"The conservation of prairie dogs in the Western United States is contentious due to the embedded view that they are pests. This research addressed the ecological and social viability for prairie dog colonies in Denver, Colorado. Remote sensing analysis was applied to identify potentially viable area for urban prairie dog colonies. In order to assess the social viability of urban colonies, knowledge and attitudinal surveys were distributed to residents near existing colonies and residents near potential colonies ... While additional education and outreach is necessary in order to improve residents' attitudes towards prairie dogs, this species has the potential to be viable in Denver.".--Abstract