Ritter to Host Drought and Climate Change Conference

Gov. Bill Ritter announced today he will be hosting a 2½-day conference that will examine proactive measures to manage the effects of drought and climate change in Colorado.

Sponsored by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB), the Governor’s Conference on Managing Drought and Climate Risk will address drought risk, impacts and preparedness. It will be held Oct. 8-10 at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Denver.


“Colorado is fortunate to enjoy abundant natural resources, and as a headwater state in a semi-arid environment we constantly face critical water-resource challenges,” Ritter said. “The issues of drought and climate risk are becoming increasingly important. It is imperative that we develop a thorough scientific understanding of climate risk and its potential effects and impacts.

“This conference will help water providers, manager and planners from the public and private sectors prepare for the effects of drought and climate change by sharing the latest research, lessons and best practices.”

The governor will be on hand to help open the conference at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 8.

In addition to drought risk and impacts, experts will address drought early warning, preparedness and mitigation planning, proactive adaptation measures and needed improvements for managing the impacts of climate change.

Colorado’s comprehensive State Drought Plan will also be discussed, said Veva Deheza, section chief of the CWCB’s Office of Conservation and Drought Planning.