December brings the annual closing of various Pitkin County Open Space and Trails properties for the protection of wintering wildlife.

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An elk calf in the Avalanche herd is collared in the high country (left) and a cow elk is collared at Glassier Open Space.

The survival of elk calves is the focus of a 6-year, statewide study that will enter its second year in 2020 with continuing support from Pitkin County Open Space and Trails.

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From left, a stream orchid specimen from flower to root, the flowers of the stream orchid and the western bog orchid.

As home to two species of native orchids, Filoha Meadows Nature Preserve’s contributions to the world of plant ecology are extending beyond its borders. This year, the open space was again tapped to provide plant samples and seeds for a national effort to conserve the orchid heritage of the United States and Canada.

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