MONTROSE, Nov. 20, 2:16 p.m.  – Colorado Division of Wildlife staff will explain the new Colorado Birding Trail to public lands officials at a meeting at 10 a.m., Nov. 28 at the Montrose DOW office, 2300 S. Townsend Ave. A representative of the Rocky Mountain Bird observatory will also be on hand to answer questions. 

The Colorado Birding Trail is a major ecotourism initiative to promote wildlife recreation, conservation of natural resources by private landowners and a diversified economy for rural areas. The Birding Trail links outdoor recreation sites, both public and private, into a network of loops where visitors can observe birds and other wildlife, often in addition to archaeological and paleontological treasures.

In 2006, 47.8 million people in America described themselves as interested in bird watching; and the number is increasing every year. Thirty-nine states have developed birding trails. The Colorado Birding Trail was launched in southeast Colorado at the February 2007 Snow Goose Festival in Lamar. Visit www.coloradobirdingtrail.com to learn about what has already been accomplished.

The DOW, Colorado Field Ornithologists, Audubon Colorado and Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory continue to work cooperatively to expand the trail to the southwest area of Colorado. 

"The Colorado Birding Trail in southeast Colorado reflects the incredible diversity of resources and users in that area of the state," said Jennifer Kleffner, volunteer and watchable wildlife coordinator for the DOW's southwest region. "We would like to build on this accomplishment by inviting participation and input from a broad range of stakeholders in the Southwest. We need insight from federal, state, tribal, and private parties to continue to make the trail a success." 

This meeting is aimed at public lands officials. Informational meetings for the public will be held in 2008. For more information, contact Kleffner at 970/375-6704.