Frequently Asked Questions

Country dirt road and sheep grazing in a field

Your Questions, Answered

Learn more about the Headwaters of the Colorado Initiative, our mission, and how you can get involved. Below are answers to common questions about our work, goals, and collaborative efforts.

  • HOC is a collaborative, science-based effort dedicated to restoring and preserving the forested and rangeland headwaters of the Upper Colorado River Basin. Our mission is to create resilient ecosystems, support local communities, and improve water quality and supply across nearly 2 million acres in Wyoming and Colorado.

  • HOC focuses on the Elk, Elkhead, and Little Snake River watersheds, which are tributaries to the Upper Yampa River in Colorado and Wyoming. The area includes the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest and spans 1.9 million acres.

  • HOC brings together counties, private landowners, conservation districts, research institutions, NGOs, Tribes, businesses, and state and federal land and water managers to address cross-boundary issues through partnerships, funding, and education.

  • HOC tackles ecological and social stressors such as reduced snowpack, hydrology shifts, wildfire risks, forest health decline, and diverse demands on water and land resources. These challenges threaten the resilience of local communities, ecosystems, and economies.

  • HOC focuses on enhancing headwater resources through science-based restoration, scaling up forest and rangeland management, and integrating biodiversity conservation with forest productivity. This work helps improve water quality, sequester carbon, and reduce wildfire risks.

  • The headwaters of the Colorado River Basin are critical for sustaining downstream agricultural, recreational, and environmental needs. Restoring and managing these watersheds ensures high-quality water supply and strengthens ecosystem connectivity.

  • HOC organizes regular events and meetings, including monthly Steering Committee Meetings on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Meetings may be held in-person or via Zoom, and details are shared through our calendar.

  • You can contact us directly to learn more about partnership opportunities, funding initiatives, or upcoming events. Visit our Contact page for more details.