CSU Extension Gilpin County

06/03/2026

REPORT: Pine beetle destruction expands dramatically on Front Range

"Aerial survey data from the USDA Forest Service and CSFS show that mountain pine beetles are spreading in ponderosa pine forests on the Front Range. These forests contain highly populated, high wildfire risk areas with many trees susceptible to this native insect. Mountain pine beetles impacted 5,544 acres of pine forests in a nine-county area of the Front Range in 2025, compared to 2,236 acres across this same area in 2024 – a 148% increase."

“What we’re seeing with mountain pine beetles along the Front Range isn’t cause for panic, but it is a reminder to stay vigilant and get to work,” said Matt McCombs, state forester and director of the Colorado State Forest Service. “Using good science and strong partnerships, we can build forests and communities that are more resilient in the long run.”

Colorado’s top forest health concern is a mountain pine beetle outbreak on the Front Range that has expanded by nearly 150% from 2024 to 2025, according to a Colorado State Forest Service report.

06/02/2026

Join us for a FREE workshop that explores water – our most valuable resource. We will discuss the current drought status in Colorado, the impact on Gilpin County, and the county’s ongoing response. We will also discuss residential conservation practices to reduce indoor and outdoor water use, as well as rainwater collection laws and practical applications for mountain communities.

Presented by Extension Director Jennifer Cook and Master Gardener volunteers.

When: Saturday, June 13, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am
Where: Gilpin County Exhibit Barn, 230 Norton Drive, Black Hawk

REGISTER NOW TO RESERVE A SPOT: https://col.st/dp5k3

05/29/2026

The Gilpin County Community Garden has plots available for the 2026 season!

Details: three (3) in-ground plots (12.5 ft by 4 ft), $5 fee (yes just $5!), water/fertilizer/amazing view provided; gardeners provide seeds/plants and green thumb.

If you are interested in joining us, please contact [email protected], 303-582-9106.

05/28/2026

FRIDAY!

Join us for a FREE workshop that explores various composting systems appropriate for the mountains. We will discuss construction and maintenance of a successful compost setup and how to avoid problems with wildlife. To apply the principles discussed, attendees will participate in hands-on demonstrations of indoor vermicomposting (composting with worms) as well as maintenance of an outdoor compost pile.

Presented by Extension Director Jennifer Cook and Master Gardener volunteers Nancy and Jane. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather as a portion of the workshop will be held outdoors.

When: Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Where: Gilpin Exhibit Barn, 230 Norton Drive, Black Hawk

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUESTED: https://col.st/dp5k3

05/27/2026

Are you interested in gardening in Colorado? Maybe you're new to our unique climate and landscape and not sure where to start? Or you're a seasoned gardener but tackling a specific issue or project this year?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, Plant Talk Colorado is a great resource for you. There you can find research based gardening information for the diverse Colorado climate. From informational pages to videos and webinars, they've truly got it all (incluyendo contenido en español).

Check it out!

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), detected in Boulder, Westminster and Larimer county, is a nonnative insect with no natural enemies to keep it in check.

05/25/2026

The office will be closed today, Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.

05/24/2026

Gilpin Master Gardener volunteers Roxann and Nancy are hanging out at the Nederland Farmers Market today (Saturday, May 24) until 2 pm. Stop by and say hi!

05/24/2026

Gilpin County Master Gardener volunteers Nancy, Amy, Sandy, and Christy had a blast today assisting customers in the greenhouse at Indian Peaks Ace Hardware in Nederland.

Gilpin Master Gardeners will be back at ACE on Saturday, May 30, from 10 am to 1 pm. Stop by to chat all things plants!

05/21/2026

REMINDER!

Join us for a FREE workshop that explores various composting systems appropriate for the mountains. We will discuss construction and maintenance of a successful compost setup and how to avoid problems with wildlife. To apply the principles discussed, attendees will participate in hands-on demonstrations of indoor vermicomposting (composting with worms) as well as maintenance of an outdoor compost pile.
Presented by Extension Director Jennifer Cook and Master Gardener volunteers Nancy and Jane. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather as a portion of the workshop will be held outdoors.

When: Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Where: Gilpin Exhibit Barn, 230 Norton Drive, Black Hawk

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUESTED: https://col.st/dp5k3

05/13/2026

Join us for a FREE workshop that explores various composting systems appropriate for the mountains. We will discuss construction and maintenance of a successful compost setup and how to avoid problems with wildlife. To apply the principles discussed, attendees will participate in hands-on demonstrations of indoor vermicomposting (composting with worms) as well as maintenance of an outdoor compost pile.

Presented by Extension Director Jennifer Cook and Master Gardener volunteers Nancy and Jane. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather as a portion of the workshop will be held outdoors.

When: Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Where: Gilpin Exhibit Barn, 230 Norton Drive, Black Hawk

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUESTED: https://col.st/dp5k3