Watershed Biodiversity Initiative

Have a listen to this Aspen Public Radio story sharing the latest from the Roaring Fork Watershed Biodiversity & Connectivity Study. Thanks APR and Eleanor Bennett!

Biodiversity study sheds light on how to protect the Roaring Fork watershed As the impacts of human development and the climate crisis worsen, native plants and animals like elk, deer and bighorn sheep are declining in our region. To identify what areas most need protection, a group of local stakeholders conducted a three-year biodiversity study of the nearly million-acre R...

The local pincushion cactus don't seem to mind our current drought conditions. Generally found in arid zones between 6000' and 9000' feet, they've been in brilliant bloom for the last two to three weeks.

This one had a visitor. Anyone recognize the wildlife?

Many of our watershed's low elevation trails open to seasonal use today. It's an exciting time of year for many of us who like to get out in nature.

But perhaps most important to emphasize is that many seasonal trail closures remain in place - some for several more weeks. This is a critical time of year for many species. For elk in particular, their ability to calve in the absence of human activity plays a key role in the survival of their young.

This article gives a helpful list of the many seasonal wildlife closures that remain. Let's continue to give space to our wild friends as we begin to enjoy our springtime adventures.

Transition time: First wave of trails open on Friday in lower and middle valley A handful of trails in the middle and lower Roaring Fork Valley open today, but just because they are open doesn’t mean they should be ridden. Advocate groups are urging users to stay off muddy and wet trails.

Our partners at Colorado Parks and Wildlife have put together a fantastic video about the research they have been doing to better understand recent declines in elk cow-calf ratio (a key herd health indicator). Much of that research is happening right here in the Roaring Fork Valley! This is an important piece of the puzzle we are all working so hard to solve!

Emblems of the West Our researchers have set out to evaluate how human recreation may be influencing Colorado's elk populations and created a film titled "Emblems of the West" t...