Letter: A threat to our wildlife
The Eagle County Board of Commissioners continuously approve new housing developments and as a result, our valley’s wildlife is under an increasing threat to their survival.
At specific issue is the proposed Wolcott PUD which encroaches on the habitat of a pair of actively nesting bald eagles and their eaglets. Since 2014, the pair have raised between two and three eaglets each year. This parcel of land is also the home for migrating elk and mule deer.
It’s no surprise that there has been a significant decline in both the elk and mule deer populations.
Several factors have contributed to this, according to a study conducted by the Theodore Roosevelt Conversation Partnership:
- Habitat loss: New build and recreational trail use has impacted approximately 40% of most elk and mule deer populations.
- Smaller habitat areas: Reduced habitat areas have limited space available for these animals to live and forage.
Researchers also found that if a cow elk had to move habitat during calving, 30% of their calves died.
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Residents living in the Eagle valley community enjoy observing the herds of elk and mule deer on the proposed Wolcott PUD land. These herds also cross both Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 6 where either an over or underpass is required for their safety.
The proposed Wolcott PUD and established wildlife are not compatible. The county’s commissioners must think critically regarding this issue in order for all of us to protect our wildlife so we can enjoy the magic our eagles, elk, and mule deer bring to us.
Lisa Katze-Fanger
Wolcott
