b'A Message from our Executive DirectorDear Friends,Its fair to say that at Rocky Mountain National Park, thisIn 2019, more than 4.6 million park visitors traveled through past year was a year that began like no other. Like ourRockys magnificent landscape. As visitation has steadily beloved park, 2019 had its share of peaks and valleys. Werisen year over year, so does the need to address and began the year with the longest government shutdownmitigate the impact of visitors on the park. In doing so, the in our countrys history. And, as the shutdown stretchedConservancys stewardship programs have never been more into late-January, our community rose to the occasion. relevant. With nearly 140 miles of popular trails maintained Volunteers and supporters stepped up to support theand repaired, and nearly 400 stewardship volunteers park during a time of need for both the park staff, and ourdeployed in 2019, the Conservancy is channeling expertise parks delicate ecosystems. I am both proud and gratefuland enthusiasm to create a gold standard for conservation for the strength and generosity of our community, and itsin Rocky. stewardship of this incredible place. From important conservation work to creative educational In 2019, the Conservancy invested nearly $2.5 millionproducts, 2019 was a year of many accomplishments for in support of Rocky Mountain National Park, fundingthe Conservancy, and for our supportersour community important projects and enhancements designed toworking together.As people need nature to thrive, so our improve the visitor experience in the park. Whetherpark needs care and protection to endure. Together, we upgrades to trails, funding for important wildlifemake this happen.studies, or for repairs for historic structures to stoke the imagination of kids, and inspire us all to better understandWarmly,and appreciate the many park inhabitants that came before useach project took on a special significance. And, lest we forget one of our quirkier and hoppier projects, the Conservancy support of the parks effortsEstee Rivera Murdocktoward the reintroduction of boreal toads in the park demonstrates the wide spectrum of Conservancy supportEXECUTIVE DIRECTORto Rocky, including to some of its tiniest inhabitants. 2019 ANNUAL REPORT |3'