Established by statute in 1977, the Colorado Natural Areas Program is a statewide program focused on the recognition and protection of areas that contain at least one unique or high-quality natural feature of statewide significance.
The Colorado Natural Areas Program, working with interested landowners and dedicated volunteers, helps to conserve Colorado’s best places well into the future. To date, more than 300 rare, threatened or endangered species and communities are monitored and cooperatively protected at 93 designated sites in Colorado, with more in the works. Natural areas are found on public or private land and are designated through land management agreements with landowners.
We couldn't do this without a growing base of dedicated volunteers and the involvement of concerned citizens. Check out current volunteer opportunities or support our work through annual membership with the Friends of Colorado Natural Areas.
For current information about Colorado's Natural Areas Program, check out our 2012 Triennial Report to the Governor!
Become a Volunteer Steward
Visit A Natural Area
Help us to protect Colorado's best natural features. You can adopt a natural area and be a part of protecting these amazing spaces by becoming a volunteer steward.
The Aiken Canyon Natural Area in south-central Colorado sits between the plains and mountains where dramatic red spires and outcrops collide with rich green flora. Learn more about the
Aiken Canyon Natural Area, and
visit this site.