LIVING
Joy Resides Here
Agora Market Opens at Ranch Social
Resident Spotlight: Laura VanBrocklin
Denver Botanic Gardens and “Coloradoscape”
Important Contact Information
Info Center and CAB Offices
Staff here can help potential home buyers, builders and homeowners with the design review process, landscape installations, exterior home modifications and general questions related to the Sterling Ranch community.
Monday - Friday: 8 am – 5 pm (Info Center open weekends 10 am - 5 pm)
New location at the Sterling Center: 8155 Piney River Ave., Suite 110 | 720-661-9694 residentservices@sterlingranchcab.com
Overlook Clubhouse
Staff can assist with clubhouse and event questions, memberships and Colorado State Park resident passes Snacks and drinks are available here during the summer as well
Monday – Friday: 5 am - 9 pm | Saturday: 7 am – 9 pm | Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm 7853 Piney River Ave | 720-728-7257 recreation@sterlingranchcabcom
Emergencies
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please dial 911
For community-related emergencies (ie irrigation leak or community space safety hazards), please call the our office at 720-661-9694 and press 2 for after-hours emergency services
Non-Emergency Service Requests or Issues: Please use the Sterling Ranch 311 app
Sterling Ranch 311
Use our 311 app (download via Apple or Google Play) to submit service requests via mobile devices, or use the 311 request form online: Go to www.https://sterlingranchcab.com and click on 311. 311 is for non-emergency service requests, issues, comments, and concerns only.
Editorial Questions and Suggestions
Kat Valentine King, Communications Manager and Editor, Sterling Ranch Living kat.king@sterlingranchcab.com
Table of Contents
Letter from the General Manager
Welcome letter from Gary Debus
News and Moos from Milkshake
Our community mascot welcomed another new baby to the herd
Community Updates
New info center, construction updates, emergency planning and Ranch Social grand opening
Meet & Greet: Becca Meyer
The GM of Atlas Coffee, Salta Wine Bar, and Agora Market wants to hear your feedback
Resident Spotlight: Laura VanBrocklin
This mom of two boys is a cancer survivor with a new perspective
Denver Botanic Gardens Test Garden
How to “Coloradoscape” in Sterling Ranch based on our trial garden
Water
Sterling Ranch offers renewable water and smart planning for the future
Ranch
Event highlights: Taste of Sterling Ranch, new Farmer’s Market, and more!
Parting
From the General Manager
As we head into spring, it’s time to look ahead at new projects and activities for 2026. From transportation, new amenities, and new planned events for our residents, Sterling Ranch again proves why people want to live here.
Speaking of transportation, a new roundabout at Eagle River and Waterton Road will open in April. Even more exciting is that the next roundabout will be constructed at Middle Fork and Waterton Road, coming this summer. These roundabouts will increase safety for pedestrians, the motoring public, and for cyclists. Our partners at Douglas County have been great to work with while these traffic calming improvements are completed.
The Douglas County Commissioners Zebulon Sports Complex kickoff will be happening soon This exciting new project located on our eastern fringe will serve as a catalyst for new commercial and retail projects as well as a world-class sports complex Watch for updates in the coming months as this project progresses
The Beach Club is coming to Prospect Park Construction on this new resort-type pool will begin in the summer of this year
The Taste of Sterling Ranch is a new event taking place on May 16 at Ranch Social This will be an occasion to seeand-be-seen, and to enjoy a special night with neighbors and friends Don’t miss out on the inaugural Taste of Sterling Ranch
Thanks for being part of the buzz and for making Sterling Ranch the best place to be in 2026
GaryDebus
General Manager
Sterling Ranch Community Authority Board
News and Moos from Milkshake
Milkshake, pictured above with the M and S ear tags and her new calf, Rocky Road, is our official community mascot She represents the spirit of the West and helps us honor the history of this land
It is springtime in the Rockies, and here in Sterling Ranch, that means calving season. I am so proud of my new little boy named Rocky Road. He was born on a nice March 18 spring day. I love him so much. If you’d like to meet him, come and see us in our Middle Fork pasture. That is close to these courts for a game we don’t understand. Pickleball. At first, I was worried the noise would bother Rocky Road, but Sterling Ranch has built the quietest pickleball courts around A couple of my friends and I are showing off our new babies But please don’t get too close Our job is to be protective th
This time of year is when we start shedding our winter coat (yeah, that is hair) We get a little shaggy-looking, and we are especially itchy in this warm, dry weather, but don’t worry As the grass begins to green up, we get slick and shiny, and on the summer solstice, we start growing our next crop of winter hair Isn’t nature amazing?
Mooing of warm dry weather, have no fear My herd and I are out there doing our job We eat the dry golden grass that can be fuel for a wildfire, and in the process, we increase the health of the soil Each of us eats about 30 pounds of dry grass per day That is a lot of grass With a little protein supplement, we are able to process the dry grass and do very well while we raise a new crop of calves
We are looking forward to some spring snow and rain to turn the pastures green It happens to be my favorite color Stop by and see us!
Sincerely,
Your Sterling Ranch celebricow,
Milkshake
New Info Center Open
The new Info Center is officially open at the Sterling Center, and our community-facing team has ridden into a brand-new home base
This new space gives the team a place to do what they do best: welcome newcomers, help current residents, and serve as a go-to resource for all things Sterling Ranch From maps and future amenity locations to community standards, design review questions, and fielding inquiries about utilities or smart-home support, this crew is on the front lines every day, keeping things running smoothly
And here’s where you come in: residents are invited to stop by, say howdy, and check out the new digs! If you find yourself near the Sterling Center, swing by Suite 110 (formerly ENT Credit Union) and see the space for yourself. Consider this an open door invitation.
As part of this move, the CAB also passed along our former headquarters previously known as the “blue trailer” to the Douglas County School District. The trailer will now serve as DCSD’s construction office as work begins on the new elementary school. The groundbreaking took place in January (see photos on page 8), and the school is now under construction on the parcel adjacent to the trailer site.
All told, it’s a win-win: better space for staff, continued support for residents, and a useful donation to the school district So mosey on over when you can, take a look around, and help us give the new space a proper Sterling Ranch welcome
Above: AnnaMaria Gast is one of our Community Ambassadors
Below: The new office space at the Sterling Center
Roundabouts on Waterton Road
Above: The new roundabout will help with pedestrian and traffiic safety
Good Things Come Full Circle
Sterling Ranch originally requested that the expansion of Waterton Road include several roundabouts to help slow traffic, improve pedestrian access, and enhance overall safety. Research shows that modern roundabouts can reduce fatal crashes by up to 90% and serious injury crashes by 75–80% compared to traditional signalized intersections This is a significant safety investment for our community, and one we’re proud to support alongside the county The roundabout at Waterton Road and Eagle River Street is expected to be completed this spring, and construction on the next one at Waterton Road and Middle Fork Street is scheduled to begin soon
Roundabouts:
Reduce high-speed, severe crashes by eliminating dangerous head-on and right-angle collisions
Slow vehicle speeds naturally (typically to 15–25 mph), making intersections safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians
Improve traffic flow while increasing safety, reducing long waits and aggressive acceleration at stoplights
We appreciate our residents’ patience during construction and hope you’ll share in our excitement about this longterm improvement
Under Construction: Sterling Ranch’s Two New Schools
A big milestone is officially taking place here in Sterling Ranch! Douglas County School District invited residents to celebrate the groundbreaking of Elementary School 51, our community’s new neighborhood elementary school, back in January. The school will be located in Sterling Ranch near the former Resident Resource Center site (8220 Piney River Ave) and will serve as a cornerstone for learning, connection, and community pride for years to come
Additionally, a new public charter school, John Adams Academy, is well underway - the building is going up fastand is scheduled to open its doors to students K-8 for the Fall 2026 semester
Both new schools are a meaningful step toward creating a vibrant, welcoming learning environment right here at home for Sterling Ranch students and families
Above: Neighborhood kids helpedwiththe official groundbreakingforthe newSterling Ranch elementaryschool
Planning Ahead for Emergencies
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
When it comes to emergencies, the best time to make a plan is before you need one
In March, the Sterling Ranch CAB hosted a two-part workshop to help residents think ahead and prepare for the unexpected While the workshop offered an in-depth look at personal preparedness, even creating a simple plan for your household can make a meaningful difference
You can build a practical, personalized preparedness plan that fits your family’s needs From understanding local risks to assembling basic supplies and knowing how to respond during the first critical hours of an emergency, the focus is on straightforward, actionable steps that truly matter
Being prepared isn’t about expecting the worst It’s about gaining peace of mind, reducing stress in uncertain moments, and knowing you can take care of yourself and your family if something unexpected happens.
Don’t wait until an emergency to talk through important details such as:
A designated meetup location in case of evacuation
A “go bag” with essentials like medications, identification, and important documents
Basic household supplies such as batteries, bottled water, a change of clothes, and nonperishable food
Douglas County has a new emergency alert system in place, designed to keep you safe and informed during critical situations, including natural disasters (wildfires, floods, severe storms), evacuations, shelter-in-place orders, missing persons, and other emergencies Make sure you are signed up; visit wwwdouglascous to receive these important notifications
A little planning leads to a whole lot of peace of mind.
Ranch Social Grand Opening
Ribbon Cutting and Celebration of Milestones
Ranch Social is the new name for the public gathering spaces at the Sterling Center, and we’re ready to celebrate the official ribbon cutting and the many community milestones we've seen recently.
First, we'll honor the residents who purchased our first, 1000th, 2000th and most recently - the 3000th home here in Sterling Ranch! Plus, we'll celebrate the first baby born here (who is now a middle schooler).
The first 250 residents to join us for the grand opening will receive a Sterling Ranch tote bag, a coupon for free ice cream from Josh & John's, and other goodies!
And here’s even more fun: the grand opening coincides with our new monthly event, Firepit Fridays We'll have Sam Hooks on the piano this month to set the celebratory mood
Friday, April 10, 5:30 - 7:30 pm at Ranch Social at the Sterling Center (8155 Piney River Ave.)
When complete, Sterling Ranch will include 16,000 homes, so we are still in the early days But these milestones re all proud to call
Firepit Fridays at Ranch Social
And here’s the fun part: every second Friday of the month, we’ll turn up the glow with Firepit Fridays Our first event in March was a big hit, with friends and neighbors enjoying the expanded patio – complete with overhead heaters and more seating Expect live music each month and rotating monthly specials, from sweet treats to drink discounts, plus plenty of cozy ambiance to kick off your weekend right.
It’s Patio Season!
The upgraded outdoor space at Ranch Social now features four new firepits, making it easy to enjoy the patio even when there’s a chill in the air Whether you're catching up with neighbors or unwinding after a long week, it’s the perfect spot to settle in and stay awhile
Meet & Greet: Becca Meyer
Atlas/Salta and Agora Market’s General Manager
We’ve loved watching the newAgora Markettake shape inside the Sterling Center overthe pastfew months, and it’s now officially stocked and open for business
Owned and operated bythe same team behind Atlas Coffee and Salta Wine Bar, the market has been months in the making Theirteam has been busytaste-testing to curate the best snacks, drinks, and grab-and-go dinner options forthose moments when you need something fast and local.
Just need a gallon of milk? They’ve gotyou covered. Gluten-free pasta for a quickweeknight dinner? Done. Or try one oftheir ready-made meals. We hearthe lasagna rolls are flying offthe shelves, and the homestyle mac ’n cheese is a crowd favorite Mostto-go dinner items are prepared bythe Atlas and Salta team attheir Littleton location, with a few specialties, like the popular chorizo empanadas, made by a local family
Have feedback or suggestions? Or just curious what’s in stock? Swing bythe Sterling Center (8155 Piney River Ave); the market is staffed Monday - Saturdayfrom 9 am to 7 pm and 11 am to 6 pm on Sundays
On a recentvisit, we met Sloan Ritter, manager ofAgora Market, and spoke with Becca Meyer, the general manager ofAtlas Coffee, Salta Wine Bar, and Agora Market, aboutthe new addition to Ranch Social
Q: How did you choose which items to feature in the market?
A: “We tried everything,” said Meyer “If it doesn’ttaste great, it doesn’t getto be here So far, we’re getting feedback thatwe’ve picked a lot of people’s favorite brands We wantto be flexible and provide whatthe communitywants It will change and evolve based on sales and feedback”
Q: What are a few ofyour personal favorite items?
A: “The Los Poblanas Lime Thyme drink is great, the castelvetrano olives and fig jam are great additions to a charcuterie board, and I have a chapstickthat’s super local - it’s made by a woman right here in Sterling Ranch”
“We want to be flexible and provide what the community wants. It will change and evolve based on sales and feedback.”
– Becca Meyer, GM of Agora Market
Above: Sloan Ritter and Becca Meyer
Meet & Greet: Becca Meyer
Q: I hear you’ll have tastings and fun tie-ins to events?
Q: What else can we find on hand?
A: “We are excited to offer steaks from Bootheel 7 They are out of Northern Colorado and provide grass-fed, half-grain-finished organic beef We are trying to be mindful of ingredients and to offer organic, vegan, and gluten-free options We offer a small selection of wines, beers, and liquor, but they must be taken with you, not consumed on site”
What’s been your biggest challenge so far?
A: “It’s really an investment! A lot goes into just filling the shelves to make it look full.”
A: “Yes, we’ll be doing tastings each week on Fridays So, for example, we might offer yogurt samples in the morning, and tequila samples in the evening On May 8, we’ll host an “ocho de Mayo” tequila tasting with Arta Tequila Fun fact: it’s the official tequila of the Denver Broncos! And we’ll offer a red wine flight, a white wine flight, or a cocktail tasting flight as part of the new Taste of Sterling Ranch on May 16.”
It’s the Taste of Sterling Ranch!
New for 2026, this resident-only soirée brings big flavor to the foothills Enjoy curated flight tastings from Living the Dream Brewing Co and Salta, each expertly paired with bite-sized accompaniments that make every sip sing
Kick back, sample bold blends and discover a new favorite or two along the way With live music setting the tone and neighbors gathering under wide Colorado skies, this isn’t just a tasting it’s a celebration of the spirited, homegrown community we’re building here together.
Registration is required. Must be 21+ to attend.
Saturday, May 16, 4 - 6 pm at Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave.
Tickets at www.sterlingranchcab.com/calendar
Above: gluten-free pasta, bulk snacks, and more at Agora Market
Resident Spotlight: Laura VanBrocklin
Sterling Ranch resident Laura VanBrocklin is known to some as the yoga instructor at the Overlook Clubhouse. We sat down with her to learn more about her career, her family, and her recent journey through the ups and downs of a cancer diagnosis.
Q: Please list your family members.
Laura VanBrocklin, 41
Jon Fowler, 51 Wesley Fowler, 7
Ansel Fowler, 3
Tommy (dog) 9 months
Q: Where are you from/ where did you grow up?
“I grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, and was sixth generation in our town.”
Q: What do you do for work?
“I am a mom, and I homeschool my two kids I currently work part-time as a nurse practitioner in cardiology and am a 200-hour registered yoga teacher, offering community yoga classes at the Overlook Clubhouse”
Q: Where did you go to school/study?
“I completed my undergraduate degree in nursing at the University of New Hampshire in 2007 I completed my Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of Wyoming in 2018 I completed my yoga teacher training with MyVinyasaPractice, based in Austin, Texas”
Q: What are some of your favorite spring activities?
“I love getting out in the fresh air; hikes, walks around the neighborhood, visiting Chatfield Botanic Gardens as everything starts to bloom. Finding rivers, lakes and ponds to throw rocks into. When it’s warm enough, I love to do yoga on the patio.
“We typically have a quick surge in planting to find the year's experimental plants of local varieties – the ones that are supposed to withstand bunnies, hot summers and cold winters. We have transitioned to herbs in the side-yard bins we have and love using their fresh flavors in our cooking.”
Do you travel often?
“We have not been able to travel much over the past couple of years due to my cancer treatments, but we have loved going to the “red desert” (the Moab and Indian Creek areas in Utah) in early spring We love getting out to our old stomping grounds, where we have many memories of climbing and exploring We also often enjoy weekend trips to rivers when the water is flowing for white water adventures”
Above: The VanBrocklin-Fowler family
Laura VanBrocklin (continued)
Q: You teach yoga classes here in Sterling Ranch. Tell us more!
“I have practiced yoga for about twenty years. It always seemed to complement my sports of preference (running, rock and ice climbing) and a balance in the sport of “momming.” I had some major life events in 2022 and managed much of it by delving more into the lifestyle of yoga, not just as a workout. I became a certified 200-hour yoga teacher, and I am registered with the Yoga Alliance I completed the training to deepen my own understanding of yoga and to offer community-based classes I have assisted with meditation in cardiac rehabilitation programs and community yoga classes with Sterling Ranch
“I love being connected to those around me I love the integration of working with breath, movement, and meditation; the foundations of more traditional yoga practices”
Q: What keeps you motivated every day?
“My biggest motivation comes from having two kids and an amazing partner. I also have a strong motivation from the belief that there is a lot of good in the world when you can slow down long enough to see it. We are literally only guaranteed right now, so making human moments and connections is the whole point.”
Q: You had a huge health challenge recently. Can you share more about your journey to healing?
“In November 2024, I found myself in the emergency room with very vague symptoms. I was lucky; it was a quiet night, and I had an amazing nurse and physician. Within 45 minutes of being admitted, I was told the impossible: “You have a tumor blocking your colon and what appears to be lesions on your liver” The physician got teary as he explained what was happening to Jon and me I had been at work that day, without issue, when I was diagnosed with what would be stage four colon cancer by dinner time I had an urgent surgery for a colostomy the next day My prognosis was not promising, and I was given a range of one to three years and the likelihood of lifelong chemo
“I went through six rounds of chemotherapy, got a second opinion, then another four rounds prior to a liver procedure and then a major surgery of liver resection, gallbladder removal, lymph node removal and a “take down” of my colostomy In August 2025, the first scan was clear of cancer, and I completed chemotherapy last October
“Throughout this harrowing year, so many people showed up to help our family The yoga class was off and on due to surgeries and how I was feeling with chemo A beautiful neighbor set up a food train for us, which helped immensely to lighten the load of trying to figure out dinner We had close friends fly in from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, California and Texas to check in on us There were phone calls, texts and a chain of beautiful handwritten messages from dear ones”
Above: Laura’s husband and two kids practicing yoga
Laura VanBrocklin (continued)
Q: Any advice for others going through a health or other personal challenge?
“Remember, you can change your mindset, and only you can do that Feel all the ugly and the hard, and how it can coexist with the beautiful and awe of the world Be persistent and trust your intuition; though we have technology and Google to guide us, we are also ancient beings with evolution and intuition on our side.
Believe in something as simple as breathing or whatever fuels your connection (universe, higher being, God, your dog, or even a strict belief in not believing is something) We are humans and wired for connection Learn to say yes to support when things get hard Learn to say no to things that are not helpful Feel free to change your mind as new information comes through, as often as you want”
“We are humans and wired for connection. Learn to say yes to support when things get hard.”
Q: How long have you lived in Sterling Ranch, and what made you decide to call it home?
“We moved into our home in 2021 We own a Brookfield, which we love We can see the Front Range and foothills, which has been amazing and grounding
“We were looking for a change from downtown life, a reprieve from the pandemic We were excited to give our kiddos a little more space to explore We love the dark sky initiatives and conscious decisions that make Sterling Ranch such a desirable destination”
Q: What are your favorite things about living here?
“We love being so close to outdoor access We continue to explore the Chatfield and Highline Canal areas We love Roxborough State Park, which has one of the most beautiful fall foliage shows We love the Audubon Center for hikes year-round and the Chatfield Botanic Gardens “
Q: How would you describe your design style?
“Homeschool and lived in vibe. Life happens in our home.”
Left: Tommy, the family pet, napping after a long walk
Laura VanBrocklin (continued)
Q: Are there any community events or traditions you especially look forward to each year?
“We love the cattle drive each year The boys loved the Fourth of July celebration last year We love how the community is growing, and events are evolving as the community does.”
Q: How have you connected with your neighbors, and what tips do you have for building community?
“Our connection with the community has been through different events, volunteer opportunities, and offering the community yoga class. We recommend that others try to get involved by checking out a neighborhood festival or a yard sale. Say hello when someone walks by, or even smile. Try something new.”
What are you most excited to see as the community continues to grow and develop?
“I am excited to see how everything unfolds for Sterling Ranch I hope the community continues to evolve and show up for neighbors in need “
Above: Wesley, Jon, Ansel and Laura enjoying a sweet treat
Homestead Hints from the CSC
Is Your Paint Ready for Spring?
As Sterling Ranch continues to mature, some homes in the community are beginning to reach the age atwhich exterior paint may startto show normal wear With spring upon us, it’s a greattime to take a quick look at paint as part of seasonal maintenance
Neighbor-to-neighbor tips from the Community Standards Committee to keep Sterling Ranch looking great.
For most homes, this won’t require immediate attention It’s simply a reminderthat exterior paint has a natural lifespan, and that homeowners maywantto begin planning for it in the coming years
In Colorado’s climate, exterior painttypically ages differently according to grade
• Builder-grade paint: about 5–8 years
• Mid-grade paint: about 8–12 years
• Premium paint systems: 12–15+ years
Many homes are originally painted with builder-grade systems, which perform well for several years but may begin to showwear soonerthan higher-end paints Colorado’s strong sun, temperature swings, wind, snow, and occasional hail can all take a toll on exteriorfinishes, with south- and west-facing walls often showing wearfirst
As you tackle spring home projects, it may be worth taking a quickwalk around your home to lookfor signs such as fading, chalky paint, small cracks, peeling areas, orworn caulk around trim. Catching these early can often mean simple touch-ups ratherthan a full repaint.
The Sterling Ranch Community Standards Committee, made up of residentvolunteers, encourages homeowners to stay ahead of routine exterior maintenance as our neighborhood grows. A little proactive care helps protectyour home and keeps Sterling Ranch looking its best.
Below: A fresh coat of paint will keep your home looking great like this stunning example - the Steuer home on Eagle River St
Denver Botanic Gardens Test Garden
Designing Landscapes That Truly Belong Here
Before the first home was ever built at Sterling Ranch, careful thoughtwas already being given to the landscape thatwould surround it To better understand whatwould thrive in this unique setting a semi-arid plain nearthe foothills of southwest Denver Sterling Ranch partnered with Denver Botanic Gardens to create a test garden on site The goal was simple: identify plants that could handle the area’s distinct microclimate while remaining beautiful, resilient, and water-wise
With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, northwestern Douglas County demands plants that can stand up to intense sun, variable weather, and limited moisture. Through hands-on testing and observation, native grasses, hardy evergreens and shrubs, and durable perennials quickly proved to be the strongest performers, offering long-term success with less water and maintenance.
Plants like lavender and butterfly bush thrive here with minimal irrigation while attracting pollinators. Hardy roses soak up the sunshine, and ornamental grasses provide movement and year-round visual interest, even in drier conditions. Together, these plants form a reliable palette that looks at home in the landscape and stands the test of time
This approach reflects what’s often called “Coloradoscaping” a step beyond traditional xeriscaping Ratherthan simply reducing water use, Coloradoscaping focuses on choosing plants that naturally belong in Colorado’s climate and soils, creating landscapes thatfeel authentic, sustainable, and uniquely suited to this place
Thanks to this early collaboration with Denver Botanic Gardens, Sterling Ranch has a proven foundation of plants that are nearly certain to thrive helping residents create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and smartly designed for life along the Front Range
Above and Left: hardyperennials and native grasses do particularlywell in Sterling Ranch’s unique microclimate
Rainwater Harvesting
A Smart Way to Use Water
Water is one of Colorado’s mostvaluable resources, and at Sterling Ranch, smartwater use starts at home
That’s why residents are encouraged to collect rainwaterfor personal irrigation Using up to two 55gallon barrels, homeowners can capture precipitation and put itto work in their own landscapes
Harvested rainwater is ideal for gardens, shrubs, and other non-turf areas helping reduce reliance on treated waterwhile supporting healthy, resilient landscapes.
Why It Matters
Rainwater harvesting supports Sterling Ranch’s commitmentto sustainability and responsible land stewardship. Using captured rainwater helps conserve potable water, reduces strain on municipal systems, and provides plants with naturally soft, chlorine-free water
Design Guidelines
To preserve the community’s cohesive look, rain barrels must be: Installed in the rearyard and notvisible from the street Finished in earth tones, wood tones, or muted colors that blend with the home and landscape
These guidelines ensure rain barrels function as a thoughtful landscape feature, not a visual distraction
harvesting!
Happy
A Brief History of Water in Sterling Ranch
Lessons From the Past and Stewardship for the Future
Humans have called this region home forthousands ofyears Since the end ofthe last Ice Age, Indigenous peoples traveled these plains while following large game such as mammoths and bison Like people, animals naturally gravitated toward rivers, streams, and springs, reliable water sources that shaped seasonal movement and life on the land
Fastforward to the 19th century, when westward expansion broughtfurtrappers and, later, homesteaders to the area In the late 1860s, the Sterling family established Sterling Ranch forfarming and cattle ranching For more than a century, the land was thoughtfullyworked and cared for as a working ranch
In 2004, Harold and Diane Smethills, multi-generation Colorado natives with deep experience in real estate, water, and business, founded the modern vision of Sterling Ranch Their goal was clear: to steward the land forfuture generations by creating a master-planned community rooted in open space, wildlife corridors, and smart, forwardthinking water use, ensuring the land’s natural beauty endures for decades to come
Water has always been a central pillar ofthatvision Like much ofthe Front Range, groundwater levels have changed overtime as the region has grown From the very beginning, the Smethills family set outto design a longterm, responsible water system that could support a thriving community
Today, Sterling Ranch is proud to offer a fully sustainable water system made possible through modern infrastructure, secure long-term water rights, and state-of-the-artwastewatertreatment Our indoorwater operates as a closed-loop system, capturing, treating, and reusing water so it remains part of a thoughtful, efficient cycle ratherthan being lostfrom the system
Outdoorwater use is managed differently Once water is applied to landscapes, it returns to the ground, where most of it is lost That is why Sterling Ranch places special emphasis on efficient irrigation, climate-appropriate landscaping, and smart design choices, allowing us to maintain inviting green spaces while using water responsibly
Together, these systems reflect our commitmentto honoring water as a vital resource, balancing modern innovation with respectforthe land, its history, and the generations who will call Sterling Ranch home
Did You Know?
Where Does Our Water Come From?
Q: Where does the waterfor Sterling Ranch come from?
A: Waterfor Sterling Ranch is supplied by Dominion Water & Sanitation District (DWSD)
Q: Does DWSD use groundwater?
A: Currently, 100% of DWSD’s water is renewable. DWSD does not use any groundwater.
Q: What is renewable water?
A: Renewable water resources referto waterthat is reused to the extent possible before being reintroduced to the environment. This includes capturing wastewater, stormwater, or graywater and treating itfor uses such as drinking, industrial processes, surface- or groundwater replenishment, and watershed restoration
Q: How much water is stored in Sterling Ranch?
A: The LowZone Tank can hold 12 million gallons, and the High Zone Tank holds 2 million gallons Fire flow storage accounts for1 million gallons, calculated based on the highest-use category (light industrial), which requires 4,000 gallons per minute for4 hours
Q: What is DWSD’s plan and capacityto supportfuture growth?
A: DWSD’s water rights are sufficientto support both current and future residents of Sterling Ranch’s masterplanned community
Leading the Way for Smart Growth
Ourwater does not rely on nonrenewable underground aquifers, which are being depleted across Colorado. While other districts will need to convertto more sustainable water systems, Sterling Ranch is already ahead ofthe curve, protecting your access to a reliable, renewable water supplyfor our community and ourfuture
Our most recentwater study (through 2024) shows that Sterling Ranch continues to use significantly less water per home than other Colorado communities We are pleased that our community offers a master plan and water rights to support and lead the wayfor smart growth.
Spring 2026 Event Highlights
April 18
Touch a Truck
Kids (and kids at heart) can climb aboard and explore the vehicles that help our community run, from fire trucks and construction equipment to service vehicles and more Honk the horns, meet the heroes behind the wheels, and enjoy an interactive experience the whole family will love Visit the calendar online for a list of vehicles!
Saturday, April 18
9 am - 12 pm
CAB Construction Offices
9350 Roxborough Park Rd
April 21
Our Wild Colorado
Join Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance to learn about the world of Colorado’s bears in this immersive program that explores their fascinating life history, remarkable adaptations, and the challenges they face in a shared landscape Learn how to coexist and be good neighbors to these iconic creatures RSVP via the community calendar
Tuesday, April 21
6 pm
Overlook Clubhouse 7853 Piney River Ave
May 2
Derby Day
Step into the charm and excitement of the Kentucky Derby with an afternoon full of fast horses and festive flair. Dress to impress in your best derby attire think bold hats, seersucker, and bow ties and get ready to sip on classic mint juleps while cheering on the most exciting two minutes in sports This is an adult only event
Saturday, May 2
3 - 5 pm
Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave
Spring 2026 Event Highlights
View our full schedule at wwwsterlingranchcabcom/calendar Events are subject to change; see online calendar for updates
Mother's Day Brunch May 9 May 15
Celebrate Mom with a special Mother’s Day brunch! Moms can enjoy a relaxed, elegant morning filled with delicious food, live music, sweet treats, and mimosas It’s the perfect way to honor the moms, grandmas, and mother figures who mean so much to our community Adults only; registration required
Sunday, May 9
10 am - 1 pm
Overlook Clubhouse 7853 Piney River Ave
Ascent Concert Series
Bring chairs or picnic blankets to enoy our free summer concert series in Ascent Village runs each month all summer long at Pavilion Park
May 15: Hatrick, 6 - 8 pm
June 19: Amanda V, 6 - 8 pm
July 17: Blue Moon Band, 6 - 8 pm
August 21: Northwoods Band, 6 - 8 pm
September 11: Grunge Lite, 6 - 9 pm
Ascent Village Pavilion Park 7180 Watercress Dr
May 16
Taste of Sterling Ranch
Enjoy beverage flight tastings from Living the Dream and Salta, each perfectly paired with deliciously curated bites Savor the experience as you explore bold flavors and discover new favorites Residents and adults only; register in advance via the community calendar
Saturday, May 16 4 - 6 pm
Ranch Social 8155 Piney River Ave
Spring 2026 Event Highlights
May 23 & 24
Back to Pool Celebration
Join your neighbors as we kick off pool season! Dive in, soak up the sunshine, and celebrate the start of warm days and good times together in the community This event is for residents only, and registration is required Guests will not be allowed during this event Registration opens April 30
Saturday & Sunday, May 23 & 24
10 am - 7 pm
Overlook Clubhouse
7853 Piney River Ave.
June - July
Skyhawks Camps
Skyhawks Colorado provides variety of summer camps, sports classes, and try it classes right here in Sterling Ranch These programs teach sport skills, teamwork and confidence through safe, fun, and non-competitive play Camps and classes are available for kids ages 2 - 14 For a full list of offerings visit our online calendar
June - July
Locations and times vary
June 6
Prospect Park Outdoor Concert
Join us for an unforgettable night of live music under the open sky by Float Like a Buffalo - described as “funk-ska-reggae-jam rock”
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, grab delicious bites from food trucks, and enjoy a high-energy concert in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere
Saturday, June 6
6 - 8 pm
Prospect Park
8158 Monte Vista Cir.
Spring 2026 Event Highlights
View our full schedule at wwwsterlingranchcabcom/calendar Events are subject to change; see online calendar for updates
June 20 June 24
Father's Day
Whiskey Tasting
We're celebrating Dad with a bold and unforgettable Father’s Day dinner and whiskey tasting The evening includes a guided whiskey tasting featuring a curated selection of premium pours from smooth and smoky to rich and fullbodied Residents only; registration required
Saturday, June 20
6 - 9 pm
Overlook Clubhouse
8155 Piney River Ave.
New! Weekly Farmer’s Market
Explore a vibrant collection of farm-fresh produce, handmade goods and local treats as we kick off our new weekly farmer’s market Meet the artisans behind your favorite flavors, discover unique finds, and enjoy a lively, familyfriendly atmosphere as our community comes together to celebrate local food and craft
Wednesday, June 24
3 - 7 pm at Providence Park 8100 Piney River Ave.
July 4
Stars & Stripes Celebration
Save the date to join us for our annual Stars and Stripes Celebration presented by Luxe Haven Realty We’ll have food trucks and live music and then the celebration concludes with the biggest and best fireworks show in the Chatfield Basin!
More details TBA as the date approaches
Parting Shot: Spring Flowers
"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience."
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
