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Home My WebLink About03/17/2025 - AIR QUALITY ADVISORY BOARD - AGENDA - Regular meeting Air Quality Advisory Board Monday, March 17, 2025 5:30 – 8:00 PM (dinner for Board members and presenters served at 5:15 pm) 222 Laporte Ave | Colorado River Conference Room (first floor) Meeting link for hybrid access (requires internet access): fcgov.com/aqab-teams-meeting 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. AGENDA REVIEW 4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 6. PREVIOUS BUSINESS a. Review recommendation for the Large Methane User Fee study 7. NEW BUSINESS a. Natural Areas Strategic Framework; 6:00-7:00 Julia Feder (Conservation and Stewardship Manager, Natural Areas Department) will review and seek board feedback on the draft Natural Areas Strategic Framework. This visionary plan will guide the next 10-20 years of conservation, building on the 2014 Natural Areas Master Plan with an updated approach to new challenges and opportunities. (Discussion) b. Air Quality Education Subcommittee; 7:00-7:15 The board will discuss and decide who will participate on the Air Quality Education Strategy Subcommittee. The subcommittee will provide input on an upcoming air quality campaign coordinated by the Environmental Services Department . (Discussion & Decision) 8. OTHER BUSINESS ● Board Member Reports ● Six Month Calendar Review https://www.fcgov.com/cityclerk/planning-calendar.php ● Revisit action items from previous meetings & preview of next meeting City Websites with Updates: ● Air Quality Advisory Board webpage: https://www.fcgov.com/cityclerk/boards/air-quality-advisory ● Our Climate Future: https://ourcity.fcgov.com/ourclimatefuture 9. ADJOURN 1 2/24/2025 - Minutes Air Quality Advisory Board REGULAR MEETING Monday, February 24, 2025 – 5:30 PM 222 Laporte Avenue, Colorado River Room 1. CALL TO ORDER: 5:33 PM 2. ROLL CALL ● Board Members Present – • Dan Welsh (Chair) • Mark Houdashelt (Vice Chair) • Adam Schmidt • Michael Cheeseman • Michael Johnson • Matt Ayres ● Board Members Absent – • Jeremiah Gorske • Maria Moore ● Staff Members Present – • Selina Lujan de Albers, Staff Liaison • Micah Warners, Environmental Services Education & Outreach Senior Specialist ● Guest(s) – • Ed Behan, Larimer Alliance for Health, Safety, and Environment • Doug Henderson, SIerra Club • Matt Tribby, PRPA 3. AGENDA REVIEW No changes. 4. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Two CSU students introduced themselves and stated they were there to observe. Ed Behan, Larimer Alliance for Health, Safety, and Environment, spoke in support of a large methane user fee and encouraged the Board to make a recommendation to City Council to set up a study of such a fee. He stated more efforts will need to be taken at the local level given the current federal administration. (**Secretary’s Note: The following Public Participation took place following Previous Business.) Doug Henderson, Sierra Club, commented on the growing air quality livability challenges faced by the Northern Colorado Front Range, including Fort Collins. He noted the area has long failed to meet air quality standards. He stated PRPA’s Rawhide Facility is the largest single-source polluter contributing to ozone in the area; however, they are excluded from the air quality monitoring area and the EPA 2 2/24/2025 - Minutes mandated attainment area. He commented on PRPA’s proposal for a new gas turbine plant and suggested PRPA will continue to operate that plant in order to sell excess power despite the environmental impacts. He urged the Board to ask detailed questions of PRPA regarding their plan. 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – JANUARY 2025 Members discussed changes to the minutes. Cheeseman made a motion, seconded by Johnson, to approve the minutes of the January 2025 meeting as amended. The motion was adopted unanimously. 6. PREVIOUS BUSINESS Chair Welsh stated he had a conversation with Matthew Snyder, a risk reduction specialist for Poudre Fire Authority, regarding a potential presentation about the Community Wildfire Protection Plan and its application to air quality, though the bulk of the presentation would be related to fire mitigation and risk re duction. Members discussed ways in which the Board’s purview would overlap with such a presentation. 7. NEW BUSINESS a. Platte River Power Authority Gas Turbine Project Presentation – Matt Tribby, PRPA Senior Air Quality Engineer Matt Tribby, PRPA Senior Air Quality Engineer, stated PRPA is attempting to be as transparent as possible and noted there is no perfect answer. He provided some background information on Platte River Power Authority and the Rawhide facility. He noted PRPA creates the energy and transfers the responsibility of getting the power to end users to the owner community utilities. He discussed the Rawhide facility’s components, including the main coal-fired unit and framed turbines that burn natural gas. He discussed PRPA’s wind-generated power facility, which is one of the best renewable projects in the country. Tribby stated one of the largest moments in Platte River’s history was the development of its resource diversification policy. He stated PRPA’s Board, made up of two representatives from each municipal entity, requested PRPA pursue a 100% non-carbon energy mix by 2030, and he noted PRPA is attempting to strive toward that goal while maintaining the foundational pillars of the company: being able to provide reliable, environmentally responsible, and financially sustainable energy and services to its owner communities. Tribby discussed the importance of the development of a battery or storage system that will provide energy during dark, non-windy times. He stated PRPA is not confident reliability or financial sustainability would be protected as needed in order to provide a 100% non-carbon energy mix by 2030. Tribby outlined PRPA’s Integrated Resource Policy (IRP) and commented on the fact that PRPA has to forecast how much load is required every second and then be able to ensure the assets are available to provide that load. Additionally, Tribby noted Rawhide’s main coal-fired unit is mandated to be retired at the end of the decade. Commented [1]: Plan? 3 2/24/2025 - Minutes A Board Member asked if there are any new wind projects being planned. Tribby replied in the affirmative and stated that the proposed project, despite adding natural gas units, will help compliment additional renewable growth and investment. Chair Welsh asked if hydro projects are potential options. Tribby replied PRPA does not see any major hydro projects that would be financially viable happening in the area. A Board Member asked if there are any additional regulations at the County level for fugitive emissions for the proposed project. Tribby replied there are State requirements for a fugitive dust plan for all operations. Tribby stated the IRP process is very transparent and included many opportunities to share information with the public. Brian Tholl, Fort Collins Utilities, introduced himself and provided some links related to the IRP studies and information. He also commented on the internal engagement that has occurred with each of the four owner communities. Tribby provided additional detail regarding what was considered for the IRP: essentially anything that has been realistically proven to make energy at the commercial level. He outlined the grid needs of energy, capacity, and flexibility and noted the bulk of sources from 2030 and beyond will be intermittent; therefore, gaps need to be filled, and natural gas was determined to be the most feasible option for filling those gaps. Tribby noted the natural gas units will not be replacing base load needs that are now being filled by the main unit at Rawhide and will not be on 24/7, but will operate as a safety net that allows reliability to be protected while still having drastic de-carbonization given the retirement of the main unit at Rawhide. Tribby provided additional detail about the proposed project which would include five simple-cycle natural gas fired turbines, which are fast-start, nimble, flexible units that can complement the intermittency better than the bigger, bulkier frame turbines that exist now. He stated that the units, when on, will be the most efficient, lowes- emitting carbon units at Rawhide. Chair Welsh noted there is a dichotomy between PRPA’s responsibility and accountability and that of the natural gas provider. Tribby discussed the project’s estimated emissions reductions and commented on benzene being a hazardous air pollutant that is tracked; however, he noted it is a small portion of emissions. He went on to detail the benefits of aeroderivative turbines and provided a map of the Rawhide property. Tribby outlined the project’s outcomes, including supporting the expansion of wind and solar, maintaining the commitment to continuing to pursue a non - carbon future for owner communities, meeting the state goal of 80% carbon reduction by 2030, reinforcing the foundational pillars, and retiring a coal unit that is fully debt-free sixteen years early. Tribby stated there is no path in this 4 2/24/2025 - Minutes transition that does not have a cost; therefore, PRPA is proposing a 6.3% annual rate increase for all owner communities up until 2030. Tribby noted project construction cannot begin until an air permit is granted by the State and noted the permit application required complex air quality modeling of the entire facility with the main unit operating, the new aeroderivative turbines operating, and the frame units operating. He noted there will be a public comment period prior to the permit being issued. A Board Member asked if there will be monitoring on site to determine whether the emissions projections are accurate. Tribby replied there is no plan to do any on-site monitoring at this time, and PRPA is confident that the air quality modeling has done a good job of evaluating the potential impact. However, he noted there will be continuous emission monitoring systems on all units. Vice Chair Houdashelt stated he has heard some criticism of the IRP related to the cost, whether these units are needed , given the existing natural gas units, changing numbers in the analysis, and concerns about scare tactics being used to justify the project. He noted there has been a push for an outside independent review, perhaps by NREL, of the IRP, which PRPA has opposed. Tribby stated there was a robust process to develop the IRP and noted he does not have the authority to request an outside review. He stated things have not been rushed, though there is a need to get the units permitted, built, tested, and proven prior to the main unit being retired in 2030. Chair Welsh asked about the costs associated with a review by NREL. (Vice Chair Houdashelt spoke here, but the audio was distorted.) Tholl stated the IRP includes a number of local renewable resources, the virtual power plant concept, and distributed batteries. He stated the energy transition plan has aided in the collaboration with PRPA and he reiterated the importance of reliable, affordable, and environmentally friendly power. Vice Chair Houdashelt commented on the issue of natural gas leakage being outside of PRPA’s purview and stated he believes that is something that should be accounted for in the City’s greenhouse gas inventory. Tholl replied that is not currently part of the inventory but stated he would follow up with additional information. Tribby stated PRPA never wants to feel unapproachable and will always attempt to answer any questions and respond to feedback, both positive and negative. He reiterated that reliability cannot be compromised. He outlined the timeline for the project noting the units should be operational in the first quarter of 2028. b. Air Quality Education Collaboration Review – Micah Warners, Education and Outreach Senior Specialist Commented [2]: Neither Houdashelt nor Tribby was sure of this cost. There was no further discussion on this topic. 5 2/24/2025 - Minutes Micah Warners, Education and Outreach Senior Specialist, provided a summary of the previous meeting’s discussion around public outreach and education. He proposed forming a subcommittee of the Board to choose one campaign in the air quality space for more effective education twice a year, potentially beginning in April. Additionally, he proposed reaching out to the Board as opportunities arise to request support in things like participating in community events, reviewing outreach materials, and providing expert consultation. Vice Chair Houdashelt noted a subcommittee could have more than two members as long as meeting notice and agendas are provided. Chair Welsh expressed support for Warners’ suggestions and stated he would like to create a subcommittee of the Board in support of education and outreach to work with Warners as proposed, but suggested that not be formed until new Board members are present. Lujan de Albers stated she would investigate the rules around formal subcommittees. Members and Lujan de Albers discussed the ways in which members can share information as individuals and Board members without violating open meetings laws. 8. OTHER BUSINESS a. Board Member Reports Chair Welsh noted Air Quality Awareness Week is the first week in May and noted CDPHE is still considering what that will include, but there is a possibility of an in-person public engagement opportunity, likely at City Park in Denver. He stated the City of Fort Collins could participate if desired. Chair Welsh also noted Kim Abeles’ Community Smog art exhibition is open at the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art at CSU. Vice Chair Houdashelt noted the City’s Transportation Projects Fair is March 6th at the Lincoln Center. A Board Member reported on being on the CSU Student Fee Review Board and stated the Board just approved the new fee increase for support of Transfort as well as funding for bike locks for students. b. Six Month Calendar Review Lujan de Albers reported on upcoming Council items, including the EV Readiness and Electrification Roadmap staff report and the Council priority number five Zero Waste worksession. c. Revisit Action Items from Previous Meetings and Preview of Next Meeting Lujan de Albers and members commented on possible topics for upcoming meetings and noted Chair Welsh has been reappointed to the Board. Commented [3]: Matt Ayres 6 2/24/2025 - Minutes 9. ADJOURNMENT ● 8:04 pm Minutes approved by a vote of the Board on 1/XX/2025 Headline Copy Goes Here Natural Areas Draft Strategic Framework Air Quality Advisory Board 03 17 2025 Conservation and Stewardship Planning Manager Julia Feder Ponderosa Pine at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area, photo by: John Bartholow Headline Copy Goes HereProject Timeline City Council Work Session City Council Adoption Headline Copy Goes Here 3 Foundations of Conservation and Stewardship Headline Copy Goes Here 4 Conservation and Stewardship Planning Headline Copy Goes Here 5 Strategic Framework Engagement Headline Copy Goes Here 6 Key Considerations Related to Air Quality Conserving land and water remain a focus. Leveraging partnerships to improve ecological conditions and address climate -related risks needs to be a priority. Safely accessing nature near home is important to the community. Leveraging partnerships to improve trail connectivity both locally and regionally is desired. Headline Copy Goes HereVision 7 Headline Copy Goes HereVision 8 Headline Copy Goes HereVision 9 Headline Copy Goes Here 10 Air Quality Advisory Board: Next Steps •Access the draft plan on Our City •Submit comments to Selina Lujan,or fill in the online questionnaire on Our City BY MARCH 31 MAY 19 •Make a recommendation to Council at May 19 meeting, ahead of the June 17 Council meeting JUNE 17 •Plan adoption at City Council Headline Copy Goes Here 11 THANK YOU! Public Draft February 2025 NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP 2 NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP3 The City of Fort Collins is committed to providing equitable access to our services to all community members. If you need assistance viewing or reading any City documents: • Please call 970-221-6515 (V/TDD: Dial 711 for Relay Colorado) • Or for assistance, or contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at 970-416-4254 For more information or to file a complaint, visit https://www.fcgov.com/legal/ nondiscrimination#cb-52241-6064 ACCESSIBILITY Cover photo: Sunrise at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area Photo by: John Bartholow Left: Mountain view from Arapaho Bend Natural Area Photo by: Mark Yoder We acknowledge and honor the lands situated within the City of Fort Collins as the original homelands of the Hinono’eiteen (Arapaho), Tsétsėhéstàhese (Cheyenne), Numunuu (Comanche), Caiugu (Kiowa), Čariks i Čariks (Pawnee), Sosonih (Shoshone), Oc’eti S’akowin (Lakota) and Núuchiu (Ute) Peoples. This area is an important site of trade, gathering, and healing for these Native Nations. These lands are home to a diverse urban Native community representing multiple Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples. Despite forced removal and land dispossession, they continue to thrive as resilient members of our community. We are grateful for Native community members and honor the rich cultural heritage they bring to our collective community. We further recognize and value their social, intellectual, economic, and cultural contributions. The City of Fort Collins is committed to supporting, partnering, and working with the Native and Indigenous community. Right: Night sky at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area Photo by: Jeremy White LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT HEADER 1 HEADER 2 HOW DO NATURAL AREAS FIT INTO THE CITY AND HOW DOES THIS PLAN FIT INTO NATURAL AREAS GUIDANCE? Body Text Body Text NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP45 Left: Foothills sunrise from Fossil Creek Wetlands Natural Area Photo by: Rick Price Top Right: Prairie blue flax (Linium lewisii) at Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department would like to thank the voters of Fort Collins and Larimer County for supporting the ballot initiatives that fund the work that is so close to the heart of the community. For over three decades, these dedicated sales taxes have conserved over 55,000 acres and 114 miles of trail in and around Fort Collins. Thanks to the foresight of community members, thriving habitats and a connected landscape of conserved land remains a priority in a fast-growing community. Protected spaces locally and regionally allow everyone to connect with nature. Residents continue to share their support for forward-looking management that will help protect these special spaces in a changing world. We look forward to working with the community to enhance the protection of our precious natural spaces and enjoy all the reasons these are treasured places. We invite you to join us in supporting Natural Areas’ growth and strong management in the coming decade! ~ City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department Staff NOTE FROM NATURAL AREAS STAFF NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP76 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction ......................................................................................8 Planning Structure ............................................................................10 The Framework for Conservation and Stewardship .....................12 Vision ....................................................................................................14 Values ....................................................................................................16 Value: Resource Protection.........................................................................18 Value: Ecological Function ......................................................................19 Value: Connectivity ...................................................................................20 Value: Integrity ............................................................................................21 Value: Safety & Wellbeing ........................................................................22 Value: Belonging ........................................................................................23 Value: Service ...............................................................................................24 Value: Partnership .......................................................................................25 Goals ......................................................................................................26 Goal 1: Conserve & Protect Land & Water .............................................. 28 Goal 2: Strengthen Habitats & Ecological Resilience ...........................30 Goal 3: Support Access to Nature .............................................................32 Goal 4: Foster community connections & Stewardship .......................34 Community Engagement .................................................................36 Conclusion .........................................................................................41 Acknowledgments .............................................................................45 Valley and foothills at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP98 INTRODUCTION DEPARTMENT GUIDANCE The community highly values natural areas and voters have funded conservation through citizen-initiated, dedicated city and county sales taxes since 1992. City staff have built community-informed guidance documents for conservation and stewardship that ensure land acquisition and management align with the ballot language and community feedback. The 2004 and 2014 NAD Master Plans provided robust documentation of the history, funding, land and water conservation, and stewardship activities over the Department’s history. LOOKING AHEAD The 2025 NAD Strategic Framework builds on 30 years of work pulling from past and current plans, policies, and programs, and sets the vision for the Department. The Strategic Framework uses the ballot language as an anchor; draws on citywide guidances such as the City Mission, Vision, Values; and incorporates the experience and lessons learned over three decades of managing natural areas to create high level guidance and direction for NAD’s work. Future projects, Management Zone Updates, and initiatives will be reviewed to ensure that they meet one or more of the values and goals outlined in this document. The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department (the Department or NAD) recently celebrated 30 years of service to the Northern Colorado community through permanent land conservation while providing access to nature and meaningful education. Over three decades, the Department has grown from protecting and managing 13 sites to 53 natural areas, across 55,000+ acres with 114 miles of trails. Natural areas protect a diversity of habitats, wildlife, and native plant communities while enhancing the community’s health, cultural connections, scientific knowledge, and economic vitality. WHY PLAN NOW While the goals of land conservation are inherently long-term, the surrounding world is constantly evolving. Emerging challenges and opportunities demand an adaptive management approach to effectively steward conserved land. NAD has carefully examined these key factors to inform land management decisions for the next 10-20 years. CHALLENGES NATURAL AREAS WILL FACE IN THE COMING YEARS INCLUDE: • Increasing risks of flooding, wildfires, invasive species, and stressed ecosystems due to climate change and population growth • Increasing needs for infrastructure maintenance and lifecycle replacement • Increasing visitation and recreation use • Competing, diversifying, and conflicting community interests OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE COMING YEARS OF NATURAL AREAS INCLUDE: • Building on land conservation accomplishments through future acquisitions and conservation easements • Bringing together people who value natural spaces • Partnering with a greater number of volunteers, non-profits, and other agencies to conserve land, improve habitats, and provide visitor opportunities to build resilience and community around natural areas • Planning for the challenges ahead Right: American tree sparrow (Spizelloides arborea) resting on rabbitbrush (Ericomeria nauseosa) Photo by: City of Fort Collins 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 1992 1997 2002 1992 Natural Areas Policy Plan 2004 Land Conservation & Stewardship Master Plan Natural Areas Tax Open Space Yes! Building Community Choices 2014 Natural Areas Master Plan 2025 Larimer County ‘Help Preserve Open Space’ Ballots Fort Collins Ballots 1994 1999 2014 10 11 PLANNING STRUCTURE To make natural areas thrive, partners, including other city departments, Larimer County, neighboring cities, state and federal agencies, land trusts, private landowners, and volunteers, all work together in different ways for the common purpose of conservation and stewardship. NAD Mission: To conserve and enhance lands with natural resource, agricultural, and scenic values, while providing meaningful education and appropriate recreation opportunities. The vision, values, and goals outlined in the Strategic Framework provide direction to the Department’s Management Zone Updates. To plan for site-specific management, the natural area properties are organized into six geographic zones, representing similar ecosystems and regions. Zone Updates define specific priorities and tactics for a geographic region that embody NAD’s values and advance the Department’s goals. Progress towards the goals listed in this Strategic Framework will be shared in NAD’s annual reports. §¨¦25 I³287 I³287 WXYZô392Carpenter Rd S College Ave N Highway 1 W Mulberry St S S h i e l d s S t S Lemay Ave WHighway 14 W Drake Rd WCountyRoad54G E Drake Rd Laporte Ave NCountyRoad 27 W Elizabeth St N C o u n t y R o a d 1 9 E Douglas Rd Rist CanyonRd S O v e r l a n d T r l CountryClubRd S T a f t H i l l R d Kechter Rd S Centennial Dr E Vine Dr W Prospect Rd E Trilby Rd NHighway 287 W CountyRoad38E Mountain Vista Dr E Harmony Rd S T i m b e r l i n e R d Richards Lake Rd S C o u n t y R o a d 5 W Trilby Rd Terry Lake Rd BuckhornRd E Horsetooth Rd E County Road 58 NCountyRoad 23 E County Road 56 N C o u n t y R o a d 9 Glade Rd Ziegler Rd WXYZÕ14 WXYZÕ14 §¨¦25 Growth Management Area I 0 1 2 3 4½Miles 0 1 2½Miles NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP Management Zone Updates MOUNTAINS TO PLAINS ZONE MONTANE ZONE CACHE LA POUDRE RIVER ZONE FOSSIL CREEK ZONE URBAN ZONE FOOTHILLS ZONE VISION VALUES GOALS Help Preserve Open Space Open Space Yes! Natural Areas Mission City Mission, Vision, Values, & Plans Community Engagement NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP1213 The NAD Strategic Framework takes into context the ways the Fort Collins community is changing today and will continue to evolve in the coming decade, including a growing population, evolving science and lessons learned in land management, and pressures like climate change. The Strategic Framework aligns with the ballot direction that funds natural areas and builds on NAD’s current plans, initiatives, and efforts to refine guiding principles and provide updated direction for the next 10-20 years. The Strategic Framework features: Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) graze in Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Photo by: Pat Hayward THE FRAMEWORK FOR CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP VA L U E S GO A L S VI S I O N The vision provides inspiration to both ground and motivate future actions. It describes the ideal state Department work strives towards. The NAD values reflect the City’s values, while highlighting the Department’s distinct focus on ecological protection and management. These values play an important role in the Department’s planning and prioritization. The Strategic Framework goals create the building blocks for the long-range functions of the Department and describe the major areas of work in the coming decade. VISION VALUES GOALS NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP1415 Left: Sunset at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins VISION THRIVING ECOSYSTEMS FOR A GREATER FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY 16 17 Walking west at Coyote Ridge Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP VALUES • Resource Protection • Ecological Function • Connectivity • Integrity • Safety & Wellbeing • Belonging • Service • Partnership NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP1918 VALUE: RESOURCE PROTECTION Examples of Resource Protection: RESTORATION TO SUPPORT CRITICAL COMMON SPECIES Autumn days along any natural area in the Poudre River Zone features an array of yellow leaves falling from large cottonwood limbs, along with a buzz of visitors on bikes and strolling paths. These days are also often punctuated by low river flows exposing cobbled and sometimes eroded riverbanks. Thanks to restoration work that included planting of young cottonwood trees and enhanced visitor amenities to protect sensitive resources at McMurry Natural Area, these iconic habitats will continue to thrive and be a part of the Fort Collins landscape for future generations. INTEGRATED RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AT SOAPSTONE PRAIRIE Soapstone Prairie Natural Area protects 22,000 acres of shortgrass prairie and riparian habitats, alongside heritage resources, such as the Lindenmeier Site, a National Historic Landmark. As the Department works to sustain and improve prairie headwaters and shortgrass prairie habitat through a blend of modern and traditional management techniques, heritage resources and cultural connections to the land will be respected through cultural resource surveys and guidance from Native American and Indigenous partners. The Department commits to supporting species and features characteristic of the region’s ecosystem and heritage. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Protecting threatened and endangered species, and other species of greatest conservation need • Enhancing populations of critical common species • Creating and enhancing wetland habitats using secured water resources • Safeguarding and honoring cultural and paleontological resources Left: American kestrel (Falco sparverius) Photo by: Kevin Borchert Right: Bison (Bison bison) at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins VALUE: ECOLOGICAL FUNCTION Examples of Ecological Function: MIMICKING NATURAL DISTURBANCE TO ENHANCE PRAIRIE HEALTH In the Mountains to Plains Zone, Soapstone Prairie Natural Area contains some of the last remaining intact, high-quality shortgrass prairie and foothills shrublands along the Front Range of Colorado. Application of tools such as responsible grazing and prescribed fire allow the Department to support threatened and rare species of plants and animals that have evolved with these natural levels of disturbance. WORKING TO KEEP WATER IN THE POUDRE RIVER In the Poudre River Management Zone, NAD works to support an innovative regional effort to ensure the amount of water that flows in the river supports fish and wildlife. As a partner in the Poudre Flows Plan, the City of Fort Collins works to preserve and improve instream flows across 52 miles by retrofitting diversion structures and working to use City water shares to support this ecological function. The Department works to sustain and improve the health and performance of natural systems. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Connecting working rivers and streams to their floodplain and sustaining instream flows • Introducing or continuing disturbance management to mimic natural cycles • Supporting ecological research and sharing discoveries with the community to further inspire stewardship • Monitoring and collecting data to inform adaptive ecological management Disturbance Management is the process of using selected natural disturbances such as fire or grazing to stimulate plant growth and encourage system resilience. Adaptive Management is the decision- making process that identifies necessary actions based on current and expected conditions. Adaptive management begins with monitoring, followed by identifying and implementing data-based management options, and then returns to monitoring in an ongoing cycle. NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP2120 Left: Connecting with trail at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins Right: Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) at Kingfisher Point Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins VALUE: CONNECTIVITY The Department protects a connected landscape of conserved land to support ecosystems and create movement corridors that provide a balance of services to both wildlife and people. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Conserving properties adjoining previously conserved spaces • Sustaining the health of the Poudre River watershed • Linking neighborhoods to nearby natural areas • Supporting regional efforts to create an interconnected multi-use trail network while protecting natural resources Examples of Connectivity: LOCALLY AND REGIONALLY CONNECTED PAVED TRAIL SYSTEM The City of Fort Collins boasts nearly 40 miles of paved trails that weave throughout the city and create regional connections to the nearby communities including Loveland, Timnath, Windsor, Laporte, and Greeley. These trails, including the Poudre Trail, cross through several natural areas that physically connect the community both locally and regionally while providing visitors with access to nature along the way. HABITAT CONNECTIVITY: YEARS IN THE MAKING AT MAGPIE MEANDER With more than 2,000 acres of conserved land, the conserved properties of the Poudre River Zone represent years of relationship-building and conservation work – sometimes just a few acres at a time. For example, Magpie Meander Natural Area has grown to 72 acres over nine years through six acquisitions. This protects a relic river oxbow, important wetland and riparian habitat, and creates connections between neighborhoods to the river ecosystem. VALUE: INTEGRITY Examples of Integrity: THANK YOU VOTERS! City and County sales taxes fund NAD’s mission to conserve sensitive habitats and provide public access to nature thanks to two community-initiated ballot measures. Since 1992, a series of ballots have articulated guidance for land acquisition and management. NAD maintains a long- range financial plan that spans the life of each tax initiative and projects funds available for land acquisition, habitat enhancement, operations, maintenance, and staffing. Each year, NAD publishes an annual report outlining major accomplishments towards the ballot language mandates and department goals. CLEANUP AFTER CAMERON PEAK FIRE Following the Cameron Peak Fire’s run through Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, a new concern emerged. Post-fire inspection revealed a previously undocumented dump site. Staff weighed options including keeping the dump site in place and monitoring for contamination or removing all the potentially hazardous materials from Bobcat Ridge. Knowing that in this fire adapted landscape the site was prone to burn again, NAD moved quickly to fully remediate the dump and remove all hazards. By leveraging internal and external collaborations, NAD completed the project on time and under budget. The Department implements the community’s vision and values by responsible management of the community’s ecological, financial, and social resources. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Utilizing data-informed planning and management processes • Maximizing the impact of dedicated sales tax funding, reporting on revenues and expenses on an annual basis, all the while considering the long-term forecast • Ensuring that employees have access to the tools and support needed to complete their work NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP2223 Left: Wayfinding sign at Soapstone Prairie Photo by: Logan Simpson Right: Club Outdoors kids jumping in the tall grass Photo by: City of Fort Collins VALUE: SAFETY & WELLBEING Examples of Safety & Wellbeing: CROSS-COLLABORATION TO ENSURE RIVER SAFETY As snow melts from the Rockies, outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Poudre River to enjoy tubing, white water rafting, fishing, picnicking and kayaking. However, during peak runoff when the river conditions can be dangerous, and even deadly, public safety messaging and patrol is critical. During high water flows, NAD partners with cross-City departments, Poudre Fire Authority, and the Poudre Heritage Alliance on coordinated river access point closures and consistent messaging to keep the public informed. SOAPSTONE PRAIRIE WAYFINDING PROJECT Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is a remote and vast site with over 30 miles of single- track trail. While visitation is lower than other natural areas, Natural Area Rangers frequently field calls from visitors lost on the trail system. In 2024, based on visitor feedback, the Department designed and implemented a more comprehensive wayfinding sign program at Soapstone Prairie. Since installing updated signs, visitors have called for assistance less often and have provided positive feedback on the reliability of the signs. The Department provides safe environments for community members to engage with and find renewal through time spent in nature, while also protecting natural systems. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Implementing education and communication campaigns focused on visitor safety • Emphasizing the importance of practicing proper trail etiquette so that all community members can enjoy their experiences and recreate respectfully • Providing Ranger presence and support across the system through cordial and informational contacts, alongside regulation enforcement • Recognizing the value of natural areas for mental health and wellness, and factoring mental health into decision making VALUE: BELONGING Examples of Belonging: NATURE RIGHT OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR Since 2015, the Department has managed implementation of the municipality’s Nature in the City program that works to integrate nature into every corner of the community and everyday life. From pollinator patches to school playgrounds, the community finds diverse ways to connect with nature across nearly 100 projects. BREAKING DOWN THE BARRIERS TO ACCESSING NATURE In partnership with the local Boys & Girls Club organization, NAD engages kids in deep and meaningful education programs each summer. The Club Outdoors program works with kids that otherwise might not have opportunities and time to spend outside with their families. This three-week summer experience includes a series of field trips and hands-on experiences ranging from dip netting in the Poudre River to nature journaling at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area. The Department ensures activities and places welcome all and encourage a diversity of experiences. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Acquiring natural spaces near the places the community lives, works, learns, and plays • Creating fun and formative educational experiences for young people to encourage a lifelong love of the outdoors • Translating print and digital materials into other languages, including signs and brochures • Providing volunteer stewardship opportunities for community members to give back to the places they love NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP2425 Left: Lunar eclipse in dark skies Photo by: Greg Halec Right: On the trail at Kestrel Fields Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins VALUE: SERVICE Examples of Service: CITYWIDE SITE CLEANUP TEAM Since Fall 2022, a team of multiple City departments and community partners has met weekly to organize outreach and support for unhoused community members and coordinate cleanups for sites with trash and hazardous materials. This collaboration provides inclusive engagement, transparent data collection and analysis to inform future actions, and explores alternative shelter options and programs for those experiencing homelessness. As a part of this team, NAD protects sensitive resources while ensuring the safety of staff and creating a welcoming environment for all. NIGHT SKY MONITORING Light pollution can disrupt wildlife’s breeding and migration patterns, reduce survival, and deter animals from using their natural habitat. In collaboration with the National Park Service, the Department trained community members to monitor nighttime light levels in natural areas to help the Department and community understand potential wildlife impacts and educate their neighbors on night sky friendly updates that can be made to their outdoor lighting. The Department demonstrates honesty, transparency, inclusivity, and respect by providing authentic and diverse engagement opportunities that focus on listening and active participation. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Offering diverse volunteer opportunities across natural areas • Seeking input from surrounding neighborhoods and diverse community groups on how natural areas are managed • Providing clear and concise instructions for permitting • Clearly communicating regulations, wayfinding, accessibility, interpretation, and programming opportunities VALUE: PARTNERSHIP Examples of Partnership: PARTNERING FOR A REGIONALLY CONNECTED, SUSTAINABLE TRAIL SYSTEM The soft surface trail system in the Foothills Zone connects to conserved lands managed by neighboring municipalities, Larimer County, and state and federal agencies. Using communication tools such as COTREX and aligned messaging, the public remains informed about trail closures, safety concerns, land management activities, and regulatory requirements. URBAN PARTNERSHIPS TO ADDRESS MULTIPLE CITY GOALS In northwest Fort Collins, a cross-City partnership supports multiple goals through the acquisition of and planning for the 54 acre Puente Verde Natural Area. The site will eventually support multiple stormwater detention ponds designed to mimic natural habitats, like what is found on the beloved Red Fox Meadows Natural Area. Additionally, NAD is holding 2 acres of the property with existing buildings that may be purchased by the City’s Social Sustainability team with an eye toward development of affordable housing. The Department leverages shared decision- making and invests in increasing the impact of conservation actions through building relationships across City departments, agencies, and with community groups. This includes prioritizing actions such as: • Working with Larimer County Department of Natural Resources to conserve land and water, and provide habitat protections across Northern Colorado • Leveraging cross-department expertise and opportunities to meet NAD goals alongside other City goals such as stormwater protection, safe routes to school, increasing pollinator habitat, and affordable housing • Supporting region-wide coordination efforts such as NoCoPlaces regional planning, the NoCo Fireshed Collaborative, and trails such as the Poudre Trail and the Colorado Front Range Trail • Completing routine surveys of plants and animals and contributing to regional data sets and monitoring efforts NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP2627 GOALS Sunrise at Soapstone Prairie Photo by: City of Fort Collins 1. Conserve & Protect Land & Water 2. Strengthen Habitats & Build Resiliency 3. Support Access to Nature 4. Foster Community Connections & Stewardship 28 29 NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP GOAL 1: CONSERVE & PROTECT LAND & WATER Examples of Conserving Land & Water: PROTECTING LAND TO SUPPORT A REGIONAL NETWORK OF CONSERVED LAND Between 2022 and 2023, the Department partnered with the Larimer County Department of Natural Resource to acquire two properties, adding 675 acres of conserved land to Bobcat Ridge Natural Area. This regional natural area creates a buffer between the protected wildland of the Roosevelt National Forest and more developed urban areas to the east, while allowing visitors to enjoy access to a broad landscape of conserved land. This conservation effort was a priority because of its adjacency to previously conserved NAD land, as well as its proximity to large areas of protected open space. By acquiring this property, NAD extended protections for many large mammal species frequently found in this area including elk, black bear, mountain lions, and of course, bobcats. In the coming decade, the Department looks forward to introducing the community to this property by extending the current trail system on Bobcat Ridge Natural Area. Additionally, the Department will focus on protecting several rare plant species that occur in the area as well as the unique wildlife habitats found in the valley and the Buckhorn Creek drainage. NAD supports the biodiversity and landscape of Northern Colorado through continued dedication to its “conservation first” mission. As the region grows, less land and water are available for acquisition and the cost of acquisition increases. At the same time, there are still connections to be made, important habitats to be conserved, opportunities to add more water to riparian areas, and chances to make access to nature more equitable. The Department will address these challenges and opportunities by: • Working with willing landowners to acquire additional properties • Continuing to connect riparian corridors, regional landscapes, community separators, and neighborhood open spaces • Engaging private landowners to secure and monitor conservation easements • Protecting flows in the Cache la Poudre River and enhancing instream flows The protection of land and water sustains connected landscapes, sensitive and important habitats, and the cultural connections and heritage of the region. A NEW NATURAL AREA FOR NORTHWEST FORT COLLINS In northwest Fort Collins, just off Willox Avenue, the Department has been working to protect a series of properties along Dry Creek, a tributary of the Poudre River. Between 2017 and 2022, six properties were acquired totaling approximately 40 acres. This area has long been identified as both a wildlife corridor and a part of the community in need of trail connections for residents. The Department prioritized this area for acquisition to help address adjacent neighborhood feedback that they felt disconnected from nature and the Poudre River corridor. In the coming decade, the Department will work to restore wildlife habitat and provide access to community members. NAD will continue to acquire properties that can serve as neighborhood natural areas and support community connections to nature. Rainbow over Pineridge Ridge Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP 30 31 GOAL 2: STRENGTHEN HABITATS & ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE Examples of Strengthening Habitat and Ecological Resilience: MANAGING FOR CHANGING CONDITIONS ON COYOTE RIDGE NATURAL AREA Just southwest of Fort Collins, sits a complex of conserved lands, including Coyote Ridge Natural Area. This acreage provides an important separator between two quickly growing Northern Colorado communities and preserves night skies. It also tells the story of the Department’s evolving approach to restoration and ongoing management. Between 2007 and 2022, staff restored 800 acres of a former dryland wheat field to a native shortgrass prairie - 50 acres at a time. Over these years, the Department’s approach to restoration grew to incorporate diverse seed mixes and to perform ongoing monitoring. In recent years, assessments of bird and plant diversity across this area demonstrated the need to incorporate disturbance into the maturing restoration project in order to maintain the vitality of the restored habitat. In the coming decade, the Department will integrate beneficial disturbance across Coyote Ridge and other natural areas through the use of tools such as grazing and prescribed fire. Using these tools, NAD will work to support wildlife and plants, while enhancing community resilience. As the climate changes and the regional population grows, plants and wildlife risk losing key habitat elements resulting in potential loss to biodiversity. These less complex natural systems are more susceptible to natural events such as fire and flooding. The Department will address these challenges by: • Restoring land, rivers, and water bodies through the application of best available science • Conducting baseline inventories and growing long-term monitoring programs to guide adaptive management • Promoting habitat resilience through responsible disturbance management • Investing in the recovery and reintroduction of native, rare, endangered, or locally extinct species, while also working to maintain strong populations of more common species • Supporting cross-City objectives for resilience including flood conveyance, carbon sequestration, and heat island mitigation Plants and wildlife require healthy ecosystems. Healthy ecosystems provide a wide range of habitats, clean water, and protection in changing conditions. Through restoration and adaptive management, the Department works to take a data-informed approach to improve the condition of ecosystems. KEEPING WATER IN THE POUDRE RIVER AND IMPROVING IMPORTANT HABITAT In partnership with the City’s Water Utility, the Department set out to maintain a unique City water right that keeps flows in the Poudre River for fish, wildlife, and recreation. The Colorado Water Law principle of “use it or lose it” means water users must prove they are actively using water rights for the intended use or potentially lose the ability to use that water in the future. By reviving a relic side-channel on Colorado State University’s Environmental Learning Center, the Department worked to protect existing instream water rights and improve fish and wildlife habitat, while reconnecting Running Deer Natural Area to the river’s floodplain. The project also built refuge pools to support the rare, native Plains Topminnow, and installed large wood structures to mimic the natural ecological function of animals such as beavers. These structures reduce the force of high flows, improve conditions for wildlife, and concentrate flows to support fish habitat. In the coming decade, NAD will work with regional partners to restore sections of the Cache la Poudre River and its tributaries, improving ecological function and protect the health of the river. Red fox (Vulpes vulpes) seen at it’s namesake Red Fox Meadows Natural Area Photo by: Norm Keally NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP 32 33 GOAL 3: SUPPORT ACCESS TO NATURE Examples of Supporting Access to Nature: SUSTAINABLE TRAIL MANAGEMENT IN FOOTHILLS NATURAL AREAS Natural areas just west of Fort Collins provide excellent wildlife and plant habitat, scenic views, and a treasured opportunity for the community to connect with nature. While the terrain and interconnected trail system make foothills natural areas a coveted destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the erosive soils, high visitation, and steep slopes pose significant challenges for ongoing maintenance and use. To protect sensitive resources and create more sustainable conditions, NAD staff rerouted several foothills trails, reduced grades, blended soils, and installed check ramps for durability. As this effort continues, more trails can remain open to the public when the region experiences wet and muddy conditions, and staff can tackle ongoing maintenance more sustainably. In the coming decade, the Department will monitor existing trail conditions and visitor use, while designing new trails to minimize erosion, protect habitats, preserve water quality, and provide high quality and inclusive visitor use experiences. Access to nature draws people from across the region to Fort Collins. As more people get out to enjoy natural areas, they bring unique interests and needs. While NAD and other regional agencies face growing visitation pressure on resources, they also recognize a growing need to provide places of respite for community members in a busy world. NAD will address these challenges by: • Developing and maintaining a sustainable trail system to minimize erosion, protect habitats, preserve water quality, and better adapt to changing conditions • Supporting connections to natural areas between the places the community lives, works, and plays • Monitoring visitor use trends and community desires to provide welcoming and inclusive experiences in nature • Participating in regional partnerships to share best practices around providing a high-quality visitor experience while protecting critical natural resources Human connection to nature supports wellbeing, inspires a sense of community, and instills a conservation ethic. Through diverse opportunities to connect with nature, the Department contributes to the overall welfare of the community in ways that are grounded in and balance resource protection, equity, and inclusion. CONSERVATION AND CONNECTIONS AT KESTREL FIELDS NATURAL AREA The 73 acre Kestrel Fields Natural Area links conserved properties in the foothills and along the Poudre River to numerous surrounding neighborhoods. It provides access to nature, a safe route to schools, and visitors can connect to a diversity of conservation activities. As the site of one of two pilot conservation agriculture projects, Kestrel Fields supports pocket restorations, and locally grown fruits and vegetables. At this urban site, the Department works to improve soil conditions, enhance biodiversity, and take innovative approaches to support nesting birds and native pollinator populations. One of the most important projects on this site is a native seed bank project, which provides critical supplies for restoration projects throughout the Natural Areas network. In the coming decade, the Department will continue to collaborate with the City of Fort Collins’ Safe Routes to School program to utilize the urban soft surface trail network to support safer bicycle and pedestrian routes to schools. NAD will also strengthen partnerships that support vegetation management and expand native ecotypic seed production. Learning on the trail at Kestrel Fields Natural Area Photo by: Bill Walton NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP 34 35 GOAL 4: FOSTER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS & STEWARDSHIP Examples of Fostering Community Connections and Stewardship: UPDATED SIGNS TO PROVIDE CONSISTENT AND WELCOMING MESSAGING In 2024, the Department embarked on an ambitious multi-year project to establish consistent sign messaging, design, placement, and quantity across natural areas. An initial sign inventory identified over 2,400 signs of various designs and messaging across the natural areas system. Additionally, an analysis of best practices for effective and welcoming sign messaging was completed. Together, the inventory and analysis provide a data- informed foundation for the new NAD Sign Manual that will guide signage across the natural areas moving forward. In the coming decade, the Department will pilot an implementation strategy to ensure sign messaging is effective, accessible, consistent, and provides important information in a welcoming format. The Department will work to keep stewardship at the heart of the Fort Collins community by: • Engaging diverse audiences through a variety of education and outreach programs that meet each group where they are with inclusive messaging and transparency • Upholding safety across the community through regulation enforcement and education about wildlife, visitor etiquette, and resource protection • Inspiring volunteerism to create a diverse group of natural area ambassadors that drive community actions around conservation • Working with historically underserved community groups and the Native American and Indigenous community to honor connections to nature As Fort Collins’ population changes, how people experience natural areas continues to evolve. Engagement and education bolster the community’s commitment to conservation and land stewardship, inspiring people to protect the environment on conserved lands, and beyond. COLLABORATIVE VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS With training in first aid, visitor engagement, local ecology, safety, and stewardship, the Volunteer Ranger Assistants (VRAs) extend the reach of Larimer County and City Rangers to educate the public. In 2023, 81 VRAs contributed 1,672 hours of service and made more than 6,300 contacts with community members visiting natural areas and open spaces across Larimer County. This partnership expands the service and safety of visitors, while cultivating community stewards. In the coming decade, the Department will build upon the success of the VRA program by integrating the Volunteer Naturalist programs. These partnerships will support training and participation of community members, build efficiencies, and extend the reach of agency efforts. VRA Lynn Larkin reflects on her experience: “The beautiful Colorado outdoors has been my love for my entire life. When I learned Natural Areas, in partnership with Larimer County Open Space, has a Volunteer Ranger Assistant Program, I immediately applied. This opportunity has enhanced every aspect of my outdoor experience. In addition to continuing education and training, I can do what I love best, hiking, with additional skills and support.” Exploring the river bottom at McMurry Natural Area Photo by: Bill Walton 3736 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT In creating this Strategic Framework, staff actively sought diverse perspectives to help the document embody community-supported conservation and stewardship. The Strategic Framework reflects the breadth and depth of perspectives from all segments of the community. Data collection and analyses used mixed methods, integrating survey results and conversations. This allowed a comprehensive approach to building insights on public perceptions and preferences. Broad community input was gathered in the following ways: Website Updated Newsletters E-news Social Media Posts Questionnaire postcards 8 Historically Underrepresented Focus Groups 3 Technical Advisory Committee Meetings 13 External Partner Organizations Engaged 5 Other City Departments Engaged AWARE INFORMED ENGAGED Residents who have given direct feedback, taken a questionnaire, or participated in an activity. Efforts to make people AWARE of engagement opportunities or visited the project website. Those that interacted with the website by clicking on a link, attending an event, or asking a question. 2,400 INTERACTIONS AT COMMUNITY EVENTS 1,830 TOTAL WEBSITE VIEWS 16 COMMUNITY WIDE EVENTS ATTENDED 590 STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK QUESTIONNAIRE RESPONSES 515 OUR LANDS OUR FUTURE QUESTIONNAIRE RESPONSES 1,219 STATISTICALLY VALID RESULTS OPEN ENDED RESULTS QU E S T I O N N A I R E S 1 2 The community’s feedback, along with foundational guidance including ballot measures, the Department’s Mission, and City direction, helped develop the NAD vision, values, and goals articulated in this Strategic Framework. Below are themes heard from the community that helped shape the development of the Vision, Values, and Goals. White water rafting on the Poudre River Photo by: City of Fort Collins THEMES FROM ENGAGEMENT ACCESS SAFETY HABITAT PRESERVATION COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SPECIFIC PLACES STEWARDSHIP & MAINTENANCE VISITOR EXPERIENCE HEALTH CONNECTIVITY INCLUSION EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS EQUALITY PLANNING & FUNDING NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP39 NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP 38 Top left: Community engagement at Kingfisher Point Natural Area Photo by: The City of Fort Collins Middle left: Workshop with local experts Photo by: The City of Fort Collins Bottom left: Forest bathing at Gateway Natural Area Photo by: The City of Fort Collins Right: Blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) flowering Photo by: The City of Fort Collins COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN ACTION The Department has worked hard to build relationships with historically underrepresented groups through purposeful communication and programs. Focused engagement for the Strategic Framework elevated the voices of those who may not have been involved in the past and gave the Department an opportunity to learn and incorporate feedback. LISTENING TO LOCAL EXPERTS A Technical Advisory Committee, comprised of representatives from a variety of disciplines ranging from conservation groups to natural area visitors representing specific community interests, provided input reflective of their experiences and perspectives. Agencies and non-profit partners from across the region, as well as various City departments, also provided input throughout the process. 4140 NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP Mountain lions (Puma concolor) and coyote (Canis latrans) at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins The vision, values, and goals set the groundwork for future priorities, policies, and work plans that the Department will review on a constant basis. By working together, Fort Collins and the region can be ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead. The Vision provides inspiration to both ground and motivate future actions. It describes the ideal state Department work strives towards. The Values help define the unique nature of the Department’s work and serve as a filter to prioritize resources such as staff time and budget items. The Goals create the building blocks for the long-range functions of the Department and describe the major areas of work in the coming decade. The Natural Areas Strategic Framework builds on past and current plans, policies, and programs. For more information on other plans and policies, please visit www.fcgov. com/naturalareas/ or contact the Department at 970.416.2815 CONCLUSION NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP Body Text 42 43 VI S I O N VA L U E S Resource Protection Ecological Function Connectivity Integrity Safety & Wellbeing Belonging Service Partnership THRIVING ECOSYSTEMS FOR A GREATER FORT COLLINS COMMUNITY GO A L S GOAL 4: FOSTER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS & STEWARDSHIP GOAL 1: CONSERVE & PROTECT LAND & WATER GOAL 3: SUPPORT ACCESS TO NATURE GOAL 2: STRENGTHEN HABITATS & BUILD RESILIENCY Sunset at Arapaho Bend Natural Area Photo by: City of Fort Collins 44 NATURAL AREAS STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK THE GUIDE TO CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP45 Left: Black-footed ferret (Mustela nigris) at Soapstone Prairie Photo by: City of Fort Collins Right: Geese aflight at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area Photo by: John Barthalow ACKNOWLEDGMENTS PLANNING TEAM: • Kristy Bruce, Environmental Planner • Rachel Balduzzi, Public Engagement Senior Supervisor • Julia Feder, Environmental Planning Manager • Todd Juhasz, Environmental Planner • Jenny Roberts, Environmental Planner • Kelly Smith, Senior Environmental Planner NATURAL AREAS CONTRIBUTING TEAM LEADS: • Katie Donahue, Natural Areas Director • Matthew Parker, Ecological Stewardship Manager • Aaron Reed, Built Infrastructure Manager • Zoe Shark, Community Connection & Protection Manager TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE: • Beth Bullard, Poudre Heritage Alliance • Hannah Casey, Overland Mountain Bike Association • Heather Dannahower, Front Range Community College • Dr. Rickey Frierson, Warner College of Natural Resources (CSU) • Lee Granau, Colorado Natural Heritage • Jesse Gray, Audubon Society • Kassandra Lindsey, Colorado Geological Survey • Robert Malone, Fort Collins Running Club • Brenda McDowell, Adaptive Recreation Opportunities (ARO) • Dr. David Rojas, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CSU) • Katy Schneider, Visit Fort Collins • Linda Smith, Colorado Native Plant Society • Ty Smith, Native American Cultural Center (CSU) • Jeremy White, National Park Service CITY COUNCIL: • Jeni Arndt, Mayor • Susan Gutowsky, District 1 • Julie Pignataro, District 2 • Tricia Canonico, District 3 • Melanie Potyondy, District 4 • Kelly Ohlson, District 5 • Emily Francis, District 6 LAND CONSERVATION AND STEWARDSHIP BOARD • Ross Cunniff, Board Chair • Scott Mason, Vice Chair • Denise Culver • Andrea Elson • Holger Kley • Elena Lopez • River Mizell • Joe Piesman • Mark Sears Special thanks to focus group participants, City Staff, and The Fort Collins community members and visitors who shaped this plan. Planning process and document supported by Logan Simpson and the Institute for the Built Environment. Contact Us: www.fcgov.com/naturalareas/ naturalareas@fcgov.com 970.416.2815