HomeMy WebLinkAboutBALFOUR SENIOR LIVING - PDP220001 - SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS - ROUND 1 - ECS REPORT
ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION STUDY
BALFOUR FORT COLLINS
CITY OF FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
Smith Environmental and Engineering
Delivering Smart Solutions for Planning, Permitting, & Design
W W W . S M I T H D E L I V E R S . C O M
250 Perry Lane Dacono, CO 80514 phone: 720.887.4928 fax: 720.887.4680
Smith Environmental and Engineering
ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION STUDY
BALFOUR FORT COLLINS
FORT COLLINS, COLORADO
Prepared for:
Balfour Senior Living
183 S. Taylor Ave, Suite 155
Louisville, CO 80027
Prepared by:
Smith Environmental and Engineering
250 Perry Lane
Dacono, CO 80514
October 14, 2021
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 LOCATION .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 LAND USE ............................................................................................................................ 1
1.3 LANDFORM AND HYDROLOGY ............................................................................... 1
1.4 SOILS ..................................................................................................................................... 2
1.5 ECOREGION ....................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 METHODS ....................................................................................................................................... 4
2.1 LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................... 4
2.2 SITE INVESTIGATION ................................................................................................... 4
3.0 WILDLIFE ......................................................................................................................................... 5
3.1 WILDLIFE USE ................................................................................................................... 5
3.2 SENSITIVE AND SPECIALLY VALUED SPECIES ................................................. 5
3.2.1 Migratory Birds ........................................................................................................................... 10
3.2.2 Black-tailed Prairie Dogs........................................................................................................... 11
3.2.3 Burrowing Owls .......................................................................................................................... 11
3.3 SPECIAL HABITAT FEATURES .................................................................................. 12
3.4 WILDLIFE MOVEMENT CORRIDORS .................................................................. 12
4.0 WETLANDS AND AQUATIC FEATURES ............................................................................ 13
5.0 VIEWSHED ................................................................................................................................... 14
5.1 VIEWS FROM THE STUDY AREA ............................................................................ 14
5.2 VIEWS OF THE STUDY AREA ................................................................................... 14
6.0 VEGETATION .............................................................................................................................. 15
6.1 TREES .................................................................................................................................. 16
7.0 ECOLOGICAL FUNCTION ...................................................................................................... 18
8.0 MITIGATION AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES ................................................................ 19
8.1 TIMING OF DEVELOPMENT .................................................................................... 19
8.2 MITIGATION MEASURES ........................................................................................... 19
9.0 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................. 21
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Study Area ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Figure 2 Trees in the Study Area .................................................................................................. 17
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Potential Wildlife Use of the Study Area ......................................................................................... 5
Table 2 Sensitive and Specially Valued Species with Potential to Occur in the Study Area ................. 6
Table 3 Observed Plant Species in the Study Area ...................................................................................... 15
Table 4 Trees within the Study Area .............................................................................................................. 16
LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX A – PHOTOS OF THE STUDY AREA
APPENDIX B - TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
APPENDIX C - NATIONAL WETLAND INVENTORY MAP
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Smith Environmental and Engineering (SMITH) has prepared this Ecological Characterization Study
(ECS) for an approximately 5.0-acre property (Study Area) located at E. Harmony Road and
Cinquefoil Lane in Fort Collins, Colorado. Per Article 3, Division 3.4.1 of the City of Fort Collins
Land Use Code, an ECS is required if a development site contains or is within 500 feet of a natural
habitat or feature. The Study Area occurs adjacent to a prairie dog colony greater than one acre in size
and an irrigation ditch that serves as a wildlife corridor.
SMITH has assessed wildlife, wetlands and aquatic features, viewsheds, vegetation, ecological function,
and mitigation and protective measures. A site visit was conducted on September 24, 2021. This report
was written to accompany the site development plan and will serve as a guide for further action, if
needed, to comply with City, State, and Federal regulations or policies.
1.1 LOCATION
The Study Area is located south of E. Harmony Road, east of Cinquefoil Lane, and west of the Fossil
Creek Reservoir Inlet (Figure 1). It is located in the northeast quarter of Section 4, Township 6
North, Range 68 West on the Fort Collins US Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle. The center of
the Study Area is located at 40.522571 degrees north, 105.006256 degrees west, at an approximate
elevation of 4,900 feet.
1.2 LAND USE
The Study Area encompasses a property that was previously used for residential and agricultural uses.
Residential use occurred on roughly the western third of the property; six structures occur, including
two residences, a barn, two outbuildings, and a covered stable. The stable is located adjacent to a fenced
enclosure in the southwestern corner of the property. The eastern two-thirds of the Study Area is
undeveloped and appears to have been managed most recently for grazing or haying. There was no sign
of irrigation structures or row cropping.
Surrounding land use is a mix of residential, open space, and commercial/office. An emergency medical
facility is located to the west across Cinquefoil Lane. Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet is adjacent to the
Study Area, but the property east of the ditch has been developed as an apartment complex. The
property to the south is presently vacant but is owned by a private corporation. The properties to the
north across Harmony Road include the Hewlett Packard campus and Arapahoe Bend Natural Area,
which is owned and managed by the City of Fort Collins.
1.3 LANDFORM AND HYDROLOGY
The western portion of the Study Area, where the structures are located, is relatively flat, while the
eastern portion of the property slopes to the east. There are no natural drainages or excavated aquatic
features within the Study Area (Appendix B). The nearest mapped aquatic feature is the Fossil Creek
Reservoir Inlet, which conveys flows from the Cache la Poudre River to Fossil Creek Reservoir.
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1.4 SOILS
Soils are mapped within the Study Area as Larimer-Stoneham complex, 3 to 10 percent slopes; Nunn
clay loam, 0 to 1 percent slopes; and Nunn clay loam, 1 to 3 percent slopes. These soils are well-
drained and generally do not support wetlands. The Nunn clay loams are considered prime farmland if
irrigated. The Larimer-Stoneham complex, which occurs on the eastern half of the property, is
classified as a farmland of local importance (NRCS 2021).
1.5 ECOREGION
The Study Area is located within the Front Range Fans (Level IV) of the High Plains (Level III)
Ecoregion, as characterized by Chapman et. al (2006). The High Plains are characterized by higher
elevations and drier moisture conditions than the Great Plains, and grama -buffalo grass is the
dominant, natural vegetation complex. Land use in the Front Range Fans is changing from crop and
rangeland to urban development. Many areas feature manmade lakes and gravel pits within the
landscape.
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2.0 METHODS
2.1 LITERATURE REVIEW
SMITH reviewed baseline data for the Study Area, including the Natural Resources Conservation
Services (NRCS) Web Soil Survey, USGS topographic quadrangle maps and hydrologic data, National
Wetland Inventory maps, ecoregion and vegetation mapping, aerial photographs of the property, and
native plant and wildlife data from US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Colorado Parks and
Wildlife (CPW), and Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP).
2.2 SITE INVESTIGATION
An on-site investigation was conducted on September 24, 2021, by Rebecca Hannon, a Certified
Ecologist (CE) employed by SMITH. Ms. Hannon has over a decade of experience in conducting
ecological site investigations in the Colorado Front Range. Observations on land use, vegetation
(including trees), wildlife habitat, wildlife presence and/or signs of wildlife use, hydrology, and the
viewshed were recorded.
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3.0 WILDLIFE
3.1 WILDLIFE USE
The typical wildlife community present in urban areas includes small perching birds, bats, raptors,
small and medium size herbivores (rodents and rabbits), carnivores (foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and
weasels), and occasionally larger ungulates (deer and elk). These animals typically use undeveloped and
undisturbed parcels for travel, cover, and foraging in urban environments (Table 1).
Table 1. Potential Wildlife Use of the Study Area
Species (general) Season of Use Purpose of Use
Deer (mule, white-tailed) Primarily winter Foraging, movement
Coyotes Year-round Resident, foraging, movement
Foxes Year-round Resident, foraging, movement
Raccoons Year-round Resident, foraging, movement
Skunks Year-round Resident, foraging, movement
Tree squirrels Year-round Resident, foraging, dispersal
Mice and voles Year-round Resident, foraging
Pocket gophers Year-round Resident, foraging
Prairie dogs Year-round Resident, foraging, dispersal
Rabbits Year-round Resident, foraging, dispersal
Bats Year-round Resident, foraging
Raptors Year-round Hunting, nesting
Perching birds Year-round Seasonal resident, nesting
Snakes and lizards Year-round Resident, foraging, dispersal
As an undeveloped parcel within an urban patchwork, the Study Area does provide value for wildlife
cover, travel, and foraging, but at only five acres, it has limited use for many larger species.
Furthermore, the degree to which the landscape has been altered restricts the quality of the habitat and
limits the number and diversity of species that are likely to use it. For instance, agricultural use
restricts vegetative species and structural diversity, which results in similarly restricted wildlife
diversity. The only species observed during the September 24 site investigation were rabbits (Sylvilagus
spp.), rock doves (Columba livia), and a red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis).
Additionally, the Study Area is surrounded by existing development and land uses that experience
frequent human disturbance. While some species are well-adapted to human behavior and may even be
attracted to human-altered landscapes, many species will use such highly disturbed areas only sparingly
or on a temporary basis. The most likely resident species of such altered and disturbed landscapes
include smaller species and/or species that are capable of burrowing for shelter. Large, ungulate grazers
are unlikely to occur unless passing through to more desirable habitat areas. Foxes and c oyotes are
somewhat adaptable to such landscapes and may hunt and/or have denning sites in this human-
occupied landscapes, though none were observed in the Study Area.
3.2 SENSITIVE AND SPECIALLY VALUED SPECIES
SMITH assessed habitats for all sensitive and specially valued species with potential to occur in the
Study Area. The USFWS is responsible for implementing the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and
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maintaining the list of species. The Colorado State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) includes a list of
Species of Greatest Conservation Need, which have been identified by CPW. The list is divided into
two tiers, with Tier 1 species representing the highest degree of conservation priority. Lastly, the
CNHP tracks species and communities with known conservation value by county and by USGS
quadrangle. Table 2 identifies each of these elements, provides their status with the appropriate
tracking agency, and discusses the potential that each would occur in the Study Area.
Table 2. Sensitive and Specially Valued Species with Potential to Occur in the Study Area.
Species Status Habitat and Likelihood of Occurrence
AMPHIBIANS
Northern
leopard frog
(Lithobates
pipiens)
SWAP - Tier 1
CNHP Tracked
The northern leopard frog prefers semi-permanent wetlands,
standing water, and streams with aquatic shoreline vegetation
(Hammerson 1999). The adjacent ditch corridor provides low
quality habitat as flows are seasonal and shoreline vegetation is
limited. The frog may seasonally occur along the ditch but is
unlikely to occur in the Study Area.
BIRDS
Black-necked
Stilt
(Himantopus
mexicanus)
CNHP Tracked The stilt is considered a wetland obligate, meaning it requires
aquatic and wetland habitats. It has only possible occurrences along
the Larimer-Weld border (Wickersham 2016). The Study Area
does not provide suitable habitat for this species.
Burrowing Owl
(Athene
cunicularia)
SWAP - Tier 1
State Threatened
Burrowing Owls nest almost exclusively in abandoned prairie dog
burrows. No prairie dog burrows were identified within the Study
Area, but there is a colony immediately adjacent to the south. CPW
recommends conducting surveys prior to disturbance within one-
quarter mile of active prairie dog colonies during the breeding
season (mid-March through October) (CPW 2020c).
Eastern Black
Rail (Laterallus
jamaicensis ssp.
jamaicensis)
ESA - Threatened The rail occurs in wetlands with dense overhead cover and soils
that are moist to saturated interspersed with or adjacent to very
shallow water (Wickersham 2016). The adjacent ditch does not
support adequate vegetative cover for the rail, and the Study Area
does not provide suitable habitat.
Golden Eagle
(Aquila
chrysaetos)
SWAP - Tier 1 Golden Eagles prefer to nest in cliffs and canyon areas but will also
nest in more open habitats. No eagles or potential nesting sites
were observed within the Study Area. Eagles may occur in the
vicinity of the Study Area and may hunt in the prairie dog colony
to the south of the Study Area.
Mexican
Spotted Owl
(Strix occidentalis
lucida)
ESA - Threatened
State Threatened
The Property does not provide suitable habitat which consists of
old growth forests and rock outcrops in steep canyon areas.
Designated critical habitat is located in Douglas County and will
not be affected by development of the Study Area.
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Species Status Habitat and Likelihood of Occurrence
Piping Plover
(Charadrius
melodus)
ESA - Threatened
State Threatened
The plover is an open-beach nesting specialist. Documented
nesting sites in Colorado occur in the southeastern portion of the
state along the shorelines of reservoirs (Wickersham 2016). While
this species does not occur in the Study Area, depletions to the
South Platte River basin can impact downstream habitat. Most
municipal water providers are members of the Platte River
Recovery and Implementation Program (PRRIP) which provides
mitigation for downstream impacts in the river basin.
Whooping
Crane (Grus
americana)
ESA - Endangered
State Threatened
CNHP Tracked
The Whopping Crane does not nest in Colorado, but depletions to
the South Platte River basin can impact downstream habitat. Most
municipal water providers are members of the PRRIP which
provides mitigation for downstream impacts in the river basin.
FISH
Bonytail (Gila
elegans)
ESA - Endangered
State Endangered
SWAP - Tier 1
The bonytail is the rarest of the endangered native fish of the
Colorado River (CPW 2021b). The Study Area occurs east of the
Continental Divide and will not affect the bonytail.
Colorado
pikeminnow
(Ptychocheilus
lucius)
ESA - Endangered
State Threatened
SWAP - Tier 1
The pikeminnow is the largest minnow in North America and is
native to the Colorado River and its major tributaries (CPW
2021b). The Study Area occurs east of the Continental Divide and
will not affect the pikeminnow.
Greenback
cutthroat trout
(Oncorhynchus
clarkii stomias)
ESA - Threatened
State Threatened
SWAP - Tier 1
The greenback cutthroat trout is found in cold, clear, oxygenated
streams of moderate gradient. Overhanging branches, undercut
banks and eddies behind rubble provides essential feeding and
resting habitat. Recent genetic analysis has shown that the only
true population of the trout currently survives in Bear Creek west
of Colorado Springs (Metcalf et al. 2012).
Humpback
chub (Gila
cypha)
ESA - Endangered
State Threatened
SWAP - Tier 1
Similar to the pikeminnow, the humpback chub is a large minnow
species native to the Colorado River system (CPW 2021b). The
Study Area occurs east of the Continental Divide and will not
affect the chub.
Orangespotted
sunfish
(Lepomis
humilis)
SWAP - Tier 1 The sunfish occurs in streams, ponds, oxbows, pools, and sloughs
in the Front Range and eastern plains of Colorado, which is the
western edge of its range (CPW 2020a). There is some potential
for it to occur in the adjacent ditch, as it withdraws water from the
Cache la Poudre River. Development of the Study Area is unlikely
to affect this species as the area is already heavily urbanized and
only minimal impacts from the stormwater outfall will occur.
Pallid sturgeon
(Scaphirhynchus
albus)
ESA - Endangered The sturgeon does not occur in Colorado; it is endemic to the
Missouri River and lower Mississippi River basin. Depletions to
the South Platte River basin can impact downstream habitat. Most
municipal water providers are members of the PRRIP which
provides mitigation for downstream impacts in the river basin.
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Species Status Habitat and Likelihood of Occurrence
Plains
topminnow
(Fundulus
sciadicus)
SWAP - Tier 1 The plains topminnow occurs in the mainstem of the South Platte
River and its tributaries. They can also occur in oxbows, ditches,
and even can be raised in ponds (CPW 2020b). There is some
potential for the topminnow to occur in the adjacent ditch, as it
withdraws water from the Cache la Poudre River. Development of
the Study Area is unlikely to affect this species as the area is
already heavily urbanized and only minimal impacts from the
stormwater outfall will occur.
INSECTS
Cross-line
skipper (Polites
origenes)
ESA - Candidate The skipper occurs in grasslands, sandy barrens, and canyon
openings between 5,400 and 7,600 feet (CNHP 2005). The
Study Area occurs below its elevational range, and none of its host
plants were observed.
Monarch
butterfly
(Danaus
plexippus)
ESA - Candidate In late 2020, the monarch butterfly was declined for formal listing
under the ESA, but it remains a candidate subject to frequent
status review. Monarchs undertake extensive migrations through
North America and require milkweed (Asclepias spp.) plants for
reproduction (USFWS 2021). Milkweed was not observed within
the Study Area, and as such, the Study Area provides limited
habitat for the butterfly in its current state. It could easily be
improved through plantings (discussed in Section 8.2).
Moss’s elfin
(Callophrys
mossii schryveri)
CNHP Tracked The elfin occurs above 6,000 feet in the foothills and lower
montane canyons (CNHP 2005). These conditions do not occur
in the Study Area.
Smoky eyed
brown
butterfly (Lethe
eurydice fumosus)
CNHP Tracked This is an uncommon butterfly that favors sedge meadows,
marshes and springs, and cordgrass swales (CNHP 2005). These
conditions do not occur within the Study Area.
Two-spotted
skipper
(Euphyes
bimacula)
CNHP Tracked This skipper occurs in bogs, marshes, pond edges, and sedge
meadows (CNHP 2005). These conditions do not occur within
the Study Area.
MAMMALS
Black-footed
ferret (Mustela
nigripes)
ESA - Endangered
State Endangered
SWAP - Tier 1
The ferret lives exclusively in prairie dog burrows and feeds almost
exclusively on prairie dogs. No prairie dog burrows were identified
in the Study Area, though a colony is located on the adjacent
property to the south. Several experimental populations have been
established in Larimer County, but these do not occur on or
adjacent to the Study Area. Development of the Study Area should
not affect ferrets.
Black-tailed
prairie dog
(Cynomys
ludovicianus)
CNHP Tracked No active or inactive burrows were observed within the Study Area,
but an active colony is located on the adjacent property to the
south. This species is discussed further in Section 3.2.2.
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Species Status Habitat and Likelihood of Occurrence
Canada lynx
(Lynx
canadensis)
ESA - Threatened
State Endangered
SWAP - Tier 1
Northern coniferous forests are the preferred habitat of the lynx.
These conditions do not occur in the Study Area.
Fringed myotis
(Myotis
thysanodes)
SWAP - Tier 1 The fringed myotis occurs in woodlands and is not particularly
abundant in Colorado (Armstrong et. al 2011). It can roost in
buildings, and as such, the structures in the Study Area should be
assessed prior to demolition or restoration.
Little brown
myotis (Myotis
lucifigus)
SWAP - Tier 1 With a statewide distribution, the little brown myotis is common
in wooded areas, including riparian woodlands, pinyon-juniper
woodlands, and montane shrublands. They are also known to roost
in buildings (Armstrong et. al 2011). It is possible that bats roost
in the structures on site, and as such, they should be assessed prior
to demolition or restoration.
Olive-backed
pocket mouse
(Perognathus
fasciatus)
SWAP - Tier 1 Little is known about this species in Colorado, but its habitat
generally consists of mixed prairie and shrub-steppe. Recent
captures have been recorded in Arapahoe and Elbert Counties, but
it is believed that development along the Front Range has led to
the extirpation of many populations (Armstrong et. al 2011). The
lack of shrub cover and widespread local disturbance makes the
Study Area unlikely to support a population of pocket mice.
Preble's
meadow
jumping mouse
(Zapus hudsonius
preblei)
ESA - Threatened
State Threatened
SWAP - Tier 1
CNHP Tracked
Habitat for the PMJM includes well-developed plains riparian
vegetation with adjacent, undisturbed grasslands and a nearby water
source. These conditions do not occur within the Study Area.
Additionally, trapping occurred in 2021 along the Cache la Poudre
River at the Environmental Learning Center, and the mouse was
not detected.
Townsend's
big-eared bat
(Corynorhinus
townsendii
pallescens)
SWAP - Tier 1
CNHP Tracked
In the Great Plains, this bat is restricted to deciduous woodlands
near caves and rocky outcrops (Armstrong et. al 2011). These
conditions do not occur within the Study Area.
PLANTS
American
currant (Ribes
americanum)
CNHP Tracked In Colorado, this currant occurs in shady areas along streams and
moist meadows. These conditions do not occur within the Study
Area (CNHP 1997+).
Bell’s twinpod
(Physaria bellii)
CNHP Tracked The twinpod is found in the Front Range foothills with
association with grassland and shrubland habitats. None of the
common associate plant species were observed within the Study
Area. The Study Area is also slightly below the known elevation
range of this species (CNHP 1997+). Development of the Study
Area will not affect this species.
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Species Status Habitat and Likelihood of Occurrence
Colorado
butterfly plant
(Gaura
neomexicana ssp.
coloradensis)
CNHP Tracked The Colorado butterfly plant is known to occur in subirrigated,
alluvial soils with mesic moisture regimes in early- to mid-
successional plant communities. These conditions do not occur in
the Study Area. There are several documented occurrences of the
plant in Larimer County, but they occur in the northeast corner o f
the county near the Wyoming border (CNHP 1997+).
North Park
phacelia,
Phacelia
formosula
ESA - Endangered The phacelia occurs on poorly vegetated exposures of the
Coalmont Formation, steep-sided ravines, low sandy hills, and
bluffs. It is currently found in Larimer and Jackson Counties
between 7,900 and 8,300 ft in elevation (CNHP 1997+). The
Project Area does not provide these habitat conditions and is well
below their preferred elevation.
Slender sedge
(Carex
lasiocarpa)
CNHP Tracked Ackerfield (2015) states that C. lasiocarpa does not occur in
Colorado, and it is not profiled in the Colorado Rare Plant Guide
(CNHP 1997+). Additionally, it is a wetland species, and the
Study Area does not provide suitable habitat.
Sweet flag
(Acorus calamus)
CNHP Tracked Sweet flag is a rare species that occurs in wet meadows and ditches
in the northern Colorado Front Range (Ackerfield 2015). The
Study Area does not provide suitable habitat. If populations were
present along the ditch to the east, which is unlikely, the only
disturbance proposed for this area is a stormwater outfall.
Tufted
loosestrife
(Lysimachia
thyrsiflora)
CNHP Tracked Tufted loosestrife occurs along rivers, streams, and marshes
between 5,000 and 7,000 feet (Ackerfield 2015). These
conditions do not occur in the Study Area, and the elevation is just
below the expected range for this species.
Ute ladies'-
tresses orchid
(Spiranthes
diluvialis)
ESA - Threatened The Ute ladies’-tresses orchid occurs in seasonally moist soils and
wet meadows. The Study Area does not provide suitable habitat
conditions. The only recorded population in Larimer County
occurs near Claymore Lake (CNHP 1997+).
Western prairie
fringed orchid
(Platanthera
praceclara)
ESA - Threatened The orchid occurs in mesic to wet tallgrass prairies in the central
plains states; it is not known to occur in Colorado. Depletions to
the South Platte River basin can impact downstream habitat. Most
municipal water providers are members of the PRRIP which
provides mitigation for downstream impacts in the river basin.
3.2.1 Migratory Birds
Most bird species and their nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), which
prohibits "take" of migratory birds, their eggs, feathers, or nests. Take is defined in the MBTA to
include by any means or in any manner, any attempt at hunting, pursuing, wounding, killing,
possessing, or transporting any migratory bird, nest, egg or part thereof. The Study Area provides
nesting, foraging, and shelter habitat primarily for ground, tree, and structure-nesting species. Though
only two species were observed during the site investigation (rock doves and a red -tailed hawk), more
species are likely to occur in the Study Area during the breeding season. The typical annual nesting
period for most birds begins in mid-April and extends through August.
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Raptors
The nesting season for raptors begins as early as February and extends through the summer. CPW has
established recommended protective buffers of 0.25 – 0.5 mile and seasonal restrictions around raptor
nest sites (CPW 2020c). Though the Study Area and the surrounding 0.5-mile experience significant
disturbance, suitable habitat for nesting raptors is present, most notably in the trees on site and to the
northeast at the Arapahoe Bend Natural Area. No nests were identified in the Study Area during the
site investigation, but a red-tailed hawk was present and vocalizing, potentially in response to the
activity of the surveyor. Given the proximity to the prairie dog colony and the likely presence of other
small mammals throughout the Study Area, raptors likely use the area for hunting.
Bald and Golden Eagles
Bald and golden eagles are afforded additional protections under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection
Act (BGEPA). CPW recommends that their nests can be protected from disturbance by activity buffers
up to 0.5 mile. In Colorado, bald eagles nest primarily in large cottonwood trees, and in the Front
Range, they frequently use trees on reservoir edges. They also frequently forage around streams and
reservoirs in the winter (Wickersham 2016). Golden eagles, as noted in Table 2, usually nest in cliffs
and canyons but can occur in open areas, especially where abundant prey is available. No eagles or their
nests were observed within or adjacent to the Study Area. CPW (2021a) indicates that the nearest
eagle nests are located approximately two miles north and south of the Study Area. The Study Area is
mapped by CPW to include bald eagle winter range, but there are no roosting sites or mapped foraging
areas in the Study Area. Eagles may occasionally be observed, but they are unlikely to use the Study
Area for nesting or roosting.
3.2.2 Black-tailed Prairie Dogs
A black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) colony was observed on the property immediately south
of the Study Area. At present, there are no prairie dogs in the Study Area . The City of Fort Collins
does recognize the ecological value of prairie dogs as a native species and often will enforce a
development buffer zone on prairie dog colonies. The size of this buffer is not set and is contingent
upon a site analysis (Article 3, Division 3.4.1 of the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code). It does not
appear that an extensive buffer would be needed at this site. Prairie dogs have not begun encroaching
on the Study Area, and an analysis of recent aerial imagery does not indicate prair ie dog activity in the
Study Area in the last 10-15 years. The closest burrows appear to be at least 50 feet from the property
line.
3.2.3 Burrowing Owls
Burrowing owls are strongly associated with prairie dog colonies and are commonly found nesting in
their burrows (Wickersham 2016). The nesting season in Colorado occurs from March 15 through
October 31, though migrating or over-wintering owls could potentially use prairie dog colonies
between October 31 and March 15.
Although, as noted above, there are no prairie dog burrows in the Study Area, current guidance from
CPW (2020c) recommends no human encroachment within one-eighth mile (660 feet) of burrowing
owl nest sites during the nesting season and no construction-related disturbances within one-quarter
mile (1,320 feet). Surveys for the burrowing owl should be conducted prior to disturbance activities
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proposed during the nesting season within one-quarter mile of the identified colonies. If owls are
detected, protections should be put in place, and CPW should be consulted as needed.
3.3 SPECIAL HABITAT FEATURES
The only elements within the Study Area that could be described as special habitat features are the
trees and, to a lesser extent, the structures. The trees (discussed in Section 6.1) provide nesting habitat
and hunting perches for raptors, but they are not unique within the landscape. The interior of the
buildings was not inspected due to safety concerns, but they may potentially provide nesting and
roosting for some bird and bat species in addition to year-round use by rodents. Otherwise, there are
no aquatic features, significant areas of native vegetation, or other elements that would constitute
special or unique habitat.
3.4 WILDLIFE MOVEMENT CORRIDORS
CPW maps movement and migration corridors for several wildlife species in Colorado, most notably
large ungulates. None of these corridors are mapped within the Study Area (CPW 2021 a). Bird
migration corridors and flyways more frequently overlap with aquatic resources, though this varies by
species. As compared to the surrounding landscape, the Study Area is a less desirable stopover for
migratory birds than the Arapahoe Bends Natural Area located to the north.
The Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet, located to the east of the Study Area, likely provides value as a
movement corridor through eastern Fort Collins. It extends from the Cache la Poudre River and the
Colorado State University Environmental Learning Center south to the Fossil Creek Reservoir. Aside
from several road and trail crossings, this canal is entirely aboveground (no piping) and is vegetated
along both banks for its entire length. Given the presence and condition of this resource, it should be
considered a wildlife movement corridor and afforded the 50-foot buffer described in Buffer Zone
Table in Article 3, Division 3.4.1 of the City of Fort Collins Land Use Code.
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4.0 WETLANDS AND AQUATIC FEATURES
Waters of the US (WOTUS) are protected under federal regulations pursuant to Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act (CWA) and Executive Order 11990. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are responsible for implementing t he CWA and have defined
aquatic features that fall under its jurisdiction. In general, water features, including wetlands, are
considered to be WOTUS if they have a surface water connection to traditionally navigable waters,
though many exclusions exist for ditches, wastewater treatment systems, converted cropland, etc.
Wetlands and water bodies that do not meet the criteria for WOTUS still provide important ecological
functions within the landscape, including wildlife habitat and stormwater management. For this reason,
all wetlands and water bodies are included in the ECS requirements for the City of Fort Collins.
However, this Study Area is entirely upland; this was noted in the literature, namely the National
Wetland Inventory (Appendix C) and during the site investigation. The only plant species observed
that can occur in wetlands was curly dock (Rumex crispus), which is a weedy species that is equally likely
to occur in uplands as in wetlands. There were no drainage swales or depressional features capable of
holding or storing water for time periods necessary to support the development of wetland soils and
the establishment of hydrophytic wetlands.
The nearest wetlands to the Study Area are associated with the Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet. Reed
canarygrass (Phalarais arundinaceae) is an aggressive, dense grass species that lines both banks of the
canal. It has some value to wildlife as forage and cover, but often grows in densities that restrict other
hydrophytic vegetation. The only restrictions on developing adjacent to this feature would come from
the City of Fort Collins, which places a 50-foot buffer on irrigation ditches that serve as wildlife
corridors (see Section 3.4).
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5.0 VIEWSHED
5.1 VIEWS FROM THE STUDY AREA
From the Study Area, there are aesthetic views to the north and, to a lesser extent, to the east. The
Hewlett Packard campus north of E. Harmony Road has a landscaped park area with several ponds. To
the northeast, portions of the Arapahoe Bends Natural Area are also visible fro m the Study Area.
Immediately east of the Study Area is the Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet, which does support a buffer of
wetland vegetation. However, the channel area itself is very deep and is not very visible from ground -
level within the Study Area. It does, however, provide a visual buffer between the Study Area and the
apartment complex to the east.
The views to the south and west are not particularly remarkable. The property to the south is
undeveloped and is currently occupied by prairie dogs, so it does provide some value for wildlife
viewing. However, the adjacent properties are developed, and it is likely that these remaining gaps will
“fill in” at some point in the future. The view to the west is of a medical facility. There are trees
planted along E. Harmony Road in the stormwater detention area for the medical facility, so the view
here is softened but is still highly urbanized. At certain angles where there is a gap in the structures or
vegetation, Horsetooth Mountain can be viewed to the west.
5.2 VIEWS OF THE STUDY AREA
The Study Area is visible from E. Harmony Road, and it does provide a visual break from the
landscaped and developed properties along the south side of the road. The eastern grassland area is
visible as is the red barn, which is very prominent. This contrast is less evident from the north side of
the road, which features the Arapahoe Bend Natural Area and the Hewlett Packard campus. From
Cinquefoil Lane, only the western portion of the Study Area is visible due to site topograp hy and the
height of the structures and trees. The view along Cinquefoil Lane shows the disrepair of the structures
and the weedy growth throughout the homestead area. From the east and south there are several
apartment complexes within the line of sight of the Study Area, and some residents may have views of
the structures, trees, and grassland areas.
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6.0 VEGETATION
While much of the Study Area maintains a vegetative structure characteristic of the High Plains
ecoregion, the species composition indicates that the site has been significantly altered from a natural
state (Table 3). This is most evident in the eastern two-thirds of the Study Area, which is occupied
primarily by grass, but all three dominant species are nonnative. Smooth brome (Bromus inermis) and
crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) are both common forage species in the Colorado Front Range
and are generally considered to be naturalized. Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorm), which also common, is a
List C noxious weed in the State of Colorado. It is a winter annual that if left unmanaged can
outcompete other species.
The western third of the Study Area represents a more disturbed vegetative structure and composition,
as would be expected given the history of more extensive human activity in that area. Forbs are more
common and are interspersed with the same grass species. Kochia (Kochia scoparia) and sunflower
(Helianthis annuus) were most common and generally occurred in higher densities along roadsides.
Though the site investigation did not encompass a comprehensive vegetation inventory of the Study
Area, it is worth noting that the sunflower w as the only native forb observed. A few native rubber
rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauserosa) plants were observed in the eastern extent of the Study Area, and
several trees (likely cultivated) occur near the structures (discussed below). Four other state-listed
noxious weeds were observed: Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense, List B), common mullein (Verbascum
thapsus, List C), field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis, List C), and whitetop (Lepidium draba, List B).
Table 3. Observed Plant Species in the Study Area
Scientific Name Common Name
Native
(Y/N)
Noxious Weed
(A/B/C)
Graminoids
Agropyron cristatum Crested wheatgrass N
Bromus inermis Smooth brome N
Bromus tectorum Cheatgrass N C
Forbs
Cirsium arvense Canada thistle N B
Convolvulus arvensis Field bindweed N C
Helianthus annuus Common sunflower Y
Kochia scoparia Kochia N
Lepidium draba Hoary cress N B
Rumex crispus Curly dock N
Salsola tragus Russian thistle N
Tragopogon dubius Western salsify N
Verbascum thapsus Common mullein N C
Shrubs/trees
Ericameria nauseosa Rubber rabbitbrush Y
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash Y
Gleditsia triacanthos Honey locust N
Juniperus communis Common juniper Y
Populus deltoides Plains cottonwood Y
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6.1 TREES
Six trees are located within the Study Area, and all occur on the western portion of the property near
the structures (Figure 2 and Table 4). Only two of the six trees are considered native to the area. A
plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides) tree is located near one of the residential structures. This is one of
the most common tree species in the eastern plains and in Front Range floodplains. It is possible that
this tree predated the structure and siting was intentional for shading purposes. Even if it wa s planted,
it still contributes significantly to shading, wildlife habitat, and aesthetics. The other native tree is a
green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) located near the barn. There is a limited range for the green ash in
Colorado, and some populations are considered to be escaped and/or cultivated along the Front Range
(Ackerfield 2015).
Table 4. Trees within the Study Area
Scientific Name Common Name
Native
(Y/N) Quantity
Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green ash Y 1
Gleditsia triacanthos Honey locust N 4
Populus deltoides Plains cottonwood Y 1
Honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) is a cultivated species and is generally not considered to be invasive.
These were likely planted, especially since they do not exhibit spines along the trunk, indicating a
horticultural variety. Two of the four locusts occur near one of the residential structures and likely
provided significant shading. One of those trees is now showing extensive physical damage (Appendix
A) and will likely need to be removed or trimmed by a certified arborist. Though the other two locusts
are not providing substantial shade, they do contribute to the site aesthetic and provide nesting habitat
for passerine birds.
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7.0 ECOLOGICAL FUNCTION
Because the Study Area has been altered for human use, it does not retain all of the ecological functions
characteristic of the undisturbed High Plains. Most notably, the biodiversity has declined significantly
from pre-disturbance conditions, which has impacts that cascade through the local food chain.
Nonetheless, the majority of the site remains undeveloped, and there are no widespread impermeable
surfaces. As such, some ecological functions are maintained, as summarized below.
• Primary productivity refers to the production of biomass from inorganic or abiotic inputs, and
in grasslands it refers to plant growth using solar energy, carbon dioxide, and water. Grassland
ecosystems are generally very productive ecosystems, which is why so many of the world’s
agricultural systems are located in converted grasslands. While the producers in the Study Area
are predominantly nonnative species, they maintain the site’s ability to produce biomass, which
subsequently affects some of the other ecological functions as discussed below.
• Vegetation within the Study Area contributes to the functions of carbon storage and nutrient
cycling. A portion of the carbon dioxide absorbed by plants during the photosynthetic process
is fixed and stored in the plant’s tissues. While some releases occur during plant respiration
and decomposition, some carbon is also incorporated into the topsoil. Nitrogen is another
element that is essential to plant growth; atmospheric nitrogen is fixed by microbes and fungi,
incorporated into plant biomass, and ultimately released again upon decay. These cycles are
vital to ecosystem function.
• The Study Area provides habitat for a variety of plants and animals, including insect
pollinators. As noted in previous sections, the site is degraded by the history of land use and
surrounding development, but because it retains some natural elements, it does provide value
for nesting, foraging, and shelter.
• Although the Study Area does not provide wetlands or water bodies, it still contributes to
stormwater management. Permeable surfaces, such as unpaved yards and grasslands, allow
rainwater and snowmelt to infiltrate into the ground. This natural process reduces flooding and
erosion in waterways, allows for the filtration of pollutants through vegetation and soils, and
can even buffer against drought conditions by storing water in the landscape.
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8.0 MITIGATION AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES
8.1 TIMING OF DEVELOPMENT
The most significant environmental consideration for the timing of development is the breeding season
for birds, which begins in late winter and extends through the summer months (as discussed in Section
3.2.1). The Study Area provides nesting habitat for a broad spectrum of birds, including ground and
tree nesting species and species that nest in structures. Because the MBTA prohibits the take of an
active nest of any protected species, any surface disturbance or demolition activities should occur prior
to the breeding season to avoid incidental take of an active nest. This includes tree removal, structure
demolition or restoration, and surface grubbing or scraping. If the construction schedule cannot
accommodate this avoidance, thorough nest surveys by a qualified biologist should be conducted in
advance of such activities. If an active nest is detected, it should be protected by an appropriate buffer
(based on species) until chicks fledge. Inactive bird nests, including raptor nests but excluding Bald
and Golden Eagle nests, can be removed and destroyed.
Breeding for other wildlife species that may occur within the Study Area also generally occurs in the
spring and summer, and as such, protections for birds would benefit other wildlife as well. However,
these species are not afforded the same legal protections as birds. If there is a circumstance where a
non-avian nest or young are discovered on site, protective measures (i.e., buffers) would still be
recommended. CPW does permit the relocation of some wildlife species with the appropriate permits.
8.2 MITIGATION MEASURES
Mitigation measures to address potential adverse effects of a land development range from avoidance to
minimization to restoration. The following list of mitigation recommendations represent some of these
approaches as they can be applied within the Study Area.
Avoidance
• SMITH understands that three of the buildings (two houses and barn) will be preserved and
that efforts will be made to keep trees in place. This will protect some of the more important
bird habitat within the Study Area, though the increased human activity on the property may
result in decreased use overall.
• The Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet is not located within the Study Area, but it does represent one
of the more unique features within the local landscape. Though an outfall for the detention
pond is proposed, other impacts will be avoided. A 50-foot buffer between the irrigation ditch
and the development (specifically for structures and walkways) is recommended to protect
wildlife (see Section 3.4).
Minimization
• As discussed previously, any necessary vegetation removals or structural demolitions should be
performed outside of the breeding season. Structures should also be assessed for roosting bats
or pigeons, which can occur year-round.
• Silt fencing or another opaque barrier should be installed along the south side of the property
to prevent prairie dog migration into the Study Area prior to the start of construction. While
not 100 percent effective, such fencing does act as a deterrent.
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• Surveys for nesting birds, including the burrowing owl on the adjacent property, should be
conducted prior to any disturbance activities during the nesting season.
• Lighting elements on the east side of the Study Area adjacent to the Fossil Creek Reservoir
Inlet should be minimized to limit light pollution that may disrupt wildlife movements along
the corridor.
• Install appropriate stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) during construction to
prevent sediment flow into the Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet.
• Protect trees in place to the extent practicable and have damaged or unhealthy trees assessed by
a certified arborist.
Restoration
• Certain areas of the development will be designed for active human recreational use, specifically
the walkway and bioswale on the northern edge along E. Harmony Road. Landscaping that is
proposed in these areas should consist of native species that are drought tolerant and will
thrive under natural conditions with little maintenance. It unlikely that extensive wildlife use
would occur in this area due to the presence of the roadway, but on a microscale, native
vegetation would support pollinators and smaller urban-adapted species. Native milkweed
(Ascpleias spp.) especially does well in drainage swales and is crucial for populations of monarch
butterflies. Similarly, vegetation that is used in and around the detention pond should consist
of native species to the extent practicable.
• If mowing is to be performed as a maintenance activity, it should be restricted to areas
designated for human recreation and planted in turfgrass. Mowing should be avoided in the
bioswale and detention areas if possible to promote a more native vegetation structure and
potentially provide habitat for wildlife.
Maintenance
• In the homestead area and along the bioswale walking path, signage can be posted to educate
residents and visitors of the ecological and historical value of the property. The signage can
emphasize remaining on trails, keeping pets on leashes, and not feeding wildlife.
• Noxious weed management plans should be developed for both the construction and the
proposed natural areas. Infestations of noxious weeds are currently low, but increased
disturbance and human occupation will increase the potential for the establishment and spread.
• The maintenance personnel responsible for long-term management of the property should be
encouraged to minimize the use of herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers, et c. to maintain clean
waterways and minimize risk to pollinators.
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9.0 REFERENCES
Ackerfield, J. 2015. Flora of Colorado. Botanical Research Institute of Texas Press.
Armstrong, D. M., J.P. Fitzgerald, and C.A. Meaney. 2011. Mammals of Colorado, Second Edition.
University Press of Colorado.
Chapman, S.S., Griffith, G.E., Omernik, J.M., Price, A.B., Freeouf, J., and Schrupp, D.L. 2006.
Ecoregions of Colorado (color poster with map, descriptive text, summary tables, and photographs):
Reston, Virginia, U.S. Geological Survey (map scale 1:1,200,000).
CNHP. 1997+. Colorado Rare Plant Guide. Available at: https://cnhp.colostate.edu/rareplants/.
Latest update: August 30, 2019.
CNHP. 2005. Survey of Critical Biological Resources, Larimer County, Colorado. Prepared for
Larimer County Parks and Open Lands, City of Fort Collins Natural Area Program, City of Loveland
Natural Areas Program, and Larimer County Planning Department.
CPW. 2021a. Species Activity Data. Available online at
https://www.arcgis.com/home/group.html?id=0e6f9051b06146018038e9a929ab4910#overview.
Data downloaded March 2021.
CPW. 2021b. Species Profiles. Available online at:
https://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/SpeciesProfiles.aspx. Accessed October 14, 2021.
CPW. 2020a. Orangespotted Sunfish Habitat Scorecard. Available at:
https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/LandWater/WetlandsProgram/PrioritySpecies/Factsheet-and-
Habitat-Scorecard_OrangespottedSunfish.pdf. Accessed October 13, 2021.
CPW. 2020b. Plains Topminnow Habitat Scorecard. Available at:
https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/LandWater/WetlandsProgram/PrioritySpecies/Factsheet-and-
Habitat-Scorecard_PlainsTopminnow.pdf. Accessed October 13, 2021.
CPW. 2020c. Recommended Buffer Zones and Seasonal Restrictions for Colorado Raptors. Denver,
CO. Available at: https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/Raptor-
Buffer-Guidelines.pdf. Accessed May 10, 2021.
Hammerson, G.A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado, Second Edition. University Press of
Colorado and Colorado Division of Wildlife.
Metcalf, J. L., Love Stowell, S., Kennedy, C. M., Rogers, K. B., McDonald, D., Epp, J., Keepers, K.,
Cooper, A., Austin, J. J. and Martin, A. P. 2012. Historical stocking data and 19th century DNA reveal
human-induced changes to native diversity and distribution of cutthroat trout. Molecular Ecology
21:21, pp. 5194-5207.
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NRCS. 2021. United States Department of Agriculture, Web Soil Survey. Available online at
http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/. Accessed September 23, 2021.
USFWS. 2021. Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). ECOS Environmental Conservation Online
System. Available at: https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/9743. Accessed October 14, 2021.
Wickersham, L.E., Editor. 2016. The Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atla s
Partnership, Co-published by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Denver, Colorado.
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APPENDIX A - PHOTOS OF THE STUDY AREA
Photo 1. View of one of the residential structures. Both trees here are honey locust, and the one on the
right has been damaged.
Photo 2. View looking east across the northwestern section of the Study Area. The grass is mostly
crested wheatgrass. The tree by the barn is the green ash.
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Photo 3. View looking north toward the barn. Weedy forbs are more abundant here, including kochia
and curly dock.
Photo 4. View looking west toward the homestead area across the field of mostly crested wheatgrass.
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Photo 5. View of the Fossil Creek Reservoir Inlet from the property line.
Photo 6. View looking north along the Fossil Creek Reservoir Outlet. The contrast between the light
green vegetation and the brown vegetation shows the approximate edge of the wetland.
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Photo 7. From certain angles near the center and western portions of the Study Area, Horsetooth
Mountain is visible to the west.
Photo 8. View looking north across the Study Area and towards the Hewlett Packard campus north of
E. Harmony Road.
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Photo 9. View looking northeast toward Arapahoe Bend Natural Area.
Photo 10. Zoomed in view of Arapahoe Bend to the northeast.
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Photo 11. View looking to the east from the center of the Study Area. The ditch is not visible from
this perspective.
Photo 12. View looking to the south from the Study Area.
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Photo 13. Study Area as viewed from west-bound E. Harmony Road (Google Maps).
Photo 13. Study Area as viewed from Cinquefoil Lane (Google Maps).
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APPENDIX B - TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
USGS TNM – National Hydrography Dataset. Data Refreshed July, 2021., City of Fort Collins, County of Larimer,
Bureau of Land Management, Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P, Intermap, USGS, METI/NASA, EPA, USDA
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APPENDIX C - NATIONAL WETLAND INVENTORY MAP
Balfour
Source: Esri, Maxar, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS,USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community
Wetlands
Estuarine an d Marin e D eepwa ter
Estuarine an d Marin e Wetlan d
Freshwater Emergent Wetland
Freshwater Forested/Shrub We tla nd
Freshwater Pond
Lake
Other
Riverine
Septembe r 29, 2021
0 0.1 0.20.05 mi
0 0.15 0.30.075 km
1:5,976
This page was produced by the NWI mapperNational Wetlands Inventory (NWI)
This map is for general reference only. The US Fish and Wildlife Service is not responsible for the accuracy or currentness of the base data shown on this map. All wetlands related data should be used in accordance with the layer metadata found on the Wetlands Mapper web site.