There’s a lot of fanfare around grant awards, but what happens after the ceremonial checks are presented and the reporters have published their articles? Our partners get down to business.
For over 30 years, GOCO has improved Colorado’s great outdoors with the help of Colorado Lottery proceeds. To date, we’ve invested more than $1.4 billion in 5,800 projects to improve the lives of Coloradans across the state.
After projects are awarded funding, grant recipients usually have about two years to make their projects happen.
Recently, four projects wrapped up, representing $3,700,838 in GOCO investments in local communities across the state. Scroll to see if one’s near you:
Establishing a Colorado Forest Collaboratives Network
$89,326 grant to Colorado State University
Colorado State University used a Planning and Capacity grant to establish the Colorado Forest Collaboratives Network through its Center for Collaborative Conservation. The network brings together over 50 community-based collaboratives to support forests and watersheds; address climate change, wildfires, and other disturbances; advocate for local, state, and federal forest management policies; and develop community-informed projects connected to regional initiatives. The model supports collective impact by enhancing communication, coordination, and capacity among its members
Learn more about the project
Huck Finn Bike Park
$123,512 grant to Lake County
Lake County, in partnership with Cloud City Wheelers, used a Community Impact grant to renovate Huck Finn Park in Leadville. Funding supported the construction of the highest paved pumptrack in the world, attracting intermediate and advanced riders, while still welcoming beginners and users of all wheeled sports. The centrally located park is a multi-use facility also featuring an asphalt pump track, progressive skill features, jumps, and shaded seating areas to support riders and family gatherings.
Learn more about the project
Livermore Priority Conservation Area
$2,500,000 grant to Larimer County
Larimer County used a Land Acquisition grant to permanently protect three ranches totaling 4,897 acres with conservation easements. Located in the County's Livermore Priority Conservation Area, the ranches were among the largest unprotected properties remaining in this part of northern Larimer County. The landscape features rich wildlife habitat, water resources, scenic views, and agriculture. The ranches also connect to over 100,000 acres of conserved lands.
Read more about the project
Willow Bend Park, Trail, and Natural Area
$988,000 grant to City of Loveland
The City of Loveland used a Community Impact grant to develop its first inclusive neighborhood park for individuals with disabilities. Located in the southeast part of the city, the 79-acre park features a shaded, universally accessible playground, sports courts, a multi-use field, picnic patio, hammock grove, water play area, fishing pier, and restrooms. The park also includes 10 acres of open space featuring wildlife habitat, space for nature play, and access to the regional East Big Thompson Trail.
Read a local press release about the project