Cassie Knust

Our region’s local Audubon society recently wrapped a timeless Christmas tradition…bird counting. Bird counters across the country started the annual tradition on December 14 and have until January 5 to tally their local birds.

As of Monday, Colorado has 17 new laws, most from the recent legislative session. Across the Western region, the winter has kicked off with below-average snowfall, raising concerns about a "snow drought." In Hotchkiss, trustees recently greenlit an ordinance overhaul, notably targeting pet ownership rules. Our region’s local Audubon society recently wrapped a timeless Christmas tradition…bird counting. Last month, the Colorado River Drought Task Force submitted a list of recommendations to the general assembly for consideration. Denver saw more migrant arrivals from the US-Mexico border last year, per capita than any other US city. Candidates react to Republican Lauren Boebert of Silt's announcement that she is switching districts.

Republicans and Democrats in Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District have been reacting to Representative Lauren Boebert’s announcement that she will run in Colorado’s 4th Congressional District in next year’s election. As previously reported by KVNF News, Unify Montrose initiated a community-driven project earlier this year to tackle Montrose's childcare crisis. On today's Farm Friday, ag producers are navigating the winter season and anticipating the coming spring. KVNF’s Lisa Young reminds listeners about several conferences in our region focusing on agriculture and food.

Republican U.S. Representative Lauren Boebert of Silt will not be running for re-election in Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District. Instead, she’ll be running in the fourth, a more staunchly Republican district.

A recent state education assessment of the Delta County School District's special services revealed 100% compliance, but student test scores highlight areas needing attention. Ouray recently signed a historic agreement with the City, the Ouray Ice Park and the Ouray Hydroelectric Power Plant. Delta Health was recently awarded a Rural Provider Grant for healthcare system upgrades at the hospital located in Delta. One in ten Americans report facing three or more chronic health conditions.

We’re amidst the season of giving...and in that spirit, today we highlight one of KVNF's favorite episodes from this past year. Back in May, KVNF's Cassie Knust and Taya Jae teamed up to look into local and regional efforts in fighting food insecurity.

A first-in-the-nation state law goes into effect January 1 that makes it easier for farmers and ranchers to fix their own agriculture equipment. A local sheep ranching family recently agreed to relinquish ten grazing allotments in the San Juans. Delta's District Student Advisory Council is getting ready to present on the risks of opioids and vaping across the district next semester. Legislation approved by Colorado lawmakers in 2023 means that students in grades 6 through 12, can now access a free mental health screening at school. Montrose is not the only school district in Colorado that is changing its approach to students’ mental health.

Hotchkiss recently welcomed Gambles 2.5, a new arcade and vintage ice cream spot on Bridge Street. Veterinarians are still scratching their heads over a mysterious, sometimes fatal respiratory disease afflicting dogs in 15 states, including Colorado. The Delta County Library District is shifting away from cash payments. In his final year as Delta County Commissioner, Don Suppes will be keeping his eye on pressing issues that affect all Colorado Counties this coming year. The Biden administration's final methane rule, which builds on protections and new technologies pioneered in Colorado, promises significant public health benefits.

Winter weather is expected to return over the weekend. A caseworker at Delta County Human Services recently received the "Caseworker of the Year for 2023" award from the State of Colorado. The Fruita City Council greenlit selling the Enoch's Lake property to three nearby landowners. On today’s Farm Friday, KVNF’s Lisa Young speaks with Elizabeth Thomas, Colorado Administrative Specialist for USDA Farm Service Agency.

The Colorado Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that Donald Trump cannot appear on the state’s Republican presidential primary ballot next year. The Cobble Creek community in Montrose organized their annual holiday drive for kids in need. A house fire on Main Street in Delta on Tuesday morning resulted from a failed homemade heating system. Delta County Commissioners recently approved the 2024 budget. This year’s budget tops out at nearly $60 million. Many love the convenience of artificial Christmas trees, which never need water and don't drop their needles. But an increasing number of people are choosing another option.