In addition to program evaluation support and scientific research, cNISP also convenes the Northern Colorado (NH-NOCO) chapter of the Nature and Health Alliance, joining sister groups in Utah and Washington. This is intended to be a space to foster community and collaboration for those interested in nature and human health.
We host a variety of informal gatherings for individuals (i.e., researchers, practitioners, forest therapy guides, extension specialists) and groups (i.e., nonprofits, businesses) interested in nature and human health. These events occur in a wide variety of settings, and have included facilitated discussions, informal networking events at local breweries, and guest speakers, to name a few. All events are free to attend and open to anyone.
Email jmerfeld@colostate.edu for collaboration ideas or if you would like to promote your own nature and health-related events/opportunities!
Upcoming Events
Town Hall Needs Assessment Report Out
We are excited to hold our first-ever hybrid event on Tuesday, March 25th! The Collective for Nature Immersion Science and Practice (cNISP) is presenting their results from a survey sent out to nature and health researchers across the country and abroad. You will learn about the current state of the science in the field of nature and human health and well-being, what is currently being researched and priorities moving forward, and finally, collaboration between researchers and practitioners from the perspective of researchers. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A. If you join in person, there will be time after that for networking and enjoying the catered food from The Colorado Room.
When: Tuesday, March 25th; 5:00PM – 6:30PM MT
In-Person Location: Hybrid event – location and zoom link coming soon!
Online Location: Microsoft Teams Meeting
RSVP: https://forms.office.com/r/8FexjptY5N
Funding and Professional Opportunities
Field Inclusive Travel Award ($2000)
Field Inclusive Travel Awards help support students (undergraduate, masters, doctoral, or postdoc) to attend a scientific conference, training, or workshop. The deadline for submitting your application is April 1st. More information using the links below!
IG Post here
More info & apply here
Colorado State University Student Nature Vids Competition and Festival ($1000)
The 3rd annual Student Nature Vids Competition is a university-wide showcasing creativity and love for nature. Video submissions must be below 2GB in size and less than 3 minutes. You can choose from 3 categories – Outdoor Recreation, Nature & Environment, and Wildlife & Animals – and the winners from each will receive $1000 in their student accounts. Finalist film screenings and prize distribution will take place in The Lyric’s premier theatre, “The Mothership,” on April 17th.
Submission deadline: March 23rd
More info and submit your videos here
Film Festival Date: Thursday, April 17th
Location: The Lyric (1209 N College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524)
Industry Mixer: 4-6pm MT
Film Showing: 6:15-7:30pm MT
Nature as Medicine Practitioner and Guide Training and Certification
This new training and certification program – offered jointly with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) – is for healthcare professionals looking for ways to bring restoration, peace, and connection to themselves and their patients. It’s a great way to spend CME funds and earn credits! This is a six month program in the CO Rockies + hybrid learning starting in May 2025. Attached is a flyer (2), and you can follow the link below to learn more. Registration is now open!
More info + registration: https://www.naturesystemsinstitute.com/nature-as-medicine-practitioner-training
Opportunities at Loveland Youth Gardeners (LYG)
1. Registration is now open for spring, summer, and fall programs that take place at the Good Enough Farm! Follow that link to learn more about the wheelchair accessible teaching farm that hosts chickens, bees, medicinal and culinary gardens, production rows, student raised beds, a farm stand, and more! Programs include:
L.E.A.D. – Leadership exploration and development program
Repair to Grow – Horticultural therapy programs that are tailored to the youth they serve
Green Adventures – Geared toward younger youth to explore garden-based learning
Cultivating Community – Offers ways to give back to the community
2. Internship opportunities at LYG (paid positions!) run from the beginning of April to the end of September. Follow the links below to learn more and apply!
Masters in Social Work Internship
Horticultural Therapy Internship
3. Registration for Lauren’s Community Garden is also open! The growing season runs from May to October, and all supplies/resources are free of charge. Applications must be received by May 1st. Applicants are chosen based on a lottery system. Fill out this form to apply today!