An endangered species in our midst. The New Mexico meadow jumping mouse. Who knew? Biologist Jennifer Zahratka, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
There’s much news lately about habitat loss as a cause of massive species extinctions. Wetlands are especially crucial.
Wetlands, in their healthy state, are necessary for most plants and creatures. They provide home and sustenance to 80% of all species, though covering a relatively small area of lands. Seeps and springs trickling to the river are especially productive. There are few healthy wetlands left, a big reason for extinctions. Humans’ needs and wants have gobbled up most of these once productive streams, leaving only tattered remnants.
We are blessed with a city that the river runs through, and a narrow, but relatively healthy riparian area along the banks. Most species that live here with us are eking out a living along this corridor.
I understand the pressure on the city to maintain and expand our human footprint. Schedules and obligations to the contractor, who will be affected if this project is halted. Although inconvenient, shouldn’t we reconsider carefully and not in a rush, protecting this fragment of habitat for another creature who is in danger of disappearing forever because of our footprint? The trail is quite adequate. If we slow down for a moment, we may glimpse our precious, endangered neighbor. Let’s not destroy more habitat that now supports endangered life. As for reclamation, it takes time to regrow habitat. How do we recreate a seep or spring?
Mary Grayson
Ignacio
