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)
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