Introducing Colorado TU’s Gear Libraries: Expanding Access, Opportunity, and Conservation Across the State
Colorado TU is excited to share a major new addition to our statewide educational programs: Colorado TU Gear Libraries. These libraries are designed to open more doors and opportunities for youth, community members, Chapters, and partner organizations. By providing gear, equipment, and environmental education kits—free of charge—participants get outside, learn new things together, and connect with Colorado’s waters.
For years, our Chapters and partner organizations have been running inspiring events, camps, and educational programs, many with their own gear and equipment. Colorado TU is looking to streamline our Gear Library processes and increase access to equipment. By offering loaner kits stocked with environmental education tools, fly fishing equipment, and instructional resources, we’re making it easier than ever to introduce people to conservation, fly fishing, and increase connection with their home waters.
We currently have four Gear Library locations across the state, and we’re just getting started. Over the next few years, Colorado TU plans to grow the program to reach even more communities, especially groups who have historically had limited access to outdoor gear. With your help, these libraries will become a shared resource that strengthens conservation, education, and connection statewide.
What Gear Libraries Will Accomplish
Reach & Access: We want every person (young and old) to experience fly fishing, explore streams, and engage in hands on environmental learning. Expanding gear availability helps us reach more youth programs, schools, and community groups, especially in underserved areas.
Program Support: With high quality, reliable gear, our libraries give Chapters and partners the tools they need to run successful programs.
Capacity Building: As the program grows, we are training volunteers and staff in gear management and program support, keeping the libraries organized, sustainable, and ready to serve Colorado communities.
Join Us in Growing the Gear Library Program
To help support this expansion, we are currently seeking a Lead Volunteer Gear Library Coordinator. This volunteer position is a flexible, mostly remote position, and we anticipate needing about 10–15 volunteer hours per month. This volunteer will play a key role in maintaining gear, supporting Chapters, and helping shape the future of the program. If you or someone you know is passionate about conservation, youth engagement, and creating accessible outdoor experiences, we’d love to hear from you.
Click here to review the volunteer position and submit an interest form by December 15. Our goal is to welcome the new coordinator in early 2026.
Colorado’s rivers need people who care, learn, and step forward. By expanding access to gear and hands-on learning tools, we’re helping remove barriers so more individuals can explore the outdoors and discover why healthy rivers matter. This program has the potential to strengthen communities, spark curiosity, and grow the next generation of conservation leaders.
Thank you for being part of this work. With your support and involvement, Colorado TU Gear Libraries will become a lasting resource that helps more people feel welcome on the water, connect with wild and native trout, and take part in protecting the places we all value.
