Tom Koehler: Director of Climate Action

Friends of the Lower Blue River is pleased to announce Tom Koehler is now part of the FOLBR administrative staff, as Director of Climate Action. Friends of the Lower Blue River considers climate action a top priority and Tom has proven to be a tremendous asset in that effort.

FOLBR is currently in its first phase of a Safe Soils/Climate Resiliency Initiative in Summit and Grand Counties. The program is assessing the health of the soil in the Lower Blue River Valley. The research will establish baseline data and recommend improvements to increase our valley’s health and the ability to capture carbon in the environment.

Four Lower Blue River ranches are taking part in this first phase of research. Collectively they have diverse land profiles and offer a great opportunity to gather soil data. They include Pass Creek Ranch, Blue Tree Ranch, Otter Creek Ranch and Blue Valley Ranch. Ultimately, FOLBR hopes to expand the focus and transparently share what’s learned to benefit all land stakeholders in the Lower Blue River Valley, on both private and public lands.

In his role as Director or Climate Action Tom Koehler will work closely with FOLBR Executive Director Jonathan Knopf to further FOLBR's climate action goals and objectives. FOLBR is collaborating with several likeminded organizations in both counties, interested in pursuing real climate action.