A U.S. Forest Service researcher interviewed government officials in Colorado Springs, Boulder and Larimer counties to compare and contrast rebuilding efforts after wildfires.

Colorado and other states could be generating more wind power in the coming decades. But a federal report says the industry needs more tools and new strategies for growth.

She said her departure has long been planned, but was delayed by the controversy between communities and industry over fracking.

Researchers also noted wildfires are likely to increase in frequency and intensity due to climate change.

Under the rule, new wells will need technology that allows operators to shut them off remotely.

The Tres Rios Resource Management Plan also affects ranching and recreation.

A new coalition, Coloradans Against Fracking, says it will seek to place the issue on the November 2016 ballot.

Voters across Colorado cast their final ballots yesterday on state and local issues and candidates.  The Colorado governor’s race that few expected to be close was too close to call Tuesday evening.

Wednesday’s surprising race swap between Representative Cory Gardner and Weld County District Attorney Ken Buck may demonstrate a game changer for Colorado’s Republican Party. Colorado State University political science professor Kyle Saunders says the solidly Republican 4th Congressional District is a more natural fit for Ken Buck.

Ballot initiative would let communities decide whether to allow fracking.

Originally published on September 20, 2013 6:35 am After rain pummeled flooded communities over the weekend, long awaited sunshine poked through the clouds Monday. Towns are just starting to dry out from days of heavy rain and flooding. The destruction is severe from Colorado’s unprecedented flood event.

Originally published on September 20, 2013 6:14 am Rain ground recovery efforts from days of massive flooding across Colorado to a halt Sunday. Helicopters were prevented from conducting additional search and rescue efforts in Boulder and Larimer counties.

The Obama administration launched an initiative Friday aimed at reducing the risk of wildfire to water supplies in the West. As KUNC’s Grace Hood reports, Colorado will be one of six states to see pilot projects. Flows of ash and debris into streams after a wildfire can be damaging to the local water supply.

Preliminary estimates show insurance companies will pay almost $300 million dollars to homeowners affected by the Black Forest Fire. About 3,600 auto and homeowner insurance claims have been filed since the June wildfire, according to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association. But Executive Director Carole Walker expects that number will grow.