In addition, the impacts of a changing climate have led to instances of unusually drier and warmer seasons, and this has exacerbated the negative ecological effects of the valley's historic uses. For example, past land use activities and wildlife management in the region have nearly eliminated willows and reduced other wetland plant communities, dewatered wetlands, and reduced biodiversity needed in a high functioning ecosystem. The Kawuneeche Valley has a long history of diverse land uses, and some of those now-abandoned land uses have contributed to impaired ecological function. Why does the Kawuneeche Valley need restoration? They are important ecological features because they serve as a buffer to pollutants entering the stream, control erosion, and provide an exchange of habitat and nutrients from the floodplain to the stream. Riparian areas are crucial wetlands and biodiverse areas connected to riverscapes and water bodies. It includes tributaries of the Colorado River and their riparian areas. The Kawuneeche Valley is the watershed that drains into the Colorado River, from the headwaters in Rocky Mountain National Park to where the river meets Shadow Mountain Reservoir in the Town of Grand Lake. No one organization can achieve a healthy watershed in this region on its own the combined resources and expertise of KVERC and its stakeholders can accomplish more through collaboration. The KVERC organizations share the goal of a healthy and resilient watershed, occupied by a mix of public and private landowners, which serves diverse ecological, recreational, and economic interests. KVERC formed in early 2020 to facilitate an effective approach to restoration in the Kawuneeche Valley. Colorado River Water Conservation District.United States Forest Service - Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests.National Park Service - Rocky Mountain National Park.KVERC is comprised of representatives from seven core organizations: Achieving long-term benefits of a healthy environment, including improved water quality, wildlife habitat, drought resilience, and aesthetic and recreational value.Developing comprehensive and ambitious restoration plans for implementation with local partners.Strengthening the Valley’s resilience to the impacts of climate change.Using an inclusive process that seeks and values input from the diversity of residents, businesses, landowners and interests in the valley.
KVERC is a collaborative of agencies and organizations focused on ecosystem restoration of the Kawuneeche Valley to support its ecological, economic and community well-being.
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