The RC&D Council provides support and is the fiscal agent for the Upper Arkansas Watershed Council. The Watershed Council’s goals are expressed in its mission statement: “The Upper Arkansas Watershed Council, as representatives of interested parties, will foster improved communication, collaboration, education and scientific understanding, and will develop strategies and make recommendations to conserve, protect and enhance watershed natural resources for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.”

At quarterly meetings, members and guests share their knowledge and expertise on a variety of water and natural resource issues affecting the basin. The Watershed Council contracts with the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association headquartered in Salida to provide administrative services. The Council’s Leadership Committee meets on a regular basis to help plan and coordinate Council projects and activities. The Council will play a lead role in planning and implementing the 2006 Arkansas River Basin Water Forum to be held at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds in Poncha Springs. The watershed council’s mission statement, charter, meeting memories, and newsletter can be found on its web site at www.uawc.info/.