A bill aiming to protect 76 miles of the Dolores River appears poised for passage. The measure was reintroduced this spring by Senator Michael Bennet after it ran out of time in the 2022 session. The legislation has bi-partisan support, including an identical companion bill in the House introduced by Representative Lauren Boebert. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by TruWest Auto and Blondies Trophy Room

Sclerocactus Glaucus, a rare barrel cactus native to mountain plateau regions of Western Colorado is scheduled to be taken off the Federal threatened and endangered species list in June. Through data collected and analyzed by Denver Botanic Gardens’ scientists led by Michelle DePrenger-Levin, M.S., it is projected that populations are stable and resilient. The findings could indicate something about how we’re interacting with the Cacti’s natural habitat. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy’s Pizza & Wings and Kroegers Ace Hardware

The 18th annual Dolores Riverfest promises an all-day party at Joe Rowell Park, featuring live music, local food & drink, river rides and more. The festival runs from 10 am until dark on Saturday, June 3rd. Development of the Dolores Bike and Skate Park continues with the project's next phase: a park design party, which will take place Monday, June 5th from 5 pm - 7 pm at Dolores River Brewery. Organizers will take design ideas and feedback from members of the community. Candidates for the Empire Electric Board of Directors will take questions from community members during an upcoming candidate forum at the Dolores Community Center. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply Ace Hardware and Big O Tires

This year’s Iron Horse Bicycle Classic was full of high spirits and sportsmanship. Racers shared their experience pedaling over Molas Pass, hard fought victories, and wipe-outs. Ian Burnett shared his inside knowledge as a former racer and current Race Director and applauded this year’s contestants. By Zach Marqua. This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy’s Pizza and Wings and Sky Ute Casino

Team UP, a collective impact initiative of United Way Southwest Colorado, brings together other organizations to create positive change for youth in Montezuma, Dolores, and La Plata counties. Their newest projects include a scholarship program for summer camps, mental health vouchers for youth, and an app that acts as a hub for early childhood resources. By Ilana Newman. This story is sponsored by the Lor Foundation and Keesee Motors

The American Legion Ute Mountain Ute Post 75 will host a Memorial Day sunrise service at the Cortez Cemetery. The Cortez Recreation Center is looking for employees to help solve its staffing shortage and you’re invited to join the Montezuma Land Conservancy’s bike tour of Cortez-area conserved lands and after party at WildEdge Brewing Collective. North Adams Street is now closed to through traffic. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Southwest Health Systems and FASTSIGNS

The Mancos Conservation District is tapping Fenceline Ciders to host its 2023 Mancos Splash event, which celebrates the Mancos River on Friday, May 19. This month's trail work day is set for Saturday, May 20. The Mancos Trails Group will host volunteers to work on the Aqueduct trail. Western supplies and clothing will be available at a tack sale being hosted by the National Mustang Association Colorado at The Montezuma County Fairgrounds on Saturday, May 20. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and Big O Tires

The Local NEWS Network stands in solidarity with the community of the City of Farmington and the families of those impacted as a result of the shooting on May 15th. Desert View Family Counseling, Totah Behavioral Health and Farmington Community Health have offered their services if you or someone you know are in need of help.

The Colorado Grain Chain is awarding four grants statewide to brewers or distillers who craft a beverage using exclusively Colorado grown grain. One grant will be awarded to businesses in each of Colorado’s major watersheds. The non-profit hopes the microgrant improves awareness for Colorado’s grain community. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Serious Texas BBQ

Montezuma-Cortez High School Senior Zander Cruzan is piling up wins at track meets across the region. But his results are not a function of racing in Class 3A or running on the western slope. In fact, Cruzan is putting together one of the most impressive track seasons in recent memory in Colorado. And his times stack up with Colorado’s best in any classification. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by The Lor Foundation and Blondies Trophy Room