Wildlife Society Annual Meeting

CPW staff bring their expertise to Colorado Chapter 

The Colorado Chapter of the Wildlife Society Annual Meeting held at the Pueblo Convention Center from February 7 – 9 was a gathering of minds dedicated to excellence in wildlife stewardship. Among the highlights were presentations from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) staff, showcasing the agency’s efforts and priorities in wildlife science, management, and conservation.

Day One Highlights:

After an engaging morning of presentations, the afternoon featured a Special Symposium on Sensitive Species Conservation and Management in Colorado. CPW Grouse Conservation Program Manager Kathy Griffin moderated a diverse array of presentations, including:

• Colorado’s 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan: CPW Species Conservation Unit Supervisor David Klute and CPW State Wildlife Action Plan Coordinator Kacie Miller emphasized awareness, alignment, access, and action in conservation planning efforts.
• Balancing Management for Gunnison Sage-Grouse: CPW Grouse Conservation Program Manager Kathy Griffin and Whit Blair from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service discussed managing Gunnison sage-grouse populations across state and federal jurisdictions.
• White-nose Syndrome in Little Brown Myotis: CPW Species Conservation Program Manager Daniel Neubaum stressed the importance of considering eco-regional differences in species management.
• Unlikely Connections: Prairie Dogs and Ptarmigan: CPW Species Conservation Coordinator Amy Seglund explored parallels between prairie dog and ptarmigan habitats, highlighting the interconnectedness of wildlife ecosystems.

Day Two Highlights:

The Wolf Ecology and Reintroduction session provided a comprehensive overview of wolf restoration efforts in Colorado. CPW Wolf Program Manager Eric Odell discussed the planning process for gray wolf restoration, balancing scientific, economic, and social considerations. This plan, a result of extensive stakeholder engagement, addresses both wildlife biological needs and societal concerns.

“It was very productive to present what the Colorado Parks and Wildlife wolf team has accomplished over the last three years at the Colorado Chapter of the Wildlife Society meetings in Pueblo. Providing a first-hand perspective to this gathering of wildlife professionals from around the state representing federal and state agencies and private industry allowed CPW staff to tell the stories and answer questions about what we have been doing to meet the objectives of state statute, as well as what is planned for the coming years,” Odell said.

Additionally, CPW Wildlife Biologist Nathan Seward presented findings on enhancing Gunnison sage-grouse habitat through wet meadow restoration. Collaboration with various organizations has proven effective in improving wet meadow drought resilience, with low-tech restoration structures contributing significantly to habitat enhancement and rangeland improvement.

“It is exciting to share the results of our habitat enhancement work that we’ve been doing over the past decade to bolster threatened Gunnison sage-grouse populations. Wet meadows and mesic areas make up a small fraction of the sagebrush ecosystem but are disproportionately important to wildlife and livestock,” said Seward. “The loss of natural water storage capacity in these systems is of great concern in these arid landscapes. No matter how you feel about climate change, we can all agree wet meadow restoration is a no-regrets strategy that conserves water and promotes wildlife and land-based livelihoods.”

Keynote Address:

In the evening session, attendees heard from Jeff Davis, who assumed the role of Director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife in May 2023. With a background spanning nearly 23 years with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Jeff brings a wealth of experience in conservation policy and habitat management to CPW.

During his address, Director Davis emphasized the importance of collaboration, stewardship, and innovation in addressing the complex challenges facing Colorado’s wildlife and natural resources.

“I’ll tell you what gives me hope though: my kids,” said Director Davis. “And now having the privilege of being in a seat of authority, it’s why I fight the way I do in order to secure a pathway forward. This is an opportunity for us all to be the bridge that connects future generations to a better future.”

 Drawing on his extensive experience in crafting legislation, engaging diverse stakeholders, and navigating budgetary constraints, Davis underscored the critical role of CPW in preserving Colorado’s rich biodiversity and outdoor heritage.

Conclusion:

The 2024 Annual Meeting of the Colorado Chapter of the Wildlife Society provided valuable insights into ongoing conservation efforts in the state. From gray wolf restoration to habitat enhancement projects, the presentations showcased CPW’s mission to perpetuate the wildlife resources of the state, provide a quality state parks system, and to provide enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities that educate and inspire current and future generations.