
The
San Miguel river's headwaters and valley floor are a biological
jewel. Situated immediately adjacent to the town of Telluride,
these large wetlands serve as a rich resevoir of animal and plant
life. The local citizens cherish the biodiversity of the habitat,
as well as the valuable open space it provides, and during the
next few years, the community must decide the fate of this unique
area - how should it be preserved or developed?
SEI is evaluating the biological health and diversity of the San
Miguel Headwaters. Our team of scientists, drawn from the most
prestigious institutes in North America, is studying the biodiversity
of the region and discovering new information that will help regional
and town planners. On the pages that follow, we will post data
and results as they are discovered, with important information
on sensitive and endangered species, biodiversity, ecosystems
functions, watershed health, and policy issues.