- An Asset Management System is a database that will allow our Parks & Open Space staff to plan and budget projects more effectively. We are in the process of getting RFPs [Request for Proposal] to get this new system.
- COSWAP [Colorado Strategic Wildfire Action Program] is up and running at Hall Ranch. We are working in partnership with Boulder Valley and Longmont Conservation District, The Watershed Center, and City of Longmont. This will be a 4,000-acre project.
- The Boulder County office of CSU Extension plays a key role in sharing information about managing agriculture and natural resources. They have recently hired new staff to fill vacant positions, which include an Agriculture Specialist, a Small Acreage Expert, and someone in Public Engagement that will help in linking Public Health with the outdoors.
- Weed mowing along trails and roadsides has begun for the season. We ask for people to be patient and stay clear when they see our mowers.
- National Trails Day is June 3. We are hosting an event at Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain. This project will focus on improving trail conditions to lessen muddy trail closures.
- The 2023 Youth Corp season is ramping up, with 12 crews starting June 12.
- East Boulder Creek Management Plan is entering Phase 2. We will host Open Houses soon, including one in Spanish. Please check the webpage for additional information. The BOCC and POSAC will have a field trip to the site in August. bouldercounty.gov/open-space/management/east-boulder-creek/
- BCPOS has updated its agricultural leasing program to make it more inclusive and encourage a more diverse community to lease our lands. We’ll host two trainings next week to explain the criteria and to help broaden our pool of interested farmers.
- Northern Leopard Frogs, a species of special concern, have been heard and recorded at the South County Grasslands.
POSAC Questions:
Paula: I was recently on the St Vrain Greenway Trail and saw 6-8 inches of mud from the Keyes property. It would be nice if staff can create a berm or direct the water away.
Paula: I did the survey for East Boulder Creek, but it seemed too short. I suggest a series of surveys to get more helpful information.
Trace: Regarding the update to the Weed Management Plan, what disciplines are on the team and how are they picked?
Therese: There will be a planner to manage the process, Joe Swanson, Senior Weed specialist, and his team, a plant ecologist, a wildlife biologist, and Stefan Reinold, who is the Resource Management Division Manager.
Trace: We’ve received a number of public comments on weed management. I recommend your staff identify alternatives during the management plan process and explain how the decisions are reached.
Kristine Johnson: I saw Therese speak at the in Erie during a forum hosted by CU Center for Sustainable Landscapes and Communities.
Therese: We are happy to work with the University of Colorado and enjoy participating at these events.