years as an Estimator/Project Manager. Shaun has accrued a lengthy amount of time working in Business Development and Sales. CASI CASI is excited to welcome Jon Broshear as our new Senior Estimator. With over two decades of industry experience, leadership, and technical expertise, Jon is a valuable addition to the CASI team. He began his career in Ohio in 2004, specializing in underground utilities and earthwork, and later relocated to Colorado, where he spent the past eight years with Elite Surface Infrastructure (ESI) in roles ranging from estimator and project manager to division manager for site concrete. We’re confident Jon’s depth of experience will contribute greatly to CASI’s continued growth and success. Joleigh Doudy joins HDR HDR is proud to welcome Joleigh Doudy to its Engineering Field Services team as a senior civil construction inspector 2, based in the firm’s Denver office. With over two decades of experience in transportation infrastructure, Joleigh brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to her new role. In this position, she will oversee key infrastructure projects, ensuring construction operations meet both technical and contractual standards. She will be responsible for assembling final documentation packages, reviewing and approving payment items, and coordinating with engineers and stakeholders to ensure accuracy and compliance. Her role also includes evaluating contractor-submitted quality control plans to verify supplier requirements are met. The City of Fort Collins has won a 2024 Perpetual Pavement by Conversion Award for the resurfacing of McClelland Drive in Fort Collins, Colorado. The award was issued by the Asphalt Pavement Alliance (APA). The Perpetual Pavement by Conversion award honors agencies that demonstrate outstanding design and construction practices, specifically in constructing new asphalt roads over existing roads. To qualify for this prestigious award, the converted pavement must meet Perpetual Pavement design criteria: the completed project must have asphalt mixture binder and surface layers and be at least two miles in length--municipal roadways must be at least 1,200 feet in length. A National Center for Asphalt Technology engineer evaluated the nominations and validated the winners. The City of Fort Collins received the award for its resurfacing of McClelland Drive in Fort Collins, Colorado. This project transformed a 45-year-old industrial collector road into a transit corridor capable of supporting Fort Collins’ MAX Bus Rapid Transit system. Facing budget constraints that prevented full reconstruction, the city’s Streets-Maintenance Program team devised an innovative solution using glass grid inlay technology. Engineers milled the existing pavement, applied a leveling course with glass grid interlayer, and City of Ft. Collins Wins 2024 Perpetual Pavement Award finished with a wearing course. This reinforced section delivered the structural equivalent of a 7-inch asphalt section at significantly lower cost than traditional reconstruction methods. The enhanced pavement has successfully withstood a decade of heavy articulated bus traffic (70,000-pound vehicles on 15-minute schedules) with only minor maintenance needs. This creative approach saved the city substantial money while minimizing disruption and demonstrating that asphalt Perpetual Pavement solutions can perform as effectively as concrete pavements. Tom Knostman Pavement Engineer at City of Fort Collins with Tom Peterson and the award.
12┃ Colorado Public Works Journal INDUSTRY INSIGHTS feature by Sean O’Keefe Deputy State Forester Colorado State Forest Service Christina Burri l In May 2024, the Colorado State Forest Service named Christina Burri Deputy State Forester. In this organizational management role, Burri helps lead a team dedicated to protecting Colorado’s largest, and arguably, most precious natural resource – our forests. Covering 24 million acres, forests account for roughly 32% of the state. These diverse ecosystems do far more than most imagine, which is why protecting them is more than a mandate; it’s a mission. “When we think about water infrastructure, most imagine the distribution process of getting water to the tap. In Colorado, we must start with the forests, which are the source of our water supply,” begins Burri. “It may come as a surprise to most to know that the biggest threat to our water supply is wildfire. Obviously, the risk of wildfire is high in Colorado. When a forest burns out of control, the impacts to our water supply can be catastrophic, and the costs to recover are immense.” While we’ve all witnessed homes, businesses, and other properties being destroyed by wildfires, either on the news or firsthand, it’s the charred aftermath that releases ash, sediment, and potentially toxic chemicals into the streams that feed our reservoirs. Here, the accumulation of post-fire runoff can increase the reservoir water’s pH level, clog treatment equipment, and require more chemicals to clean. “What makes this particularly challenging is that Colorado’s forests are fire-adapted ecosystems, meaning fire is natural and needed,” continues Burri. “The problem occurs when the fires are allowed to fuel up. Then, the size, intensity, and severity of the fires cause damage that requires restoration that’s far more expensive than maintaining the forests before devastating fires ignite.” Actively managing 32% of the state’s overall land area across extremely diverse, and often rugged terrain, is no small order; one that has proven to be difficult, costly, and consequential. Fortunately, given the volume of forests, approximately 36% of Colorado’s land is federally owned, which means partnerships to tackle these challenges exist. “The Colorado State Forest Service’s mission is to achieve stewardship of Colorado’s diverse forest environments for the benefit of present and future generations. The reality is, we can’t do it alone,” shares Burri. “CSFS partners with federal, state, county, municipal, and private landowners as well as utilities and businesses to try to achieve the management and wildfire risk reduction Colorado’s forests require.” Obviously, the work is out in the forests, clearing brush and removing standing dead trees. CSFS operates 18 field offices across Colorado staffed by foresters who provide technical assistance to landowners who need help managing their land. “Whether they want to do the work themselves or have us do it, CSFS helps landowners formulate a plan for land management,” continues Burri. “Mountain Pine Beetle and Mistletoe ravage Colorado’s forests. Both are killing trees. That’s producing a lot of the standing dead wood that is so combustible.” In 2017, the Colorado Legislature established the Forest Restoration & Wildfire Mitigation (FRWRM) grant program. FRWRM provides state support through competitive grant funds that encourage communitylevel actions to reduce the risk of wildfires. The objectives are threefold. Protect people, property, and infrastructure from wildfires; promote forest health and restoration; and encourage the reuse of the woody material being removed.
FALL/WINTER 2025┃13 “Investing in our forests is an investment in our water.” “FRWRM grant funding is designed to fund two types of projects,” shares Burri. “The first set involve the implementation of forest restoration and wildfire risk mitigation efforts, like clearing brush and mitigating invasive species. The second is funding staff support at the local level or paying for needed equipment like chippers and work trucks.” Since FRWRM was introduced nine years ago, CSFS has provided about $43 million in funding in response to more than $107 million in total requests. The 2025 – 2026 grant cycle opened on August 1, with an anticipated pre-award date of February 11, 2026, and a work program completion deadline of March 2030. Since demand is double the available funding, the application process is competitive. “I would advise anyone thinking of submitting a grant application for the 2026/2027 cycle to contact their local field and start forming a relationship,” says Burri. “CSFS’s technical staff can help applicants think long-term. One of the key criteria for funding is how the landowner plans to maintain the land after the funding is used up. So, developing a thoughtful, long-term plan is critical to a successful application.” (Forest Restoration & Wildfire Risk Mitigation | Colorado State Forest Service | Colorado State University | www.csfs.colostate.edu/grants/forest-restorationwildfire-risk-mitigation) Burri reports that since FRWRM launched in 2017, CSFS has helped fund 351 projects, affecting approximately 10,500 acres. Though the goals are macro and affect everyone living in or visiting Colorado, Burri suggests that perhaps the impacts are best appreciated on the micro level, where wildfires threaten to decimate communities if unmanaged. “Some of our proudest successes in my tenure so far involve small, rural communities, where funding makes a tremendous difference. Le Veta, for instance, is in a remote, underserved area with high wildfire risk. They were able to leverage our funding, combined with funding from several other sources, to make a significant impact on the landscape adjacent to a neighborhood in a rather forgotten part of the state.” Aside from all the work required to remove debris, clear invasive species, and restore forest health, one of the biggest challenges is what to do with all the material being removed from the forests. “As it is, this timber isn’t worth much. The steep slopes and difficult terrain make access to getting the materials out sometimes impossible. When we can get it out, there is limited use for it,” explains Burri of the secondary conundrum. “In Costilla County, CSFS funding is helping the county reuse the woody materials removed from forests as biomass energy. Elsewhere, the Colorado Mass Timber Coalition and others are trying to figure out innovative new ways these materials can be usefully reused as affordable, eco-friendly compressed wood products.” As the winter months approach, though the threat of wildfires lessens, the work of forest management in Colorado remains relentless. What Burri and her colleagues at the CSFS want readers to take away from all of this is simple. “What the people of Colorado need to know is that it is far cheaper and cost-effective to invest in forest management before a wildfire than after,” finishes Burri. “Investing in our forests is an investment in our water.”
14┃ Colorado Public Works Journal
FALL/WINTER 2025┃15 WWW.DHMDESIGN.COM
16┃ Colorado Public Works Journal Mark Twain once stated that there are only two certainties in life – death and taxes. For water utilities in Colorado, there is a third certainty: wildfire. Planning for post-wildfire response became a regular topic of discussion among Colorado utilities following the 2002 Hayman Fire. While initially considered an anomaly, wildfires in Colorado have become more frequent and intense due to decades of limited forest maintenance. This increase in wildfire frequency has prompted many water providers to take proactive measures: improving forest health, reducing debris, and enhancing water quality in post-wildfire conditions. The Hidden Impacts to Water Supply and Treatment Wildfires pose far more than an immediate threat of flames; they create a cascade of challenges that directly affect drinking water and infrastructure. When vegetation is destroyed on hillsides and along watersheds, subsequent rainfall can trigger erosion, sediment transport, and debris flows that overwhelm stormwater systems, clog reservoirs, and increase turbidity in municipal water supplies. Even moderate burns can produce ash and nutrient runoff that strains treatment plants and drives up operational costs. The financial impacts are significant. After the 2002 Hayman Fire, sediment and ash from burned slopes forced Denver Water to spend over $26 million on cleanup and treatment upgrades. Similarly, the 2012 High Park Fire sent massive debris into the Cache la Poudre River, directly affecting Fort Collins Utilities’ operations. While it is difficult for water providers to anticipate all wildfire impacts, many Colorado drinking water suppliers are implementing projects to enhance post-wildfire water supply resilience, manage wildfire burn patterns, and prepare for treatment challenges. Collaborative Strategies for Forest Management In the early 1900s, shortly after the creation of the U.S. Forest Service, the federal government began actively suppressing forest fires to protect timber and watershed resources. At the time, all forest fires were considered detrimental to forest and watershed health. Decades of Planning for Post-Wildfire Water Supply Resilience By Tamara Moon The New Normal:
FALL/WINTER 2025┃17 suppression, however, have allowed dead trees, downed wood, and dense underbrush to accumulate, making contemporary fires faster, hotter, and more destructive. These conditions also increase the volume of nutrients, metals, and sediments that eventually enter drinking water supplies. While federal fire policy has evolved, overgrown forests within critical watershed areas remain a challenge. To address this, the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) developed the Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation (FRWRM) Program, which provides grants and technical support for water providers to implement forest management projects within their watersheds. These projects reduce hazardous fuels, establish fire lines, and protect critical water delivery infrastructure. Several communities have leveraged CSFS resources to improve forest conditions. In the Poudre watershed, Fort Collins has partnered with CSFS to safeguard its water supply areas. The 2012 High Park Fire sent significant debris, sediment, and ash into the Poudre River, impacting water supply in both quantity and quality. Current FRWRMfunded projects include mapping high-risk fire areas relative to critical infrastructure, conducting forest thinning and restoration on public and private lands, and improving stream conditions.
18┃ Colorado Public Works Journal In addition to timber and deadwood removal, Fort Collins and the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed have implemented aerial mulching in the Cameron Peak Burn area. This technique reduces sheet erosion and disperses native plant seeds, stabilizing hillsides and limiting sediment flows into water supplies. Similarly, the City of Montrose has used FRWRM grants to improve watershed conditions, including fuels reduction within city limits at Cerise Park. City staff hope these local projects will educate residents about the importance of protecting water supply during and after wildfires. Treatment-Specific Strategies Post-Wildfire Even with robust forest management, water suppliers must prepare for post-wildfire water quality challenges. As seen after the Hayman Fire, wildfire-affected watersheds can produce debris, ash, and sediment that overwhelm treatment plants, causing taste and odor issues and, in extreme cases, temporarily rendering supplies unusable. Colorado utilities are taking proactive measures. The Cities of Golden and Westminster have used ash and sediment from burned areas to guide chemical dosing—alum, polymer, and permanganate—to reduce turbidity, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), disinfection by-products, and improve taste and odor. Jar testing and small pilot treatment processes simulate real post-wildfire conditions, providing data to justify capital investments both upstream and at treatment plants. The City of Northglenn has also evaluated treatment alternatives to improve post-wildfire water quality. Their study assessed projects including turbidity curtains in reservoirs and strategic alum application in delivery ditches. As Water Quality Coordinator Shelley Stanley explains, “Understanding the treatment needs following wildfire allows Northglenn to plan strategically for that moment in time when wildfire impacts our residents and to respond proactively to maintain the best possible drinking water quality in a time of crisis.” From this assessment, Northglenn plans to construct both permanent and mobile infrastructure to feed alum at strategic watershed locations, improving water quality before it reaches the treatment facility. Funding Sources for Watershed Wildfire Mitigation Projects Historically, municipalities and utilities have relied on capital projects focused on improving treatment processes to address challenging water quality conditions. However, as wildfire impacts become more severe and widespread, alternative strategies—such as timber management, aerial mulching, and in-stream or reservoir treatments—are becoming increasingly important. These projects can be costly, but a variety of funding options are available to help utilities plan and implement effective wildfire mitigation and watershed protection measures.
FALL/WINTER 2025┃19 Colorado State Forest Service Grants The Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation (FRWRM) Program, administered by the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS), has become one of the most widely used funding sources for utilities seeking to protect their watersheds. FRWRM grants support activities such as hazardous fuels reduction, forest thinning, deadwood removal, creation of fire lines, and post-fire stabilization through mulching and reseeding. These grants often encourage collaboration between utilities, local governments, and community organizations to maximize impact and regional benefit. Federal Grant Programs Federal agencies also provide funding to support wildfire risk reduction and water quality resilience. Common sources include: • U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Community Wildfire Defense Grants (CWDG): Supports planning, fuel reduction, and community preparedness. • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grants: Funds post-fire hazard mitigation and infrastructure protection projects. • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Water Infrastructure Programs: Offers grants that prioritize watershed protection and long-term water quality improvements. While federal grants can provide significant resources, they often require extensive reporting, contracting, and compliance measures. State and Local Funding Sources The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) offers limited grants and low-interest loans for water supply resilience projects, including those related to wildfire mitigation and watershed protection. In addition, local watershed groups—such as the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed and the Colorado River Wildfire Collaborative—provide funding, technical expertise, and coordination support for forest restoration and post-fire recovery projects. For Colorado drinking water providers, protecting a community’s water supply extends far beyond treatment plants and pipelines—it begins upstream in the watershed. Capital projects that invest in sediment control structures, intake protection, and resilient treatment infrastructure are critical, but their effectiveness is amplified when paired with strategic fuels reduction and forest management. Programs like the CSFS Forest Restoration and Wildfire Risk Mitigation (FRWRM) Program provide funding, technical expertise, and collaborative opportunities to reduce hazardous fuels, restore forest health, and safeguard watersheds from severe wildfire impacts. By integrating upstream management strategies with infrastructure planning, municipalities can reduce ash and debris entering rivers and reservoirs, improve operational efficiency, and lower emergency treatment costs. Every dollar invested in fuels reduction and watershed restoration strengthens downstream water quality and the reliability of clean water for communities. In an era of hotter, drier conditions and increasing wildfire frequency, coordinating capital planning with proactive watershed management— and leveraging programs like FRWRM—is essential for resilient, wildfire-ready water systems.
20┃ Colorado Public Works Journal COLORADO INDUSTRY EVENT SCHEDULE DEC 4th Women of Asphalt Christmas Party Homestead Golf Course Lakewood 12th CAPA New Member Christmas Lunch & Party Baldoria on the Water Lakewood 12th NUCA Holiday Installation Monarch Casino Blackhawk 16th CCA Holiday Party The Viewhouse Centennial 20 25 26 NOV 14th ACEC Colorado Engineering Excellence Awards Luncheon Hyatt Regency Tech Center 10th & 11th CRMCA/CSSGA Conference Broadmoor Hotel Colorado Springs 13th-15th CAPA/NCAT Technology Course Baldoria Event Center Lakewood 14th ASAC Health & Safety Summit PPA Event Center Denver JAN 30th CCA Conference The Westin Westminster 10th ASAC Contractors Breakfast Interchange Cherry Creek Innovation Campus
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22┃ Colorado Public Works Journal 2┃ The Road Ahead 2 /The Road Ahead WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM Introduction We are pleased to partner with Colorado Public Works Journal and provide you with the Fall 2022 issue of THE Road Ahead, CAPA’s news magazine. The publication is full of information on our members, our industry and most importantly our product, asphalt pavement materials. CAPA is laser focused on advancing the use and quality of asphalt pavements in Colorado. We hope this publication sparks an idea, a conversation or a follow-up action that supports you in achieving this mission. Let us know how we can help in that lofty endeavor! Welcome to THERoad Ahead! Thomas Peterson, P.E. Executive Director, Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association tompeterson@co-asphalt.com (303) 741-6150 x152 This week-long course held at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University is the premier asphalt training and education course in the United States. The course focuses on asphalt materials and construction and is being held February 27 to March 3, 2023. The joint APWA Colorado Chapter/CAPA Scholarships provide a stipend for travel and lodging and full tuition covered. For more information or to apply, visit co-asphalt.com/apwa-capa-scholarships. CAPA/APWA NCAT Asphalt Technology Scholarships Nominations due by Friday, 12/2 Tom Peterson ECONOMICAL SUSTAINABLE DURABLE We are excited to provide you with the Fall 2025 issue of THE Road Ahead. Much is going on in the asphalt industry of Colorado and the magazine captures a few key highlights within our association, our members, and about asphalt pavements. One very exciting highlight is the hiring of Brandon Brever, P.E., as our Director of Engineering & Technology. A feature on Brandon is included on page #12. I hope you will take the time to read this magazine and get more familiar with how CAPA is working to advance the use and quality of asphalt pavements in Colorado and possibly spark an idea on how we can work together more closely on that mission. With appreciation, Thomas Peterson, P.E. Executive Director Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association tompeterson@co-asphalt.com (303) 229-6710 x 152 2 /The Road Ahead WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM Introduction We are pleased to partner with Colorado Public Works Journal and provide you with the Fall 2022 issue of THE Road Ahead, CAPA’s news magazine. The publication is full of information on our members, our industry and most importantly our product, asphalt pavement materials. CAPA is laser focused on advancing the use and quality of asphalt pavements in Colorado. We hope this publication sparks an idea, a conversation or a follow-up action that supports you in achieving this mission. Let us know how we can help in that lofty endeavor! Welcome to THERoad Ahead! Thomas Peterson, P.E. Executive Director, Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association tompeterson@co-asphalt.com (303) 741-6150 x152 This week-long course held at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University is the premier asphalt training and education course in the United States. The course focuses on asphalt materials and construction and is being held February 27 to March 3, 2023. The joint APWA Colorado Chapter/CAPA Scholarships provide a stipend for travel and lodging and full tuition covered. For more information or to apply, visit co-asphalt.com/apwa-capa-scholarships. CAPA/APWA NCAT Asphalt Technology Scholarships Nominations due by Friday, 12/2 Tom Peterson ECONOMICAL SUSTAINABLE DURABLE WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM CAPA/APWA Partner for Asphalt Technology Scholarships Nominations Due by December 4, 2025 Welcome to Road Ahead! Tom Peterson The Colorado Chapter of the American Public Works Association and the Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association (CAPA) jointly offer a scholarship program to expand on the asphalt education opportunities for persons involved in the design, construction, quality control and production of asphalt pavement materials or in the management, supervision, or direction of capital and maintenance asphalt projects. The scholarships are available to personnel employed by public work agencies in Colorado, contractors, and consultants. The training opportunity is the “Short Course in Asphalt Technology” taught at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama. The course will be held March 2nd through 6th, 2026 Applications are available from the CAPA website at www.co-asphalt.com. Over 120 industry practitioners have attended the program through the APWA/CAPA Scholarship. Applications are due by December 4, 2025. For more information, contact Tom Clayton tomclayton@co-asphalt.com
FALL/WINTER 2025┃23 WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM Get ready to ignite your career at the 53rd Annual Rocky Mountain Asphalt Conference & Equipment Show (RMACES)! INDUSTRY NEWS This isn’t just another industry conference—it’s the premier gathering for the asphalt industry’s most influential minds and decision-makers. Join us on February 12 and 13, 2026, at the Marriott Denver Tech Center for an action-packed, high-octane experience that will shape the future of our region’s infrastructure. A KEYNOTE THAT WILL MOVE YOU - Prepare for an unforgettable opening keynote session on February 12, 2026. Hear the gripping, first-hand account from Col. Mark Tillman (Ret.), the former pilot of Air Force One during the terrifying events of September 11, 2001. His powerful story of leadership and perseverance will set an invigorating tone for the entire event. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? The RMACES brings together the key players who pave the future of our communities. This event is a must-attend for: Engineers and project managers, Field crews and construction leaders, DOT personnel, anyone seeking to expand their knowledge and gain an edge in the asphalt industry. UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL - Beyond the thrilling keynote, you’ll find two days packed with game-changing opportunities: •Next-level learning: Dive into technical sessions and workshops that deliver cutting-edge information and insights from the industry’s most experienced experts. •Dynamic networking: Build invaluable relationships and collaborate with the best in the business during structured opportunities. •Expanded trade show: Explore an enhanced Equipment Show and a trade show featuring up to 80 vendors showcasing the latest paving technology and innovations. NEW FOR 2026: THE ULTIMATE WARM-UP - Arriving early? Kick off the conference with our new soft opening on Wednesday evening. This social gathering in the trade show area will feature food, drinks, games, and unmatched networking opportunities to get you connected before the main event. THE ROAD STARTS HERE The asphalt industry builds and maintains the roads that connect our communities. Join us in supporting this vital work. Don’t just attend—be a part of the Rocky Mountain Asphalt Conference experience! Register today and secure your spot! To register, sponsor, or exhibit, visit www.rmaces.org.
24┃ Colorado Public Works Journal 4┃ The Road Ahead WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM PAVING AROUND THE STATE
FALL/WINTER 2025┃25 FALL 2025┃5 WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM PAVING AROUND THE STATE
WWW.CO-ASPHALT.COM 6┃ The Road Ahead Restore Our Roads Funding Colorado’s Highway System Problems: Colorado’s roads and bridges are crumbling, congested, and underfunded. Despite record transportation tax revenues and new fees on drivers, our roads remain unsafe and neglected. The problems with Colorado’s transportation system come down to three areas: quality, capacity, and funding. Problem 1 – Quality Roads and bridges that are deteriorated, congested, or lack safety features cost Colorado motorists a total of $11.4 billion statewide annually – as much as $3,060 per driver in some areas – due to higher vehicle operating costs, traffic crashes and congestion-related delays, flat tires and vehicle wear and tear. Problem 2 – Capacity Colorado’s road conditions are struggling to keep up with the state’s population growth and the resulting increase in traffic. With population increase projections, more vehicle travel, congestion and vehicle accidents are expected. Vehicle miles traveled are above pre-pandemic levels. Trying to force Coloradans into mass transit by prioritizing funding for these projects is not working and is unrealistic. Problem 3 – Funding Continued lack of adequate investment in roads, bridges, and highway infrastructure at a time when there is a $350-millionper-year funding shortfall jeopardizes the safety of our citizens and impedes our state’s economic progress and competitiveness. Deferred maintenance, repairs and expansion of Colorado’s roads, bridges and highways have created an unsustainable financial, time, and safety burden on Colorado commuters and industries that rely on effective transportation infrastructure to sustain the state’s economy. Funding our roads and highways must be a top priority, even while our state faces budget constraints. The issue impacts nearly every person and every business in the state. We cannot mass transit our way out of this hole. The state’s backbone is made of roads, bridges, and highways. To learn more, visit www.restoreourroads.com
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