Colorado Country Life Y-W March 2012

[March 2011][March 2012]

LIVING WITHHOUNDS

The official publication of the Colorado Rural Electric Association Volume 43, Number 02

COMMUNICATIONS STAFF: Mona Neeley, CCC, Publisher/Editor@303-455-4111; [email protected] Donna Wallin, Associate Editor; [email protected] • Amy Higgins, Administrative Assistant/Writer; [email protected]: Kris Wendtland@303-902-7276; NCM@800-626-1181

OFFICERS: Bob Bledsoe [Tri-State] President; Bill Midcap [Fort Morgan] Vice President; Don Kaufman [Sangre de Cristo] Secretary; Jack Schneider [Poudre Valley] Treasurer; Kent Singer [CREA] Executive Director

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: John Porter [Empire]; Don McClaskey [Grand Valley]; Jim Lueck [Highline]; Michael Glass [Holy Cross]; Dan Mills [K.C.]; Tom Compton [La Plata]; Stan Cazier [Mountain Parks]; B.D. Paddock [Mountain View]; Joseph Costa, Reg Rudolph [San Isabel]; Mike Rierson, [San Luis Valley]; Marcus Wilson, Kevin Ritter [San Miguel]; Mark Grasmick [Southeast]; Jim Jaeger, Ron Asche [United Power]; Bill Jordan [White River]; Stuart Travis [Y-W]; Charles Perry [Yampa Valley]; Basin Electric, CoBank, Moon Lake Electric, Wheatland Electric [Associate Members]

[contents]

March 2012[features]

[columns]

[cover]

[departments]

EDITORIAL: Denver Corporate Office, 5400 N. Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216; Phone: 303-455-4111 • Email: [email protected] • Website: coloradocountrylife.coop • Facebook: Colorado Country Life • Twitter: @COCountryLife

Colorado Country Life (USPS 469-400/ISSN 1090-2503) is published monthly for $9/$15 per year by Colorado Rural Electric Association, 5400 N. Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216. Periodical postage paid at Denver, Colorado. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Colorado Country Life, 5400 N. Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216

Publication of an advertisement in Colorado Country Life does not imply endorsement by any Colorado rural electric cooperative or the Colorado Rural Electric Association. Editorial opinions published in Colorado Country Life magazine shall pertain to issues affecting rural electric cooperatives, rural communities and citizens. The opinion of CREA is not necessarily that of any particular cooperative or individual.

14 Higher Costs on Horizon Growing demand and environmental

regulations stress electric rates

16 Living with Hounds Bloodhoud owner fell in love with big, lovable dogs

20 Flavorful, Fetching Fare Tastes your dog will thank you for

22 The Root of the Matter Learn about sustainable gardening in Colorado over the phone

25 Energy Tips Open a window on warmth and create a mini sunroom

26 Outdoors Wild turkey population thrives,

thanks to group’s efforts

16

4 Viewpoint Share in caring for Colorado’s statehouse

5 Letters6 Calendar7 Co-op News12 NewsClips29 Funny Stories30 Discoveries

Sebastian, a purebred bloodhound, poses for the photographer. Photo by brentwardphotos.com

22

20

Owner Marlene Groves of Kiowa gets her bloodhound Sebastian ready for his close up.

30

14

29

mailto:[email protected]




[viewpoint]

ColoradoCountryLife.coop4 March 2012

TThe gleaming gold dome of the Colo-rado Capitol is probably the single most recognizable man-made structure in Colorado. Covered in gold leaf donated by Colorado miners, the dome has proudly stood over our state’s Capitol and capital city for more than 100 years. But the iconic dome is in need of a makeover.

While it doesn’t need quite the kind of extreme makeover featured on the familiar ABC television show, it does need an extreme amount of money to accomplish the work that does need to be done. Money is still being raised, but the work has already begun.

The need for repairs to the Capitol dome became clear in 2006 when a large piece of cast-iron cladding fell onto the observation deck. Since then the observation deck has been closed, denying visitors the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular views of Denver and the Front Range from that vantage point. During this time, investigators were also reviewing the dome structure, determining what kind of repairs the dome needed.

The Capitol Dome Restoration Proj-ect was initiated in 2011 when the state legislature appropriated $4 million to begin the work. Repairs will include the replacement of deteriorated cast iron to reinforce the dome’s superstructure, replacement of 110-year-old bolts, res-toration of the windows and repainting. Contractors will also restore the gilded copper dome roofing and apply new gold leaf that will be donated by Anglo-Gold Ashanti and the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company in Teller County. The work should be completed in 2014.

If you have visited the Capitol recently, you have seen that the dome is now surrounded by scaffolding and

encased in white shrink-wrap. Installing this protective cov-ering was the first step in the renovation project that began in late January.

Of course, the Capitol is home to two of the three branches of government in Colorado with the gover-nor’s office situated on the first floor and the Colorado General Assembly (both the House of Representatives and the Senate) on the second floor. Although the Colorado Supreme Court used to hear arguments in the old Supreme Court chambers on the second floor, the judicial branch of government moved out of the Capitol many years ago.

As a symbol of our democracy and the center of government, the Colorado Capitol is an important place for all Col-oradans. Your co-op representatives at the Colorado Rural Electric Association spend many hours at the Capitol mak-ing sure that both the governor and the General Assembly are aware of co-op issues and concerns. As the trade asso-ciation representing co-op interests, we follow the legislative process carefully to be sure that your local electric co-op can continue to provide reliable, afford-

able and environmentally responsible electricity.

For me personally, though, the Colorado Capitol will always hold a special place in my heart. Not only is it where I spent the first seven years of my legal career as a staff attorney in the Leg-islative Drafting Office

(now the Office of Legislative Legal Ser-vices), it is also the place where I met my wife, Deb. Almost all of our friendships are based on the great people we have met over the years who have worked in some capacity, either as members of the body, staff or lobbyists, at the Capitol.

You can disagree with the outcomes from time to time, but the democratic process that unfolds under the gold dome is always recognized for its open-ness, fairness and lack of corruption. The gold dome is a fitting symbol for this Centennial State.

Its renovation project is being sup-ported by the Share in the Care Colo-rado campaign. The campaign is raising funds for the construction efforts. Al-though the Colorado General Assembly has appropriated funds for the project, private donations are also being sought to offset costs. I encourage all Colora-dans to contribute to this worthy cause, this symbol of our democracy.

As Winston Churchill once said: “…democracy is the worst form of govern-ment except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.”

Extreme Dome MakeoverWe all share in caring for Colorado’s statehouseBY KENT SINGER || CREA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR || [email protected]

Kent Singer

Executive Director

FOLLOW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KENT SINGER’S BLOG AT COLORADOREABLOG.WORDPRESS.COM

sharein the carecolorado.org


[letters]

ColoradoCountryLife.coopMarch 2012 5

Send your letter to the editor by mail or email. You must include your name and address to be published. Letters may be edited.

Long-term Costs of ElectricityI want my utility to plan for the future and think about the long-term costs of its electricity supplies, not just get-ting the cheapest today. Electricity from coal and natural gas is going to get more and more expensive as more and more people compete for limited resources. We need to encourage wise development of inexhaustible supplies that our country controls for our own security and economy. I encourage the electric co-ops to lead the way.

Lee Cassin, De Beque

Alternative Sources of PowerRenewable tax incentives should be extended. We need to look at sources of electricity other than what we currently use and encourage indi-viduals to incorporate solar and wind generation to reduce pollution.

Thank you for including information on a thermosyphoning air panel in your December issue. We have been using one to help heat our garage in the winter for years and see temperatures over 120 degrees on sunny days at no cost to us.

Bill Williams, Dolores

Coal, oil and gas are established and well-funded industries. Alternate energy sources face significant politi-cal, corporate and financial barriers, and tax incentives help level the play-ing field. Tax incentives help promote research and move industries forward to determine the viability of long-term sustainability for various energy sources.

Rod Johnson, Eads

Thanks for the SupportOn behalf of the board of directors of Grand County Council on Aging, and specifically board member Charlotte Waddell, I would like to thank you for your donation to GCCA. Your gift came at the right time to enable us to continue providing programming and transportation to the senior and disabled residents of Grand County.

Sharon ShoenbergerGrand County Council on Aging, Granby

[calendar]


[March]March 10Fort CollinsKRFC Birthday BashLincoln Center5:30 pm • 970-221-6730

March 10IgnacioBridal & Event ShowcaseSky Ute Casino Resort9 am-4 pm • 970-563-1756

March 10LovelandGet Up & Get Down to Get Kids OutLoveland Ski Area8:30 am-4 pm goals4youth.org

March 10RidgwayWine & Whiskers CarnivalOuray County 4-H Event Center5:30 pm-12 am • adopt mountainpets.org

March 15ElbertSilent auction and concertElbert School5:30-8 pm • [email protected]

March 16DenverSpanish Happy HourMuseo de las Americas5-8 pm • museo.org

March 16-18EckertCrane DaysFruitgrowers Reservoir970-874-9532

March 17BurlingtonPitch TournamentBurlington Community Center6:30 pm • burlingtoncolo.com

March 17GranbyBeach Bash and snow funSolVista Basin5-8 pm • granbyranch.com

April 6WindsorEaster EggstravaganzaCommunity Recreation Center10:30-11:30 am • 970-674-3500

April 7BoulderBoulder Roubaix Road Race41st and Oxford RoadAll day • dbcevents.com

April 7DurangoEaster Beagle ExpressDurango & Silverton Railroad10 am and 12 pm • durango.train.com.

April 7Grand LakeEaster Egg HuntTown Park11 am • 970-627-8428

April 7LovelandConcert for BiodiversityRialto Theater Center7-9 pm • www.ci.loveland.co.us

April 7MonarchKayaks on SnowMonarch Mountain888-996-7669 x 5050

April 7Winter ParkSnowshoe RaceColorado Adventure Parkwinterparksnowshoeseries.com

April 15Greeley“Shrek the Musical”Union Colony Civic Center3 pm • ucstars.com

March 17GreeleyCeltic Tenors concertUnion Colony Civic Center7:30 pm • ucstars.com

March 17Pueblo“Up in the Air” showSangre de Cristo Arts Center11 am and 2 pm • sangredecristoarts.org

March 18Beulah(Almost) Spring Equinox HikeMountain Park Environmental Center9-11:30 am • hikeandlearn.org

March 23-25LovelandGem & Mineral ShowLarimer County Fairgrounds970-493-6168

March 24 DurangoChoral Society performanceSt. Columba Catholic Church7:30 pm • durangochoralsociety.org

March 24FalconHorseman’s DayFalcon High Schoolcoequinevets.com

March 24Grand JunctionWalk From ObesityEagle Rim Park9:30 am • walkfromobesity.com

March 24Grand JunctionGolden Age Games fundraiserOrchard Mesa Bowling Lanes5 pm • 970-245-6175

March 24 Salida“Wild Flowers” art exhibit openingSalida Steamplant5-7 pm • 719-539-7120

March 25ElbertAll-you-can-eat breakfastRussell Gates Mercantile Community Hall8 am-1 pm • 306-648-3325

March 25NorthglennVintage Voltage ExpoRamada Plaza Convention Center11 am-4 pm • danacain.com

March 27DenverFree Admission DayDenver Botanic Gardensbotanicgardens.org

March 29- April 1Crested ButteJunior Freeskiing TourCrested Butte Mountain Resortjrfreeskiing.com

March 31Burlington Home & Garden ShowBurlington Community Center9 am-3 pm • burlingtoncolo.com

March 31Grand JunctionFly-Fishing ExpoDoubleTree Hotelgrand-valley-anglers.org

March 31TrinidadPeacock Ball fundraiserThe Mitchell Museum719-859-1802

April 3-14DurangoGraffiti ExhibitDurango Arts Centerdurangoarts.org

April 6LittletonFree Admission DayDenver Botanic Gardens at Chatfieldbotanicgardens.org

[April]

Calendar, Colorado Country Life, 5400 N. Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; fax to 303-455-2807; or email calendar@ coloradocountrylife.org.

SEND CALENDAR ITEMSTWO MONTHS IN ADVANCE TO:

http://www.ci.loveland

Y-W ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION, INC.

[Y-W News]


TThe 66th Annual Meeting of the Members of Y-W Electric Association, Inc., was called to order by President Darrel Brenner at 10 a.m. on March 18, 2011, at the Eckley Community Center, Eckley, Colorado, pursuant to notice required by the Bylaws of the Association.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEManager Terry Hall led the members and guests in the Pledge of Allegiance.

INVOCATIONReverend Eldred Sidebottom gave the invocation.

DRAWING — GRAND PRIZEManager Hall announced that the name of one member of the Association is being drawn from a drum containing the names of all members. The name of that member was put in an enve-lope to be announced at the end of the meeting. That member will be the winner of the $5,000 grand prize provided that mem-ber is present at the meeting. The board has decided to cap the grand prize at $5,000. The names of two members attending the meeting were drawn from a different drum containing names of all members that registered at the meeting. They will be the winners of the $250 and $500 prizes and their names were also placed in envelopes to be opened at the end of the meeting.

APPOINTMENT OF CREDENTIALS AND ELECTIONCOMMITTEEPresident Brenner introduced the members who have been appointed to serve on the Credentials and Election Committee.

n Leo Pieper (Chairman), Akronn Tom Fuller, Akronn Elva Masters, Antonn Albert Corliss, Yuman Frank Smith, Wrayn Junior Weishaar, Idalian Connie Newbanks, Eckley

INTRODUCTION OF BOARD MEMBERS AND STAFFPresident Brenner introduced the members of the board of direc-tors, their wives who were present and members of the Y-W staff.

INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS, RETIRED DIRECTORSAND OTHERS

n Rick Gordon — Tri Staten Ron Ebenkamp — Tri-Staten James Spiers — Tri-Staten Mark Farnsworth — Highlinen Dennis Herman — Highlinen Dixie Fagerlin — Highlinen Steve Oestman — Highlinen Mike Prom, CEO — Western Unitedn Kent Singer — CREAn Donna Norris — CREAn Larry Hill — WAPAn Matt Yakab — WAPA n Tim Edgar — CSU Energy Coordinator

Past Y-W staff and directors and spouses:

n Morris and Shirley Sundermann Lloyd and Rozetta Andersonn Katherine Zionn Robert and Jeanie Goodmann Bill and Beulah Krausen Lucille Hardyn Lucile Bledsoe

QUORUM AND VOTING RULESAttorney Levi Williamson reviewed the bylaw provisions relating to quorum and voting rules.

REPORT OF ATTENDANCEMindi Segelke, office manager, reported that there were 379 members registered for the meeting and this constitutes a quorum for the conducting of any business that might come before the meeting, including the election of directors.

READING OF NOTICE OF MEETINGSecretary Chet Gebauer read the Notice of Annual Meeting, which includes the time and place of the annual meeting and proof of publication and the names of nominees for each of the vacancies on the board of directors.

Minutes from the 2011 Annual Meeting of Members

[continued on page 8]


[Y-W News]

APPROVE 2010 ANNUAL MEETING MINUTESIt was properly moved, seconded and carried that the minutes of the Annual Meeting of Members held March 19, 2010 at Akron, Colorado, be dispensed with and approved as published in the Colorado Country Life magazine.

INTRODUCTION OF NOMINEES FOR DIRECTORManager Hall introduced the nominees for director:

n Charles (Jim) Soehner — District 3, Yuma Countyn Joneal Young — District 6, Washington Countyn Darrel Brenner — District 7, Town of Akron

ELECTION OF DIRECTORSAttorney Williamson announced that because there is no competition for any of the Director positions, a voice vote is appropriate. It was properly moved, seconded and carried to elect Soehner, Young and Brenner to another term as directors for their respective Districts.

BYLAW AMENDMENTSAttorney Williamson announced that the board of directors proposed two amendments to the Y-W Bylaws. The Board proposed deleting two sentences in Article II, Meetings of Members, to conform to Title 40 of the Colorado Revised Statutes as follows:

ARTICLE IIMeetings of Members

Section 5. Voting Each member shall be entitled to only one (1) vote upon

each matter submitted to a vote at any meeting of the members, including voting for one (1) director from each district in which a director is to be elected.

At all meetings of the members at which a quorum is present, all questions shall be decided by a vote of a majority of the members voting thereon in person and, where authorized, by mail, except as otherwise provided by law, the Articles of Incor-poration of the Association or these Bylaws.

If a husband and wife hold a joint membership, they shall jointly be entitled to one (1) vote and no more upon each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of the members.

A member shall be entitled to vote for the election of directors either at a meeting held for such purpose or by mail. In addition, voting by mail must be in writing on ballots provided by the Association and the return envelope containing the ballot must be signed by the member voting. The presence of a member at a meeting of the members shall revoke a mail vote theretofore executed by such member and such member shall be entitled to vote at such meeting in the same manner and with the same effect as if such member had not voted by mail.

Voting by members other than members who are natu-ral persons shall be allowed upon presentation to the Coopera-tive, prior to, or upon registration at, each member meeting, of satisfactory evidence entitling the person presenting the same to vote. (Stuart and Dolores J. Blecha, Act. #1352002801)

Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this

Section, whenever a member is absent from a meeting of the members but whose spouse attends such meeting, such spouse shall be deemed to hold, and may exercise the right to vote, to the same extent that such member could vote if present in person.

Cumulative voting and voting by proxy shall be prohib-ited at all meetings of the members.

Section 9. Credentials and Election Committee The Board of Directors not more than forty-five (45)

days prior to the annual meeting of members, shall appoint a Credentials and Election Committee consisting of an uneven number of members, not less than five (5) nor more than fifteen (15) who are not directors or candidates for the office of direc-tor, or member of the same household of or close relative of any director or candidate. In appointing the Committee, the Board shall have regard for equitable representation of the several areas served by the Cooperative. It shall be the responsibility of the Committee to pass upon all questions that might arise with re-spect to the registration of members, to count all ballots cast in the election or in any other ballot vote taken, and to rule upon the effect of any ballots irregularly marked. The Committee’s decision on all such matters shall be final.

President Brenner asked for a motion to approve the Bylaw amendments. It was properly moved, seconded, and carried to amend the Bylaws as proposed by the board of directors.

2010 CREA CAMP DELEGATESAndy Molt announced that the 2010 CREA camp delegates were not able to attend the annual meeting. They were Shelby Guy, Akron; Dezarea Kasa, Lone Star; Matthew Paul, Idalia; Tawney Bleak, Otis; Phillip Foy, Otis; John Patterson, Otis; and Robbie Parker, Idalia. Molt gave a slideshow presentation of their time at the camp.

2011 CREA CAMP DELEGATESAndy Molt announced the delegates for the 2011 CREA camp. They are Will Helling, Idalia; Joelle Holtman, Liberty; Travis Hill, Akron; Brendon Dutton, Idalia; Jared Allacher, Otis; and Kati Kuntz, Otis. The alternates are Jaci Palser, Otis; and Sam Weaver, Liberty. (Rodney and Gina Lynn Palser, Act. #3701008501)

2011 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERSAndy Molt announced the 2011 Scholarship winners. They are:

Y-W ELECTRIC 4-YEAR $1,000n Phillip Foy – Otis High Schooln Danielle Lenz – Wray High School

Y-W ELECTRIC $1,000n Larrah Welp – Wray High Schooln Kyle Michaelis – Akron High Schooln Alison Seedorf – Yuma High Schooln Tawney Bleak – Otis High School

[continued from page 7]


[Y-W News]

Y-W ELECTRIC $500n Caitlin Brown – Yuma High Schooln Hannah Gates – Liberty High Schooln Danielle Jones – Arickaree High Schooln Adam Morostica – Idalia High School

Y-W ELECTRIC CONTINUING EDUCATION $500n Deseray Gruben – Colorado State University

BASIN ELECTRIC MEMBER DEPENDENT $1,000n Maura Jostes – Akron High School

BASIN ELECTRIC EMPLOYEE DEPENDENT POOL DELEGATE

n Phillip Foy – Otis High School

TRI-STATE G&T $500n Landon Schaffer – Idalia High Schooln Chance Friedly – Akron High School

LINE TECHNICIANn Ryan Rhea

MANAGER’S REPORTManager Hall presented his report with the aid of screen projec-tions. The financial reports were for the year 2010. He presented and discussed the balance sheet, statement of revenue, expenses and margins, financial ratios and capital credits retirement his-tory. The 2010 operating margins were $1,792,736. Total margins for the year were $3,984,022. Y-W met its financial ratio require-ments for 2010.

For 2010, Tri-State did not increase their wholesale power rate. Y-W raised retail rates by 3.56 percent to cover additional costs at Y-W. Y-W did not raise retail rates for 2011. The irrigation load control program will continue in 2011. Wells are controlled in May, June and September. There are two options available.

Manager Hall discussed the Republican River Compact and the potential impacts on Y-W and its members. He reviewed sys-tem improvements made in 2010, including rebuilding 5.7 miles of three-phase overhead line, sectionalizing on the Baseline sub-station circuits and installation of 92 new services. He reviewed Y-W’s future construction plans. He discussed Western United, the Colorado Rural Electric Association and various legislative issues.

PRESIDENT’S REPORTPresident Brenner announced that his report would be a little out of the ordinary. He talked about the interesting and little known facts about Y-W. He described the differences between the various types of lines maintained by Y-W. Y-W owns 4,013 miles of electric lines, enough to stretch from New York to Mi-lan, Italy. Y-W has 8,916 members, resulting in a consumer den-sity of 2.22 consumers per mile of line, the third lowest density in Colorado. Y-W owns nearly 68,000 poles, more than 68 mil-lion feet of wire, 22 substations and 38 vehicles. Y-W employees

drive approximately 250,000 miles each year. Y-W has had only five very minor vehicle accidents in the last five years.

Y-W has the second largest irrigation load in Tri-State’s system, and third largest in the country of RUS borrowers. Y-W’s summer load is 130 MW, compared to only 30 MW in the winter. Brenner reviewed effects of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The cost to date for Y-W to comply with the laws is $694,000. Y-W spends approximately $70,000 each year to trim trees. Each year, Y-W hires an inspector to inspect Y-W’s poles at an annual cost of $46,600. Y-W has the third highest plant investment per con-sumer in the state. Y-W’s power costs are higher than average due to the low load factor of the irrigation load. Y-W’s retail rates are about average for the state. Y-W retires capital credits to its members and is currently on a 20-year rotation. Y-W has retired $15,138,045 to its members, including over $6 million in the past 10 years. (Paul L. and Joy T. Livingston, Act. #3035002401)

President Brenner thanked the other directors, General Man-ager Hall, his staff and employees for their hard work in 2010.

TRI-STATE REPORTJim Soehner, Y-W’s representative on the Tri-State G&T Board of Directors, presented a report given at the Tri-State Board of Di-rectors meeting. The report reviewed Tri-State’s asset utilization mix and integration of renewable energy. Soehner introduced Jim Spiers, Tri-State’s senior vice president of business strategy, R&D. Spiers reviewed the numerous government regulations that Tri-State must comply with. He reviewed rule making from the previous six months and future federal regulations that will affect the cost of power. He reviewed the board’s strategic goals.

APPROVAL OF REPORTSIt was properly moved, seconded and carried that the members accept and approve the reports presented at the meeting and approve the actions of the board of directors for the year 2010.

DISMISS COMMITTEESPresident Brenner dismissed all the committees he appointed to serve this meeting with the thanks of all members.

PRIZE DRAWINGSThroughout the meeting, drawings for prizes were conducted by Manager Hall. Robin Dunn’s name was drawn for the $5,000 prize, but was not present.

ADJOURNMENTPresident Brenner called for any other business that should come before the meeting, and, hearing none, ruled that the meeting be adjourned.

__________________________________Secretary__________________________________President


[Y-W News]

E

Because You Asked ...[Billing Corner]

Y-W Electric will be offering E-bill to our consumers this month. This service allows you to pay your bill electronically on Y-W’s website. You may also choose to receive a monthly statement electronically. Check out the website at www.ywelectric.coop for more information.

Credit card and check by phone payments are still accepted during regular business hours. Due to the utilization of E-bill, there is no longer a fee charged for using check or credit card payments by phone. If requesting this service, you will either need your credit card or your bank and checking account information. (Mitchell A. and Carmen C. Witte, Act. #1060100101)

We found a way to provide a new customer convenience service

Each month, Y.W. Electric offers members a chance to earn a $20 credit on their next electric bill. If you recognize your name and account number in this magazine, call 800-660-2291 and ask for your credit. It couldn’t be easier.

Members claiming their $20 credit from the December 2011 issue were Andrew Weaver, Jody L. Kogl, Don Rie-menschneider, Rian and Sarah Bernhardt and John and Roberta Schaffner.

Get acquainted with your account number, read your Colorado Country Life magazine and pick up the phone. That’s all the energy you’ll need to claim your energy bucks.

You must claim your credit during the month in which your name appears in the magazine (check the date on the front cover).

CLAIM YOUR CREDIT

YY-W Electric is offering a renewable energy pro-gram subject to renewable energy being available from Y-W’s wholesale electric power supplier, Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association.

Members may sign up for a set amount of re-newable resource power in 100-kilowatt-hour per month increments. There will be a small premium of 7.5 cents per 100-kWh block in addition to the present rate. Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association has purchased output electricity from wind farms, hydropower projects and solar power to provide this service.

Guidelines for Green Power Rate Availability — To all Y-W Electric members in 100-kWh per month blocks. (Joe and Dora Tovar, Act. #1373001607)

Eligibility — Any Y-W Electric member, who must complete and return to Y-W Electric an Intent to Purchase Renewable Generated Power Applica-tion. This form will indicate the number of 100-kWh blocks the member intends to purchase monthly.

Rate — The rate will be a renewable power premium (added charge) for all renewable power delivered to the member participant as committed in the Intent to Purchase Renewable Generated Power Application. The renewable rate will be 7.5 cents per 100-kWh block in addition to the present rate applicable to the member.

Duration — Once the member has committed to the purchase, this rate shall qualify on a month-to-month basis.

SIGN UP FOR GREEN POWER

Name

Address

City, State, Zip Code

Signature

Number of Green Power blocks of 100 kWh

SIGN UP FOR GREEN POWER

Sign up for E-bill and save time!

I have committed to this purchase. This rate shall qualify on a month-to-month basis.

WA Source for the ProblemWhat nuisances could be lurking around your home and what are the best ways to remedy them? EnergyStar.gov lists several common household problems and offers suggestions on how to identify and repair them. On its website you can find information such as this scenario:

n If you suspect you have a water leak, find its location. It could be somewhere obvious, such as a bathroom or ceiling. However, it could be more inconspicuous, such as the attic, roof or basement.n Fix the leak immediately. If the leak has caused substantial water damage or mold, you will need to hire a contractor who specializes in mold remediation and water damage repairs. n Dry out the area completely after the leak is repaired.Failing to fix a water leak can lead to mold,

mildew or other biological growth. Depend-ing on the severity, conditions can lead to rot, structural damage, premature paint failure and a variety of health problems. Water can seep into your house from the outside through a leak in your roof or foundation or small gaps around windows or doors. Water can also come from inside your house from a leaking water pipe, toilet, shower or bath-tub. High indoor humidity caused by normal activities of everyday living, such as shower-ing, cooking and drying clothes, can also be a source of mold, mildew or musty odors.

Visit EnergyStar.gov for more useful tips on common household problems.

Spring clean your electric bill

by cutting costs at home. Find

out how you can add up your

savings by visiting togetherwe

save.com/add-up-your-savings.

Add it Up

St. Patrick’s DayMarch 17

http://www.ywelectric.coop

ColoradoCountryLife.coopFebruary 2012 11

[newsclips]


R

T

U.S. SECOND IN RENEWABLE GENERATION

HOW OLD ARE U.S. POWER PLANTS?

Renewable energy consumption increased by about 8 percent between 2008 and 2009, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

In 2009, electricity from renewable resources contributed about 8 percent of the country’s total energy demand and 10 percent of the country’s total electricity genera-tion.

The United States has fallen to second place behind China in total renewable energy consumption due to China’s recent massive additions of hydroelectric production. However, the U.S. consumes the most renewable energy from sources other than hydropower, twice as much as Germany and more than three times as much as Spain, according to the EIA’s Annual Energy Outlook 2010.

The current fleet of electric power generation plants across the United States has a wide range of ages. Gas plants tend to be newer than the oil- and coal-fired plants. Wind farms are a newer addition to the capacity mix.

In general, about 530 gigawatts or 51 percent of the electric capacity available in 2010 was at least 30 years old, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The generation stations owned by Colorado’s electric co-op power supplier, Tri-State Generation and Trans-mission, tend to fall into that category with five out of six stations having been built in the 1970s and 1980s.

The age of power plants is important as power suppliers plan for the future and for new regulations that will require changes. There is concern that many power plants will be closed rather than updated to meet the new standards. Fewer power plants means less electricity available at a time when demand for electricity is still growing.

Age of Power Plants Affects Future of Electricity Generation in U.S.

24 out of the

25 oldest U.S. power

facilities are hydro-

power plants that

were built over 60

years ago.

COAL-CONNECTED JOBSCoal is mined in 25 states in the U.S. and is responsible for 154,000 direct jobs and more than 400,000 indirect jobs, according to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Corrected EmailThe electric co-op newsletter Innovations in Energy is looking for subscribers. Simply send your name and email address to mneeley@ coloradocountrylife.org for your free subscription. Last month, the wrong email address was listed. We apologize.

Readers ConserveTheir Electricity inMultiple WaysIn February we asked what readers were willing to do to cut energy use, and we heard from many people who have already trimmed their usage.

They have reduced the number of lightbulbs in their home and have replaced incandescent bulbs with compact fluores-cent bulbs. They are living in cooler homes this winter and have cut back on watch-ing television. Others have changed their routines when it comes to washing dishes and washing and drying clothes. Energy conservation is a way of life for many of our readers.

What is one advantage of being a member of your electric co-op?Answer at [email protected]

March’s question for readers:

Replacing incandescent lightbulbs with energy-efficientcompact fluorescent lightbulbs makes a difference.



TThirty-five years ago disco was king, personal computers were born and Americans needed more electricity. To meet this demand, not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric cooperatives, in partnership with their wholesale power suppliers, built or invested in power plants, mostly coal or nuclear.

Unfortunately, many of these plants may be forced to make expensive changes to meet increas-ing environmental regulations, and as electric demand climbs again, new generation will be needed to keep the lights on. Some coal-fired power plants may require modifications so severe that it will be more cost effective to simply shut them down.

Accelerating factorsConsumers, adding more plugged-in devices daily, already pay more for electricity. The average annual residential electric bill has risen $263.40 since 2005, with electricity use outpacing effi-ciency efforts. Despite the recession, U.S. homes on average used an additional 50 kilowatt-hours every month between 2009 and 2010; retail electricity sales rose 4.4 percent.

Americans aren’t the only people using more power; as worldwide energy use grows, resource competition (and prices) shoot up. By 2035, global energy consumption, primarily in China and India, will jump 53 percent from 2008 levels.

In spite of increasing energy needs, 37,600 megawatts of older coal-fired power plants are slated for retirement by 2018. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation, the Atlanta, Georgia-based organization charged with overseeing reliability of the electric grid covering the United States, most of Canada and the Mexican state of Baja California Norte, predicts a worst- case scenario where environmental regulations may force coal plants generating up to 54,000 MW of additional power to shut their doors by 2018.

New power plants could offset this loss, with natural gas taking center stage. The National En-ergy Technology Laboratory, a branch of the U.S. Department of Energy focused on advancing national, economic, and energy security, predicts 20,000 MW of natural gas facilities will start operating this year, with another 28,000 MW proposed for 2013. A strong breeze from wind project proposals may add 42,000 MW this year and 28,000 MW in 2013, but only if federal production tax credits continue.

Shifting fuel focusWhile about 50 percent of the nation’s electricity comes from burning coal, co-ops rely more heavily on the fossil fuel with approximately 80 percent of co-op electricity coming from coal. Why the difference? The majority of co-op coal power plants were built between 1975 and 1986, when using natural gas was prohibited by the federal Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act.

Now, a series of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations impacting cooling water intake structures, coal ash disposal, interstate transport of air pollutants and hazardous air

In 2002, Tri-State Generation

and Transmission embarked

on its largest environmental

project upgrade in its 50-year

history at Craig Station, a $121

million, multi-year retrofit

to Units 1 and 2 to address

opacity concerns and the

mitigation of particulate mat-

ter. Environmental controls

at the station include a wet

limestone scrubber system

that removes 90 percent of

the sulfur dioxide produced

for Units 1 and 2; a dry lime

system used for Unit 3; a

fabric-filter baghouse that

collects 99 percent of fly

ash; state-of-the-art low-

nitrogen-oxide burners and

over-fired air that reduce the

formation of nitrogen dioxide;

and a continuous 24-hour

emissions-monitoring system

that ensures that flue gas

HIGHER POWER COSTS ON THE HORIZONGrowing demand and environmental regulations stress electric rates for electric utilities

CRAIG STATION BY MEGAN MCKOY-NOE, CCC


pollutants like mercury are affecting all electric utilities. In most cases, co-ops will need to retrofit coal-fired plants with costly pollution control equipment; in others, co-ops could opt for early plant retirements.

“Time is tight: Improvements take time and new technologies have to be tested before going mainstream,” says Kirk Johnson, senior vice president of govern-ment relations for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Virginia-based service organi-zation for electric cooperatives.

“We’re deeply concerned that EPA’s strategy to require significant change within very compressed timelines may be unachievable and could damage the economy of rural America and affect service reliability,” he says.

Seeing the handwriting on the wall, co-ops have taken action. Over the last decade, power supply co-ops have in-vested $3.4 billion to boost plant perfor-

mance and limit emissions. In fact, since 1990, power plant emissions of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxides — compounds formed by burning fossil fuels — dropped at least 67 percent nationally even as electricity use climbed 38 percent. And the large-scale expenditure isn’t over. Another $4 billion has been slated for upgrades through 2021, with the bulk of the money — $2.18 billion — marked for work this year and next.

Regulation risks“Environmental regulations are shown to be the number one risk to [maintaining electric] reliability over the next one to five years,” reports NERC’s 2011 Long-Term Reliability Assessment.

Why the concern? Because steps re-quired by EPA rules have the potential to cost the industry billions of dollars and don’t provide enough time to comply.

“Regulation on top of regulation, and court decision on top of court decision,

have compounded the situation to the point that we now have contradictory regulations and court decisions that don’t make any sense,” explains NRECA CEO Glenn English. “Our nation needs to adopt a balanced, commonsense approach to environmental protection that factors in electric reliability and affordability.”

NRECA has been actively urging EPA through comments, testimony and litiga-tion to consider the negative impacts of increased electric power costs on consum-ers as it continues to move forward with its rule making.

Electric cooperatives are leading the way to find affordable solutions to Ameri-ca’s electricity demand. Find out how you can help at www.ourenergy.coop.

Megan McKoy-Noe writes on consumer and coopera-tive affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Virginia-based service arm of the nation’s electric cooperatives.

BY MEGAN MCKOY-NOE, CCC

http://www.ourenergy.coop


LIVING with

HOUNDS


T

[continued on page 18]

BY MARLENE GROVES

Think bloodhound and the image of a dog with its nose to the ground following a scent immediately comes to mind. You think of police departments and crimes solved thanks to a dog’s nose.

And those images are of a working dog that does its thing when called on and then, maybe, quietly waits somewhere to be called on again.

Bloodhounds are so much more than that. They make great family pets and are active outdoor-loving dogs. They are also fun to show.

My husband always wanted a bloodhound. He looked for one back in 1980, but that resulted in us getting a basset hound. Fast forward several years to when the kids are grown and we are living on a ranch in Elbert County, northeast of Colorado Springs, and my husband is even more determined to get a bloodhound.

Many who are only familiar with the television image of a bloodhound with its nose to the ground ask why a blood-hound? Think about it. Bloodhounds are big. The females can be about 90 pounds or more and 24 to 25 inches at the shoulder. Males weigh up to 135 pounds and can be 29 inches at the shoulder.

At that size, their tails are perfectly able to knock any glass off a coffee table or break a glass cabinet door. And they eat a lot, at least twice a day.

And there is their nose. It will drive them to the kitchen counter where they can easily snag any unguarded meal. And, oh yeah, there is that drool. A bloodhound does drool all of the time and when the dog shakes its head, the drool flies everywhere.

With that type of information, who would consider a bloodhound?

Once you meet a bloodhound, you understand, especially if you are a big-dog person (meaning a person who likes large dogs). How can you not like this dog that goes from noble and dignified one minute to a total comic character the next?

For me, and others, it’s a “touchy-feely” thing. I touched a bloodhound and I liked it — the soft excess skin and those lovely long ears. And then when you rub its ears, it doggie purrs like a kitten. (It’s not really a purr; it’s more like a grumbly-rumbly moan.)

We were ready for a bloodhound. We have always had and loved dogs, so we were prepared for all of the ways life changes when you add a puppy or dog to your family. But who knew we could be so taken with this one breed of dog. We became totally hooked on bloodhounds once we finally got one.

Why is that? Sometimes the best way to explain bloodhound

personalities, traits and behaviors is to tell people about our particular bloodhounds, so here goes.

Our first bloodhound was Marshall. Sadly he only lived about two years, as he had some health problems. But he was an affectionate bloodhound even though he was rather scrawny compared to the American Kennel Club’s blood-hound standard for the breed.

After Marshall we got Hunter and Sassy. Our older male, Hunter, is absolutely the smartest dog we have ever had. He is a bloodhound with high problem-solving abilities. For example, gate latches and doorknobs were problems for him. They kept him in or out. So, he studied them until he figured out the gate latch is pushed up to open the gate and lever door handles are pushed down to open doors. Needless to say we had to change our gate latches and our door handles to make them dog proof.

Hunter is a true ranch dog, often spending his days with my husband, riding in the tractor and checking fences and animals. He is a bloodhound that does not allow animal intruders. If there are coyotes or foxes, he is not happy until they are chased off. And snakes are also not allowed. He will corner any snake and bellow his distinctive bloodhound bay until the snake is removed from “his” yard.

Hunter is a wonderful bloodhound; but he is an example that not every dog you love should be bred. Hunter lacks some breed type characteristics and more importantly he lacks a good health history. So Hunter is happily neutered and living the good life at our Bloodhound Ranch.

Our female bloodhound is Sassy. She is the most squishy and loveable dog anyone could have ever imagined. She is liv-ing therapy for us each day, bringing us nothing but love and joy. Okay if I am honest, she is also a huge attention hog and rather possessive of all doggie toys. Yes, she is a spoiled dog.

She is a large female bloodhound, with good bone and substance, and she is “dripping with type,” meaning she is a good breed type with long ears, abundant skin and, well, drippy skin.

A well-rounded bloodhound, Sassy is an American Kennel

People think of bloodhousnds as tracking dogs, but they also makegreat pets.


Club and international champion, with her Canine Good Citizen designation, a Rally title and a trailing title. She is working on her obedience title. She is also temperament tested and approved for therapy work. But above all Sassy is an adored family pet.

Bloodhounds can be sensitive, and Sassy is a good example of that. She has a great nose with an aversion to smelling dead things. This makes her great in discerning dead things, but her sensitive nature makes it something we don’t want her to have to do regularly.

A true Sassy story: While traveling with Sassy through Texas, I stopped at a hotel/motel, which was something we had done quite often. It was just one night and, of course, I had to allow Sassy potty time.

As I walked her, I did not understand Sassy’s behavior. She refused to walk in a certain area or by a parked truck and trailer. I was actually a little frustrated, thinking, “Come on; what’s the big deal?”

The next morning while I was checking out of the hotel, I heard the night clerk exchanging information with the day clerk. The first clerk said something about a strange client who checked in last night. Apparently, he was trans-porting a dead body. Yep, this was the truck and trailer Sassy refused to be around.

From that day forward I was a better bloodhound owner as I understood that there are things that bloodhounds (all dogs really) smell and know that people just don’t under-stand.

We also have a young bloodhound male, Sebastian. He is pretty much a regular at the Colorado dog shows, and he has some big paws to fill with a famous half-sister, Kiss, who is the number one bloodhound in the country.

Sebastian has a marvelous example of a bloodhound head, which is narrow in proportion to its length and has a visible occipital peak (the little top knot bump on a bloodhound’s head).

Of course, a bloodhound head is an instrument for scenting. The long ears sweep the scent up and toward the large nose and nostrils while the excess skin holds the scent near. Even the drool of a bloodhound enhances any scents the bloodhound picks up. Bloodhounds were bred and designed to be scenting

and trailing dogs, so a working bloodhound could be required to follow a trail for a good portion of a day. Therefore, besides needing a good bloodhound head, bloodhounds need a good heart and good lungs. They also need good legs and feet.

Sebastian has all of these characteristics and good bone, good musculature and wonderfully “knuckled up” feet. He spends many of his days on the move, running and chasing birds, butterflies and even bees so he seems to have a good heart and lungs. But how do we really know if our dogs have healthy hearts? We have them tested, relying on a veterinary cardiologist who gives our bloodhounds echocardiograms.

Bloodhounds should also have their hips and elbows tested. An X-ray should be taken and sent in for evaluation and certi-fication. There are many other optional tests for bloodhounds, but the basic health testing requirements cover heart, hips and elbows. A healthy dog will be a happy dog.

As a big dog, a bloodhound will also do best with a large yard and a good strong fence. It is a breed that is perfect for where we live now at what has become Bloodhound Ranch.

Marlene Groves is a retired business consultant and a member of several dog clubs. She is a current board member for the South Central Bloodhound Club and the treasurer for the Colorado Federation of Dog Clubs. She and her husband raise buffalo, but they also have a passion for their bloodhounds. Learn more at www.bloodhoundranch.com.

• EXCESS SKIN wrinkling around the face holds and focuses the scent

• EYES are nearly blocked from any visual distractions

• LONG SNOUT allows more olfactory (scent) receptors

• LARGE NOSTRILS let the scent touch the scent receptors

• LONG EARS actually sweep up the scent.

THE WORKING EQUIPMENT OF A BLOODHOUND

American Bloodhound Club www.bloodhounds.org

South Central Bloodhound Club www.southcentralbloodhounds.org

Official Colorado Bloodhound Rescue www.southcentralbloodhounds.org/rescue.html

For additional bloodhound information, visit:

[continued from page 17]

http://www.bloodhoundranch.com

http://www.bloodhounds.org

http://www.southcentralbloodhounds.org

http://www.southcentralbloodhounds.org/rescue.html

[recipes]


W

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

RECIPE RESOURCES

There are several “people”

foods your pet can safely consume, but there are also many deadly

ones. Foods like grapes, choco-

late and walnuts are commonly

listed food items consid-

ered dangerous or deadly to

pets. For more information on

dangerous food items for pets,

visit Healthypet.com.

Dig up some deli-cious ideas from all

over the globe on Allrecipes.com, a

recipe resource for cooks of all skill

levels. You can read reviews, sugges-

tions and articles, and post your own

recipes if you’d like.

Fido’s Favorite Treats1 cup rolled oats1/3 cup margarine or butter1 cup boiling water3/4 cup cornmeal1 tablespoon sugar2 teaspoons chicken or beef instant bouillon1/2 cup milk1 cup shredded cheddar cheese1 egg, beaten2 cups white or wheat flour

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease cookie sheet. Combine rolled oats, mar-garine and water in a large bowl; let stand for 10 minutes. Stir in cornmeal, sugar, bouillon, milk, cheese and egg. Mix well. Add flour 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition to form a stiff dough. On a floured surface, knead in remaining flour until dough is smooth and no longer sticky. Roll or pat out dough to 1/2-inch thickness; cut with cookie cutter. Place 1 inch apart on cookie sheet. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely. Store loosely covered. Makes 3 1/2 dozen treats.

For more healthy snacks for your pet, visit colorado countrylife.coop. Click on Recipes.

Flavorful, Fetching Fare Tastes your dog will thank you forBY AMY HIGGINS || [email protected]

Bowwow Bonbons1 large apple1/4 cup honey1/2 cup water1/2 teaspoon cinnamon1 cup oatmeal1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour1/8 cup whole wheat flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Core, slice and mince the apple. In a large bowl, combine the minced apple, honey, water, cinnamon and oatmeal. Gradually blend in the wheat flour, adding enough to form a stiff dough. In a small bowl, add 1/8 cup wheat flour. Spoon the dough by rounded teaspoon onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. To prevent sticking, dip the bottom of a glass in the wheat flour and then flat-ten each spoonful of dough. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and flip each cookie. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Bake for an additional 30 minutes. Let cool overnight. Makes 3 dozen large dog treats.

Whipping up delicious meals for the family could be common practice in your home, but you might be forgetting about an important member: your be-loved canine. It’s amazing how many pet-friendly recipes are out there, many of which can be prepared with ingredients currently in your cupboard. So, instead of picking out a prepackaged treat for your pup, pull out the measuring cups and get cooking.

Bullwrinkle.com offers more than 70 recipes on its website. Here are a couple to get you started:


[gardening]


G

The Root of the MatterLearn about sustainable gardening in Colorado over the phoneBY EVA ROSE MONTANE || WWW.XERISCAPEGARDENS.COM

Read more gardening advice at coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Living in Colorado and then Gardening.

Gardening in Colorado’s high and dry climate doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it can be just as gorgeous, colorful and uncomplicated as gardening in oth-er “gentler” climates. On March 20, you can call in to a new tele-series that will feature dry climate gardening experts sharing their real life experiences and expertise on how to work with nature in the interior West.

The problems Do any of these statements describe your experience? • Thesoilinyourbackyard

is so clay-like you could use it on a potter’s wheel.

• Theonlyplantsthatgrowforyouare considered noxious weeds.

• Yourxeriscapeisn’tsupposedto need an elaborate irriga-tion system, but when you wa-ter by hand the water runs off, never soaking into the soil.

• Youdiligentlydoeverythingyou’ve been told and your plants still don’t thrive.

• Yousuccessfullynurseyournewplants through their first season, but then they perish over the winter.

• Youneedtowateryourcompostheap regularly to get it to do more than sit there for years, unchanged.

• Yourxericplantsrot. • Yousuccessfullygrewyourfa-

vorite plants elsewhere, but in Colorado they never take off.

The seriesThisspeakersserieswillteachyouthesecrets to gardening in our dry climate, saving you from years of trial and error. Theseexpertswillhelpyousavetime,toil and hundreds or even thousands of dollars in amendments that don’t work andplantsthatwon’tmakeit.Thebestpart is you can listen at home for free.

In this series, speakers will share suggestions and advice so you can come to realize that gardening in Colorado is

just as wonderful as it is anywhere else intheworld.Thehigh-countryWestboasts amazing landscape vistas, but unique environmental challenges for gardeners.Thegoodnewsisthatwesee gardens thriving, many successfully mirroring the countryside’s natural splendor.Thesespeakerswilldiscussin length the many coveted plants that prefer these climatic conditions over the soggy coasts and humid midlands.

Colorado gardeners have their share of trials and triumphs, but you’ll learn some tricks from these experts that will make you wonder why it ever seemed so difficult.Theintentofthisseriesistoillustrate that gardening can bring you morejoythanfrustration. You’lltakepride in the renewed beauty of your garden beds as you reclaim the garden-ing paradise we truly live in here in Colorado. Thisserieswillbeheldtwiceper

week and is accessible from your own home telephone. A recording will be posted on the website for 24 hours fol-lowing each speaker in the event you’re unable to listen live.

If you’d like to participate in this free tele-series, learn more or just see the list of speakers and their topics, visit abundantearthgardens.com/speakerser-ies.Even though you must participate by telephone or online, you can register online.

Join these experts to learn what it means to work with Colorado’s nature instead of against it.Eva Rose Montane is a garden designer, writer and educator in Durango.

Thriving gardens in Colorado: With a simple call, learn how to do it with fewer inputs of amendments, water and time.


TTo many people, grass is dense, green coverage for the yard. In fact, there are many varieties of grass that can be used for so much more — to accent landscapes and patios; to add color, texture and sound to the garden.

Think pampas, big and little bluestem, prairie dropseed, cord, porcupine, foun-tain, feather and hair grasses … the names alone suggest the fabulous array of options available for planting, many of which have the added advantage of being native to an area and, thus, environmentally responsible choices.

Not only are ornamental grasses beauti-ful, they are also easy to grow and maintain. Give them a home in well-drained soil and

sufficient room to grow and they will be happy with hardly any fertilizer or irrigation and only a bit of maintenance.

And some grow with little moisture. Colorado garden centers and nurs-eries have increased the availability of xeriscape

grasses that grow with little or no supple-mental water. Among the shorter types, blue fescue is popular for its mounds of bright green and blue grass. Native sideoats grama, sand lovegrass and Junegrass are also good garden grasses.

To find just the right ornamental grass, begin by assessing the area where it will be used. Determine the lighting and mois-ture available, then think about what size of plant will work best in that spot. Ornamen-tal grasses range from low-growing ground covers to giant, towering clumps and come in a wide range of colors and textures. So the only limit is imagination and space. Using only native plants may narrow the options a bit, but there should still be plenty to choose.

Once the grasses are in the ground, keep them well watered and tended until they become established, then sit back and enjoy — no mower needed.

Grasses: So much morethan lawn coverBY KATIE LAMAR JACKSON

Watch for an educational section in the June Colorado Country Life. To advertise in the section call Kris at 303-902-7276

Don’t just dream of getting your business in front of a quarter million readers each month …

advertise in Colorado Country Life.

Call Kris today at 303-902-7276 for rates and information on special sections


[gardening]

BBugs (insects, to be more scientifically correct) are often considered foes in the garden and landscape. To Doug Tallamy, however, they are gifts to our ecosystems.

Tallamy, an entomologist and a pro-fessor and chairman of the University of Delaware’s entomology and wildlife ecology department, has demonstrated through his research and experience in his own backyard that nurturing the right insects is a good thing for plants and the environment.

His research on how plants and insects interact and the impact of nonnative plants on insect populations was field tested when he and his wife, Cindy, bought land in Pennsylvania in 2000. They spent several years eliminating invasive and nonnative plants from their property and replacing those alien plants with native species. Then they recorded the changes in the insect and animal populations that visited there.

Today, their land is a haven for but-terflies, bees, beetles and other insects that attract birds, reptiles, amphibians and many other species, some of which are facing declining populations and possible extinction.

As Tallamy began sharing the story of his research and personal experi-ence with community groups, audi-ence members often asked for “how to” information. So he decided to write a pamphlet, which quickly became a book titled Bringing Nature Home: How Native Plants Sustain Wildlife in Our Gardens (Timber Press).

According to Tallamy, biodiversity is in serious decline for a variety of rea-sons, including urbanization and the loss of natural habitats. As a result, whatever green space is left needs to nurture a diverse array of organisms, from fungi and bacteria in the soil to plants, insects and birds. Beyond supporting a healthy ecosystem, such diversity is critical to humans, who — whether they realize it or not — depend on biodiversity for their own survival.

Unfortunately, the way many people

garden today does not promote a hos-pitable environment for diverse spe-cies. “People don’t realize that the way we have simplified our landscapes has played a big role in the loss of biodiver-sity,” Tallamy said.

But Tallamy believes that those same gardens can be transformed to support biodiversity without giving up the aes-thetics of a beautiful landscape or with-out going completely native. “Increasing the percentage of natives in your garden is a good goal to start with, and should generate feelings of accomplishment rather than guilt,” said Tallamy.

“Every time we use an alien plant when we could have used a native, bio-diversity is lost. It is up to the individual gardener to decide how to deal with this trade-off,” he said. “I always say the more native plants the better, and as you increase the percentage of natives in your yard, you are providing more food and raising the carrying capacity of your yard.”

A Bug-Friendly GardenCreating a foundation for the futureBY KATIE LAMAR JACKSON

Every time we use an alien plant when we

could have used a native, biodiversity is lost.

[energy tips]


WA SUNNY DISPOSITIONOpen a window on warmthBY JAMES DULLEY

For more information on creating a mini sun-room, visit coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Energy Tips then on Energy Tips.

What is the most efficient option in creat-ing a mini sunroom with a tight budget?

Creating a bow or bay window, sometimes called the “poor man’s sunroom,” can ac-tually provide some of the benefits of an authentic sunroom at a lower cost. Even though it costs considerably less than adding a small sunroom, installing an efficient bow or bay window is still not an inexpensive home improvement project.

The basic dif-ference between bow and bay windows is a bow window is made of four or more narrow window panels while a bay window is made from three window panels. More window panels creates a more circular appearance.

A bay win-dow may be slightly more efficient than a bow window because there are fewer joints and seams to be sealed between the window panels, but the difference in energy efficiency and durability is not significant.

In addition to high-quality glass, look for a window that has insulation in the seat board and the top. This saves energy and improves your comfort near the window.

If you are replacing an older window, a new bow or bay window will be more efficient and reduce your utility bills, regardless of which design you choose. By including the utility bills savings with the increase in your home’s resale value, you should be able to recover most of the cost over a reasonable time period.

Download CREA’s NEW

2012 Legislative Directory app

for your iPad or iPhone

Visit iTunes to download the app

The Colorado Rural Electric Association has published

its 2012 Legislative Directory. Paper copies are available

for $1 each by calling 303-455-4111. You can also download the Legislative

Directory as an app on your Apple device for $9.99.Have legislators’ names, phone numbers, email

addresses, websites and more at your fingertips.

Did you know that you could get a Colorado Country Life subscription for $9 in-state and $15 out-of-state? Just call the nice people at CCL at 303-455-4111.

You know my sister lives in Arizona and would really like to read about home. I will get her a subscription for her birthday. Thanks

for the great gift idea.


[outdoors]

A

Talking TurkeyWild turkey population thrives, thanks to groups’ effortsBY DENNIS SMITH || [email protected]

According to experts, there are now more wild turkeys strutting about the forests, river bottoms and mountains of the continent than at any time in our history. While state wildlife agencies played a necessary role in this achievement, much of the credit for the outstanding success of the wild turkey recovery programs can be directly attributed to the efforts, dedica-tion, financial assistance and relentless determination of nonprofit, volunteer sportsmen’s organizationsm most notably the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Founded in 1973 in Edgefield, South Carolina, the NWTF has raised more than $331 million to conserve or restore nearly 16 million acres of habitat benefit-ting not only wild turkeys but also hun-dreds of other species of upland wildlife, including quail, deer, grouse, pheasants, songbirds and furbearers.

Considering there were only an esti-mated 1.3 million wild turkeys in North America when the NWTF was founded and that there are more than 7 million wild turkeys today, the NWTF’s recov-ery and restoration accomplishments could arguably be considered the great-est conservation success story in North America’s wildlife history.

Cumulatively, the NWTF boasts more than 550,000 members in 50 states plus Canada, Mexico and 14 foreign countries. It supports scientific wildlife management on both public and corporate lands and promotes wild turkey hunting as a tradi-tional North American sport.

Last year, $5,000 of NWTF money was used locally to enhance the large-scale habitat projects in Colorado game man-agement units 57, 58 and 86. To date, the Colorado Top of the World chapter has treated more than 1,000 acres of Bureau of Land Management land, and in 2011 sponsored a Wheelin’ Sportsmen’s event for physically disabled hunters at Canter-bury Ranch and a guided youth hunt at Oswald Ranch. The chapter participated in a variety of other worthwhile outdoor programs, such as Women in the Out-

doors and JAKES, a curriculum for young hunters. Obviously, the chapter more than just talk turkey; it walks the talk. And in grand style. It has much to strut about.

In keeping with the NWTF’s fundrais-ing tradition, the Top of The World Chap-ter — representing Salida, Buena Vista, Leadville, Howard and Cotopaxi — is hosting its 14th annual banquet and auc-tion on Saturday, March 10 at the Chaffee County Fairgrounds in Poncha Springs. The public is invited to join members for an evening of fun, raffles, auctions, games and dinner. The door opens at 4:30 p.m., the dinner begins at 6 p.m. and the auc-

tion follows immediately afterward. There will be drawings and prizes for the kids, so bring them along.

Bid on shotguns and turkey-hunting ac-cessories as well as fine art and sculptures created by some of America’s foremost wildlife artists. Find out what a Golden Gobbler is and give your kids a chance to win a private ranch guided turkey hunt for 2012. The banquet has sold out in the past so call immediately. Seating will be limited to 250. For details and banquet tickets, contact Pete Sar-daczuk (pro-nounced Sarda-chuck) at 719-942-5037 or [email protected].

Miss an issue? Catch up at www.coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Outdoors.

The Merriam’s subspecies shown here is the only wild turkey species native to Colorado. It is most commonly found in foothill, ponderosa and piñon juniper environments.



http://www.coloradocountrylife.coop

[marketplace]


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[classifieds]

ANTIQUESANTIQUES AT THE ABBEY — Sale and Show, May 5-6, Abbey in Ca-ñon City, 2951 E Hwy 50, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 10-4, Admission $3, no charge 14 and under. Glass grinder on duty for repairs to your chipped glass. Go on a treasure hunt seeking all things worth remembering plus so much more, from vintage clothing and jewelry to artwork, memorabilia, toys, furniture, retro, just to mention a few of the fabulous finds waiting for you. Info: Jo Peterson 719-596-1022 (510-03-12)

CHAIR CANING, hand caning, machine caning, fiber rush can-ing. Pueblo West, 719-547-0723. [email protected] (858-04-13)

FURNITURE RESTORATION. Qual-ity craftsmanship since 1974. Bay-field, CO, www.antiqueresdurango.com 970-884-1937. Prompt service, guaranteed repairs. (988-04-12)

BOOKSBLACKSMITHING BASICS for the Homestead. Well illustrated, easy to understand. Signed by the au-thor. $18 includes shipping. www.delarondeforge.com DeLaRonde Forge, PO #1190, Mancos, CO 81328 (010-03-12)

IZZY AULD’s incredible e-Books. Download mysteries, intrigue, suspense, from Amazon or B&N, www.izzyauld.com (014-12-12)

LET US PUBLISH your book! We can take your manuscript, design a cover, edit and format it, and print it. Check us out. Personalized service is our specialty. 719-749-2126. www.peakvistapress.com (933-03-12)

BOOKS RODEO ROOTS to Modern-Day Cowboys is a fine, fun book about rodeo. Great gift! $20. Bulk order discounts. Call 303-455-4111 to order one today. (106-12-12)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES (These opportunities have not been investigated by Colorado Country Life.)

AVON sells – you earn big. Build sales via internet or local. Flexible hours. $10 start up. ISR. 719-550-0242. (133-05-12)

BUSY, FULL SERVICE, AUTO REPAIR workshop in SW Colorado. No competition. Est. 35 yrs. Retiring owner may carry. Solid invest-ment, dependable staff, 6 bays, paint booth, offices. 1-970-563-4500. Please ask for Joyce. (942-05-12)

GET PAID TO PLAY THE LOTTERY, even if you never win. Visit our website today for more informa-tion. www.lottomagiconline.com/?S4465. (911-03-12)

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS/dealers. Complete range com-mercial restoration products. Free guide. Call Janice, 1-800-800-2844 www.andek.com Restores metal, flat roofs, etc. 573-489-9346 (856-03-12)

K-LAWN – LAWN FERTILIZING business opportunity. Part-time seasonal work. Be your own boss. NOT a franchise. It’s YOUR business! Training by turf profes-sionals. Superior quality products. Protected territory. Low startup costs. www.k-lawn.com. 800-445-9116 (914-04-12)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES LEGITIMATE WORK AT HOME opportunity. No sales, investment, risk. Training/website provided. Weekly/monthly income plus bonuses, benefits. Call Carrie 303-579-4207, www.workathome united.com/ourabundance (932-06-12)

PIANO TUNING PAYS. Learn with American School home-study course. Tools included. Call for info. 800-497-9793. (158-01-13)

ROOMY AND SPACIOUS in rooms and outside accommodations -- this motel has 14 rooms, beauty shop (rented), studio apartment, lovely owners’s quarters. Good Business. Many repeat guests every month. Nearly everything has been updated or replaced. Call Betty 719-263-4773 or cell 719-251-1554 (025-04-12)

START YOUR OWN BUSINESS – home/internet. Simply the highest quality candles/gifts/beauty. Enter free drawing. www.naturesbest.scent-team.com (831-05-12)

CARS/TRUCKS/BOATS50 SUBARUS! (1995-2011) Outbacks, Foresters, Imprezas, Tribecas & more! Great prices! One-year warranty! Dealer: www. MonumentMotors.com 719-481-9900 (574-08-12)

CLOCK REPAIR & RESTORATIONDURANGO AREA. CLOCKS of all kinds repaired. Antique and mod-ern. Clocks bought and sold. Call Robert 970-247-7729, [email protected] (109-05-12)

EDUCATIONGRIGGS MASTERY ACADEMY: 10 Courses – 10 Books – 10 Months. Innovative professional develop-ment. www.griggsachieve.com (994-04-12)

EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIESCOMMERCIAL WEED and fire spray equipment. 307-660-8563 or visit us at www.oldwyomingbrand company.com (024-08-12)

FINANCIAL SERVICESNEED A LOAN? Members Federal Credit Union can help with your Auto, Home, Credit Card, and more! Visit www.mbrcu.com or call 303-755-2572. (965-03-12)

FOR SALEHEAVY DUTY CATTLEPENS. Portable or permanent; 32x45 working pen w/16’ crowding tub, $3,325. Call Kenneth 580-876-3699, www.cccattleequipment.com (882-04-12)

FREEFREE BOOKS/DVDS. Soon the “Mark of the Beast” will be enforced as Church and State unite! Let the Bible reveal. The Bible Says, POB 99, Lenoir City, TN 37771. [email protected] 888-211-1715. (814-04-12)

FREE SERMON: What is the world’s age? Does original sin exist? No! Does God love all? No! Is there reincarnation? No! Sacramentarian Christian Assembly, 606 Pratt St., #602, Longmont, CO 80501-4946, 303-772-8825 (995-06-12)

FREE SERMONS: • Myth of Anti-Christ! • Myth of Secret Rapture! • Myth of Beast’s Mark! • Myth of Great Tribulation! Pastor Edwin Vrell, 606 Pratt St., #602, Long-mont, CO 80501 (995-03-12)

HELP WANTED$400 WEEKLY ASSEMBLING PRODUCTS FROM HOME. For free information, send SASE: Home As-sembly – CC, Box 450, New Britain, CT 06050-0450.

EARN $75,000/yr PART TIME in the livestock or equipment appraisal business. Agricultural background required. Classroom or home study courses available. 800-488-7570. www.amagappraisers.com (935-04-12)

HOBBIES & CRAFTSAWARD WINNING LONG-ARM QUILTING — reasonable rates, quick turnaround. Karen Niemi, 303-470-9309, http://creative.stitching.home.comcast.net, [email protected] (846-08-12)

BOOKS, PATTERNS, CLASSES, knit-ting, felting, crocheting, weaving, spinning, natural dye extracts, Jacquard and Gaywool dyes. www.tablerockllamas.com Colorado Springs, 866-495-7747 (791-05-12)

HOUSEHOLD HELPSLOOKING TO REPLACE AMWAY PRODUCTS? Lose your distributor? I can ship to your home, no hassle, no salesman. Monika Cary 970-724-2912. (982-03-12)

MACHINERY & PARTSSAWMILL EXCHANGE: North America’s largest source of used portable sawmills and commercial equipment for woodlot owners and sawmill operations. Over 800 listings. THE place to sell equip-ment. 800-459-2148 www.sawmillexchange.com . (267-03-12)

MUSICLEARN TO PLAY GUITAR from the convenience of your own home. Fast, fun, and guaranteed. www.LearnGuitarCentral.com. (106-12-12)

POULTRY/GAMEBIRDSFREE – 5 EXOTIC CHICKS or 3 ducks with 100 frypan special @ $36.95 plus shipping. Also Cornish Cross, standard breeds, fancy chicks, ducks, geese, turkeys, bantams, guineas, pheasants, quail, supplies, video. FREE COLOR CATALOG 417-532-4581. Cackle Hatchery – PO Box 529, Lebanon, MO 65536. www.cacklehatchery.com. (876-07-12)

REAL ESTATECAÑON CITY – 35 ACRES, new 6-stall Morgan-built barn, at-tached 36x36 insulated shop with 2 baths, 3 corrals. Custom built home (2007) 3/4, metal roof, BLM views, wrap around deck – many extras! $555,000 719-275-2616 (026-03-12)

GRAND JUNCTION HORSE FARM, 3130 A 1/2 Rd, 3550+ sq. ft. home on 14 acres. Newly remodeled, new central air, new boiler, new water heater, new roof, half brick ranch w/new vinyl siding. 5 bdrm, 3 1/2 bath, living room, dining room, large kitchen, large family room. New carpet/tile/wood floors. Full horse barn w/indoor stalls & outside runs. All steel fencing, arenas, loafing sheds on large pastures. Additional fencing around home & inground heated pool. RV building (50x28’), two large ponds, etc. Ginny 970-260-9629, Terry 970-261-3001, [email protected] 3% to 6% to any REALTOR w/buyer (946-06-12)

LAND WANTED — cash buyer looking to purchase 500-20,000 acres in Colorado. Will consider bailouts, foreclosures, joint ven-tures, condo/commercial projects. Will close quickly. Call Joe at Red Creek Land 719-543-6663. (648-04-12)

TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED ADPlease type or print your ad on a separate paper. Indicate how many months you would like your ad to run and which month to start. There is a minimum of 12 words at $1.63 per word/month. Be sure to include your full name and address for our records. Check MUST accompany this order or call to pay by credit card. Send your ad to:mail: Colorado Country Life 5400 N. Washington St., Denver, CO 80216phone: 303-902-7276 fax: 303-455-2807email: [email protected]


http://www.antiqueresdurango

http://www.delarondeforge.com

http://www.delarondeforge.com

http://www.izzyauld.com

http://www.peakvistapress.com

http://www.lottomagiconline

http://www.andek.com

http://www.k-lawn.com

http://www.workathome

http://www.naturesbest

http://www.MonumentMotors.com

http://www.MonumentMotors.com

http://www.griggsachieve.com

http://www.oldwyomingbrand

http://www.mbrcu.com

http://www.cccattleequipment.com

http://www.amagappraisers.com

http://creative


http://www.tablerockllamas.com

http://www.tablerockllamas.com

http://www.sawmillexchange.com

http://www.sawmillexchange.com

http://www.LearnGuitarCentral.com

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http://www.cacklehatchery


[funny stories]


We pay $15 to each person who submits a funny story that’s printed in the magazine. At the end of the year, we draw one name from those submitting jokes and that person will receive $150. Send your 2012 stories to Colorado Country Life, 5400 N. Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 or email [email protected].

REAL ESTATE ROCKY FORD 20 ACRE FARM with 2 houses: 1st, 4/1, enclosed porch, wood burning stove, 3 car garage, BIG RED BARN and shed. 2nd, modular, 3/2, gas fireplace, enclosed back porch, open front porch, 2 car garage and shed. 2 shares of highline canal, well and creek. Dan 303-995-2005 or [email protected] Will pay commission to realtor with buyer. (027-03-12)

TURN-KEY CATTLE/HORSE ranch. NM-Col. border, 5 miles to Navajo Lake. 120 acres, 80 shares water ponds, springs, home, barns, 505-872-2141, [email protected] (018-03-12)

RELIGIONBECOME AN ORDAINED Minister by correspondence study. Founded in 1988. Free info. Minis-ters for Christ Outreach, PMB 767, 6630 W Cactus, B107, Glendale, AZ 85304. http://www.ordination.org (441-06-12)

TICKETSNFR & PBR RODEO TICKETS – Las Vegas. All seating levels available. Call 1-888-NFR-rodeo (1-888-637-7633) or www.NFR-Rodeo.com. *BBB Member; Since 1990. (912-11-12)

VACATION RENTAL KAUAI VACATION RENTAL, 2bdr, full kitchen. Minutes from beaches. $600/wk. 808-245-6500; makanacrest.com; kauaiweddings.com. (756-05-12)

WANTED TO BUYNAVAJO RUGS, old and recent, native baskets, pottery. Tribal Rugs, Salida. 719-539-5363, [email protected] (817-06-12)

OLD COLORADO LIVESTOCK brand books prior to 1975. Call Wes 303-757-8553. (889-08-12)

OLD COWBOY STUFF–hats, boots, spurs, chaps, Indian rugs, baskets, etc. ANYTHING OLD! Mining & railroad memorabilia, ore carts! We buy whole estates. We’ll come to you! Call 970-759-3455 or 970-565-1256. (871-05-12)

WANTED TO BUYOLD GAS AND OIL items: Gas pumps, advertising signs, globes, etc. Pieces, parts, etc. consid-ered. Also 1932-34 Ford cars and trucks, parts and pieces too. Any condition. Brandon, 719-250-5721. (519-11-12)

OLD POCKET WATCHES – working or non-working and old repair material. Bob 719-859-4209 [email protected]. (870-06-12)

VINTAGE FISHING TACKLE. I buy rods, reels, lures, creels, etc. Call Gary at 970-222-2181 (960-06-12)

WANT TO PURCHASE minerals and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. (402-02-13)

WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE – ATV’s, UTV’s, motorcycles 719-404-3144. [email protected] (015-04-12)

An Irishman was terribly overweight, so his doctor put him on a diet. “I want you to eat regularly for two days, then skip a day, then eat regularly again for two days, then skip a day,” the doctor instructed. “Repeat this procedure for two weeks. You should have lost at least 5 pounds the next time I see you.” The next time he saw the Irishman, the doctor was shocked because he lost nearly 30 pounds. “That’s amazing!” the doctor said. “Did you follow my instruc-tions?” The Irishman nodded and said, “I’ll tell you though, I thought I was going to drop dead on that third day.” “Because of the hunger?” the doctor asked. “No,” said the Irishman. “From the darn skipping!”

Doris Achenbach, Collbran

A taxi driver and a pastor arrive at the Pearly Gates at the same time. A stretch limo pulls up, the driver steps out, drapes a beautiful silken robe on the taxi driver’s shoulders and helps him into the back of the limo. The pastor watches as the limo drives off and then pulls into the driveway of a huge mansion. The pastor thinks to himself, “Wow! If a taxi driver gets all of that, I can hardly imagine what’s coming my way!” But the next car to pull up is a Ford Pinto. The driver steps out of the car, tosses the keys and a terry cloth robe to the pastor and starts walking back toward the gates. “There must be some mistake,” the pastor exclaims. “I served the Lord faithfully for more than 40 years. That guy was a taxi driver. Are you sure there wasn’t a mix-up?” “I’m sure,” the driver says. “You see, while you worked, people slept. While he worked, people prayed.”

Liz Ackerman, Cheyenne Wells

Our 3-year-old daughter stood watching as I nursed her baby sister. “Mommy, what’s the baby doing?” she asked. “She’s drinking milk,” I said. With a puzzled expression, she asked, “What’s in the other one? Orange juice?”

Diane Kleinman, Pagosa Springs

Call Kris to advertise in Classifieds:303-902-7276

NEED HELP GOING ‘GREEN’ THIS ST. PADDY’S DAY?

Win one of these ‘green’ products:• Power Smart Wall Outlet This four-outlet adapter has two out-

lets that shut down when not in use; two outlets are always on

• U-Socket This outlet adapter includes two USB

ports

• Designer CFL by Plumen This ultra-modern CFL looks stylish

while saving energy

Visit Contest at coloradocountrylife.coop for how to enter to win.


http://www.ordination.org

http://www.NFR-Rodeo



[discoveries]


F

T

Veterinarian care is costly, so it’s a nice surprise when you discover a company like Pet Assure. With Pet Assure, pet owners receive discounts on veterinar-ian medical services, pet products, lost pet recovery service and office visits. Any pet is covered for any medical service with no annual limit, the com-pany touts.

Everyone can sign up for Pet Assure, but Co-op Connections Card members receive a discounted rate of $7.95 per month or $79 per year. For more information, visit the Co-op Connections Card list on your local co-op website or petassure.com.

[The KONG Holds Strong]

Hand Over the Reins

Fill a super sturdy KONG with your dog’s favorite treat and keep your dog happy. These hollow rubber toys have been satisfying spirited canines throughout the world for more than 35 years. It started with a rock-chewing dog named Fritz and his frustrated owner, Joe Markham, who gave the dog a rubber suspension part from his Volkswagen van out of desperation. Fritz loved it and, after Markham made some revisions, the KONG came to be. Today, the Golden-based KONG Company manu-factures a variety of durable products for dogs and even cats. KONG products are available at pet stores and online. Visit kongcompany.com.

The LeashLocket is ideal for dog owners who want a convenient alternative to the standard leash. This retractable lead attaches to your dog’s collar as a lightweight fob ready to grab, release and go. There is no trying to clip a leash to an eager, jumping pup. The LeashLocket lead is nearly 6 feet long and comes in a small and large size — one for up to 55 pounds and the other up to 90 pounds. There is also an optional wrist strap. The Denver-based company sellsthe LeashLocket for around $25 and it comes in red, pink, black or blue. For more information, visit leashlocket.com.

Taste tested by Colorado Country Life hounds, these Colorado-made treats are sure to satisfy your pup.

Zuke’s — Durango-basedWith Zuke’s all-natural treats, you can immediately smell the goodness simply by opening the resealable packaging. The texture in Clean Carrot Crunch Z-Bones helps clean dogs’ teeth while herbs like rosemary and parsley help freshen their breath. Peanut Butter Formula Power Bones are bite sized and loaded with ingredients to help fuel your active dog. Visit zukes.com.

Doggie Dips & Chips —Loveland-basedDoggie Dips & Chips’ crunchy dog bis-cuits contain no preservatives, artificial colors or flavors, sugar or salt. Texas T-Bone biscuits are made with beef broth and barbecue sauce. Monkey Bars are filled with bananas, oatmeal and cin-namon. The company’s biscuits can be purchased prepackaged or direct from the store bakery. Visit doggiedipsand chips.com.

Both companies’s dog treats were wag tested and slobber approved. Although completely different in aroma and ap-pearance, all treats produced the same happy result, free of residual crumbs.

SAVE WITH PET ASSURE

[Canine Cookies ]

Colorado Country Life Y-W March 2012

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Transcript of Colorado Country Life Y-W March 2012