Lawmakers Approve $67M for Water Programs

Colorado’s 2025 legislative session closed with a bipartisan push for water reform as lawmakers approved $67 million in funding for state water programs.

To supplement the funds, legislators eliminated a tax break for sports betting companies, adding a projected $12 million annually to the water plan.

Several other bills were passed addressing long-term water scarcity and preservation, including stricter rules on nonfunctional turf, funds to improve snowpack-based water supply forecasting, and a streamlined permitting process for abandoned mine cleanup.

A new task force will also explore alternatives to severance taxes for future water project funding as the state shifts away from fossil fuels.

Miller Moth Season Underway

Countless miller moths have begun their annual migration from Colorado’s Eastern Plains to the Rocky Mountains.

As the moths fly westward, many will stop in the Denver metro area, which entomologists liken to a seasonal hotel for the species. Peak activity is expected between mid-May and early June.

Though often considered a nuisance, experts say the moths are harmless—they don’t bite, eat clothes, or lay eggs indoors. They’re also vital to the ecosystem, serving as pollinators of crops and a key food source for birds, bats, and bears.

Experts urge residents not to swat the moths. Instead, they recommend turning porch lights off early in the evening to avoid attracting the insects.

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➤ Ever heard of lamb-scaping? A solar farm in LaSalle is using a local flock of sheep to trim vegetation and cut maintenance costs. (Read Story)

➤ No Name tops the list as the funniest town name in Colorado, according to a roundup of quirky placenames from every state. (See List)

➤ Take a look inside the Flora House, a former Victorian mansion and current award-winning bed and breakfast where every room is named after a different flower. (See Photos)

➤ Territory Days kicked off its 50th annual festival in Old Colorado City on Saturday. The three-day festival features period costume dancers, panning for gold, mechanical bulls, and live birds of prey. (See Details)

➤ Central City Opera is gearing up for its 2025 festival, featuring The Barber of Seville, The Knock, and Once Upon a Mattress. (See Details)

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How do you feel about miller moths?

1. Harmless and cute
2. OK outside
3. Too creepy
4. No opinion

Friday’s Results:

What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend?

1. Relaxing: 31%
2. Other: 21%
3. BBQ: 17%
4. Travel: 16%
5. Parades/ceremonies: 15%

What is Colorado’s official state summer heritage sport?

Show me the answer