Looking Back at 2023
Growing Together at the Teaching Vegetable Garden
Many of you took advantage of the wide array of vegetable gardening programs offered at Brunner Farmhouse this year. The “Vegetable Garden Basics” class, including many first time gardeners, planned and maintained their own bed from start to finish. “Family Learn and Grow” was offered in English and Spanish, where kids and caregivers strengthened connections, learned about plant and soil science, and turned harvests into creative take-home treats. Get ready for the return of these programs and more in Spring 2024!
Specialized Support from Colorado Master Gardeners
At the beginning of 2023, the Broomfield and Adams County Colorado Master Gardener programs joined forces. This means more flexible options for you to take advantage of Master Gardener services, and shared expertise and programming in both counties. Did you know that Broomfield has a free Seed Library and seed saving workshops? Or that Adams County has a team of rose experts who can help you with all of your rose questions and needs? Both counties are stronger together and proud of this new partnership!
New Ways to Get Involved
Are you thirsty for more information on water-wise plants? In addition to guided garden tours, this year brought new opportunities for residents to volunteer at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden. Work alongside Colorado Master Gardeners to learn about your favorite low-water plants and research-based garden practices that work for Colorado. Find more information in the Broomfield Xeriscape Demonstration Garden Volunteer position description and apply by emailing Annie Costakis at CSUExtension@Broomfield.org.
Celebrating CSU Spur
Two years ago, the first CSU Spur building (Vida) opened, followed by the Terra building, and a year ago, the third and final building (Hydro) opened. On January 5, the CSU Spur anniversary party will be filled with special hands-on programs. Decorate desserts, enjoy a photo booth, and even pick up your own Spur bolo tie! As always, you can also observe on-site activities like veterinarians in surgery with pets, scientists working in labs and horses conditioning on treadmills. This event is free and open to the public!
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Landscaping with Colorado Native Plants
What’s the buzz about native plants? Find out at the ninth annual Landscaping with Colorado Native Plants Conference on Saturday, Feb. 24 in Boulder. After a few years online, the group looks forward to welcoming everyone back in person at the 2024 conference.
Experts in horticulture, ecology, and landscape design will share how to plan, plant, and maintain beautiful and biodiverse native landscapes from the ground up. This year’s conference offers inspiration and insight to both novice and experienced gardeners.
Register Now!
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Canine Respiratory Disease
The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has received calls over the past few months from practicing veterinarians reporting an elevated number of canine respiratory disease cases in the state.
What can dog owners do to minimize risk?
- Dogs should be up to date on vaccinations for canine influenza, bordetella and parainfluenza.
- Keep your dogs away from other dogs with unknown vaccination history or clinical signs. In general, avoid congregating with other dogs, sharing water bowls and toys.
- Keep a close eye on your dog(s) and contact your veterinarian when your dog first shows signs of respiratory disease.
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Educator Resources Website
Are you an educator in Broomfield? Check out the new website for Educator Resources, curated by Library, Arts, History and CSU Extension staff at the City and County of Broomfield. It is a one-stop-shop for educators to find grant opportunities and learn about field trip offerings to the Library, Depot Museum and the Veteran’s Museum.
Sign up for the free quarterly education E-newsletters and stay up to date with all of the programs and resources offered to teachers, schools, and students.
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Webinar: Best of CSU Annuals and Perennials
Wednesday, Jan. 10
12 p.m.
Free, but must register
Join Dr. Chad Miller, CSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, for a look at the latest CSU Flower Trial winners. Remember, you can find recordings of previous horticulture classes on the CO-Horts Blog website.
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National Western Stock Show
Jan. 6-21
Ticket Information
From rodeos and horse shows to family-friendly activities and more, the Stock Show offers something for everyone. All ticketed events include free parking and grounds admission. So make a day of it and explore the grounds - you never know what you'll see and discover! While you're there, check out the new Colorado State University Spur Campus.
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Closures
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Jan. 1 - Broomfield CSU Extension office closed for New Year's holiday
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Jan. 15-19 - the Broomfield Library, CSU Extension office and Auditorium will be closed for staff training. Library, Extension, and Arts & History staff will be working on projects that cannot be done while patrons are in the building. The Library, Auditorium, and Depot Museum will reopen on Saturday, Jan. 20.
Broomfield CSU Extension's regular office hours are 9 a.m. to
1 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
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Learn About Pet Care
CSU 4-H Specialist Marlena Griesse developed this Veterinary 101 handout for a school enrichment program, but there are great tips for the whole family. Learn about preventive health care, when to call the vet, explaining your pet's symptoms, and much more. And, of course, the information has been "vetted" by experts!
Find other STEM resources on the Broomfield CSU Extension website.
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Cottage Food Safety Training
Offered by Colorado State University Extension, this nationally-recognized training program covers the specifics of the Colorado Cottage Food Act and how to safely operate a food business from a home kitchen. The $50 online class is next offered on these dates:
Friday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m.
Friday, Feb. 23, 9 a.m.
Tuesday, March 12, 5 p.m.
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Resolutions, Anyone?
If you've made health-related resolutions for the new year, Colorado State University has science-based resources to help. Visit FoodSmart Colorado for healthy eating and physical activity guides.
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Statewide Plastic Bag Ban
Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, the Plastic Pollution Reduction Act will ban plastic bags statewide. Stores may only give out recycled paper bags for a fee. Restaurants and food prep businesses will no longer be allowed to use polystyrene (Styrofoam™) to serve food or beverages. Avoid fees and help reduce waste by bringing your reusable bags to your favorite Broomfield stores and restaurants. Stop by the Broomfield Health and Human Services Building or the George Di Ciero City and County Building to pick up a free Broomfield reusable bag (limit two)! Learn more about the ban at Broomfield.org/PlasticPollutionReductionAct.
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Boards and Commissions
Looking for a New Year’s Resolution that will make a difference in your community? Try serving on a board or commission with the City and County of Broomfield!
Boards and Commission members are Broomfield residents who provide their unique perspectives and input on projects impacting the future of our community. By serving on a board or commission you can help create a diverse, equitable and inclusive representation of Broomfield. Apply by Jan. 31 at 5 p.m. at Broomfield.org/BandC.
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Share Your Story!
Discover the power of your voice and creativity with Broomfield Out Loud, a community storytelling project in which stories from Broomfielders, like you, are brought to life through performances and exhibits. Have a story that you’d like to share? Contribute your unique story today by filling out this form.
Learn more about the Broomfield Out Loud project at Broomfield.org/BroomfieldOutLoud
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Update your subscription to stay updated on what's happening in the City and County of Broomfield.
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Extension programs are available to all without discrimination. Colorado State University Extension,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Colorado counties cooperating.
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