In 2002, we are evaluating many of the over 500 project sites that have received conservation/protection funding through the Wetlands Program. With the cooperation of our partners and the knowledge of local project managers, we will provide the first comprehensive assessment of wetland protection in the state. By measuring project features like vegetation, hydrologic function, and bird use, we will provide scientists, conservationists, and the public with a complete picture of the benefits provided by wetlands protection.

In addition, as a pilot project, we will intensively monitor a subset of these projects. This close attention to particular projects will provide finer detail on how wetland protection efforts provide habitat for wetland-dependent wildlife species through time. Our intensive monitoring will provide data to our conservation partners with which they can validate ongoing protection projects and improve strategic planning for future wetland conservation efforts.

This project has received funding from the CDOW, Environmental Protection Agency, Intermountain West Joint Venture, Playa Lakes Joint Venture, USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife, as well as in-kind contributions from the Colorado Natural Heritage Program.

This evaluation and monitoring program is just beginning, but its perpetuation is important for several reasons. Assessment is a critical step in the conservation process, as the effectiveness of various conservation strategies are evaluated and management decisions are adjusted accordingly. Secondly, information about the effectiveness of various types of conservation strategies is vital to informing future funding allocation decisions. Finally, evaluation and monitoring are extremely important for documenting the success of programs to their funding sources and supporters, including Congress.