For over 30 years, the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) has advanced the science, policy and practice of ecological restoration. SER has more than 5,000 members in over 100 countries with 16 regional and continental chapters, 3 thematic sections, and 31 student associations, representing the largest global community of restoration practitioners, students, researchers, policymakers and investors.
The SER Rocky Mountains Chapter, co-host of SER2025, was established in 1996 and serves the states of Colorado and Wyoming. It offers its members the opportunity to get involved with local community projects, network and learn from peers, access SER’s extensive restoration resources, and discover opportunities for professional development.
Rocky Mountains in Colorado in the Fall
Located at almost the exact geographical center of the United States, Denver offers a wealth of ecologically diverse landscapes. Iconic projects like the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Reserve characterise the depth and variety of restoration taking place in the Denver area. Established over 20 years ago, the 15,000 acre site was previously a chemical weapon manufacturing facility, and now provides a refuge for numerous species such as bison, the endangered black-footed ferret and the US national symbol, the bald eagle. This is just one example of the ground-breaking restoration work happening in the region.
As a thriving mining center, throughout its history Colorado has been a vital source of raw materials, including precious metals, gems, building materials and coal. As a leader in mining, Colorado has also become a center of excellence for innovations in mine site restoration. Experts from the area are called on regularly to consult on projects around the world.
The high standards of mine reclamation in Colorado have helped reduce environmental, financial, and corporate risk in achieving site relinquishment by demonstrating the highest possible company commitment to environmental repair. Successful mine site reclamation in the area has resulted in significant growth in wildlife populations, including many species at risk. Innovative research includes approaches to pre-emptive management that mitigates the most damaging effects of extraction to reduce environmental impacts and rehabilitation costs.
SER’s International Principles and Standards for the Ecological Restoration and Recovery of Mine Sites have been developed to provide a global framework that supports mining companies and restoration practitioners around the world in similarly achieving consistently high outcomes.
The left photo is the Yoast mine site before restoration, the right photo is the Yoast mine site after restoration. Photo credit: Brock Bowles.
Denver’s climate and the need to adapt to a warmer, drier world has made Denver Botanic Gardens a regional leader in progressive horticultural design, water conservation, and use of climate-appropriate plant material in the semi-arid west. Its 700 acre property enables research and education into restoration in different contexts and on a wide variety of scales. Examples include research into sustainable farming practices, prairie habitats, and agrovoltaics.
Overview of the experimental plots at Chatfield Farms. Credit: Denver Botanical Gardens.
These are just three examples of the inspirational work happening in the Denver area, to offer local communities and visitors access to wild spaces, clean air and water, healthy food and thriving wildlife. Delegates at SER2025 will have the opportunity to learn first-hand from those who have made Denver a global leader in restoration and to experience the magic of the Mile High City for themselves.
Register now to secure your spot at SER2025 and join fellow restoration professionals in shaping ecological restoration globally.