Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition, Inc.

Background Statement

CCCC was formed in May 2012 as part of the community discussion regarding the hunting of Greater Sandhill Cranes in Northwest Colorado. Birdwatchers, nature-lovers, and other interested citizens were concerned that these migratory birds, designated as "endangered" by the State of Colorado in the 1970s and still listed by the state as a "Tier 1 Species of Concern," would decline in numbers and disappear from the area. Since the hunting proposal was withdrawn, CCCC has focused its efforts on raising crane awareness, educating the public about this iconic species, helping to protect crane habitat in a rapidly developing area of the state, and providing a reliable food source to cranes prior to migration. CCCC is primarily a volunteer organization with one full-time and one part-time staff. Each year more than 80 volunteers give their time and energy to plan and manage the Yampa Valley Crane Festival and educational programs. CCCC relies on the generosity of volunteers, sponsors and private individuals to help maintain all of its programs.