Rocky Mountain National Park Seeks Public Input on Wetland Restoration Amid Rising Moose Populations

Rocky Mountain National Park is initiating a comprehensive plan to tackle the decline of wetlands and the escalating impact of moose on these vital ecosystems.

 

Park officials are inviting the public to participate in shaping effective management strategies for wetlands and moose populations.

 

A virtual information session is scheduled for Monday, December 8, from 6 to 7:15 p.m. MT.

 

The webinar aims to educate attendees on the importance of wetlands, provide a platform for questions, and guide participants on submitting formal comments through the Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website.

 

The session will commence with a presentation, followed by a question-and-answer segment.

 

To join the virtual meeting, registration is required.

 

Upon registering, participants will receive a confirmation email with details on accessing the session.

 

For those unable to attend, a recording will be available on the park's planning website.

 

Live captioning will be provided during the meeting.

 

Public comments are welcomed from December 8, 2025, through January 8, 2026.

 

Comments can be submitted online via the PEPC website or mailed to:

 

Superintendent

 

Rocky Mountain National Park

 

1000 U.S. Highway 36

 

Estes Park, CO 80517

 

Participants should be aware that comments, including personal information, may be publicly accessible.

 

While requests can be made to withhold personal details, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

 

For further information, visit the park's official website or contact the Park Information Office at (970) 586-1206.

 

In recent years, the park has observed significant changes in its wetland ecosystems.

 

Historically, areas like Moraine Park were thriving willow-beaver wetlands.

 

However, due to factors such as increased moose and elk populations, these regions have transformed into moose-elk-grasslands.

 

This shift has led to the loss of tall willows, reduced beaver activity, and the proliferation of invasive species.

 

Restoring these ecosystems is a priority for park management.

 

Efforts include protecting vegetation from herbivory through fencing, managing ungulate populations, and reintroducing native plant species.

 

Understanding the dynamics of moose populations and their impact on wetlands is crucial for these restoration initiatives.

 

Public participation is vital in developing and implementing effective strategies to preserve the park's natural resources.

 

Engaging in the upcoming virtual session offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to the conservation efforts of Rocky Mountain National Park.