The Coalition for the Upper South Platte (CUSP)’s service learning program combines quantifiable learning objectives with service projects that address environmental concerns.  This program is designed for elementary, middle and high school students and their Teachers. Offered, is a choice of projects with themes ranging from forest health, wild fire rehabilitation,  wildlife and water.  Service learning offers real-life lessons in watershed stewardship through projects such as erosion control and restoration of riparian areas.  Since 2002 over 3800 students have addressed forest health issues by planting thousands of native species in forest burn areas as well as preventing future catastrophic fires through fuels mitigation projects. CUSP’s programs provide youth with meaningful educational opportunities while serving their community.

Registration is required to enter this site. Teachers must register and then receive credentials from the site administrators. Students will be assigned log-ins from their Teachers and will then be able to access the projects within. Due to copyright restrictions all access must be strictly moderated.

CUSP is a 501(c) (3) charitable nonprofit that is dedicated to protect the water quality and ecologic health of the Upper South Platte Watershed through the cooperative efforts of watershed stakeholders, with emphasis on community values and economic sustainability.

Originally formed in 1998, CUSP partners with stakeholders, ranging from local governments and federal and state agencies, to businesses, schools, churches and interested individuals, in undertaking education and work projects affecting forest health and water quality within the 2600 square mile Upper South Platte watershed. The watershed is a vital resource, providing over 75% of Colorado’s citizens clean drinking water.