The Colorado Tourism Office announced on Tuesday its 2025 Tourism Management Grantees, including a $20,000 grant to the Steamboat Chamber.

In partnership with Friends of the Yampa, the grant will support digital and printed educational materials for the new Yampa River Interpretive Center. 

The center aims to serve as a hub for education, engagement and stewardship, according to Friends of the Yampa Development Manager Rebecca Hext, providing both locals and visitors with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Yampa River’s ecological and recreational significance. 

“Friends of the Yampa approached me a couple of months ago with the idea to partner on this grant,” said Laura Soard, marketing director for the Chamber. “This is the first time we’ve applied for it. The idea is to help fund programming that furthers tourism and destination management in Colorado.”

The grant will fund a range of educational materials for the center, including interpretive signage, a topographic table and maps showcasing the river’s path, Soard said. These resources will highlight topics such as river health and responsible recreation practices. 

“The signage will also be in English and Spanish to further the outreach of the education,” Soard explained. “The more you can learn about the river, the better stewards you can be to take care of it.”

“We want people to walk away with a greater appreciation for the Yampa River and a sense of responsibility for its protection,” Hext said. “Whether it’s a visitor learning how to recreate responsibly during their stay, a resident gaining insight into local conservation efforts, or a student engaging in hands-on activities, the center will be a space for meaningful connections to the river.”

Hext also noted that this summer’s programming will include partnerships with local organizations such as Yampatika, The Nature Conservancy, and Bud Werner Memorial Library. One highlight will be showcasing a beaver lodge display created for last month’s “Eager” book discussion. Additional offerings will include guided tours, workshops and volunteer opportunities focused on river stewardship.

“This space will be an asset for the community,” Hext added. “It provides education and engagement opportunities that inspire people to protect and enjoy the Yampa River for generations to come.”

“We don’t have anything like this right now,” said Soard. “It’s going to be a great opportunity to educate visitors and locals about the river.”

While an official opening date for the center has not yet been finalized, Friends of the Yampa anticipates hosting a grand opening celebration in early June, with the goal of having all materials ready by then. 

“We’re incredibly grateful for this grant and the Chamber’s willingness to partner with us on this project,” Hext added. “It allows us to take a big step forward in making the Yampa River Center a reality.”For now,

Friends of the Yampa is focused on finalizing plans for the center and encourages community members to stay informed by signing up for updates through their newsletter at friendsoftheyampa.com/newsletter.