Considering Western Colorado's dependence on the energy industry for its economic livelihood, to attend or not to attend the annual Energy Forum and Expo in Grand Junction seems like a no brainer. For those that don't see it that way, here's a common sense look at why you need to attend this Friday's expo.

It is possible that most people don't give a second thought to where our energy comes from, or where it will come from 20 years from now.

All we really care about is that we have gas to put in our car, our house is warm, and that the lights go on when we flip the switch. The fact is, there is so much apathy regarding this topic, it's likely that most people who see this headline won't bother to read further.

One good reason to attend the expo is simply to gain a better grasp and understanding of how prevalent the energy industry is in Western Colorado and how vital it is to everything that happens here. More than 50 vendors will be represented at the expo, which in itself, demonstrates the significance of this event.

If you are going to live in Western Colorado, it makes sense to have a basic and general understanding of what makes our economy tick - and to get to know the people in the energy industry that make it all happen - both now and in the future. Every single one of  us is and will be affected by what happens in the industry.

What does the future hold? What are the challenges and opportunities that face the energy industry? What is the short-term - and long-range outlook for Western Colorado's economy?  How will my family and my job be affected by developments or lack of developments in the energy field? How will the Earth's current and future climate affect our energy endeavors?

These questions and more will be answered in the forum section of the expo from 9am-3:30pm this Friday. (February 27th) The expo runs from 8am-4pm at Two Rivers Convention Center, with free admission.

The self-stated purpose of the expo is to "educate Colorado citizens on the role we can play in meeting our energy needs today and into the future."A little education, a little knowledge, and a little understanding can go a long ways toward assuring we have a productive and sustained future here in Western Colorado.

More From Kool 107.9