If you are like me, you still have vivid memories of that intense cold snap a couple of weeks ago.

And if you’ve taken a glance over at the Yampa River lately, you’ll notice it is completely covered with snow and ice in many places. But this is exactly the time to start thinking about the warm summer months and securing funding if you are contemplating a stream restoration project or infrastructure improvement project this year.

Beginning Feb. 17, you will be able to apply for a grant from the Yampa River Fund using our grant portal website through the Yampa Valley Community Foundation. This year, we are excited to share that we have more funds to distribute than in any of the previous five years of grant awards!

The River Fund plans to provide grant funds of nearly $280,000 to local organizations that are working on protecting the water supply, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities provided to us by the river. Projects that address these issues are critical to enhancing water security for communities, agriculture, the economy and the natural environment in the Yampa Valley.

Grants from the River Fund may be used for three types of projects: water leases from reservoirs, stream restoration activities and infrastructure improvements. Eligible applicants include state and local government entities, public districts and irrigation entities, mutual ditch companies, homeowners’ associations and nonprofits.

Private landowners with project ideas should partner with one of these entities. The application period closes on April 1.

As with last year, applicants are asked to conduct a 15-minute consultation with the Yampa River Fund manager (me) to ensure they are eligible for funding and on the right track with their application.

This is an opportunity to ensure that you have a competitive project idea and to save you time and effort as you complete the application process. Reach out early and let’s talk about what project idea you have in mind and how it might fit within the goals of the Yampa River Fund.

For more information about the Yampa River Fund and to submit an application, visit YampaRiverFund.org.

Mike Robertson is the Yampa River Fund manager and can be reached at mike@friendsoftheyampa.com.