by Carol Dunn
At its board meeting on Feb. 19, the Upper Huerfano Conservation District approved eight on-the-ground conservation projects for 50/50 cost-share in 2009. According to Don Sanchez, conservation district technician, the projects include two solar panels for pumps, a 250-foot windbreak, three irrigation structures and two erosion control dams. The allocated cost-share to date is approximately $16,000. The Conservation District is encouraging landowners to apply for funding for smaller projects, as there is still money left for 2009. Since funding comes from a grant, any cost-share money not spent by the end of summer would need to be returned to the State. For more information, contact Jennifer Vargas at (719) 738-1171.