Landowners across Mesa County gathered this week to learn hands-on strategies for improving wildlife habitats and river ecosystems. The event, organized by the Mesa County Conservation District and RiversEdge West, focused on sustainable land management practices and community collaboration.
Workshop Brings Landowners and Experts Together
On February 19, landowners met at CSU’s Western Campus to attend “The Wildlife Habitat Restoration Workshop,” an event designed to address environmental concerns while providing practical solutions. The workshop wasn’t just about lectures—it was a space for networking, hands-on discussions, and community engagement. Attendees also enjoyed a free dinner while hearing from local conservation experts.
Topics covered included:
- Improving soil health for long-term sustainability.
- Reintroducing native plant species to restore local ecosystems.
- Creating better wildlife habitats to support diverse species.
- Expanding river access for both conservation and recreation.
- Controlling invasive species like tamarisk and Russian olive trees.
- Exploring funding opportunities for restoration projects.
Community Collaboration at the Core
Christa Brown, Private Lands Biologist for RiversEdge West, emphasized the importance of partnerships in conservation.
“There’s a lot of partners involved in this type of work, and it’s always great to bring them all together,” Brown said. “We want to do the best we can for the environment while also supporting private landowners as they work on their properties.”
She highlighted the need for long-term collaboration, ensuring landowners have the necessary resources to maintain and improve their land’s ecological health.
Addressing Invasive Species and Habitat Loss
One major focus of the workshop was tackling invasive species such as tamarisk and Russian olive. These aggressive plants outcompete native vegetation, disrupt water flow, and degrade wildlife habitats. Experts shared strategies for effective removal and restoration efforts.
Attendees also learned about improving soil quality to promote plant growth. Conservationists stressed the role of native plants in maintaining soil stability, reducing erosion, and creating balanced ecosystems for local wildlife.
A Look at Future Projects
Brown was pleased with the turnout and the level of engagement from landowners.
“I hope everyone walks away with useful information and feels inspired to reach out and collaborate with us in the future,” she said. “Looking ahead, we want to scale up these efforts, bring more landowners together, and make a larger impact—especially along the Colorado River.”
Both the Mesa County Conservation District and RiversEdge West plan to continue hosting similar events, fostering long-term relationships with landowners and strengthening conservation efforts across the region.
