Hi, I’m Karlyn, and I’m excited to join Colorado Water Trust as a Water Resources Specialist!
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, surrounded by saltwater, and have always felt most at home near rivers, lakes, and coastlines. On my first visit to Colorado, I walked along Clear Creek and immediately felt a sense of belonging. I hadn’t expected to pursue a career in natural resource management, but as I explored Colorado’s landscapes and began my professional career, I found a home in the state’s vibrant water and natural resource communities.
My journey in natural resource management began with the State of Colorado at the Division of Water Resources and later at Colorado Parks and Wildlife. There, I worked on complex projects that balanced ecological needs with operational realities, learning firsthand the value of collaboration and trust in finding solutions that truly work.
Early in my career, I saw firsthand some of the more challenging aspects of Colorado water management. I had to explain to an often-outraged public that rivers can and do run dry in Colorado to meet water demands. I also developed a deep appreciation for the critical importance of timely water delivery for farmers and other water users. When water doesn’t arrive when expected, it can directly impact crops, livelihoods, and communities.
That commitment carried me into projects such as the Colorado River Headwaters Project, where diverse stakeholders worked together to develop solutions that supported both the river and communities. It also led me to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, where I contributed to the San Joaquin River Restoration Program before mass federal layoffs shifted my path.
These experiences have shaped my approach to natural resource management. I am committed to solutions built on trust, creativity, and collaboration that support both people and ecosystems. That commitment is what drew me to Colorado Water Trust. I’m excited to work alongside this incredible team and with partners across the state to keep Colorado’s streams flowing in ways that promote healthy rivers and resilient communities.
Outside of work, I love showing my young family the wonder of Colorado’s outdoors. When I can steal a moment for myself, my favorite place is the mountains, where I enjoy backpacking and practicing my amateur flyfishing skills.
I’m grateful to be back in Colorado’s water community and excited to get started.
Karlyn Armstrong
Water Resources Specialist
Email: karmstrong@coloradowatertrust.org
Phone: 720.570.2897 Ext. 9