Wetlands for Climate Resiliency

Example of a Beaver Dam Analog

Last month, our Wetlands for Wildlife project, funded and sponsored by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, took real steps forward. We began ground operations along with Ecometrics, uplifting previously modest wetlands, implementing beaver dam analogs as a natural climate solutions tool within our Climate Resilience Initiative. This process allows the stream to expand following historical flows, enhancing biodiversity, mitigating drought impacts and promoting healthy wildlife habitat.

The next phase of this project is already underway creating Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping designs. We are also working to develop field verification teams this autumn to examine the natural intricacies of streams. Next spring, we will continue this work throughout more of the Lower Blue River Valley.

Climate Resiliency Update

We have worked to secure funding from Colorado Parks and Wildlife for our Dynamic Wetlands Wildlife Initiative. In the weeks ahead, through the summer and fall, our partner EcoMetrics will be treating 37 acres on private property with Beaver Dam Analogs (manmade structure which mirror beaver dam construction) for biodiversity, habitat for species and carbon capture.

Climate Resiliency Update

Friends of the Lower Blue River has been busy working with our partner landowners, non-profits and governmental agencies designing climate resiliency projects for this summer and autumn.

We have successfully secured grant funding from Colorado Parks and Wildlife through their Wetlands for Wildlife program. It is dynamic initiative. We will be working with EcoMetrics, a stream and wetlands restoration firm based in Breckenridge, to implement Beaver Dam Analogs in the Spruce Creek near Kremmling. These are man-made structures designed to mimic the form and function of a natural beaver dam. Increasing the water flow in wetland areas mirrors historical natural flows to benefit many wildlife species, provide drought resistance, and allow for more carbon capture.

FOLBR Climate Resiliency Update

FOLBR is actively working on our Summer/Autumn implementation plans with our private landowners.

We have examined the results of our soil tests across four landscape types with our partner Colorado Mycology Watershed Institute.The samples came back with results across physical, biological and chemical groups.

Overall 15 characteristics or indicators were listed with a value and rating of very low, low, medium, high or very high. The indicators illuminated potential ecological soil uplifts or amendments to enhance surface hardness, organic matter and active carbon as well as soil respiration.

Safe Soils/Climate Resiliency Update

We're working on soil health solution projects. As we refine the action plan, we will report to you the latest information including scope and timelines. We'd like to see these projects begin when the snow melts in the Valley.

Right now, we are determining the costs involved to carry out our pilot prescriptions. As we have reported before, these efforts will cost money.

We are developing the budget for implementation and looking to our members, friends, grants and governmental sources to help achieve FOLBR's climate action goals this year, and in the years ahead.

Wetlands for Climate Resiliency

Climate Resiliency Update

Climate Resiliency Update

FOLBR Climate Resiliency Update

Safe Soils/Climate Resiliency Update

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