On Wednesday, March 24, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) released the latest update to Colorado’s COVID-19 dial framework: Dial 3.0. CDPHE expects that the new dial will remain in effect until mid-April. 

Under the new dial, Archuleta County remains in Level Blue, and La Plata County remains in Level Yellow. Certified Five Star businesses in both counties are permitted to operate under Level Blue protocols. CDPHE’s Dial 3.0 makes it easier to qualify for Level Green (“Protect Our Neighbor”) and removes or loosens many protocols at that level. 

While public health protocols are beginning to ease, San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) strongly urges all residents to continue following proven public health precautions. These include wearing a mask when in public, getting tested if you have symptoms or believe you’ve been exposed, and getting one of the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines when eligible. 

“We’ve come a long way together since the beginning of the pandemic, but it’s still too early to let our guard down, especially with variants circulating in the community,” said SJBPH Executive Director, Liane Jollon. “We have vaccinated just over one third of our community, including many of the most vulnerable and elderly of our friends and neighbors. We strongly urge all residents to get one of the safe and effective vaccines when eligible. It could save your life, or the life of someone in our community.” 

Most of the changes in Dial 3.0 apply to Level Green. CDPHE has also eased some restrictions in Level Blue and Level Yellow. These can be found on the State of Colorado’s website, and a few of those changes are included below: 

• Bars can now open under Level Blue without operating under the Restaurant requirements. The capacity limit is 25% capacity or 75 people, whichever is fewer. 
• Outdoor events in Level Blue no longer have state-level capacity restrictions under the dial. Counties may choose to implement capacity restrictions on outdoor events at the local level. 
• There is no longer a state limit on personal gathering sizes. The state will follow CDC’s guidance on personal gatherings. The CDC still strongly recommends avoiding larger gatherings and crowds to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

New information is available via CDPHE on updated dial metrics and capacity limits. SJBPH will communicate with businesses and stakeholders regarding changes to the Dial and any additional impacts on our region.