Johnstown Water Efficiency Coordinator Lilly Cory has received the 2026 Alice Darilek Water Conservation Award, a regional honor recognizing contributions to water conservation and efficient resource management.
The Town of Johnstown announced Thursday that Cory received the award during the recent annual conference of the Rocky Mountain Section of the American Water Works Association in Keystone.
The Alice Darilek Water Conservation Award is presented annually to an outstanding contributor in the water conservation field. RMSAWWA says the award recognizes exceptional performance and commitment to water conservation throughout the region and honors Alice Darilek, whose work in New Mexico contributed to conservation efforts across the Rocky Mountain West.
As Johnstown’s Water Efficiency Coordinator, Cory helps manage and protect the Town’s water resources while increasing public awareness about responsible water use. Her work includes developing conservation programs, providing residents with water-use resources and education, and supporting long-term water planning, according to the Town.
“Lilly’s work reflects the kind of leadership and innovation this award recognizes,” Johnstown Utilities Director Greg Venette said in the Town’s announcement. He said Cory has helped make water conservation more understandable and practical for residents while supporting the Town’s long-term approach to managing its water resources.
The recognition comes as water conservation remains an active issue in Johnstown. The Town is currently operating under a Level 3 drought watering schedule, limiting outdoor watering to designated days and prohibiting watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Johnstown has also begun the process of developing a new municipal Water Efficiency Plan. A Town request for proposals identifies Cory as the Water Efficiency Coordinator and point of contact for the project.
The RFP says the plan is intended to address Johnstown’s water needs as the community continues to grow and encourage water-use practices that align with the Colorado Water Plan. The document lists Nov. 1, 2026 as the target project completion date.
