The Yampa is one of the few rivers in Colorado that remains almost entirely undammed with natural patterns of seasonal flow. Much as in past centuries, it supports a rich riparian ecosystem along much of its length. As a result, the birding opportunities are many, and recreational birders are rewarded with diverse bird sightings, sounds, and iconic nest-viewing opportunities.

Scoring for the Birding Indicator considers both environmental and accessibility components:

• Bird diversity
• Charismatic nest viewing
• Species of regional interest
• Seasonality of birding
• Accessibility to non-boating birders and/or birders with disabilities
• Environmental impacts to habitat
• Threats to birds

Birding data is collected from eBird, foot surveys, and float surveys. Surveys are conducted by Audubon Rockies staff and trained volunteers and vetted by Audubon Rockies staff. The eBird data is collected by birding recreationists (birders) and vetted by eBird volunteers and staff reviewers.