The Boulder Architecture Meetup will commence for the first time on Thursday, April 16, at 7PM. Head over to Meetup.com (link here) to join us! All designers and makers of things are welcome. Mr. Scott Anderson has graciously offered to host the event. There will be beverages. Bring your ears and your strong opinions!

The working outline for the BAM events will be as follows:

• 60 minutes: 15 meet + greet / 5 present / 15 discuss / 5 present / 15 discuss / 5 outro
• Meetings will fall into 1 of 3 categories:
• i Manifestos ! (individuals choose topics and state their case)
• On The Boards (presentations of current projects in process or completed)
• Serious Business (speakers take on issues of business, technique, areas of research, etc.)

UPDATE!

Local architect Mark Gerwing will speak at the inaugural meetup re: “Critical Regionalism”. I had a sneak preview, and it will set the bar high for our group! Also, Nicholas Fiore I will present my first ever attempt at a spiel manifesto, the “BAM Manifesto” - or -  “How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Recession”.

The image above is borrowed from the support materials for a design competition in the West Highland neighborhood of Denver, the Farmer’s Market Design Competition. An interesting challenge is proposed: design a multi-use transformable space, include storage and facilities (bathrooms), and be sure that the design is flexible. Ideas for program include a traditional farmer’s market selling goods and food, community functions such as art displays and gatherings, music events, etc. The site looks tight, and seems to guarantee a challenge - and interesting solutions. The jury is legit, and with so many local designers with time on their hands interest should be very strong. Good luck!

Official FMDC Website

The WSJ published an article yesterday that tackles Western water issues, and it features Colorado water politics and the ongoing strategic maneuvering of interested parties.  A very interesting read, even if many Coloradans are aware of these problems. A choice quote, at the end:

But a 1922 compact requires the river’s flow to be divided among seven U.S. states and Mexico. If oil shale takes off, it could well use up the last of Colorado’s allotment, said Eric Kuhn, who runs the Colorado River Water Conservation District.

That would leave the booming suburban communities around Denver high and dry, with no water to support future growth, Mr. Kuhn said.

The Shell spokesman, Mr. Boyd, disputed that: “I don’t believe that’s anywhere near true.”

Photo Credit: Marek Uliasz

An article in the LA Times today sheds some light on an issue we know well here in Colorado: water rights. An issue that is easy to push to the back of your mind (you don’t miss your water…) until it runs right up front - often quickly - water policy and management are integral to the success of all inhabitants of the plains, the front range, the mountains, and the western slope. The Times article points out the seemingly absurd notion that Coloradans are restricted from collecting the water that falls on their property - it is explicitly illegal. The rights to the water that falls on your property most likely belong to someone else. Many questions come to mind upon consideration of this complex issue, not the least of which revolve around notions of collective vs. individual rights. In an era of government ineptitude it is natural for citizens to assert more claims on individual rights in an effort to ensure the welfare and safety of themselves and their families. However, strong regional authority - when implemented with fairness and justice in mind - may be necessary to provide a clear structure for the distribution of a collective resource. Balancing the needs of individuals, agriculture, recreation, and business uses will not be easy, and hard decisions will be necessary. As we are now suffering “moderate” drought conditions these issues are important, and we need to address them prior to the inevitable water emergencies we will face in the future.

Related Links:

Colorado Water Information

A Brief History: Colorado Water

California Water Wars

Cadillac Desert (Film)