Professor Ted Shin added a new project to his Industrial Design Studio class; a competition with cash prizes. The class was divided into seven teams for the competition. The goal was to create an updated, more functional rain barrel. On March 15th, the teams presented their design to a panel of judges that consisted of working professionals from Denver Water, Denver Botanic Gardens and the Brendle Group. Tom Cech played a vital role in developing the project, and the OWOW Center had the honor of sponsoring the event. Two news channels covered the event. Channel 9 News even interviewed the winners, Wendy Hughes and Ezra Depree. See the Channel 9 News Coverage.

Peter Stitcher of Ascent Fly Fishing knows that there is no such thing as a "lucky fly that will produce every trip to the river". However, if you P.A.U.S.E. - mother nature can be your guide to a rewarding day at the river.

Parking Lot: As you step out of your car, be sure to take note of the bugs that collided with your windshield and grill. The  wings of mayflies and grasshopper legs will be a strong clue for what flies to use that day.

Above the Water: Swallows flying over the water, swarms of invertebrates over the water and streamside vegetation are signs that you should use your dry flies.

Under the Water: Observe the surface of a rock that you pull from the curren t. 

Pick a fly that mimics the color and size of the bugs on the rock.

Spider Webs: Locate spider webs along the river and "match the Hatch". Find a fly that resembles what the spider has caught.

Eddies: The swirling and reverse currents attract the most active bugs in an on the water. Check your fly box for the closest resemblance.

"For the fly fisher who takes a moment to PAUSE and observe, the rewards will be immediate, the fish will be more frequent, and the experience on the water will be that much richer!"-Peter Stitcher. To read  the full article Click Here .