Miller Ranch State Wildlife Area (Wet Meadow Restoration)

This Labor Day weekend we are excited to once again join Wildlands Restoration Volunteers, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District, and the US Forest Service to restore riparian and wet meadow habitats in the sagebrush shrublands of Miller Ranch, in the picturesque Ohio Creek Valley.

Volunteers will use innovative, yet simple, restoration methods, specifically constructing small rock structures to raise the water table to support plants and insects needed by wildlife. This work will especially benefit Gunnison sage-grouse.

When: Saturday, September 3, Sunday, September 4, and Monday, September 5

Where: Miller Ranch State Wildlife Area north of Gunnison

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 ranchers for livestock grazing. A number of wet meadows and riparian areas, already compromised by erosion and lower water tables, are likely to be further altered from 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 a water bottle & weather-appropriate clothes/gear (hat, sunscreen, bug spray, etc.)

– We provide work gloves and tools

– 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, bug spray, extra clothes)

Stewardship of public lands helps ensure their sustainability into the future. The above project entails spending a fun-filled day with like-minded community members giving back to YOUR public lands and supporting our lovable wildlife. They are great opportunities to get your hands dirty – and experience personal fulfillment – in furtherance of a worthy cause. Their success is dependent on public participation.