There are many reasons people decide to live in Colorado – one of them is our great outdoors. Our state is defined by its majestic mountains, rolling valleys and everything in between.
When it comes to utilities projects and systems, our employees take special steps to ensure the integrity of our region’s habitat and the wildlife that lives in it.
Birds of prey
Utility poles often serve as excellent hunting, feeding and nesting perches for raptors, or birds of prey.
Some of the more common raptor species found in our service territory are the Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle Ferruginous Hawk, Swanson’s Hawk, Red-Tailed Hawk, Rough-Legged Hawk and Great Horned Owl.
We care for these species by adding protective devices to the utility poles and lines that either deter them from landing or protect them from electric shock if they do. We also follow stringent construction standards when installing new poles and retrofitting older ones.
In addition to protecting raptors, we also educate local students on the importance of respecting birds of prey. Our wildlife experts use interactive displays to share information on raptor characteristics, behavior, habitat conservation and raptor protection efforts. Learn how to schedule a presentation at your or your child’s school.
Everyone can help look after our feathered friends. Call us at 448-4800 if you see raptors using an electric pole as a nesting area. For your safety and that of the birds, do not attempt to disturb or move a nest.
Threatened and endangered species
For decades, we’ve partnered with the Colorado Division of Wildlife to ensure the protection of threatened and endangered species.
One such project aids in the offspring of the Greenback Cutthroat Trout. Since the 1950s, some of our reservoirs on the south slope of Pikes Peak have been used by the Division to raise this species.
Fish eggs are collected and fertilized each spring and sent to hatcheries in the region, where young fish can be raised for restocking lakes and streams throughout Colorado. We’ve also set aside an entire stream basin to specifically protect and increase the population of these native trout.
We’re also supporting the environment by developing a Habitat Conservation Plan for the Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse, or PMJM.
In 1998, the PMJM was listed as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. Anyone who alters habitat or water flows near creeks or drainages anywhere in El Paso County must assure that they do not disturb the mouse or its habitat.
Locally, the mouse is found near streams such as Monument Creek, Black Squirrel Creek and Kettle Creek, where dense willows and upland shrubs provide the shelter and habitat they need to live.
To protect the PMJM, we complete assessments prior to projects adjacent to potential habitats. This ensures that no PMJM will be harmed by our construction activities or operations.
Our commitment to the environment means we consistently act in accordance with the Endangered Species Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Wetlands
Wetlands are highly-productive ecosystems valued for their wildlife habitat, flood control, groundwater recharge and natural treatment of water. Most wetlands, which are protected under the Clean Water Act, often look like marshes, bogs or swamps.
Wetlands in our service territory include our watersheds, Pinello Ranch, Clear Spring Ranch and streams in the vicinity of our energy and water service lines.
