The Colorado Master Irrigator (COMI) program is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest regional chapter: Mid-Colorado. Designed to bring advanced water management and conservation training to central Colorado, the program will officially serve agricultural producers within the Bookcliff, Mount Sopris, and South Side Conservation Districts.
As water scarcity and changing climates continue to challenge Western agriculture, COMI’s mission to equip producers with data-driven irrigation tools is more vital than ever. The Mid-Colorado program will directly address the unique needs of central Colorado growers, who primarily cultivate hay and forage crops.
Local Leadership for Regional Success
Heading the new program are local coordinators Emily Schwaller and Mariah Foley, whose deep roots in local agricultural leadership will bridge the gap between resource management and university-backed research.
Emily Schwaller serves as the District Manager for the Bookcliff, Mount Sopris, and South Side Conservation Districts, bringing direct expertise in local land stewardship and producer needs. Joining her is Mariah Foley, an Agriculture Specialist with CSU Extension in Garfield County, who brings a wealth of technical knowledge and educational outreach experience to the team. Together, they will lead the recruitment, curriculum development, and scheduling for the program.
What is Colorado Master Irrigator?
Originally modeled after the Texas Master Irrigator program, COMI provides interactive, peer-to-peer training for farmers, farm managers, and water professionals. Participants gain hands-on insights into:
Advanced irrigation scheduling and technologies
Soil health and moisture monitoring tools
Water law, conservation programs, and financial incentives
Graduates of the program not only gain a competitive edge in resource management but also join a growing network of conservation-minded producers across the state.
Get Involved
Dates and registration details for the inaugural 2027 Middle Colorado cohort are currently being finalized and will be released soon. Producers growing hay, forage, or other regional crops within the participating conservation districts are highly encouraged to apply once registration opens.
For more information about the upcoming class schedule visit our website at comasterirrigator.org.