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Escape from Obesity with Medical Weight Loss from Dr. Erica Oberg
Semaglutide Injection Denver, CO

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Medical Weight Loss in Denver, CO

If you've been paying attention, you'll know that modern Americans are significantly heavier than they were just a few decades ago. Take a stroll through any shopping area or strip mall, and it seems like the majority of people you see are grappling with obesity. Data from the CDC backs this up-over 39% of adults in the United States were deemed obese during 2015-2016, which marks an increase from 33.7% in 2007-2008.

Even more concerning is the rise in severe obesity. The same CDC report reveals that nearly 8% of Americans were severely obese in 2015-2016, up from 5.7% in 2007-2008. Essentially, this means that close to 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. are obese, and about 1 in 13 are severely obese. Sadly, tackling obesity isn't something that can happen overnight. The obesity issue in the U.S. continues to escalate as more adults and children choose the convenience of fast food and sugary options over healthier eating, exercise, and beneficial lifestyle choices.

With pervasive stress and the prevalence of nutritionally deficient fast-food options around every corner, losing weight and keeping it off is challenging in today's day and age. That's especially true if you've tried to diet and exercise in the past, only to have your weight balloon back up after a couple months. When diet and fitness aren't enough, sometimes we need a little help. That's where Dr. Erica Oberg's telehealth GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide medical weight loss program in Denver, CO starts to make a lot of sense.

Affordable GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Medical Weight Loss via Telehealth

In the past, people who wanted to start a medical weight loss journey had to visit a clinic to get started. They had to take valuable time out of their day to drive to the office, wait in line, and eventually see the doctor. Dr. Erica Oberg's approach to medical weight loss makes it more accessible to everyone through a telehealth format. Whether you're a businessperson with little time to spare or a parent with school and sports obligations for your kids, you can achieve your weight loss goals.

However, unlike some medical weight loss clinics, Dr. Oberg combines advanced weight loss medications with holistic treatments and health coaching to provide a custom, comprehensive weight loss program. This crucial difference provides you with powerful tools and ongoing support for long-term weight loss and well-being. No invasive surgeries. No sketchy weight loss pills. No waiting rooms. Only real results that last.

Clients who have completed our 90-day program report benefits like

  • More Self-Confidence
  • Better-Fitting Clothes
  • Lower Blood Pressure
  • Lower Cholesterol
  • More Energy
  • Lower Triglycerides
  • Improved Well-Being

Dr. Oberg recognizes that joining a GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide medical weight loss program in Denver, CO, is a life-changing process. That's why her approach to healthy weight loss involves more than medication. It prioritizes lifestyle changes, nutritional advice, and continuous assistance. That way, you lose weight safely in a caring setting and have the tools and knowledge to keep the weight off and stay healthy for the rest of your life.

Features of Dr. Oberg's Comprehensive Three-Month Hormone Balancing Program

Our medical weight loss program was designed to help you lose weight and keep it off in a safe, effective manner. To accomplish that goal, we combine innovative medicines like GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide with nutrition coaching and healthy living strategies to optimize your health and weight. Our medical weight loss program includes the following:

  • 12-week supply of GLP-1 medication.
  • Coaching App with menus, recipes, tracking, and messaging with the team.
  • Three 30 minute coaching sessions.
  • Telehealth appointment with the doctor every 3 months. If you aren't at your goal yet, Dr. Oberg can renew your prescription and program.
  • 10% discount on additional coaching, IVs, and additional consultations (we strongly recommend Dr. Oberg's weight loss bundle in FullScript)

The Alarming Consequences of Living with Obesity

It seems like every other person we encounter in public is overweight. To the uninformed, it may seem like being overweight is natural and healthy. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. People who are obese are often ridiculed for how they look. However, their issues go beyond social stigmas. They also face an increased risk of serious and potentially life-threatening health problems. Over time, these conditions become harder and harder to overcome, like trying to scale Daniels Fisher in Denver, CO, without climbing gear. Many of these issues are among the top causes of death in the U.S

GLP-1 Medication Denver, CO

Some of the consequences of living with obesity include

  • Cancer
  • Stroke
  • Heart Attack
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Fatty Liver Disease
  • Muscle and Joint Degradation
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Hormonal Imbalance
  • Gallstones
  • Problems Breathing
  • Blood Clots

If you have one or more of the conditions or symptoms above, don't lose hope. It's important to understand that you're not destined to live an unhealthy life. With quality telehealth medical weight loss from an expert like Dr. Erica Oberg, you can regain control of your eating habits without taking the joy out of food or your life.

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide: An Innovative Tool for Effective and Safe Medical Weight Loss

At this point, you're probably curious about GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide weight loss and how the medicine is so effective. To understand its effectiveness, it's important that you first understand how GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide works in your body. GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is a groundbreaking medication offered by Dr. Erica Oberg that represents a major step forward in weight loss treatments. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide mimics the action of the body's natural GLP-1 hormone. This hormone plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and controlling appetite.

By activating the GLP-1 receptors in the brain, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide helps curb hunger and boosts feelings of fullness, leading to a reduction in caloric intake. After you eat on semaglutide, it almost feels like you went to Wildflower in Denver, CO and ate to your heart's content. This weight loss medication also slows down the rate at which the stomach empties, improving blood sugar control. When you use GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, if you attempt to overeat, your body will signal you with a clear message: "That's enough."

At a glance, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide helps you lose weight in a few ways, such as:

Medical Weight Loss Program Denver, CO
cleaned

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide slows down stomach emptying after you're done eating. This process makes it seem like your stomach is full and content – even after you've cleaned the dishes and put away all the food.

Semaglutide Injection Denver, CO
causing

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide lowers your blood sugar levels without causing them to crash.

GLP-1 Medication Denver, CO
cravings

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide causes food cravings to dissipate, which in turn helps you avoid bad foods and snacks with no nutritional value. On average, people taking GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide eat about 30% less food than they would otherwise.

Medical Weight Loss Program Denver, CO

Does a GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Medical Weight Loss Program in Denver, CO Really Work?

One of the most common questions that Dr. Oberg gets about her groundbreaking telehealth medical weight loss program is whether it truly works or not. In short, it absolutely does. In fact, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is widely recognized as an effective, FDA-approved option in the realm of anti-obesity medications. In a study involving 2,000 obese adults, participants who took GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide while adhering to a diet and exercise regimen experienced significantly greater weight loss than those who relied solely on lifestyle adjustments.

Remarkably, half of the participants managed to shed 15% of their body weight, and nearly one-third lost 20%. This highlights GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide's potential as a powerful ally in the battle against obesity. While it's essential to keep in mind that successful obesity management hinges on dietary and exercise changes, access to effective medications like GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide can be an integral part of your weight loss plan.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?

Weight loss results vary by individual, but in clinical studies, people taking GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for weight loss have lost, on average, 10-15% of their body weight over a 6-month to 1-year period. Results may depend on lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity.

Who Should Take GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for Weight Loss?

To put it bluntly, it can be maddening. If that sounds familiar, you're probably anxious to start losing weight. However, not all overweight people are great candidates for medical weight loss with GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide.

Semaglutide Injection Denver, CO

If you're an adult with a BMI that's greater than 30 or a BMI of 27 with one or more obesity-related medical issues, you should qualify for GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide. Some weight-related medical problems that can be rectified with GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide and proper diet include:

  • PressureHigh Blood Pressure
  • CholesterolHigh Cholesterol
  • DiabetesType 2 Diabetes
  • PolycysticPolycystic Ovary Syndrome
  • ChronicChronic Conditions Limiting or Preventing Exercise or Physical Activity

Prior to creating your custom medical weight loss plan, Dr. Oberg will arrange for you to undergo the necessary tests to ensure you're an ideal candidate. If you're unsure whether you qualify for GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide injections, contact Dr. Oberg's office today to learn more.

Who Shouldn't Take GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for Medical Weight Loss?

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is a medication developed to help individuals struggling with obesity manage their weight more effectively. It's specifically intended for those who have been clinically diagnosed as obese and find it challenging to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. Before beginning your GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide medical weight loss program, you should communicate any medical conditions, prescription medications, supplements, and allergies to Dr. Oberg. This information is crucial and helps reduce the risk of potential drug interactions and serious side effects.

You may not qualify for GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide if you have one or more of these conditions:

  • Diabetic Retinopathy
  • Pancreatitis or History of Pancreatitis
  • High Try glycerides
  • Kidney Disease
  • Gallbladder Problems
GLP-1 Medication Denver, CO

Extra Benefits of Using GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for Medical Weight Loss

By now, you know that GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide can be a safe, helpful tool in your weight loss toolbox. But you may be wondering, "Are there any additional perks of taking GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?"

Medical Weight Loss Program Denver, CO

Well-Tolerated Side Effects

In general, the side effects associated with GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide are usually well tolerated. The most common issues people report include nausea, headaches, and constipation. Fortunately, these side effects tend to be mild and can often be managed effectively with some lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies.

Semaglutide Injection Denver, CO

Gradual, Safe Weight Loss

You've likely encountered fad diets that promise rapid weight loss with little effort. However, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide isn't one of those quick-fix solutions. As previously mentioned, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide facilitates weight loss by curbing appetite and cravings while also slowing digestion. This mechanism allows you to adhere to a low-calorie diet without temptation. It also aids in reducing fat buildup in your body, resulting in safe and steady weight loss over time.

GLP-1 Medication Denver, CO

Optimize Metabolic Health

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide not only promotes weight loss but also decreases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. It achieves this by improving the body's ability to use insulin, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cholesterol levels.

Medical Weight Loss Program Denver, CO

Achieve Long-Term Weight Loss

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is different from other weight loss medications because it helps people keep off weight even after treatment ends. It works best when you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle. When you do, it's possible to achieve long-term weight loss and well-being. Other medications only work while you are taking them.

Semaglutide Injection Denver, CO

Simple Application at Home

GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide injections offered by Dr. Erica Oberg can be taken regularly from the convenience of your own home or office. If you've got a busy lifestyle or are always on the go, injecting GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide at home is a game-changer. Medical weight loss from Dr Oberg also includes regular health coaching sessions, which can also be conducted from your home. Research indicates that a GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide medical weight loss program can be more effective than conventional weight loss medications that require daily dosing. Unlike surgical options such as gastric bypass, GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide doesn't require any invasive procedures or recovery time. This makes it a favored choice for individuals who are averse to surgery or who haven't found success with other weight loss methods.

Top 5 Ways to Maintain Your GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Medical Weight Loss in Denver

Achieving your target weight with the support of Dr. Erica Oberg's affordable telehealth weight loss program is an incredible accomplishment worth celebrating. However, it's essential to remember that this is not the time to abandon your hard work. Instead, focus on maintaining your weight loss results. That way, you avoid slipping back into old habits and regaining the weight you worked so hard to lose.

Keep these tips in mind once you're close to hitting your target weight:

Sticking to a consistent eating routine can help control food intake and improve health. Eating at the same times or having similar meals daily provides structure without the need to obsess over calories. This approach can enhance appetite management, energy levels, and overall diet. A large, high-protein breakfast, in particular, is linked to better appetite control and improved blood sugar levels throughout the day.

There's nothing wrong with going to Guard and Grace in Denver, CO for a cheat meal, but it's important to limit processed foods in your diet. These often contain empty calories and added sugar, which lack nutritional value. Research links processed food intake to higher body weights and weight gain. Studies suggest that reducing these foods can improve weight management, as the body may burn twice as many calories digesting whole foods compared to processed ones. Overall, a diet rich in whole foods is associated with better weight outcomes.

We often highlight the importance of consistency when it comes to weight loss, as staying committed to your health changes is the key to achieving meaningful results. However, consistency is equally crucial for maintaining fat loss. It's not just about sticking to a plan. It's about creating daily habits and routines that set you up for long-term success.

Vegetables are nutrient-dense and provide significant nutrition with few calories, helping you feel full without large portions. For instance, two cups of broccoli have only 60 calories compared to nearly 500 calories in two cups of cooked pasta. Consuming more non-starchy vegetables may also aid in hunger control.

Engaging in regular physical activity is a highly effective strategy for managing weight, as it helps you burn off calories. It also helps make the most of the food you eat. The amount of exercise required to sustain your weight loss can vary based on individual factors and the types of workouts you choose. Dr. Erica Oberg creates personalized plans tailored to each of her weight-loss patients, along with exercise tips and recommendations based on your body type, age, and more. That way, you can avoid burnout and over-exercising.

Get Fit and Healthy with a GLP-1 Treatments, Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Medical Weight Loss Program in Denver, CO

Are you fed up with how you look and feel when you wake up in the morning? Is it more challenging for you to get out and about and enjoy life because you're overweight? Are you ready to make a meaningful change in your life and shed pounds in a safe, healthy way? If you're reading this, chances are you're ready to get fit and healthy with help from Dr. Erica Oberg. So, give our office a call today. By tomorrow, you'll be that much closer to living your best life.

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Franchise Opportunities in Denver: Investments to Explore in Colorado

Table of ContentsDenver, Colorado, continues to emerge as one of the most attractive U.S. markets for franchise development. With steady population growth, a highly educated workforce and a business-friendly environment, the city supports a wide range of franchise categories, including food and beverage, health and wellness, home services and education.As more residents relocate to the Denver metro for its quality of life and job opportunities, entrepreneurs are finding strong consumer demand and favorable market conditions. ...

Table of Contents

Denver, Colorado, continues to emerge as one of the most attractive U.S. markets for franchise development. With steady population growth, a highly educated workforce and a business-friendly environment, the city supports a wide range of franchise categories, including food and beverage, health and wellness, home services and education.

As more residents relocate to the Denver metro for its quality of life and job opportunities, entrepreneurs are finding strong consumer demand and favorable market conditions. With a and continued expansion across industries like technology, aerospace and healthcare, Denver offers franchisees both stability and long-term growth potential.

Why Start a Franchise in Denver

. This influx of new residents — particularly young professionals and families — continues to fuel demand for everyday services, dining and lifestyle brands.

The region’s economy is diverse and resilient. Key industries include technology, energy, aerospace, healthcare and tourism, creating a strong employment base and consistent consumer spending. .

Denver’s culture also plays a major role. With an emphasis on health, wellness and outdoor living, the market is particularly well-suited for fitness concepts, better-for-you dining, pet services and home improvement brands. At the same time, suburban expansion across areas like Aurora, Lakewood and Centennial is creating new territory opportunities for service-based franchise models.

Featured Franchise Opportunities in Denver

The following 1851 Franchise brands are expanding in Denver and the surrounding Colorado market:

TruBlue, a senior-focused home services franchise, is well-positioned for Denver’s aging population and increasing demand for aging-in-place solutions.

Caring Transitions, a leader in senior relocation and estate services, is expanding in Colorado as demographic trends like “Peak 65” continue to reshape service demand.

Pet Wants, a pet health and nutrition franchise, aligns with Denver’s pet-friendly culture and is targeting expansion in markets with strong demand for premium pet products.

Children’s Lighthouse is growing nationwide and targeting high-income suburban markets like Denver, where demand for early education continues to rise.

Sola Salons, a salon suite franchise, continues to expand in lifestyle-driven markets like Denver, where independent beauty professionals are seeking flexible ownership opportunities.

Popular Industries for Franchises in Denver

Why Invest Through 1851 Franchise

1851 Franchise offers more than just a directory of brands. Through its , prospective franchisees gain access to tools, insights and guidance designed to simplify the franchise discovery process.

Growth Club helps entrepreneurs evaluate their goals, investment level and preferred industries while connecting them with brands that align with their vision. This is especially valuable in a competitive and fast-growing market like Denver, where multiple industries present strong opportunities.

In addition, 1851 Franchise provides in-depth brand pages that go beyond surface-level information. These pages include investment ranges, leadership insights, development strategies and franchisee experiences, giving users a clearer understanding of each opportunity.

For those looking to invest in Denver, 1851 serves as a centralized platform to explore, compare and connect with brands actively expanding in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best franchise opportunities in Denver, Colorado?

Denver offers strong opportunities across food and beverage, health and wellness, home services and child education. Brands that align with the city’s active lifestyle and growing population tend to perform particularly well.

How much does it cost to start a franchise in Denver?

Costs vary depending on the concept. Service-based franchises may require lower initial investment, while restaurant and brick-and-mortar concepts typically require higher capital for buildout and real estate.

Which industries are growing in Denver for franchises?

Health and wellness, home services, pet services and fast-casual dining are among the fastest-growing franchise categories in the Denver market.

How can I apply for a franchise opportunity?

You can visit a brand’s franchise development page on 1851 Franchise to learn more and submit an inquiry, or use Growth Club to get matched with opportunities that fit your goals.

Explore Your Options Today

Denver offers a dynamic, growing market for franchise investment, with strong demand across multiple industries and expanding opportunities in suburban territory.

Explore franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise and take the next step toward building your business in Denver.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right opportunity? Visit and start your journey.

How much did it snow? Colorado snow totals for March 15, 2026 snowstorm

DENVER — Winter returned to Colorado overnight Saturday, just days before near 90-degree temperatures are expected to arrive in the Mile High City.Most of the metro area picked up 2-3 inches of much-needed snow as a strong cold front moved in, producing a brief burst of snow.Meanwhile, the Palmer Divide area saw a stronger impact, with 3-5 inches of fresh snow in some locations.As a result, a winter weather advisory is now in effect for the Palmer Divide.In addition to the metro and Palmer Divide areas, moun...

DENVER — Winter returned to Colorado overnight Saturday, just days before near 90-degree temperatures are expected to arrive in the Mile High City.

Most of the metro area picked up 2-3 inches of much-needed snow as a strong cold front moved in, producing a brief burst of snow.

Meanwhile, the Palmer Divide area saw a stronger impact, with 3-5 inches of fresh snow in some locations.

As a result, a winter weather advisory is now in effect for the Palmer Divide.

In addition to the metro and Palmer Divide areas, mountain areas experienced intense snow squalls with whiteout conditions.

By 7 a.m., snowfall had ended across Denver and the Front Range, leaving cloudy skies and cold temperatures.

Even as snow tapers off, very strong winds will continue on the plains through midday, gusting 50–55 mph, possibly higher near the I‑70 corridor, before easing this afternoon.

Looking ahead, a steady warming and drying trend will take hold, with near-90-degree temperatures expected later in the week.

Here are the latest snow totals reported to the National Weather Service as of Sunday morning. Scroll down for 24-hour snow reports from Colorado ski resorts.

3 SSW Castle Pines, CO 3.9

4 ESE Foxfield, CO 3.7

3 E Monument, CO 3.7

4 NE Nederland, CO 3.5

3 WSW Aurora, CO 3.2

2 W Lone Tree, CO 3

Woodland Park, CO 3

1 NNE Edgewater, CO 2.7

2 NNW Sheridan, CO 2.5

2 SE Buffalo Creek, CO 2.5

5 S Manila Village, CO 2.3

4 WSW Arvada, CO 2.2

1 W Wheat Ridge, CO 2.1

5 SSE Air Force Academy, CO 2.1

1 NE Littleton, CO 2

3 NNW Sheridan, CO 2

2 N Black Forest, CO 2

3 NW Columbine, CO 1.9

3 W Westminster, CO 1.8

2 ESE Lakewood, CO 1.8

2 NE Cherry Hills Villa, CO 1.5

4 ENE Cedar Point, CO 1.5

2 ENE Vail, CO 1.2

1 WSW Aurora, CO 1.2

1 WNW Boulder, CO 1

2 W Vail, CO 1

1 SSW Denver Intl Airpo, CO 0.9

2 N Lyons, CO 0.5

Hugo, CO 0.5

2 N Longmont, CO 0.4

1 SSW Fort Collins, CO 0.1

3 SSE Laporte, CO 0.1

COLORADO SKI AREA SNOW REPORTS

Eldorahttps://www.eldora.com/the-mountain/conditions-weather/current-conditions-forecast

Keystonehttps://www.keystoneresort.com/the-mountain/mountain-conditions/snow-and-weather-report.aspx

Loveland Ski Areahttps://skiloveland.com/snow-report

Steamboat https://www.steamboat.com/the-mountain/mountain-report

Winter Parkhttps://www.winterparkresort.com/the-mountain/mountain-report

Wolf Creek Ski Areawolfcreekski.com/wcs-snow-report/

Copyright 2026 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Metro Denver cities begin enacting mandatory outdoor watering limits for spring as drought, warmth continue

When Thornton enacted a Stage 1 drought declaration last week, it became the first city in metro Denver to place a mandatory twice-weekly limit on outdoor watering for the upcoming hot season. But the northern suburb likely won’t be the last.Metro cities and utilities are starting to lay out various defensive strategies against what has become a crispy-dry 2026, starting with an alarmingly warm and dry winter in Colorado that’s been marked by one of the worst snowpacks in recorded state history.Denver Water, which s...

When Thornton enacted a Stage 1 drought declaration last week, it became the first city in metro Denver to place a mandatory twice-weekly limit on outdoor watering for the upcoming hot season. But the northern suburb likely won’t be the last.

Metro cities and utilities are starting to lay out various defensive strategies against what has become a crispy-dry 2026, starting with an alarmingly warm and dry winter in Colorado that’s been marked by one of the worst snowpacks in recorded state history.

Denver Water, which serves 1.5 million people, could follow a similar track to Thornton’s by month’s end. Aurora Water, which is relied upon by 400,000 people, may be right behind with its own Stage 1 drought declaration in early April.

“We’re looking for a 20% reduction in outdoor irrigation compared to last year,” said Shonnie Cline, an Aurora Water spokeswoman.

The Aurora City Council is set to have a study session on the city’s water situation on March 23, followed by a council vote on potential watering restrictions on April 6.

“We’re at the lowest snowpack we’ve been at since 1978,” Cline said.

Locally, that also translates to abysmal conditions in the Clear Creek basin, where Westminster gets most of its water. Last week, the Westminster City Council discussed enacting a drought watch — a less severe step than a Stage 1 declaration that would rely on voluntary cutbacks.

“The current trend is tracking just above the 2002 line for the Clear Creek basin, which is the driest year on record,” Westminster Mayor Claire Carmelia said.

Broomfield was the first metro city to declare a drought watch, on Feb. 9.

Jason Ullmann, the state engineer for the Colorado Division of Water Resources, said the drought of the last quarter century in the southwestern United States is believed to be the worst in the last 1,200 years. Things are particularly strained this year, with Colorado’s snowpack measuring in at just 61% of median levels for this time of year as of late last week.

Earlier this month, federal forecasters projected that the Colorado River this spring will deliver 2.3 million acre-feet of water to Lake Powell, one of the river system’s largest reservoirs and downriver from much of the mountain states’ snowmelt. That’s just 36% of the median of 6.4 million acre-feet recorded annually between 1991 and 2020.

Closer to home, the latest monthly bulletin from the National Weather Service painted a grim weather picture based on conditions in Denver. Last month was the third-warmest and second-driest February in the city, while it was the least-snowiest February on record for Denver, tying 2009’s equally snow-starved February.

Exactly when the city — and region — will finally shake off their dessicated state is unknown, Ullmann said.

“There’s no guarantee we’re going to have a better year next year, so we can’t count on that,” he said.

What water managers can control sits on the demand side of the water ledger.

Thornton gets the bulk of its water from the Upper South Platte River and Clear Creek watersheds, which are both at “record low levels,” according to a memo accompanying last Tuesday’s council meeting.

Emily Hunt, Thornton’s interim infrastructure director, says the concern lies not so much with the summer ahead but with the summers to follow, assuming precipitation stays meager. Colorado’s sixth-largest city is presently at 83% of storage capacity across the 19 reservoirs that hold its water. It stores a large portion of the water it consumes in Standley Lake, which is also a water source for Westminster and Northglenn.

“We’re going into the summer with good storage, but with this snowpack, we’re not going to be able to top off our reservoirs the way we normally would,” Hunt said. “We’re basically trying to keep the year in balance so that if the drought continues into next year, we’ll be in pretty good shape.”

Thornton’s new rules stipulate that watering can occur only between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. Violations of the twice-weekly schedule, which goes into effect May 1, will result in a warning for a first infraction. If not remedied within 10 days, households face a $100 fine, while commercial customers will pay a $250 fine. Repeated infractions, including the failure to address leaky pipes, will result in heavier fines.

The city provides a guide for optimum watering times, which differ depending on the type of sprinkler head that’s used. Residents will be able to choose which two days of the week they water their lawns.

Denver Water operates in a forward-looking manner as well. Greg Fisher, its manager of demand planning and efficiency, said Colorado’s largest water supplier is taking on this summer’s challenges with 2027 and 2028 in mind.

“We are very much in drought preparation,” he said.

The good news is that Denver Water’s storage capacity is at around 80% — just a little lower than the 85% it typically sits at this time of year, Fisher said. And efficiencies in landscaping and indoor water use are a world away from where they were in 2002, with the average household using 35% less water than it did 24 years ago.

Fisher expects the utility’s Board of Water Commissioners to make a drought declaration by the end of March.

“With these dry conditions, I think we’re headed to a Stage 1 declaration,” he said.

Aside from a mandatory twice-weekly outdoor watering schedule under a Stage 1 declaration — Denver Water would assign watering days to households in its service area — the utility would also ask restaurants not to serve water to customers unless requested, and to ask hotels not to wash sheets or towels unless requested.

“If we get better weather, we can scale back on restrictions,” Fisher said.

But even under a mandatory water reduction scenario, green thumbs can still make their front and backyards sing this summer, said Cassey Anderson, a horticultural specialist with Colorado State University Extension in Adams County.

“You don’t have to water a lot to water well,” she said.

Trees should be a focus, Anderson said, with the most effective watering applied on the ground in a radius from the trunk all the way out to the tips of the branches. Kentucky bluegrass, a notoriously thirsty grass that has become a villain in the eyes of water experts and policy makers, will go dormant without water — but will be primed to bounce back in more auspicious conditions.

“You aren’t going to kill it by not watering it for a season,” she said.

Anderson cautioned that this summer might not be the time to put in a new drought-tolerant or native garden, given that new plantings require extra water to establish themselves properly.

Carmelia, the Westminster mayor, says there is nothing to do but hope that the supply side of the water ledger eases up after the start of spring on Friday.

“The silver lining is that March and April are typically the wettest months of the year, and there’s still time for Mother Nature to come through for us,” she said.

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