Our Programs

Blue Elements Collective connects water organizations and initiatives to further water sustainability in Colorado. We collaborate with non-profit and government organizations across the state and the impact of our projects and programs impact each of the state’s 8 watersheds.

AmeriCorps Watershed Stewards

In 2024, seven diverse and emerging water leaders gained professional opportunities and connections as they expanded the capacity of rural water organizations. Blue Elements Watershed Stewards:

  • Provided 5,000+ hours of community service

  • Participated in 100 hours of training

  • Completed 10 watershed stewardship projects including stream restoration, water testing, water education, and fisheries initiatives

  • Increased the capacity of 9 capacity limited, water focused non-profits and government entities &

  • Engaged 250+ community members in water education and citizen science projects.

Water Testing

In partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and local water distributers, Blue Elements has completed more than 100 water tests to better understand water quality and potential sources environmental contamination. The organizations focuses on testing groundwater, surface-water, wastewater, and drinking water for the following contaminants.

  • Polyfluoroalkyl substances (AKA forever chemicals, AKA microplastics, AKA PFAS): PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that are used in many products and industrial processes that resist grease, oil, water, and heat. Firefighting foam and landfills are often sources of PFAS contamination.

  • Heavy Metals: Heavy metals can sometimes end up in waterways due to mining activity, industrial agriculture operations, urban runoff, and from other sources. High levels of certain heavy metals can be toxic for aquatic life, as well as other animals (including humans) that may interact or drink from that water source.

Community Engagement

Blue Elements Collective believes that community participation essential to achieve an equitable and sustainable water future. Our programs:

  • Engage youth and adults in hands-on water education, we lead volunteers in watershed restoration with erosion control projects, trash clean-ups, and habitat enhancement projects.

  • We partner with private residents, schools, municipalities, and public water distributers to conduct water tests and;

  • We lead high school students in River Watch Programming!

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