Where You’ll Be:
Acquired by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) in 2022, the Upper Red Cliff Ranch State Wildlife Area (SWA) is a protected habitat for diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for both viewing and hunting. Typically closed to the public, this project provides a rare chance to access and help restore this unique landscape. The area was heavily impacted by the 2016 Junkins Fire and is in need of wildfire recovery efforts.
What You’ll Do:
Volunteers will take part in a variety of stewardship tasks to help improve the health of the landscape and restore wildlife habitat. Activities include removing old fencing, constructing a culvert to create a sustainable stream crossing, and pulling noxious weeds to support native plant growth. You'll also help limb downed trees to reduce fire risk and assist with willow planting efforts to naturally stabilize the streambank.
Dinner is provided on Friday, April 25. Breakfast and lunch are provided on Saturday
Free campsites are available on Friday night, and we recommend arriving at base camp before 8 PM on Friday.
Our workday will be from approximately 8am-4pm on Saturday, April 26.
Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper!
We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen!
View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up!
Why It Matters:
Tucked away from the crowds, this remote and ecologically rich area offers a unique opportunity for volunteers to make a lasting impact. Your efforts will directly contribute to restoring and enhancing vital wildlife habitat, improving fisheries through stream restoration, and reducing erosion with willow plantings. Additionally, timber clearing will promote aspen regeneration and create critical nesting habitat for migratory bird species.
By joining this project, you’ll play a hands-on role in conserving a landscape that supports countless plant and animal species, ensuring its long-term health for generations to come.
Eligibility Requirements:
Ages 18+
Project Difficulty:
This project is considered easy to moderate. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.
Physical Considerations:
This project involves tasks such as hiking, noxious weed removal, digging, bending, and navigating rough terrain.
Access Factors:
Vehicle Accessibility: 2WD Accessible – no vehicle restrictions . There is plenty of parking, 4WD is not required.
Other notes: There is cell service on the State Wildlife Area.
