DENVER — Climate change is impacting Colorado businesses, to the point where some are starting to see an impact on their revenues and business models. One such organization is the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance.

During the summer, when Colorado was stuck in a loop of 90 degree or hotter daysThe zoo began seeing visitor numbers decline by about 1,100 people per day, according to zoo communications director Jake Kubie.

Chief Operating Officer Cristal Torres DeHerrera said climate change is changing their revenue.

“Our staff is on the lookout if people are showing signs of dehydration,” DeHerrera said.

The weather began to have such an impact on visitor numbers that they increased their opening time to 7:30 a.m. and kept it open later in the evening, then reduced their operations in the afternoon . Now they’re hoping more people will come in the fall and there will be Christmas lights in the winter to make up for lost business.

“We want to invite the community in every day,” DeHerrera said.

DeHerrera said that with about 1.7 million visitors each year, they have a big platform to talk about climate change.

“We have sustainability goals that we’re trying to achieve and we’re aggressive about it,” DeHerrera said.

The zoo is planting as much native landscaping as possible and even finding plants that thrive in places like West Texas and Arizona, as they plan for Colorado’s future. They hope that between the animals, visitors will pay attention and maybe even find inspiration for their own yard. The Botanic Gardens have a similar initiative, focusing on indigenous landscaping and inviting people to get inspiration for their own gardens too.

“You will see us continue to cultivate the largest canopy of trees in Denver,” DeHerrera added.

Climate change impacts Denver Zoo operations

The tree canopy can be a game changer. When Denver hits these temperature hot zones, neighborhoods without enough trees and more sidewalks can be 10 degrees hotter than other parts of the city. This typically occurs in underinvested areas of Colorado.

There’s also the problem of old homes that weren’t built for this kind of weather, making it difficult for families to stay there during both very hot and very cold days.

Several groups are working to expand the tree canopy, including the Park People. The City of Denver’s Climate Action Office also received a $5 million grant to expand the tree canopy and said there would be volunteer opportunities in the near future. Energy Outreach Colorado helps families make their homes climate resilient, while staying on budget.