The Arkansas River: Sharing a Precious Resource Vital to Southeast Colorado
May 7, 2026 | 5:30 p.m.
The Grand Theater | Rocky Ford
Join The Colorado Sun in Rocky Ford for an evening focused on one of Colorado’s most essential resources, the Arkansas River. More than a conversation, it is a rare opportunity to hear directly from some of the people and institutions shaping the river’s future, from the agricultural communities of the Lower Arkansas Valley to the cities along the Front Range.
The evening begins with a powerful visual presentation from Colorado Sun photographer Mike Sweeney and environment reporter Michael Booth, capturing the people, places, and livelihoods connected to the river.
Then, the spotlight turns to a panel you won’t want to miss.
This is not a typical lineup. It brings together voices that don’t always agree on how water is used, moved, and valued across the basin. From passionate local advocates working to protect the Lower Arkansas Valley, to municipal providers meeting the needs of growing communities, this conversation will explore the complexities and shared responsibilities surrounding the river.
Panelists include:
Dr. Mike Bartolo, Colorado State University Vegetable Crops Specialist (Ret.d) and local farmer
Jack Goble, Lower Arkansas Valley Water Conservancy District
Kim Gortz, Colorado Springs Utilities
Rick Kienitz, Aurora Water
Rob Oquist, Otero County Commissioner
Expect a thoughtful, engaging discussion about water, agriculture, growth, and what it means to share a finite resource in a changing Colorado.
Light snacks and drinks will be available.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
