Volunteer Opportunity! Wet Meadow Restoration at Centennial State Wildlife Area
Join us in the iconic Gunnison Basin sagebrush landscape at Centennial SWA!
HCCA is partnering with Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) and the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD) to protect and restore critical wet meadow habitat.
When: Saturday, October 21st (9:00am to 2:00pm)
Where: Centennial State Wildlife Area (west of Gunnison, north of Blue Mesa)
From Gunnison, go 12 miles west on U.S. 50 to the CPW sign at the dirt access road just before Stevens Creek Campground, and then north (right) into the property.
Parking: Volunteers will meet at the large parking area off of U.S. 50.
Coordinates: 38.489202, -107.088078
What: Volunteers will spend time building rock structures to improve critical habitat for the Gunnison Sage-Grouse. We will use innovative, yet simple, restoration methods-small rock structures to raise the water table to support plants and insects needed by wildlife.
Why: Wet meadows and riparian areas in sagebrush shrublands provide important brood-rearing habitat for the threatened Gunnison Sage-Grouse. These habitats are also important for numerous other species, including neo-tropical migratory birds, elk and mule deer, as well as livestock. A number of wet meadows and riparian areas, already compromised by erosion and lower water tables, are likely to be further altered by drought and high-intensity rainstorms associated with a changing climate.
Here are a few things you should know:
● We will provide lunch and water for refills
● Bring work gloves (we will have extra to use)
● Bring a water bottle & weather-appropriate clothes/gear (hat, sunscreen, bug spray, etc.)
● We provide tools and oversight
● Wear close-toed shoes (we will be working in wet areas), comfortable outdoor layers, and clothes you aren’t afraid to get dirty
● Please note that there are no bathroom facilities on site
● We recommend bringing a small pack to carry anything you may need (water, snacks, extra clothes)
