Thoughts of a Granola Girlie . . .

Food at the CO State Fair 2026

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 23:05:24 GMT

Food Included in the Deals & Discounts at the CO State Fair!

Year after year, the Colorado State Fair seems to become increasingly pricier, making it all the more tempting for budget-conscious individuals and families to stay away and miss out on the festivities. However, there’s no need to skip the fun and excitement of this beloved tradition simply due to financial concerns. Through the official Colorado State Fair website and its active social media channels, you can easily uncover a wide variety of deals and discounts that are available throughout the event's duration. These savings can include everything from reduced ticket prices to special offers on food and rides, meaning that enjoying the fair doesn’t have to break the bank at all. With these budget-friendly options, you can focus instead on the vibrant excitement and colorful festivities that the fair has to offer, rather than worrying about expenses. Whether you enter from the Prairie Gate, the Beulah Gate, the carnival gate, the livestock gate or any other entrance to the fair, you are guaranteed to have a good time and be included in the discounts offered throughout the fair season.

Linked below (if still active) is the Colorado State Fair website, with the Deals and Discounts available for the 2026 season!

Deals and discounts at CO State Fair!

When entering into the fair from the Beulah Gate Entrance, once through security one can expect to see to your right a medium sized rodeo arena, the Big R Arena. There are multiple rodeos offered throughout the run of the fair. However, the only real budget friendly rodeo is the Ranch Rodeo on Wednesday. Wednesday is the Rocky Mountain Steel Mills One Price Wednesday; where individuals can enter the fair itself for $15. Included in the fair admission is the Ranch Rodeo, a FREE concert at the American Furniture Warehouse (Hairball, a glam rock cover band), and a carnival ride wristband. Admission alone would be $15 on a regular day, however, on Wednesday it gets you so much more! If you are going to the fair more for the atmosphere and food, Friday's would probably be the best day for you. Before 5PM on both operating Fridays of the fair, you can get in for $5 and if you're a senior (65+) you would get in for FREE! Also on Fridays, every vendor participates in the "5 til 5 Friday", where every food stand offers a $5 food item until 5PM! On the Colorado Health Coach YouTube Channel there is a video documenting most of the food included in the "$5 til 5PM" at the Colorado State Fair.

Some vendors had frozen lemonade for $5, some had fries, others had nachos, kettle corn, chicken quesadillas, fried Oreos, 5 for $5 chocolate chip cookies at the Chocolate Chip Cookie Company, 32 oz. fountain drink at Vineland Methodist Church Booth, chocolate dipped strawberries, and many more. There was a variety of sweet and savory options at this year's Colorado State Fair.

The first Sunday of the fair, Military and First Responders receive a discount of $8 OFF admission. There are two KIDS DAYS for the State Fair, both on Monday's where kids get in for FREE (12 & under). On "Two Can Tuesday", admission is FREE with a donation of two canned food items. Thursday is CSU-Pueblo's "Pack the Fair Day", admission is FREE and there are $25 unlimited carnival ride wristbands with a student voucher or coupon. The final Saturday of the fair is the Colorado Lottery Special, where admission is $3 OFF with a non-winning lottery ticket.

By saving money on admission, entertainment and rides; this leaves financial relief for shopping around the fair or simply saving more money for your wallet. There are multiple clothing and merchandise vendors located throughout the fair. Even if you are just there doing window shopping, there is much to see! The Agricultural Palace is a particular place one would want to visit even just to walk through while at the fair. There are two vendors located inside, both offering dip mixes. These vendors do samples with pretzel sticks. I would recommend leaving room in your stomach to sample at least one of these two booths, even if you don't purchase anything. Another vendor inside the Ag Palace was offering samples of chicken feta meatballs, so you never know what you might come across! Plus, for the past two or three years there has been a candy booth with both modern and vintage candy alike. Allowing you to select anything you'd like while approaching the check out stand; with the candy going from modern to vintage the closer you get to the register. The final price is determined by the weight of your candy pile at the end!

I did notice two relatively "healthier" food vendors at the fair, if that is something you are searching for; offering fruit, smoothies and protein bowls. For the more health conscious fair goer. There are also multiple water fountains located around the fair grounds, plus inside the Ag Palace is a water bottle refill station. I know most people are there for the "traditional" fair foods that many of us know and love. We just need to consume these foods in moderation, while maintaining an overall healthy and active lifestyle. The public is so quick to categorize foods into "good and bad" but it is more complex and nuanced than that. We should be trying to fix our relationship with food, not damaging our bodies and metabolisms while "dieting". Remember to be stay hydrated and drink water on a daily basis, at least half your body weight in ounces to stay properly hydrated! Example, 140 lbs. female should be consuming 70 ounces of water daily.

So gather your friends and family for a memorable day filled with laughter and joy—those fun experiences are waiting for you, all without the stress of exorbitant ticket prices or financial strain looming over your head. Embrace the joy of the fair, relish the time spent together, and create lasting memories that you and your loved ones will cherish for years to come!

If you did miss out of these fantastic deals and discounts this year, have no fear because there is always next year. So keep an eye out for the announcements of the "Deals and Discounts" for next year's Colorado State Fair!

Healthier Food Options at the CO Renaissance Festival!

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 20:51:17 GMT

Going to the CO Renaissance Festival this Year? Check out these Food Items!

At the Colorado Renaissance Festival, attendees can truly delight in an impressive array of healthy food options that cater to a wide variety of dietary needs and preferences. Guests will find themselves enjoying food that includes grilled red and lean meats, and a variety of vegetable side dishes, all of which offer a delicious and nutritious alternative to the more traditional festival foods; which of course are also offered at the Festival.

This Renaissance Festival is no where near the largest in America, that title goes to the Texas Renaissance Festival and the best reviewed is the Ohio Renaissance Festival according to USA Today. However, many festival goers at the Colorado location have nothing but positive words to say about their experience at the event. I myself am one of them but the Colorado Ren Fair is the only Medieval Festival I have attended. Several YouTubers have attended Renaissance Festivals around the United States, the Colorado Renaissance Festival ranks amongst many of their top 5 lists.

Emphasizing the importance of mindful eating, the Renaissance festival allows visitors the opportunity to indulge while making conscious choices that align with their personal health goals. That is if you are looking for a healthier choice.

Navigating the grounds of the festival is simple, thanks to Medieval greeters near the front entrance handing out maps of the event. In addition to a map this handout also includes a list of the food vendors, what options they are serving, and a list of the free stages spread around the area! A map can also be accessed online, on the Colorado Renaissance Festival website.

Once through the gates, straight ahead is Friar Tuck's Bakery. A building dedicated to all things sweet and fluffy. But don't worry we can still indulge in a sweet treat! Remember it is all about calories in, calories out and striving to live a healthy and balanced life. Friar Tuck's Bakery offers several herbal teas, gourmet coffees, chai tea, juices, gluten-free goods and a variety of breads. What's caught my eye on the menu in particular are the apple dumplings, I will be going to this year's Colorado Renaissance Festival and I'll be on the hunt for these because they sound interesting. Of course indulge in which ever treat you like, just be mindful while eating. Just left of Friar Tuck's Bakery is Royal Nuts. A small, quaint hut selling cinnamon roasted nuts, almonds, pecans, and cashews. If I were to personally choose one of these options, it would be the pecans. Simply due to the higher fat content in the cashews and if I bring home extra, I'd like to share with others (my mom is allergic to almonds). But nuts are a wonderful source of healthy fats, plant protein, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

Nearest to Royal Nuts is the King's Pantry. Where festival goers can enjoy a multitude of fried goods, these items should be enjoyed in moderation but never sworn off completely. To the lower left of King's Pantry is Joust Kitchens, serving up baked potatoes, corn on the cob, chicken wraps, and bread bowls filled with either soup or salad. On the upper left is Royal Delights, a place to stop for a sweet treat; chocolate covered strawberries, caramel apples, fudge, truffles, caramel grizzles, and sea salt caramels.

Near the Mermaid's Waterwheel is the Queen's Pantry, an extremely lively area of the festival. Filled with plenty of seating for both relaxing and dinning. The Queen's Pantry offers various selections of food faire: Artichokes, Red Beans, Rice & Sausage, Scotch Eggs, Gyros, Focaccia Sandwiches, Sir Arnold Palmers and Fruit Smoothies!

Next to the Queen's Pantry is Canterbury Kitchens, where festival goers can enjoy an array of protein options! BBQ Pork Sandwiches, Turkey Legs, Chicken Teriyaki Croissants, Der Banger Cheddar Bratwursts, Sausage of a Stick ,Smashed Potatoes and Husk Corn. The last food booth with a variety of protein options is the Knight's Kitchen, located on the far right of the festival (Birds Eye view) near the Quintain and Celestial Stage. The Quintain is a medieval jousting target, catapulting the rider towards the target on a zip-line. There are so many wonderful foods and activities to enjoy at the Colorado Renaissance Festival, it would be impossible to document them all in this one blog post. So please check out the YouTube Channel, Colorado Health Coach, to enjoy more health related content about the Colorado Renaissance Festival!

Throughout the festival there are three water fountains available to the public. The first is called the Fountain of Youth, nestled in the center of the festival, surrounded by various food concession stalls, rides, and performance stages: King's Pantry, the International Food Court, Castle Rose Stage, Pirate's Pub, and the DaVinci Ride. Another is just a few hundred yards ahead and slightly to the right, near the ATM, the King's Swing and the Privies. The last of the three water fountains is on the far left of the festival, looking from a Birds Eye view. This fountain is next to the Royal Flush Privies and the Children's Realm.

This commitment to wellness beautifully resonates with the philosophy of Colorado Health Coach, where intuitive eating and transformative habit change are central to achieving lasting health and wellness, making each dining experience and adventure enjoyable and beneficial for all!

Source(s):

Colorado Renaissance Festival Food and Drink

https://coloradorenaissance.com/dining/

Colorado Renaissance Festival Map

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/festival-map-colorado-renaissance-festival--244390717270875390/

First Reported CO Bear Attack of 2026.

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 22:17:25 GMT

How to Enjoy the Outdoors Safely.

Hiking in the woods can be a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, but it comes with the potential danger of encountering wild animals, as evidenced by the recent bear attack in Apex Park, Colorado. On June 21, 2026, a female hiker was stalked and attacked by a black bear at Apex Park in Golden, Colorado. The woman's backpack was torn off, the bear scratched one of her legs, and followed her for 30 minutes; in spite of her attempts to deter the bear. This bear encounter was the first reported Colorado bear attack of the season. Owen Clarke of Outside Online wrote, "wildlife experts warn that it reflects unusual behavior in a year with high bear activity." Outside interviewed a Colorado Parks and Wildlife agent, they said, "it was about 30 minutes. Normally, bear conflicts don't last that long. It's a red flag."

The female hiker was alone, however, the fact that she was alone should not suggest females are more inclined to be in danger while on a hike compared to males. This interaction could have happened to anyone, male or female. What is important is to be prepared for any kind of wildlife encounter.

To stay safe, hikers should prepare by educating themselves about local wildlife and carrying items like bear spray, an air horn, or noise-making devices that can deter animals from approaching. Additionally, making noise while hiking can alert animals to your presence, giving them the chance to avoid you. The items listed previously can be found online or at any outdoor sporting goods store. Not only is it important for a hiker to carry these items but for them to know how to properly use these tools while out on a trail. When it comes to bear/mountain lion stray the handler should activate the trigger and aim low, directing the spray upwards slowly. This is because the spray is going to travel in an upwards motion either way so it is better not to waste a product meant to protect oneself while in the wild. The bear spray should be distributed in 2-3 second bursts, when the animal is 25-40 feet away.

Besides bear spray, many hikers attach bear bells to their backpacks. This is meant as a way to avoid a wild animal interaction to begin with, by making the surroundings aware of one's existence. Normally the wildlife try to interact with humans as little as possible so it is our job to make them aware of our presence in their home. In addition to bear bells and bear spray, there are also bear horns. Bear horns are small, portable air horns meant to detract wildlife. Horns and bells are NOT meant for self-defense in a bear attack, they are for deterrence purposes ONLY.

In spite of doing everything right to avoid and deter a bear, the female hiker was still followed and attacked; this fact has puzzled many wildlife experts. There is even video footage of the frightening interaction on Denver News 7. She shouted at the bear, threw sticks and rocks but still the bear pursued her. In fact, she wasn't even carrying food on her person. In the video, the bear is seen circling the hiker and even charging at her. It wasn't until two other hikers came to her aid, that the bear eventually crossed a nearby gully and began pursuing another group of hikers.

Kara Van Hoose, a public information officer with responding agency Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), told Outside Online, "we think it's possible this bear had gotten into trash or been rewarded before with unnatural food. Maybe it was fed by humans before. We can't say for sure, but when we see this type of behavior, that's where our mind goes. It's used to human presence, and now it's food drive has overtaken anything else that wound have caused it to run away."

This may likely be the case, humans should not be feeding the wildlife under any circumstances. It causes the animals to become desensitized to humans which may be why the bear not only circled the women but also charged at her. Appearing to not be afraid during the interaction at all. Please remember to NEVER feed the wildlife during your outdoor excursions for this is the likely outcome.

According to Outside Online, the bear was still being pursued at the time of this publication. Once found it will likely be either relocated or euthanized by authorities.

At Colorado Health Coach, we emphasize the importance of not only physical wellness but also safety during outdoor activities, ensuring that your journey towards health is as safe as it is transformative.

Source(s):

Outside Online

Article by Owen Clarke

https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/colorado-bear-attack-apex-park-golden/

Denver News 7

Reporting on Temporary Closure of Apex Park

https://www.denver7.com/news/front-range/golden/apex-park-temporarily-closes-due-to-reported-aggressive-bear-activity

Tubing to Work?? Boulder, CO Does!

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 03:02:37 GMT

A Boulder Tradition 18 Years Strong!

The 18th Annual Boulder, Colorado Tube to Work event saw an impressive turnout, with 500 registered participants eager to embrace this fun alternative commuting option. On June 26, Friday morning in Boulder Colorado, Denver News 9 covered the event LIVE. At 7AM bright and early on Friday, many Boulder locals tubed down river in their business suites, daily work attire and quirky costumes. The co-founder of Tube to Work Day, Jeff Kagan arrived in a water droplet costume! He was gracious enough to give an interview to Denver News 9. In the eighteen years he has been organizing this event, he has never seen the water so low. Kagan gave all attendees the advice to, "lift their bottoms up." Kagan also lead early group stretching and calisthenics. Calisthenics is a form of strength training that uses your own body weight for resistance. After the participant check-in, the opening speech by Jeff Kagan, morning group stretching and ribbon cutting ceremony, it was time to set off on the float downstream.

The snowpack this year was barely there; Colorado is facing one of its driest years in it's 150 year history.

However, with lower water levels this year due to ongoing drought conditions, participants must prioritize safety and preparedness while kayaking. It is always advised to wear a lifejacket and protective headgear while out on the water. Even if one is a very capable swimmer, it is still strongly encouraged to wear a lifejacket for extra precaution. The protective headgear is recommended due to the risk of flipping the kayak over and hitting ones head on a rock. These occurrences are fairly common so the gear is needed for one's own safety. The safety gear required to participate in the event are not provided by the event organizers, all participants will need to bring their own. Items needed are: a Lifejacket, a Helmet with chinstrap and closed toed shoes.

Other gear that is recommended on a regular kayaking day would be: water, extra food or snacks, sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, a hat, and a dry bag.

Gear rentals are available at the event, equipment provided by Crystal Ski Shop.

Over the many, many years of the event taking place the amount of participants has gradually increased from 8 to 20 to 200 to 500 and in 2018 and 2019, 1,000 participants registered for Tube to Work Day. Due to the COVID pandemic, there was a two year laps in the tradition. However in 2023, organizers brought the Boulder Tubing Community together once more!

Twenty-five percent of every ticket sold for Tube to Work Day is directly donated to Bridge House. Bridge House is an organization that provides a wide range of programs and services to aid adults experiencing homelessness. Covering multiple needs from housing to employment opportunities.

For more information about Bridge House, click on the link provided: http://www.boulderbridgehouse.org

If you intend on participating in the 2027 Boulder Tube to Work Day be prepared for the ride down river (safety gear not provided), prepare for unpredictable weather, arrive early to check-in for the event, preregister online, and get ready for a day of fun! Ticket prices for 2026 were $22, expect the same if not slightly higher prices for 2027.

Colorado Health Coach emphasizes the importance of honing not just physical health but overall wellness, encouraging individuals to stay informed about their surroundings and the challenges that nature presents. As you navigate the waterways, remember that just like in health coaching, being prepared helps ensure a smooth journey to your goals — whether they be weight loss or simply enjoying a day on the water.

Source(s):

Tube to Work Day Official Website

https://www.tubetoworkday.com/

Denver News 9: Tube to Work Day Coverage

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZwAKPDEZxI

Axios Boulder

https://www.axios.com/local/boulder/2026/06/26/boulder-tube-to-work-day-drought

Fire Dangers Facing Colorado . . .

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 22:02:29 GMT

Fire Bans & Restrictions Across Colorado!

The Colorado wildfires, fueled by dangerously dry conditions, have tragically claimed the lives of three brave firefighters who devoted themselves to the noble mission of safeguarding our national parks. They gave their lives fighting the Snyder Fire on the Colorado-Utah border.

Their names are Emily Barker (38), Nick Hutcherson (27), and Sydney Watson (27).

These deaths sadly occurred on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Emily Barker of Clinton Township, Michigan. Assigned to the U.S. Forest Service, Rifle Helitack. Known for her big heart and caring nature amongst family and friends, Emily was loved by all who knew her. She was the kind of person who touched peoples hearts. With a love for the outdoors, snowboarding and hockey.

Nick Hutcherson of Glendale, Arizona. Assigned to the U.S. Forest Service, Kaibab National Forest. He is being remembered as a hero with an "unconquerable spirit". The Glendale native's remains have already been flown back to Arizona for his family and friends to mourn and lay him to rest.

Sydney Watson of Warrior, Alabama. Assigned to the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, Rifle Helitack. Those who knew Sydney described her as a "natural leader", she also was an active participant in the Women in Fire Training Exchange (WTREX), aiming to inspire and mentor other women in the field. Sydney was also a talented athlete, pitching for the University of Tennessee Southern softball team from 2017 to 2019.

These firefighters were unable to reach safety during a burnover incident. A burnover is an emergency situation during a wildland fire where the fire overtakes the equipment or personnel, leaving no option to use designated escape routes or safety zones. These events occur normally due to a change in the wind current or simply because of the extremely dry environment we are facing.

We are keeping their families in our thoughts and prayers during this tragic time. As well as thanking them for nurturing and bringing such wonderful, beautiful souls into this world. Choosing a career that is truly a great and brave sacrifice.

Below is linked a webpage for direct donations to the firefighters families. Please check it out and donate what you can!

https://of.deluxe.com/gateway/publish/f8f4a75b-660a-fb3f-1c3c-4596a06f4baf?utm_source=ab-website&utm_medium=ab-internal&utm_campaign=state-wide_int_link-to-donation_._snyder-fire-donation-link_342&utm_content=link-click%20

Their ultimate sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of adhering to fire bans, not only in these cherished wilderness areas but also in suburban neighborhoods where the risk can unexpectedly escalate. There is a statewide ban on ground fireworks, meaning anything ignited on the ground that launches and sparks a flame. There could be stricter fire bans in the near future as the containment of the multiple fires remains low. Multiple professional firework displays are still taking place, so if you would still like to enjoy some beautiful displays we encourage you to check out events in your local area! Besides the professional firework displays there are also drone shows, concerts, outdoor movie screenings and many more alternatives to fireworks this Fourth of July. With a fireworks ban currently in effect, displays that leave the ground are strictly prohibited, resulting in empty tents in grocery parking lots serving as stark reminders of the ever-present danger. For the 250th Birthday of the U.S.A. we are going to have to celebrate in a different kind of way this year (at least those in the west) and we do it because we love America!

As hikers set out to explore the magnificent landscapes, it’s vital that they adhere to current safety tips designed to prevent further tragedies: always use established fire rings for cooking, keep fires small and manageable, and ensure they’re completely extinguished before leaving the site. Growing up there were Smokey the Bear commercials on the television, spreading the message to children that, "only YOU can prevent wildfires". That message is applicable today more than ever!

At Colorado Health Coach, we passionately advocate for a balanced life, emphasizing safety, responsibility, and mindfulness as integral components of a healthy lifestyle, especially during these vulnerable times.

Source(s):

U.S. Department of the Interior

https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/identities-released-three-firefighters-who-died-responding-knowles-fire-colorado

National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Burnover

https://www.nwcg.gov/node/1862295

Donation Site

The Dangers of Hiking & How to be Prepared.

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 23:33:04 GMT

Hiking Doesn't have to be Scary, All You Need to do is be Prepared!

Hiking in the Colorado backcountry can be exhilarating yet perilous, as demonstrated by the recent incident involving two women who became lost on a trail in Telluride, CO. Poorly prepared and needing search and rescue, these out of state outdoor adventurers were in for a surprise. One from Idaho and the other from Utah, both in their early 20s. On Saturday, June 13th 2026 around 6:30PM, these two women set out for the Telluride Via Ferrata. Via Ferrata means 'Iron Path' in Italian, and Colorado offers some of the best most popular, high altitude courses.

Located in Telluride, Ouray, Idaho Springs, Buena Vista, and Canon City.

Featuring steel cables, iron rungs, and suspension bridges fixed onto towering rocks; with a 200 foot drop at the start. Unless you are an experienced climber with gear, many people would recommend doing Via Ferrata with a local guide for safety and gear. Such emergencies underscore the need for preparedness, as statistically, over 200,000 search and rescue missions occur annually due to lack of planning around the globe. 3,000 to 3,600 annually are from Colorado.

Not only is it ill advised to begin a hiking trail in the late evening, but it is strongly advised to turn around if you have yet to reach the Sumit by noon. Neither of these women had ever done a Via Ferrata before and hopefully their won't approach it as lightly next time. According to Susan Lilly of the San Miguel County Sheriff's Office, "We do know they were ill-prepared. They didn't have great footwear. They definitely didn't have appropriate clothing. One light source between the two of them. No food, no water." If it weren't for the brave efforts of the Colorado SAR team, the two women could've potentially been stuck on the edge of the cliffs over night.

Safe hiking practices include carrying a map and compass, wearing appropriate gear, and informing someone of your itinerary. Whether an individual is going on a casual day hike, a weekend backpacking trip or pursuing a through-hike, every backcountry adventure should be approached with the same level of care and preparedness. I personally have spent countless hours of research into what to bring, what to do and not do on a hiking trail. There are rules, regulations and standards for a reason. Not only to preserve our beautiful land for decades to come but to ensure our own safety on the trails.

Humans have been hiking for thousands of years, however, how we have made major advancements since then. Technology being the biggest difference. Earlier mentioned, it is suggested to bring a map and compass along. Technology has made it so convenient for us that we can now use our phones, smartwatches and satellite messaging devices to aid us on the trail. It is strongly advised to still be familiar with and carry the analog versions as well for technology can always malfunction and fail in dire situations. It is also advised to carry a light source, not including your phone. Many hikers begin a trail in the early hours of the morning, typically it is very dark. Which is why many people use headlamps to light their way. It is suggested to have a seperate light source besides your cellphone flashlight because your phone should be dedicated to other tasks. For instance, if you end up finding a signal and are able to contact someone to inform them of your location in the case of an emergency. Each item on your person should have a designated job; shoes, clothes, food, water filters, cooking gear, a fire starter, alongside other essential items.

Hiking is meant to be fun at the end of the day. Many hikers take along with them a 'luxury' item. This item doesn't have to be expensive like the word luxury normally alludes to, it just has to be an item you don't necessarily need but want to bring for extra enjoyment on the trail. For example: art supplies, a lightweight foldable chair, a camera, special food/cookware or a book. Just to name off a few.

At Colorado Health Coach, we not only emphasize physical wellness through intuitive eating and habit change, but also advocate for informed outdoor activities, ensuring you enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Colorado safely.

Source:

CBS News: Colorado

CO rescuers can't tell people enough about being prepared in the mountains

By Alan Gionet

https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-rescuers-prepared-mountains-searches/

Telluride Mountain Club Organization

Via Ferrata

https://www.telluridemountainclub.org/via-ferrata/

Colorado Via Ferrata

https://www.coloradoviaferrata.com/about-via-ferratas/colorado-via-ferratas/

Drought Dangers and the Impact on Our Food.

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 18:47:38 GMT

Lack of waters impact on our pollinators.

It is not secret, our environment is impacted by our yearly global pollution. We as a society have an understanding of it but we do little to organize in order to make a real impact. We as individuals can do what we can but only when we come together as a group can we make a large impact on our carbon footprint and overall pollutants. This year in particular, our environmental impact has gotten too out of hand to ignore. I can only personally speak for myself and my experience here in Colorado.

We practically had no winter, barely any snow fall. For Colorado, a US State known for its snowy fourteeners, ski and snowboarding resorts, and gorgeous mountain views. This is unusual. Typical winters here have heavy snowfall, black ice freezing over the roads, degrees going down to the single digits, and such heavy snowpacks they either shut down the schools or have multiple two hour delays. The mountain peaks in Colorado and much of the midwest should be blanketed with white snow, but that sadly its't our reality. In fact, this past winter was reported to be the warmest winter Colorado had experienced since the 1930s, since the dust bowl. Making the situation not only unusual but deeply concerning.

But you are probably wondering, what does that have to do with bees?

The lack of water effects everything. But what you might not know is bees are not the first pollinators of the season. That title goes to the flies. Yes the nasty, gross flies that attempt to land on your food when picnicking in the park. The flies that land on cow patties on a ranch, those flies are the first pollinators of the season. They can endure tempuratures ten degrees lower than bees. That is why they are out before the bees and prepare many plants for the bees to collect pollen during the warmer months. Everything has a purpose in nature, even the flies.

Due to the lack of moisture in our environment, every living thing has to adapt to the ongoing change. From flora to fauna. This shortage in waters impacts our pollinators, which then impacts the plants they are meant to be pollinating. Which in turn impacts the animals those plants are meant to nourish, further impacting the predators who feed off of the vegetation eating prey.

Disrupting the fragile balance of nature.

We as humans, are impacted just as much. How? Our food production and quality.

The lack of water threatens essential plant resources and affects the bees ability of hydrate and nest. The pollen and nectar's volume and nutritional quality are affected by drought. A plant experiencing water stress will not produce much protein in the pollen and will have nectar with lower sugar concentration. These two important factors will limit the carbs and protein necessary for the survival and development of the hive. As a beekeeper, the survival and growth of a hive are key for harvesting honey because the base box in a bee hive, stores the brood and the queen bee. The brood are all of the baby bees waiting to hatch out of their pupae stage and join the rest of their worker bee sisters. This box needs to be prioritized in order to ensure the survival of the hive throughout the winter or an infestation. Once the bees are thriving, have plenty of honey for themselves and their own survival, that is when a honey super is added to the top of the hive. In addition to the honey super, a queen excluder is also needed in order for the queen to not lay eggs in the honeycomb meant to be harvested. A queen excluder is a specialized metal or plastic grid placed between the brood box and the honey supers. Once the honey supers are installed the bees wander up into the extra frames to fill the comb with honey. These are the frames that hold the potential honey harvested for human consumption. Normally honey is harvested twice a year from a single bee hive, but of course there are exceptions.

The lack of water also decreases the amount and size of flowers being grown. This factor can also affect how long a flower stays open, reducing the time frame in which pollinators gather food. Drought also disrupts the photosynthesis of plants, impacting the plants ability to produce vibrant colors and their signature scents. Making it harder for the pollinators to locate the flowers.

If there is a lack of water, there will be a lack of pollen and nectar production. Impacting the amount of honey produced, decreasing the overall bee population. Beekeepers would have to compensate by condensing the size of their bee hives; impacting honey harvest and their sales. This brings up the question, how do we help? For starters, we can plant more flowers. Flowers planted in clusters, creating a 'target' for the pollinators to better find. Planting flowers that bloom continuously from spring to fall is another great way to aid the pollinators. It is best and most effective to plant plants native to your local area or at the very least, non-invasive plants.

Another way to improve your plants is to know the quality and acidity of your soil. This will affect how the plant absorbs nutritents and the rate at which they grow. Many beekeepers strongly encourage practicing Integrated Pest Management (IPM), an environmentally sensitive, science based approached to pest control. Combining biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools providing a lower risk to people, property and the environment.

This week (June 15 through June 21, 2026) is National Pollinator Week. Some of the best ways to get involved is by purchasing honey from your local beekeepers, educate others about the importance of our pollinators, and get informed yourself.

I went down the beekeeper rabbit hole this past year and even though I have yet to purchase my first two hives (which I intend on doing this coming Spring 2027), I am still wanting to further my beekeeping knowledge. Not everyone is suited to have a bee hive, it should be done after extensive research and consideration. Not to mention, the land you would need for the hive(s) to sit on. Beekeeping should only be done after careful consideration. Besides owning your own bee hive, pollinator rock gardens are also a great way to support the bees. These specialized rock gardens are meant to blend nature stones with drought tolerant and nectar rich plants to attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. Providing basking spots, water sources and micro habitats to native insects and amphibians in your local area.

No matter which way you participate in saving the bees, the important thing is to participate. Even in the small ways.

Sources:

Pollinator Partnership

Non-profit 501(c)3 Organization

https://www.pollinator.org/threats

Nature Hills, Landscape and Garden Design

Pollinator Rock Garden

https://naturehills.com/blogs/garden-blog/when-life-gives-you-rocks-create-a-rock-garden

National Library of Medicine

Author(s) - Wilson Rankin, Barney, Lozano

Editor - Johanna Brunet

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7583269/