Club Rotarian Dick Lyons provided an update on the upcoming Open World delegation, which Longmont Rotary will host for a week, focusing on the critical topic of Water Management.
The Open World program is a ten-day professional exchange that fosters authentic communication and immersive cultural experiences. It begins in Washington, D.C., where delegates learn about American federalism, culture, and leadership. This year’s delegation coming to Longmont hails from Central Asia, including representatives from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and one facilitator. These five nations share a history tied to one of the world's most infamous environmental disasters—the Aral Sea's shrinkage by 90%. The consequences of poor water management during Soviet times have had lasting impacts across Central Asia. The delegation’s study of water management with Longmont Rotary aims to contribute to renewed efforts to address this water crisis.

This will be Longmont Rotary’s 19th time hosting an Open World delegation. During their stay, the group will connect with numerous local water management organizations, attend our Rotary meeting on Tuesday, and have some fun visiting Rocky Mountain National Park and the Denver area. Delegates will stay with Longmont Rotary host families for the week, ensuring a welcoming and immersive experience. The delegation will depart on Saturday, November 9th, marking the end of another meaningful exchange. Itinerary for the week