First Advisor

Tyler Imfeld

College

Regis College

Degree Name

MS Environmental Biology

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Number of Pages

57 pages

Abstract

Human-wildlife conflict is increasing globally as landscapes become more urban, reducing and fragmenting habitat for wildlife and bringing them closer to people. In the Western United States, elk and human populations are both growing, leading to increased rates of human-elk conflict. This study took place in Evergreen, CO, where Dedisse Park experiences high levels of human activity and elk presence. We aimed to determine where conflict is most prevalent and to determine which environmental and behavioral factors contribute to human-elk conflict. We found that conflict occurs primarily along the north side of the lake and that people and elk are likely to be present when temperatures increase and wind and precipitation are not present. Finally, we found that walking and driving a car had significant effects on elk feeding behavior. The results of this study provide management implications for Dedisse Park, and contribute to our understanding of human-elk conflict in western North America.

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Location (Creation)

Denver, Colo.

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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