Kawuneeche Valley Collaborative

Restoring the Heart of the Headwaters: The Kawuneeche Valley Ecosystem Restoration Collaborative

The Kawuneeche Valley Ecosystem Restoration Collaborative (KVRC) is a multi-agency initiative dedicated to revitalizing the ecological and hydrologic health of the Kawuneeche Valley—a critical headwaters region where the Colorado River emerges from Rocky Mountain National Park and flows into Shadow Mountain Reservoir. 

Historically, the valley was home to dense stands of tall willows, robust beaver populations, and expansive wetlands stretching 8 miles long and half a mile wide. These wetlands played a vital role in retaining water, supporting wildlife and enhancing ecosystem resilience. 

However, over the past century, land use changes and rising elk and moose populations have led to a sharp decline in willows and beavers. Without beaver activity, the valley’s natural hydrology has been disrupted—resulting in dry floodplains, altered stream channels and diminished ecological function. These shifts have increased the valley’s vulnerability to drought, wildfire and invasive species.  

KVRC is working to reverse these trends through long-term, adaptive restoration strategies. Key activities include: 

• Installing exclosure fencing to protect native vegetation from browsing wildlife
• Planting native willows and removing invasive species to restore riparian habitat
• Building low-tech instream structures that mimic beaver dams to raise the water table and reconnect the river to its floodplain
• Engaging the public through field tours, school programs, and ranger trainings

KVRC brings together representatives from Northern Water, Rocky Mountain National Park, the U.S. Forest Service, Colorado River District, Grand County, Town of Grand Lake, The Nature Conservancy and Rocky Mountain Conservancy. The Collaborative also partners with Colorado State University, whose researchers have contributed decades of ecological study and expertise to guide restoration planning.