Finding Balance on the River: Water, Conservation & Life on the Western Slope with Claire Barker

In this episode of WKRP Montrose, Dennis and Rob sit down with Claire Barker for a wide-ranging conversation about life on the Western Slope, fly fishing culture, and the growing concerns surrounding water conservation in Colorado.Claire shares her journey from Oklahoma City to Ridgway, how she transitioned from a career in accounting and mortgage lending into nonprofit work and the fly fishing industry, and why she’s passionate about protecting the region’s rivers and watersheds. The conversation explores everything from trout fishing and outdoor recreation to the realities of water rights, drought conditions, reservoir levels, and the future of the Colorado River Basin. Along the way, the episode also touches on life in mountain towns, the challenges facing Western communities, and how water impacts everything from agriculture and recreation to energy production and local economies. It’s an informative and entertaining discussion that breaks down a complicated issue in a way that’s approachable for anyone living on the Western Slope. Get Montrose stories, events & local news in your inbox — free.WKRP Montrose Subscribe Thank you to our Underwriters for Making WKRP Montrose Possible:ClearnetworxNuVista Credit UnionFlower Motor CompanyPomona Brewing Company