Here are some of the most valued benefits participants report after completing the program. There are many more!

• Deepened understanding of land and water conservation, grounded in place and stories
• Insight into the value of private land conservation and conservation easements as a tool
• Learning the significance and complexity of conservation and its relation to other systems
• Ability to explore diverse landscapes across the state with a lens on wildlife, agriculture, water, recreation, education, and scenic viewsheds
• Hearing and learning directly from landowners who have conserved their property and what it means to them personally
• Seeing Colorado in all its diversity – perspectives, landscapes, and cultures that make it vibrant
• Connecting and networking with professionals from differing backgrounds who are all passionate about conservation
• Time and space to connect reflections and learnings to own experiences and perspectives
• Opportunity to visit private properties otherwise not accessible to the public

Participation Commitment: Your commitment will help you feel engaged with the program and your peers and ensure that the cohort experiences a sense of community and collaboration. We expect a commitment to a minimum of 7 of 9 scheduled events. Because participants have been chosen from a robust group of applicants, it’s important that all the ‘seats’ in the program are fully used. The first event is required, as it lays the foundation for many conversations throughout the year. Please cross-check your personal and professional schedules with the calendar of events. As some events are scheduled during regular work hours, we encourage you to speak with your employer to integrate this program as a professional development opportunity. Please see the FAQ prompt about what you will gain by participating in this program. We are happy to provide additional materials for your employer, if needed.

Engagement: You’ll get the most out of this program if you’re fully present and engaged during events! We encourage asking questions, keeping an open mind, and taking the time to reflect on your learning. Your active engagement not only enhances your own experience but also contributes to a richer learning environment for the cohort.

The Conservation Leadership Series has grown immensely since its inception in 2017. The application process includes an online application and, if selected for further consideration, a brief 20-minute conversation (virtual or in-person) with the program manager prior to being notified of final decisions. Each year, we welcome approximately 20 individuals into the cohort.

Program admission is based on a matrix that maximizes the impact of the program, provides an engaging learning environment for all involved, and encourages program diversity. We look for participants from a variety of geographies, professions, and backgrounds to build a cohort that is representative of all people and parts of our state. We desire to reach a wide audience with this program, so we may not accept more than one person from the same employer in a given year or in consecutive years.

Applications are digital and found on our website during the time applications are accepted at coloradoopenlands.org/conservation-leadership-series/.

Applications collect typical applicant information (contact information) and motivation for applying (two 200-word text responses) and require one letter of recommendation.

The letter of recommendation should be from an individual who can speak to your character, commitment, desire to learn, and willingness to reflect on and integrate new learning. Possible recommenders include a direct supervisor, a current or former colleague, or a professor.

Program Information Available | By January 26

Applications Accepted | January 28 (8:00 a.m. MST) – February 17 (12:00 p.m. MST)

Applicant Conversations (if selected for further consideration) | February 26 – March 10

Cohort Finalized | By March 27

The Conservation Leadership Series is made possible through the support of generous donors and foundations who value the goals of this program. The cost associated with the program is $150 per participant joining the Gunnison Overnight to help offset the hotel stay in Gunnison. Payment is due the month prior to the date of the event (i.e. June). Scholarships may be available for participants in need of support.

For some land tours and excursions outside of the Denver Metro Area, we offer limited carpool seats from the COL office in Lakewood. Carpool seats are first come, first served. We highly encourage carpooling from other locations as well and hope you meet peers from your area with whom you feel comfortable carpooling! A group message is created to support coordination of carpooling.

COL is committed to making our outreach and education programs accessible. If you require an accommodation or modification for this program, please contact Yvonne Schramm. We are happy to share event logistics in advance and discuss available accommodations as part of our commitment to making the program as accessible as possible.