The wet meadow restoration and fence removal project in northwest colorado, a collaborative effort between backcountry hunters anglers and colorado parks wildlife, aims to address critical habitat…

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded a $151,800 Cooperative Agreement to Backcountry Hunters & Anglers under the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program (CFDA 15.631) to support the Wet Meadow Restoration and Fence Removal Project in northwest Colorado. The project aims to address critical habitat loss issues for sage grouse resulting from coal mine expansion in the Danforth Hills. Key planned activities include removing or modifying 10 miles of hazardous fencing and restoring 5 acres of wet meadow habitat to promote the long-term sustainability of wildlife populations in the Axial Basin and central Moffat County region. The comprehensive initiative, led by CPW Biologist Brian Holmes and BHA's Habitat Stewardship Manager Britt Parker, will commence with seasonal staff hiring by May 1, 2024 and conclude with the achievement of project objectives by September 30, 2026.

The wet meadow restoration and fence removal project in northwest colorado, a collaborative effort between backcountry hunters anglers and colorado parks wildlife, aims to address critical habitat loss issues for sage grouse resulting from coal mine expansion in the danforth hills. This initiative underscores the urgency of preserving and enhancing greater sage grouse habitat in the axial basin and northwest colorado region. The project seeks to remove or modify 10 miles of hazardous fencing and restore 5 acres of wet meadow habitat, strategically mitigating habitat loss and promoting the long-term sustainability of wildlife populations. Led by CPW biologist brian holmes and supported by BHA s habitat stewardship manager britt parker, the project s comprehensive approach includes environmental assessments, seasonal staff hiring, zeedyk rock structure construction, and collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure environmental compliance. The project s activities, slated to commence with seasonal staff hiring by may 1 and conclude with the achievement of project objectives by october 31, encompass a meticulous process of fence removal, wet meadow restoration, and habitat enhancement efforts. Environmental compliance measures will be rigorously adhered to, with a focus on addressing concerns related to sage grouse habitat loss and ensuring sustainable wildlife management practices. By focusing on growth opportunity areas identified within the axial basin and central moffat county, the project aims to make significant strides in safeguarding sage grouse populations and preserving the biodiversity of the region.