** This Science Behind event took place in February, 2019 **
Join Walking Mountains Science Center for a unique look at the seasonal wildlife closures that effect many of our local favorite hot spots. Representatives from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the United States Forest Service, Eagle County Open Space, and Eagle County Trail Ambassadors will be on hand to share their expertise on the purpose, effects, and results of seasonal trail closures. In addition, the panel will discuss the implications recreation in natural areas has on local wildlife populations.
Multiple studies show, in addition to plenty of anecdotal evidence, that the primary reason people live in the Eagle Valley is for the access to incredible recreational opportunities as well as the seemingly pristine nature and charismatic wildlife. As our valley continues to fill with our new community members, the pressures are increasing on local animal populations. This is evident not only in ungulate counts by local biologists and game managers, but also the increasing awareness throughout our bustling valley that we, as cohabitants, may be the population who needs to carefully examine the values we ascribe to wildlife and the simple actions we can take to support their existence.
Join Walking Mountains, CPW, the USFS, and Eagle County to show your support for protecting local wildlife populations, to learn why your favorite trail is closed for months at a time, or join to learn from your fellow community members what we can do to ensure it continues to be possible to see fox in Vail, elk in Edwards, and deer in Gypsum.
If you are unable to make this month’s presentation, we will be offering an identical program on Wednesday, March 27th at the Gypsum Recreation Center!