Last Updated 6/3/2020, 10:30 PM
KSUT will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available. If you have official information that should be included, please submit here.
KSUT Coronavirus-related News Stories:
• June 3, 2020: La Plata County Reports First COVID-19 Outbreak at Durango Construction Site. Listen here.
• June 2, 2020: KSUT Returns to Regular Programming, Practicing Precautions. Read story here.
• June 1, 2020: Update on GoFundMe Campaign for Navajo Elders. Listen here.
• June 1, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health Update for June 1, 2020. Listen here.
• May 27, 2020: La Plata County Requires Restaurants to Self Certify Before They Reopen. Listen here.
• May 27, 2020: Colorado Restaurants Prepare to Reopen For In-Person Dining, Within Specific Guidelines. Listen here.
• May 26, 2020: Virtual Pagosa Folk 'N Bluegrass, Friday June 5, 7-9 PM with Lucinda Williams and Tim O'Brien. Read story here.
• May 25, 2020: Face Covering Mandate and Local Protests, San Juan Public Health's Update, May 25. Listen here.
• May 22, 2020: How One Food Program in Cortez Keeps People Fed During a Crisis. Listen here.
• May 22, 2020: Mesa Verde Reopens After Two Month Closure, What's Changed for Visitors? Listen here.
• May 21, 2020, New Tribal Radio Signal on Ute Mountain Connects Two Sister Tribes. Read story here.
• May 21, 2020: Spending a Safe Memorial Day Weekend on Public Lands. Listen here.
• May 21, 2020: Durango to Require Face Coverings in Public Places. Listen here.
• May 20, 2020: Pediatric Partners Provides Insight Into COVID-19 and Children. Listen here.
• May 19, 2020: In Assisted Living During Pandemic, Friendship Endures for Mac Neely. Listen here.
• May 19, 2020: COVID-19 Has Changed How Voting in Person Will Be Done Locally. Listen here.
• May 18, 2020: KSUT Receives Colorado Media Project Grant: COVID-19 Informed Communities Project. Read post here.
• May 18, 2020: May 18th Update From San Juan Basin Helath Examines Colorado's COVID-19 Deaths. Listen here.
• May 15, 2020: Pagosa Town Council Approves Variance for Businesses to Open Early. Listen here.
• May 13, 2020: Four Corners Guides Launch GoFund Me Campaign to Assist Navajo Elders. Listen here.
• May 13, 2020: Local Woman Shares Her COVID-19 Experience, Mild but Miserable and Not the Flu. Listen here.
• May 12, 2020: One Lab Serving Multiple Communities with COVID-19 Antibody Tests. Listen here.
• May 11, 2020: Update from San Juan Basin Public Health. Listen here.
• May 11, 2020: Coronavirus and its Effect on the Oil Market in the Four Corners. Listen here.
• May 8, 2020: Local Businesses Begin Cautious Re-opening with Guidelines from Safer La Plata. Listen here.
• May 8, 2020: Jicarilla Apache Nation Outlines Efforts Against COVID-19. Listen here.
• May 6, 2020: Volunteers of America Shelters See an Increase in Need, and a Shortage of Space Due to COVID-19. Listen here.
• May 5, 2020: Update on Community Emergency Relief Fund for Frontline Non-Profits. Listen here.
• May 5, 2020: All Roads to Gallup Closed, COVID-19 Lockdown Extended. Listen here.
• May 5, 2020: Part 2: A Closer Look at the Response to the 1918 Pandemic, and a More Recent Viral Outbreak. Listen here.
• May 4, 2020: May 4th Update From San Juan Basin Public Health. Listen here.
• May 4, 2020: Part 1: Taking A Look Back at the Spanish Flu and its Impact on the Four Corners Region. Listen here.
• May 1, 2020: Local Farmers Provide Healthy Sustenance During Coronavirus Pandemic. Listen here.
• April 30, 2020: Montezuma County Signal Update. Not COVID related except for timeframe. Read post here.
• April 30, 2020: Table to Farm Compost, Curbside Collection Service Minimizing Food Waste, Creating Compost Soil. Listen here.
• April 29, 2020: Sewing Team Provides Thousands of Masks for Frontline Workers. Listen here.
• April 28, 2020: KSUT Speaks with Governor Polis About Safer at Home. Listen here.
• April 28, 2020: New COVID-19 Testing Options for Southwest Colorado. Listen here.
• April 27, 2020: Small Businesses Weather the Pandemic Storm in the Four Corners. Listen here.
• April 27, 2020: Weekly update from San Juan Basin Public Health 4/27/20. Listen here.
• April 27, 2020: Four Corners Community Voices. Visit and read this post here.
• April 24, 2020: La Plata County School Districts React to Closing Schools for In-Person Learning. Listen here.
• April 23, 2020: The Creative Sector Has Been Hit Hard by Coronavirus, KSUT Looks at Relief Funds. Listen here.
• April 23, 2020: KSUT is seeking positive stories coming from COVID-19, please share yours. Read article here.
• April 22, 2020: Domestic Violence Sees a Surge During Coronavirus Pandemic: Listen here.
• April 22, 2020: Animal Adoptions Are Up Nationwide, and Locally During Coronavirus Crisis: Listen here.
• April 21, 2020: Colorado Gov. Polis Loosens Stay-at-Home Restrictions. Listen here.
• April 21, 2020: Share the Love Durango, an Online Store Supporting Local Businesses through COVID-19. Listen here.
• April 20, 2020: Weekly Update From San Juan Basin Public Health. Listen here.
• April 20, 2020: Fort Lewis College responds to pandemic, offers student emergency fund. Listen here.
• April 17, 2020: How does COVID-19 compare, a conversation with an infectious disease specialist. Listen here.
• April 16, 2020: Feed the Frontlines of Durango, feeding frontline healthcare workers, supporting area restaurants. Listen here.
• April 16, 2020: Mercy Regional Medical Center and preparation for COVID-19 patient surge. Listen here.
• April 15, 2020: KSUT partners with The Point, 99X, for C.E.R.F. the Airwaves & On-Air Music Festival benefit. Read article here.
• April 15, 2020: KSUT visits with Compañeros Director about challenges for local immigrants due to Coronavirus. Listen here.
• April 15, 2020: Town of Pagosa Springs finds economic relief for businesses and workers. Listen here.
• April 15, 2020: Online learning success for Montezuma-Cortez Schools. Listen here.
• April 14, 2020: Durango to celebrate a virtual 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. Listen here.
• April 14, 2020: Durango business offers free lodging for families and individuals impacted by COVID-19. Listen here.
• April 13, 2020: Weekly update from San Juan Basin Public Health. Listen here.
• April 13, 2020: Osprey Packs, Alpacka Raft, and MakerLab producing masks and PPE to meet local COVID-19 needs. Listen here.
• April 11, 2020: Pagosa Folk 'N Bluegrass canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic. Read article here.
• April 10, 2020: Navigating safe social distancing in the outdoors. Listen here.
• April 10, 2020: Ute Mountain Ute Tribe stays ahead of Coronavirus pandemic. Listen here.
• April 9, 2020: Powerhouse MakerLab develops Powered Air-Purifying Respirator for COVID-19 patients. Listen here.
• April 9, 2020: School lunches among challenges for local districts, KSUT checks in with Cortez Superintendent. Listen here.
• April 8, 2020: StoneAge is working to deliver N95 masks and other PPE for local medical workers. Listen here.
• April 7, 2020: Community Emergency Relief Fund mobilizing philanthropy to make a difference during COVID-19 crisis. Listen here.
• April 7, 2020: KSUT talks about COVID-19's impact with local mental health professionals. Listen here.
• April 6, 2020: COVID-19 hits Navajo Nation Hard, KSUT speaks with Chief Medical Officer. Listen here.
• April 6, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health provides local update on COVID-19. Listen here.
• April 2, 2020: COVID-19's toll on mental health, and making isolation easier. Listen here.
• April 2, 2020: Local business leaders weigh in on applying for SBA loans for paycheck protection program. Listen here.
• April 1, 2020: Montezuma County prepares for increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases. Listen here.
• April 1, 2020: Durango woman shares her experience with COVID-19. Listen here.
• March 30, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health's Liane Jollon speaks to KSUT about COVID-19 testing. Listen here.
• March 26, 2020: KSUT spoke with Governor Polis about the stay-at-home order for Colorado residents. Listen here.
• March 26, 2020: KSUT to offer Coronavirus news reporting
KSUT's COVID-19 news reporting is made possible by Alpine Bank, supporting Colorado communities for 47 years.
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Regional resources:
• Please visit San Juan Basin Public Health (sjbpublichealth.org/coronavirus) for comprehensive information regarding Coronavirus in Colorado, including prevention techniques, testing requirements and info; and social distancing best practices.
• May 12, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health Announces Updated COVID-19 Webpage.
• May 14, 2020: The Navajo Department of Health has a link with COVID-19 information for public use: https://www.ndoh.navajo-nsn.gov/COVID-19/COVID-19-Resources
• The State of Colorado has launched a new website with informational resources and improved data visualization for COVID-19 and features statewide coordinated response. Visit covid19.colorado.gov. Colorado daily data can be found here.
• The SW Colorado Disaster Assistance Program has now been activated. Their website SWCODA.org is a hub of COVID-19 resources submitted by community organizations in La Plata, San Juan, Archuleta, Montezuma and Dolores counties.
• New Mexico Department of Health cv@nmhealth.org
• Farmington, NM: Community Group in Response to COV-19
• Visit NewMexico.gov for more information and resources, San Juan County New Mexico information @sjcounty.net, Farmington Chamber of Commerce
• For Montezuma County residents: Southwest Health System, Montezuma County Public Health Department
• Center for Disease Control (CDC)
• The Community Foundation serving southwest Colorado provides list of local and statewide resources for nonprofits in response to COVID-19
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Announcements, Closures, Cancellations, Press Releases:
• May 20, 2020: The application for the third round of Community Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) granting is now open. This round of CERF grants will address nonprofit financial stabilization and recovery during the COVID-19 crisis. With the goal of building resiliency in the nonprofit sector, all nonprofits located in Southwest Colorado (Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties) are eligible to apply. The application for grants, which will range from $1,000 – $5,000, will be a two-part process.
• May 20, 2020: San Juan National Forest officials will begin opening some developed recreation sites after May 20. The Columbine, Dolores and Pagosa Ranger districts will begin opening specific sites on May 22. Chimney Rock National Monument will open with limited services on June 1. Certain developed recreation sites on the Columbine Ranger District will remain closed through May 31, including all group use campground areas due to group size limits. Trails, trailheads and general forest areas will remain accessible for public use.
• May 20, 2020: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Office of Governor Jared Polis have provided links for Coloradans to share concerns and feedback regarding public health orders. To share concerns or feedback regarding CPDHE or Executive Public Health Orders, see https://covid19.colorado.gov/CovidConcerns. To review public health orders see San Juan Basin Public Health’s (SJBPH) website here: https://sjbpublichealth.org/advisories-and-orders/.
• May 20, 2020: CDPHE is requesting feedback on recently released draft proposed guidelines for restaurants. Stakeholders can submit comments to this draft through Friday, May 22 using this online form. Once final, these guidelines will be used when it is safe to start easing COVID-19 related safety restrictions for restaurants.
• May 19, 2020: Durango to require masks in public. (Durango Herald)
• May 13, 2020: Durango Public Library resumes contactless curbside service today.
• May 13, 2020: City of Durango Announces Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area to open this Friday, 5/15 for the season.
• May 12, 2020: Durango Transit weekend service returns to normal route schedules starting Saturday, May 16.
• May 11, 2020: Governor Polis Updates Coloradans on Timeline for Decision Making Under Safer at Home Phase.
• May 9, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health Confirms First Fatality in La Plata County In Patient with COVID-19.
• May 6, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health and Mercy Regional Medical Center Increase Community Testing Capacity for COVID-19 in La Plata County, 6 days a week at Mercy's Horse Gulch location. Testing will be available Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 1 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM, effective May 7. There is no fee for the test. Symptomatic individuals can call 888-540-8924 to be screened for COVID-19 testing.
• May 5, 2020: Camping at Colorado State Parks and Wildlife Areas will remain closed until further notice.
• May 4, 2020: La Plata County Call Center Open to Answer COVID-19 Questions.
• May 1, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health launches Business Self-Certification Tool for Businesses in La Plata County.
• May 1, 2020: New Mexico Arts is offering NM Cares Funding for non-profit arts organizations due to hardships caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic. Details and applications are here. Applications open May 1 and close May 15, 2020.
• May 1, 2020: Durango Transit now requires all passengers to wear a mask. The "No Mask No Ride" policy follows guidance from San Juan Basin Public Health. Durango Transit continues to take additional measures to keep vehicles clean and passengers healthy.
• April 30, 2020: The Ironhorse Bicycle Classic which was initally postponed, has officially been cancelledfor 2020 due to coronavirus pandemic.
• April 28, 2020: Safer La Plata: San Juan Basin Health Issues Public Health Order to Control the Spread of COVID-19 in La Plata County. New Order Implements Phased Approach to Re-Opening.
• April 28, 2020: Centura-Mercy Regional Medical Center Launches Community COVID-19 Testing to La Plata County.
• April 27, 2020: Gov. Polis Provides Update on Transition to Safer at Home.
• April 26, 2020: Gov. Polis issues Executive Order on Safer at Home.
• April 24, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health Launches COVID-19 Data Dashboard for sharing information with the public. Access it here.
• April 24, 2020: 2020 Ride the Rockies Postponed until June 2021.
• April 23, 2020: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Continues Safety Measures and Reaffirms "Stay-At Home" Order. Chairman Christine Sage will be interviewed on KSUT Tribal Radio, Friday 4/24 at 9 AM.
• April 20, 2020: Gov. Polis Stay-at-home to be lifted this weekend, replaced with Safer-At-Home Advisory. (Durango Herald)
• April 20, 2020: Animas High School joins 24 school districts across Colorado, including Bayfield and Rico, in not having students return to campus before the end of the school year. Remote teaching and learning will continue through the end of the semester.
• April 19, 2020: Southern Ute Tribe Demands Investigation into Unlawfully Leaked Information for Cares Act Funds
• April 19, 2020: Gov. Polis Takes Additional Action in Response to COVID-19.
• April 17, 2020: Gov. Polis Updates Coloradans on State Response to COVID-19.
• April 15, 2020: Colorado Media Project offers grants to reach diverse populations with COVID-19 news and resources. A webinar will be held Friday, April 17 at 1 PM. More information here.
• April 15, 2020: Montezuma County will be under a fire baneffective Monday, April 20, 2020 at 6:00 AM until further notice.
• April 15, 2020: The Department of Self Reliance Need-based Programs available for families and individuals living on the Navajo Nation during COVID-19 pandemic. Visit www.nndss.navajo-nsn.gov or www.nnpsr.navajo-nsn.gov.
• April 15, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health’s Sexual Health Clinic is open and offering all birth control options, STD testing and treatment, and PrEP HIV prevention medication. Women’s health and sexual health are essential services. Call 970-335-2015.
• April 15, 2020: A weekly regional crisis resource call is now available to Colorado business owners with updates from local, state and federal agencies. Details@startupcolorado.org.
• April 15, 2020: Gov. Polis issues two Executive Orders in response to COVID-19.
• April 15, 2020: Gov. Polis presents key indicators that will be considered in modifying social distancing guidance.
• April 13, 2020: Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce is conducting a local business survey, due April 30. Click here to complete the survey.
• April 13, 2020: Gov. Polis urges hotel and motel owners to provide rooms for state's most vulnerable.
• April 12, 2020: The Farmington Public Library now has ecards to access their online resources. Vist infoway.org.
• April 11, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health issues face covering advisory.
• April 10, 2020: Archuleta and La Plata Counties virtual town hall with Rep. Barbara McLachlan. April 10, 1:00 - 2:00 PM, Zoom Link to Join, Mobile dial in: 1-669 900 6833, Webinar ID: 183 620 109
• April 9, 2020: Feed the Frontlines Durango, a partnership with Mercy Regional Medical Center, Centura Health and several local restaurants ensures healthcare workers get a nourishing meal. Details here.
• April 9, 2020: Senator Bennet presses for Colorado priorities ahead of next phase of Coronavirus relief legislation
• April 9, 2020: To ensure that Coloradans have the health coverage they need, especially in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, Connect for Health Colorado is extending the Special Enrollment period until Thursday, April 30, 2020. People who enroll now will have coverage starting May 1, 2020.
• April 8, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health, Animas Surgical Hospital, and Cedar Diagnostics Partner to offer COVID-19 testing. Details here.
• April 8, 2020: Gov. Polis provides update on Colorado response to COVID-19, announces StayAtHomeCo Guide
• April 8, 2020: Premier Vacation Rentals Group offers free lodging for families and individuals adversely impacted by COVID-19. Information here (Durango Herald)
• April 8, 2020: The Durango Business Improvement District, Durango Chamber and Local First have created an online store that Durango businesses can use to sell gift cards, products and services. It opens Friday 4/10 at 10 AM. Details here.
• April 7, 2020: Gov. Polis addresses Coloradans, extends Stay-At-Home Order through April 26.April 7, 2020:
• April 6, 2020: Colorado Small Business Development Center and the Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media are offering a free webinar, COVID-19 Financial Support for Gig Workers & Small Businesses: How to Get Your Money, Tuesday, April 7, 9-10:30 AM. Register here.
• April 6, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Healthlaunched an online, anonymous COVID-19 symptom tracking survey for use by residents in La Plata and Archuleta counties who suspect they have COVID-19.
• April 6, 2020: Colorado Senator Michael Bennet's websiteoffers valuable information on resources for a variety of circumstances, due to COVID-19.
• April 4, 2020: COVID-19 cases increase in Montezuma County with two new cases reported on April 4, bringing the county total to 8.
• April 4, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) reports five residents in Archuleta County are positive for COVID-19, in addition to one previously reported. In addition to the five new cases, SJBPH also reports that all results from the test site at Pagosa Springs Medical Center on March 30th, 2020, came back negative for the virus.
• April 3, 2020: Gov. Polis provides update on state response, including wearing masks or cloth face coverings when going out for essential functions.
• April 3, 2020: Three new positive COVID-19 cases have been identified in Montezuma County today, bringing the total in the county to six.
• April 2, 2020: COVID-19 Special Enrollment Period for Health Insurance extended to April 30.
• April 2, 2020: Montezuma County Public Health Dept announced two new positive cases of COVID-19, one of those resulted in related fatality. That's a total of 3 cases in the county.
• April 2, 2020: The Durango Business Improvement District (BID) reminds us that local restaurants are open for take-out and delivery. Here's their updated list for Durango (downtown and north Main district); and the Durango Chamber of Commerce list for all of La Plata County.
• April 2, 2020: Gov. Polis sends letter to VP Pence requesting additional PPE to address shortage
• April 2, 2020: Ironhorse Bicycle Classic postponed due to pandemic
• April 2, 2020: Durango Public Library is offering an instant Digital Library Cardfor La Plata County residents.
• April 1, 2020: Gov. Polis provided an update on the state's response to COVID-19, including announcing that school campuses across the state will remain closed to in-person learning through April 30. He praised districts for embracing e-learning and remote learning.
• April 1, 2020: Axis Health adjusts services at La Plata Integrated Healthcare.
• April 1, 2020: Community Emergency Relief Fund (CERF) announces $50,500 in Financial Support to Nonprofits serving our most vulnerable populations
• April 1, 2020: San Juan Regional Medical Center currently offering COVID-19 Screening Line. Anyone needing questions answered regarding COVID-19 screening can call 505-675-4722 during designated hours. Details here.
• March 31, 2020: La Plata County Humane Society is financially strained due to COVID-19. With the thrift store closure, which generates 80% of their operating costs, critical funds are urgently needed. To make a donation, please visitlpchumanesociety.org.
• March 31, 2020: IAM Music has started a relief fund for musicians in the Four Corners area. More information here.
• March 30, 2020: Gov. Polis Provides Update on State Response to COVID-19
• March 30, 2020: Curfew takes effect for Navajo Nation, 8 PM to 5 AM daily, as COVID-19 cases reach 128.
• March 30, 2020: Southern Ute Indian Tribe recommends face coverage for health safety.
• March 29, 2020: Southern Ute Indian Tribe confirms two positive cases of COVID-19.
• March 29, 2020: COVID-19 Navajo Nation Update: 115 confirmed cases, 2 deaths. Online townhall meeting, Sunday 3/29 at 1 PM.
• March 29, 2020: Gov. Polis Secures Major Disaster Status for Colorado
• March 28, 2020: The Montezuma County Public Health Department has announced the first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Montezuma County.
• March 28, 2020: Arches, Canyonlands closedto all visitors beginning Saturday 3/28 (Moabtimes)
• March 27, 2020: New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announces schools will close and shift to a learn-at-home model for remainder of the academic year.
• March 27, 2020: Durango CO Mutual Aid Donation Supply Drive for Shiprock, NM, March 27- April 10
• March 27, 2020: Southeast Utah reports first case of coronavirus, restricts visitor travel (Cortez Journal)
• March 27, 2020: Gov. Polis Provides Update on State Response to COVID-19
• March 27, 2020: Gov. Polis: COVID-19 Fund Accepting Grant Applications
• March 27, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) and Pagosa Springs Medical Center (PSMC) are opening a temporary drive-through testing site at PSMC on Tuesday, March 31st, from noon – 4 pm to collect COVID-19 (coronavirus) data, in collaboration with local multi-agency response partners. This is for high risk individuals and requires a doctor's referral and an appointment.Details here.
• March 27, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) announced that their Durango office at 281 Sawyer Drive, Suite 300 and their Pagosa Springs office at 502 South 8th street will close their lobbies to the public. Services will be available by appointment only until further notice. SJBPH is making this change in order to follow social distancing recommendations, the governor’s ‘stay at home’ order, and to protect our community. SJBPH staff is still working and available to all clients.
• March 26, 2020: The Colorado Secretary of State cautions the public to beware of scammers exploiting the coronavirus situation. Checkthecharity.com has a list of registered organizations.
• March 26, 2020: State of Colorado Activates 2-1-1 Colorado to Connect Coloradans with human service resources statewide. Coloradans can reach 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211.
• March 26, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) received notification of the first positive case of COVID-19 in an adult resident of Archuleta County.
• March 26, 2020: Colorado State Parks remain open, but all campgrounds in the parks are closed. The parks are open for hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, cycling, and boating. Colorado Parks and Wildlife urges everyone to get outside for some fresh air, but please practice social distancing. State parks in the KSUT listening area include Navajo State Park and Mancos State Park.
• March 26, 2020: 1st Southwest Community Fund has launched two COVID-19 emergency funding programs, a micro grant and an emergency loan fund. Visitfswcf.org/covid19 for details.
• March 26, 2020: La Plata County Humane Society has postponed all services except adoptions, pet surrenders, and cremation services until further notice. The Thrift Store and donation center are closed. Shelter hours are 12 to 4 pm.
• March 25, 2020: Gov. Polis issues statewide 'Stay at Home' order requiring Colorado residents to avoid unnecessary travel and mingling with others outside their households. The order takes effect Thursday, March 26 at 6 AM and lasts through April 11.
• March 25, 2020: The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has replaced the advisory issued on March 23, with a 'Stay at Home' order for all tribal members. The SUIT reminds the public that there is no stopping on tribal lands during this time, except for essential services. The call center for tribal updates is 970-565-0214.
• March 25, 2020, 1:06 PM: San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) has received notification of three positive cases of COVID-19 in adult residents of La Plata County who were tested at SJBPH’s community testing site last week. This is in addition to the initial positive case announced by SJBPH on March 23 and makes a total of four positive cases.
• March 25, 2020: Mesa Verde National Park is closed to all park visitors until further notice, effective at sunset on March 25. This closure includes the main park road and all loop roads.
• March 25, 2020: The Women's Resource Center of Durango is closed to foot traffic, but they are available to assist community members over the phone at 970-247-1242. Services include: resource and referral, food assistance info, housing resources, low cost legal consultations and more.
• March 25, 2020: The Southern Ute Utilities Division has temporarily suspended utility disconnections including a waiver of late fees for: water, trash collection, sewer and natural gas.
• March 25, 2020: La Plata County Economic Development Alliance urges local businesses to participate in a survey on the disruption caused by the Coronavirus. The deadline to respond is 3/25 at 5 PM. Details at yeslpc.com.
• March 25, 2020: La Plata County Economic Alliance invites all S.W. Colorado businesses to participate in a free Business Resource Webinar, Thursday, March 26 at 2:30 PM. This live webinar will discuss business support programs as well as have a virtual Q and A session. Participants should download the Zoom app for video and audio access. For audio only, call 1-346-248-7799. The Webinar ID is 460 651 870yeslpc.com has more information.
• March 25, 2020: The Durango and Pagosa Senior Centers invite seniors with shopping and other food needs to call 970-422-7084 for details on how to get help. Volunteers are needed to help staff telephone lines and to perform the actual shopping tasks. In Pagosa Springs, contact Rod Hubbard at 303-594-5117 to volunteer.
• March 24, 2020: City of Durango adopts Stay at Home Advisory
• March 24, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health Department will be conducting limited testing on Wednesday, March 25, at La Plata County Fairgrounds, only for those who meet specific criteria. (Durango Herald)
• March 24, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health clarified on their Facebook pagethat getting take-out meals meets the essential needs to eat, and supports local businesses. Practice the 6 feet social distancing and make responsible choices to protect our resilient community.
• March 24, 2020: Community Foundation serving SW Colorado and the United Way of SW Colorado partner to support the Community Emergency Relief Fund(CERF), (Durango Herald)
• March 23, 2020: San Juan County, Colorado issues shelter-in-place order (Durango Herald)
• March 23, 2020: San Juan Basin Public Health Issues 'Stay At Home' Advisory for La Plata and Archuleta Counties. Update:
• March 23, 2020: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Issues 'Stay at Home Advisory' for Southern Ute Reservation
• March 23, 2020: New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issues a statewide 'Stay at Home' order, and closes all non-essential businesses (Durango Herald)
• March 23, 2020: First Presumptive Positive Case of COVID-19 in La Plata County Resident.
• March 23, 2020: Update - La Plata County's first COVID-19 case was tested in Cortez(Durango Herald)
• March 22/23, 2020: Southern Ute Tribal Chairman Christine Sage restricts tribal operations to limit exposure of the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19. Chairman Sage to be interviewed on Tribal Radio, Monday, March 23 at 9 AM, listen here. The interview will be rebroadcast at 7 PM.
• March 22, 2020: Coronavirus cases on Navajo Nation reach 26; residents urged to stay home
• March 21, 2020: First Positive COVID-19 Test Received in San Juan County, New Mexico at San Juan Regional Medical Center. Details here.
• March 21, 2020: Colorado State Health Department amends "social distancing" public health order. State provides further guidance on public health orders.
• March 21, 2020: La Plata County Search and Rescue, and a message from San Juan County Colorado for backcountry recreation users.
• March 21, 2020: Colorado State Health Department provides Guidance to those with COVID-19 symptoms including when to call health care provider and 911.
• March 20, 2020: The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has ceased non-essential tribal government operations due to the outbreak of the novel coronvirus disease COVID-19. For more information visit www.southernute-nsn.gov.
• March 20, 2020: First case of COVID-19 reported in San Miguel County. Details here.
• March 20, 2020: Navajo Nation Now Reporting 14 Positive Cases of COVID-19,declaring public health emergency and 'Stay at Home' order.
• March 19, 2020: San Juan Basin Health is opening a temporary drive-through site Friday, March 20 from noon -6 PM, and Saturday, March 21, 9 AM-noon to collect COVID-19 data, in collaboration with local multi-agency response partners. The temporary testing site will be located at the La Plata County Fairgrounds. For more info on the testing site, call the Call Center at 970-385-8700 after 8 AM on Friday, March 20. Details here.
• On Thursday, March 19, Governor Polis announced a number of state actions to address the impact of COVID-19. These include a special enrollment period for uninsured Coloradans, executive orders temporarily suspending elective surgeries, and an updated public health order from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Read the Executive order here. The public health order includes nonessential personal services such as hair or nail salons, spas, tattoo and massage parlors.
• March 18, 2020: Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans are available to qualifying businesses that have realized substantial economic harm within a designated disaster area. For more information visit disasterloan.sba.gov.
• The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is urging self-isolation or self-quarantine for Coloradans and visitors to the state. A new fact sheet has been posted at covid19.colorado.gov.
• The Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado has activated the Community Emergency Fund in response to COVID-19 protective measures that are now in place. Donations are now being accepted to deploy funds to community-based organizations at coloradogives.org.
• Grocery Store hour/information
• Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed an executive order Wednesday, March 18 prohibiting public and private schools from providing in-person learning from March 23 to April 17 and to provide alternative learning opportunities while taking into account the needs of local communities, and providing free and reduced breakfast and lunch for students in need. Visit your school's website for details.
• Gov. Polis also extended the suspension of downhill ski area operations through April 6
• 9 PM, March 18, breaking news from Telluride and San Miguel County from Durango Herald, Shelter in Place: https://d urangoherald.com/articles/318701-san-miguel-county-telluride-face-shelterinplace-order
• San Miguel County Officials announce plan to offer free COVID-19 testing for residents. https://www.telluridenews.com/news/article_72175b7e-6988-11ea-8315-3fdafea0bae8.html
• The Durango Chamber of Commerce encourages the community to support the many local restaurants offering takeout meals, listed here
• Moab, Utah closed to visitors (from UPR)
• KSUT Public Radio's office and studios are closed to the public until further notice. Only essential staff will be on site.
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Town info - This local information is from the early days of the pandemic
DURANGO
• March 24, 2020: Due to the Stay at Home Advisory, the Durango Public Library has suspended curbside services.
• Durango Transit Service will be limiting each bus and trolley to a maximum of 10 passengers. Citizens are asked to limit transit use to essential trips. VisitDurangoGov.org/Transitfor more info.
• City of Durango Parking Division has placed free parking signs at some meters in the central business district to encourage curbside food pickup
• Southwest Colorado Small Business Development Center Disaster Assistance Program has info available at sbdcfortlewis.org
• Durango Arts Center is closed until further notice
• City of Durango facility closures:includes Durango Community Rec Center, Chapman Hill, Durango Gymnastics, and Durango Public Library, through April 7
• All City of Durango recreation programs canceled through May 10.
• Powerhouse Science Center closed until further notice.
• La Plata County Closures/cancellations, includes La Plata Senior Center, until further notice.
• San Juan Public Health, La Plata County, City of Durango Declare Public Health Emergency
• Manna Soup Kitchen has closed its dining room and suspended shower and laundry services until further notice.They will issue sack lunches and to-go hot meals from 9 to 11 a.m.
• Women's Resource Center closeduntil further notice
• Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has suspended daily train to Cascade
• Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area closed to public access
• Durango Devo Cycling Programs and events canceled or postponed through May 10
• City Hall, the Carnegie Building, Transit Center Lobby, Police Dept Lobby and River City Hall all closed to public access
• Recycling Center drop off closed to the public, except for glass recycling
• La Plata Electric Association main lobbies in Durango and Pagosa Springs are closed. Drive through options are available.
• La Plata Open Space Conservancyoffices are closed. For well being, they encourage therapeutic personal time spent outdoors.
• La Plata County Humane Society will be continuing services on a very limited basis. Please refrain from visiting the shelter unless you are very serious about adopting a shelter animal at this time.
• Fort Lewis College moves to online instruction following Spring Break on March 25
• All Department of Motor Vehicle and Department of Regulatory Agencies closed until further notice.
• Community Concert Hall At Fort Lewis Collegeevents postponed until further notice.
IGNACIO/SOUTHERN UTE TRIBE/BAYFIELD
• March 22, 2020: Southern Ute Tribal Chairman Christine Sage restricts tribal operations to limit exposure of the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19. Chairman Sage to be interviewed on Tribal Radio, Monday, March 23 at 9 AM, listen here. The interview will be rebroadcast at 7 PM.
• Los Pinos Fire Protection district has signed a Local Disaster Emergency Declaration due to the presence of the Coroavirus within the state of Colorado. The disaster declaration can be read here.
• Southern Ute Academy closed until further notice
• Sun Ute Community Center closed, including Multi-purpose facility/Chapel, Sun Ute 24/7, and Boys & Girls Club
• Sky Ute Casino closed effective March 18until further notice.
• Southern Ute Museum closed until further notice
• Ignacio Community Library closed until further notice
• Ignacio Town Hall closed until further notice
• Pine River Library is closed until further notice
• Southern Ute Health Center to operate on reduced schedule
• Southern Ute Utilities office under limited schedule, 8 AM to 12 noon until further notice
• Bayfield Town Hall is closed to the public unitl further notice.
• Bayfield Marshal's Operational Changes due to COVID-19
FARMINGTON/SAN JUAN COUNTY, NM
• San Juan Regional Medical Center offers drive-thru assessment for possible COVID-19 testing
• City of Farmington Emergency Preparedness
• City of Farmington facility closures: includes Farmington Aquatic Center, Farmington Rec Center, Farmington Indian Center, Bonnie Dallas Senior Center, Farmington Civic Center, Farmington Museum, Farmington Public Library
• San Juan College and Henderson Fine Arts Center, events canceled.
• Central Consolidated School District in Northwest New Mexico closed to in-person learning through remaining school year.
• The Navajo Nation has closed all grant, contract and Bureau of Education Schools.
• Aztec Boys and Girls, closed
• Bloomfield Aquatic Center, closed
• Bloomfield Gymnasium, closed
• Bloomfield Fitness Center, closed
PAGOSA SPRINGS
• Pagosa Springs Chamber has a new Facebook group for local area businesses: https://www.facebook.com/groups/205716304012528
• Pagosa Springs Chamber Business COVID-19 Updates & Resources can be found at: https://pagosachamber.com/covid-19-information/
• Town of Pagosa Springs facility closures: includes Community Center, Senior Center, and other town facilities effective through April 6th
MONTEZUMA/DOLORES COUNTIES
• Montezuma County Business Coalitionfor coronavirus info
• The Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce is maintaining a directory of how local businesses are adjusting services.
• Cortez Rec Center closed until further notice
• Cortez Public Library closed until further notice
• Dolores Public Library has canceled all programs and closed public meeting rooms until further notice
• Mancos Public Library has canceled all programs and closed public meeting rooms until further notice
• The Four Corners State Ag Expo has been postponed until September 25-27
OTHER
• Purgatory Ski Resort to suspended operations March 15
• Wolf Creek Ski Area to suspend operations March 15
• Gov Polis Issues Executive Order Suspending Down Hill Ski Area Operations
• Durango Nordic closes for the season
• Mesa Verde National Park is closed.
