HomeMy WebLinkAboutOVERLAND HILLS WEST RF SITE PLAN REVIEW - 38 90D - CORRESPONDENCE - WILDLIFE DOCUMENTSSTATE OF COLORADO
Roy Romer, Governor.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
DIVISION OF WILDLIFE
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Perry D. Olson, Director
6060 Broadway
Denver, Colorado 80216
Telephone: (303) 297-1192
REFER TO
February 10, 1993 For Wildlife -
For People
Rob Wilkinson, Sr. Environmental Planner
Dept. of Natural Resources
P. O. Box 580
Ft. Collins, CO .80522
Subject: Overland Hills -West
Dear Rob:
In evaluating the Overland Hills West development proposal I would
have to define the.subject area as marginal wildlife habitat. It•
would be beneficial to retain.the cottonwoods in the Spring Creek
drainage. It will undoubtedly be necessary to trim them at least.
If removal is needed replanting other species would be suggested.
The primary wildlife use of the cottonwoods would be by raptorial
and songbirds primarily as roosting/feeding perches, with some,
nesting potentials..
The area is also subject to use by coyotes, mountain lions,
raccoons, skunks, snakes and mule deer. The Spring Creek drainage
would be the primary travel.area for most wildlife inhabiting the
area. Homeowners should be advised that attracting wildlife. by
placing feed for them should be avoided, and may also be illegal
for big game, especially deer. Developments with irrigated lawns
and ornamental plantings may attract some wildlife especially deer.
The deer likewise may attract feeding mountain lions, as will pets
i.e. cats and small dogs. Pets should be very strictly controlled
and pens with wire tops may also be needed to protect from lions,
raccoons, etc. Pet foods left in containers, especially
-..outside/overnight may -also attract raccoons, skunks, and other
small mammals.
The open space to the west of the developed parcels may be
protected from.overuse•by fencing and/or established trails. The
open space may also be enhanced by tree/shrub plantings or grasses.
The poorer soil conditions and lack of water may make enhancement
of this area difficult. Drought resistant species and
fertilization or irrigation may be needed if introduced plantings
are considered. The open space/green belt areas are good buffer
zones and will provide additional habitats for wildlife.
Si�nn ere�,_,y,,�/-�
Bill Olmstead
District'Wildlife Manager
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, Kenneth Salazar, Executive Director
WILDLIFE COMMISSION, William R. Hegberg, Member • Eldon W. Cooper, Chairman • Felix Chavez, Member • Rebecca L. Frank, Member .
Louis F. Swift, Member • George Van Den Berg; Member • Larry M. Wright, Member • Thomas M. Eve, Member