The Dolores River Canyon Country represents Colorado’s largest and most biodiverse stretch of unprotected public lands. The area’s rugged terrain and remote canyons offer a sense of solitude and wildness that is increasingly rare, providing critical habitat for numerous species and preserving the natural character of the landscape.

This region is a haven for wildlife, providing vital migration corridors and winter range for deer and elk. It supports native fish species of concern, such as the roundtail chub, flannelmouth sucker, and bluehead sucker, and is home to desert bighorn sheep and a variety of rare plants. Conserving these habitats is essential for maintaining the region’s ecological integrity.

The Dolores River, a headwater tributary of the Colorado River, and its numerous tributaries, including Roc Creek, La Sal Creek and the San Miguel River, play a crucial role in sustaining downstream ecosystems and communities. Protecting the watershed helps improve water quality and resilience against the impacts of climate change, benefiting approximately 40 million Americans who rely on the Colorado River system.