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
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Gathering community input for a 2025 action plan, focusing on:
- Composting initiatives
- Reducing chemical use in parks
- Implementing permeable surfaces
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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)
Upcoming 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
Join us for a community potluck and help 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're recognizing current and future leaders in environmental stewardship. Nominate deserving individuals or organizations in these categories:
- Greenest Business
- Greenest Restaurant
- Greenest Lodging
- Greenest Individual
- Greenest Group
- Greenest MSHS (or home schooled) Student
- Greenest Teacher/Educator
- Greenest City Project/Policy
- Top Pollinator Protection Volunteer