About CAWG

The Climate Action Working Group (CAWG) aims to create, promote, and support climate-related initiatives in Manitou Springs and the surrounding region.

We are an independent environmental group working collaboratively with the City of Manitou Springs, our residents, and our regional partners.

Our goal is to increase community engagement and raise citizen awareness around environmental issues and challenges like watershed, tree canopy, fire mitigation, food security, and more.

Current Initiatives

  • Hosting a Climate Action Expo with a potluck and awards ceremony
  • Gathering community input for a 2025 action plan, focusing on:
    • Composting initiatives
    • Reducing chemical use in parks
    • Implementing permeable surfaces
  • Raising awareness on environmental issues such as:
    • Watershed management
    • Tree canopy preservation
    • Fire mitigation strategies
    • Food security initiatives

Past Actions

  • Organized tree plantings in 2019 and 2020
  • Led community action to protect trees
  • Supported the TreeCity USA program
  • Reviewed and revised city code for environmental friendliness
  • Held 2019 Environmental Expo Potluck & Awards Ceremony
  • Instrumental in hiring a sustainability coordinator
  • Helped achieve Pollinator District status for Manitou Springs
  • Influenced sustainable landscaping around Hiawatha Gardens
  • Helped formulate Manitou Springs Resolution 1919 (passed by City Council in 2019)

Past Event: Climate Action Expo

Date: November 16th, 2024

Time: 5 PM to 8 PM

Location: Manitou Springs City Hall (Memorial Hall)

Cost: FREE for all ages

Thank you for joining us for a community potluck and helping shape our environmental priorities!

Event Highlights:

  • Keynote speaker: Barak Ben-Amots
  • Community input opportunities
  • Information tables from local groups
  • "Greeni" Awards ceremony
  • Potluck dinner

"Greeni" Awards

We recognized current and future leaders in environmental stewardship. Here are the winners for each category:

Greenest Educator

Miles Groth

Greenest Individual

Joan Stang, Tina Riesterer

Greenest Business

E-Bike Sales & Rentals

Greenest Group

Manitou Springs Garden Club

Greenest City Project

Mansions Park Community Garden

Top Pollinator Protection

Ruth Markwardt & Flying Pig Farm

Greenest Restaurant

Adam's Mountain Cafe

Greenest Lodging

The Buffalo Lodge

Get Involved

We're always looking for passionate community members to join our efforts. Whether you have expertise in environmental science, simply care about our planet, or want to make Manitou Springs more sustainable, there's a place for you in CAWG.

Ways to participate:

  • Attend our regular meetings
  • Volunteer for community events and initiatives
  • Share your ideas for climate action in Manitou Springs
  • Follow us on social media and help spread the word
Contact Us To Join