HomeMy WebLinkAboutAddenda - RFP - P982 BOBCAT RIDGE TRAIL DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTON (3)Chapter 6. Visitor Use
Goal for Visitor Use at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area: Provide a variety of recreational
opportunities for people of all ages and abilities consistent with the Natural Areas Program’s
mission, carrying capacity of the site, and the program’s capacity to deliver a safe, high
quality visitor experience.
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is the first large, regional natural area that has been acquired by
the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Program. It is the Natural Areas Program’s goal at
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area to provide a high quality visitor and recreation experience while
simultaneously protecting the site’s significant ecological and cultural resources.
The concept of carrying capacity includes not only the number of visitors, but also the
desired condition of the site’s natural, cultural, and scenic resources and a visitor experience
consistent with overall management objectives for the site. The concept is aligned with the
portion of the Natural Areas Program’s mission statement excerpted below:
“…Protection of natural habitats and features is the highest priority, while providing
opportunities for education and appropriate recreation for the Fort Collins community.”
In the following sections, appropriate recreation uses for Bobcat Ridge are determined
through several analyses. The chapter also recommends a conceptual design for a trail system
as well as methods for visitor management. All recreational uses are evaluated in a context
of providing and balancing a high quality visitor experience, the Natural Areas Program’s
capacity to manage the recreational uses, and the ability to protect the site’s resources.
Visitor uses and recreation will be monitored and adapted to changing conditions over time
as necessary.
A. Determining Recreation Uses
1. Public Input
Staff conducted twelve public tours to Bobcat Ridge in the summer and fall of 2004. While
each of the several field trips had different itineraries, the same management issues were
discussed and evaluated through a participant feedback questionnaire. This “non-scientific
survey” was completed by 130 field tour participants as well as an additional 40
questionnaires completed by attendees to three separate public open houses. The results
were as follows:
What types of recreational uses would you like to see here?
The types of recreation uses in order of percentage of times mentioned were: hiking (36%),
horseback riding (15%), mountain biking (11%), camping (6%), picnicking (6%) and bird
watching (6%). Several other uses were mentioned including tours and nature walks (4%),
education (2%) and hunting (<1%).
During the course of a year, how many times are you likely to visit Bobcat Ridge?
Respondents indicated they would visit Bobcat Ridge Natural Area on average five or six
times per year.
Are you likely to bring children under age 10?
Only 28% of the respondents indicated they would bring children under the age of 10.
Would you prefer multi-use trails or separate trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding?
More than 71% of the respondents indicated they would prefer separated use trails. Most
expressed a desire to separate hikers and bikers. Many respondents preferred some hiking-
only areas.
Are there certain biological or historical features you think should be protected?
The most commonly mentioned features included the homestead cabin (21%), tipi rings
(18%), bird habitat (8%) streams (5%), and Brooks Canyon (4%).
Is grazing by domesticated cattle an appropriate use at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area when
used for vegetation management goals?
More than 70% of the respondents indicated that grazing by domesticated cattle is
appropriate when used for the purposes of meeting vegetation management goals.
Is grazing by domesticated cattle an appropriate use at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area to
maintain a ranching tradition?
49% responded favorably, while 44% responded negatively. This suggests that there is
substantial public support for maintaining a ranching tradition.
What topics would you like to see on education and interpretation signs?
The most requested education topics included plants (22%), birds and other wildlife (21%),
geology (13%), historical features (15%), cultural heritage (8%), and fire history (6%).
Should there be designated “wilderness areas” of the natural area that would have no or
very limited public access?
More than 65% or respondents were in favor of designated wilderness areas with limited or
no public access, while 29% were not. Some respondents suggested having off-trail access
for foot traffic only. Conversely, there was some support for on-trail only use, but this was
not quantified.
What did you find most interesting on the field trip?
Participants found the general landscape (23%), the birds and wildlife (13%) and tipi rings
(10%) to be most interesting on the field trips. The cabin and cultural history, flora, geology,
and the burned area were all mentioned but each by less than 10% of the respondents. This
feedback suggests that visitors will be interested in guided nature walks, especially to Brooks
Canyon, and interpretive information on the ecology, geology and cultural history of the site.
What part of the field trip was the least interesting?
Response to this question was overwhelmingly “not applicable” or no response (65%).
People are positive about the area with no real negative issues. Other primary specified
responses received were a disinterest in the cattle and ranching operation (12%) and in man-
made features such as the fencing and roads (7%).
Is reconstruction or preservation of historic and prehistoric features an appropriate use of
natural area funds at Bobcat Ridge?
More than 83% responded favorably to this question while only 12% responded negatively.
This suggests that respondents do feel these resources are important to preserve and they
would not object to Natural Areas funds being used in the pursuit of this goal at Bobcat
Ridge.
2.Regional Analysis of Recreation Opportunities
A survey of regional recreation availability looked at the combined opportunities offered by
federal, state, and county parks and open lands, and city natural areas, parks and trails. The
purpose was to determine which types of recreation are either widely available or not
available or have limited availability on a regional basis. Recreational offerings at Bobcat
Ridge could add additional opportunities when the recreation type is consistent with
protection of the resources and management objectives for Bobcat Ridge. The summary
table is shown below.
Regional Recreation Destinations and Activities
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Rimrock Open Space X X X X
City of Fort Collins
Coyote Ridge NA X X X X X X X X
Foothills NAs X X X X X X X
City Parks and Trails X X X X X X X X
TOTALS 10 8 9 8 11 7 5 7 8 6 4 3 4 4
This survey indicates that hiking, dog walking, mountain biking and horseback riding are
widely available on a regional basis. Fishing, picnicking, nature walks and Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant trails and facilities are somewhat available, while rock
climbing, backcountry and campground camping, and hunting opportunities are less
available.
3. Specific Visitor Use Goals for Bobcat Ridge Natural Area
In summary, recommended visitor uses at Bobcat Ridge include: hiking, walking, running,
mountain biking, and horseback riding, wildlife viewing, interpretive walks, an ADA
compliant trail, picnicking and backcountry camping on a trial basis. Hunting and rock
climbing need further investigation to determine their feasibility at this site. Fishing,
campground/car camping, and dog walking are activities not allowed on Bobcat Ridge.
The following tables examine in detail each of these visitor use opportunities, constraints,
potentials for a high quality visitor experience, impacts to ecological resources, the Natural
Areas Program’s capacity to manage the use, and recommended actions.
Trails
Goal: Provide a sustainable trail system to a variety of users while maintaining a high
quality visitor experience and protecting the natural and cultural resources.
Employ best management practices and designs that offer scenic vistas, and that are
sustainable.
Design trails to minimize interactions between trail users. Separate pedestrian and
horse use from mountain bike use where possible.
Design trail layout to access scenic vistas at Mahoney Park.
Develop a trail system that provides opportunities for solitude.
Develop the trail to include a “Valley Loop” and a property-wide “Mountain Loop”.
Design trails to minimize the opportunity for visitors to create unwanted social trails.
Create an accessible (American Disabilities Act compliant) trail opportunity with
scenic views, interpretive features and an interesting destination.
Picnic Areas
Goal: Create opportunities for picnicking.
Establish wayside areas along trails for picnics.
Locate and build picnic shelter(s) to include tables and benches. Prohibit use of
barbeques and camp stoves to limit the risk of wildfire.
Minimize trash-wildlife interactions by highlighting Leave No Trace ethics such as
“pack it in, pack it out” and using bear-proof trash cans.
Wildlife Watching
Goal: Provide ample wildlife watching opportunities.
Manage all plant communities to enhance wildlife habitat and diversity.
Provide regular guided wildlife watching field trips.
Provide wildlife viewing destinations as appropriate.
Provide wildlife viewing information in education products.
Interpretive Walks
Goal: Provide a variety of meaningful educational experiences for all visitors.
Establish a regular schedule of guided public field trips with a wide variety of themes
and topics.
Provide self-guided learning experiences through a variety of educational products.
Rock Climbing
Goal: Provide rock climbing opportunities if ecological and safety considerations can be
met.
Determine feasibility of rock climbing areas existing on the property and evaluate
management issues related to climbing access.
Hunting
Goal: Manage wildlife to prevent overbrowsing and overgrazing and provide a recreational
opportunity that is historic to the area.
Establish early indicators of overbrowsing and overgrazing to determine when and if
hunting would be used as a management tool.
Determine the feasibility of mixing limited hunting with other recreation and
management goals, such as grazing.
Backcountry Camping
Goal: Provide designated backcountry camping opportunities on a trial-basis and as
institutional capacity allows.
Determine feasibility by identifying management issues and potential campsites.
Determine feasibility of a primitive group campground.
Campground/Car Camping
Not recommended at Bobcat Ridge.
Fishing
Resource does not exist at Bobcat Ridge.
4. Analysis of Each Recreation Use
Trails - Hiking, Walking, Running
Pedestrian use on natural areas is a staple recreation. Many of natural areas are designated
for “on-trail only” use. With more than 2,600 acres, Bobcat Ridge provides an opportunity to
increase visitor enjoyment by permitting dispersed recreational use of the site. However, use
of designated trails will be strongly encouraged for the purpose of protecting habitat,
reducing erosion, limiting disturbance of wildlife and for visitor safety. If an unacceptable
level of damage is being caused by the dispersed use, dispersed use will be limited or
eliminated and the entire site will become on-trail only. Additionally, certain areas may have
limited or no access or be seasonally designated as closed or “on-trail only” as deemed
appropriate by Natural Areas Program managers.
Opportunities Both valley and mountain areas offer ample opportunities for
hiking, walking and running. An existing road network is in place
that could become part of the trails.
Constraints Existing roads in the mountain areas are in poor condition and are
eroding. These require erosion control if they remain open or
restoration if they are closed.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Bobcat Ridge may provide diverse terrain, trail types, and levels of
difficulty. Combined with numerous scenic vistas and destination
sites, this natural area offers a premier trail experience. Managing
visitor behavior through “share the trail” and “trail yield” etiquette,
and routine patrol should limit the number of negative interactions.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Managed on-trail and off-trail use that avoids sensitive ecological
areas can ensure a high level of resource protection. Trail layout
must be designed to minimize impacts to target plant communities.
The location, amount and timing of trail use must be evaluated to
protect nesting raptors and songbirds, calving deer and elk,
important wintering areas, moth and butterfly habitat, and other
similar conservation targets. Off-trail use must be limited to areas
that are not ecologically or culturally sensitive.
Capacity to
Manage
Pedestrian use on an established trail system with anticipated level
of compliance offers little enforcement challenge to ranger staff.
Recommended
Action
Designate portions of Bobcat Ridge for off-trail foot use. Areas
including, but not limited to ecologically sensitive areas,
hazardous areas, and working ranch areas will be designated for
on-trail only.
Remove dead and standing trees on 30 to 40 feet of either side of
trails within burned forested areas to ensure user safety.
Design trail system to avoid the area of the Hansen Feeder Canal
for visitor safety.
Design methods to integrate trail system within existing cattle
pastures. This may include using cattle guards, spring-loaded
pedestrian gates, or separated uses temporally. Interpretive signs
could assist.
Trails - Leashed Dog Walking
Dog walking is one of the most popular types of recreational use in city natural areas,
especially within the urban area. With limited exceptions, most natural areas and trails are
available for leashed dog walking. There are 41 natural areas that allow leashed dog walking
out of the 44 open to the public. Out of approximately 33 miles of trail the natural areas
program manages, 29 miles are available for leashed dog walking.
Unfortunately, dogs off leash remain the program’s number one visitor compliance issue.
Conflicts between dogs and other visitors are a continual source of citizen complaints.
Opportunities Both valley and mountain areas offer ample opportunities for dog
walking. An existing road network is in place that could form a
basis for portions of the trail layout.
Constraints There is an active grazing lease on site; potential dog/cattle
interactions could occur.
Rangers have limited ability to comprehensively enforce on-leash
regulations, especially in backcountry areas.
Enforcing the leash law has been problematic system-wide.
Dogs off leash are a threat to the natural resources being protected
and the quality of other visitor’s experiences.
Wildlife is a threat or a hazard to off leashed dogs.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Natural areas regulations and city code require that dogs be leashed
in all natural areas. A limited ability to patrol the entire property
would result in low levels of compliance especially in areas out of
visual range of the valley. Dogs off leash have caused negative
dog/human interactions in other natural areas.
Resource
Protection
Limited or prohibited dog use of the area would ensure protection
of sensitive biological resources (deer, elk, etc.).
Dog waste degrades resources and is a human health hazard. It is
currently a problem in many other natural areas.
Capacity to
Manage
Ranger staff has limited ability to enforce leash code on this
property.
Recommended
Action
Prohibit dogs at this sensitive natural area.
Trails - Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is one of the more popular
recreational activities in the City’s natural areas.
Opportunities Both valley and mountain areas offer ample opportunity.
Constraints Existing roads in the mountain areas are in poor condition and are
eroding. Mountain biking considerably increases erosion.
Mountain bikes present more safety issues (speed, lack of control,
etc.) than other trail uses. Separating users (i.e. multi-use trail and
pedestrian/horse only trail) decreases the potential for user conflicts
and increases visitor safety.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Bobcat Ridge has a diverse areas terrain, trail types, and levels of
difficulty. Combined with numerous scenic vistas and destination
sites, this natural area offers a premier mountain biking experience.
Managing visitor behavior through “share the trail” and “trail yield”
etiquette, and routine patrol should limit the number of negative
interactions.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Managed on-trail mountain biking on a planned trail system that
avoids sensitive ecological areas can achieve a high level of
resource protection. The location, amount and timing of trail use
must be evaluated to protect nesting raptors and songbirds, calving
deer and elk, important wildlife wintering areas, moth and butterfly
habitat, and other similar conservation targets.
Capacity to
Manage
Mountain biking on an established trail system with a high level of
compliance offers little enforcement challenge to ranger staff. It is
anticipated that some illegal, downhill use will occur and require
enforcement action.
Routine trail maintenance will be required.
Recommended
Action
Mountain biking will be designated as an on-trail only activity to
increase user safety and prevent resource damage.
Trails - Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is available on many of the City’s natural
areas although few areas receive heavy use. Bobcat Ridge
Natural Area is likely to become a destination for local horse
riding enthusiasts. As with most trail systems, horse riders will
need to share the trail with pedestrians and mountain bikers
unless separate, designated trails can be developed.
Opportunities Both valley and mountain areas offer ample opportunities.
Constraints The number of parking spaces available for horse trailer parking
will limit the number of horse riders. Access to the site for the
local community along county roads is limited.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Bobcat Ridge may provide diverse terrain, trail types, and levels of
difficulty. Combined with numerous scenic vistas and destination
sites, this natural area offers a premier horseback riding
experience. Managing visitor behavior through “share the trail”
and “trail yield” etiquette, and routine patrol should limit the
number of negative interactions.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Managed on-trail use on a planned trail system that avoids
sensitive ecological areas can achieve a high level of resource
protection. Trail layout must be designed to minimize impacts to
target plant communities. The location, amount and timing of trail
use must be evaluated to protect nesting raptors and songbirds,
calving deer and elk, important wildlife wintering areas, moth and
butterfly habitat, and other similar conservation targets. The
distribution of weed seed may increase due to horse manure on and
along trails.
Capacity to Manage Use on an established trail system with anticipated level of
compliance offers little enforcement challenge to ranger staff.
Recommended
Action
Horseback riding will be designated as on or within 10 feet of the
trail only in order to prevent resource damage. If pack animals are
allowed in backcountry camping sites, campers will be required to
use certified weed-free hay.
Trails – Americans with Disabilities Act compliant
The Natural Areas Program is committed to providing a high quality appropriate recreation
experience for visitors of varying abilities. System-wide, the Natural Areas Program offers
diverse trails of varying surfaces and difficulty.
Opportunities The valley at Bobcat Ridge provides good opportunity for an all-
access trail with scenic views, varied terrain, and interesting
destinations.
Constraints The mountain area has extremely steep slopes; grades would not
meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. The best
location for an all-access trail is between the parking lot and the
cabin.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Proper design, with the cabin as an interesting destination, along
with ample scenic vistas combine to provide an all-access trail that
delivers a high quality visitor experience.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Managed on-trail use on a planned all-access trail that avoids
sensitive ecological areas can achieve a high level of resource
protection. Trail layout must be designed to minimize impacts to
target plant communities. The proposed location of an all-access
trail has little impact on nesting raptors and songbirds, calving deer
and elk, important wildlife wintering areas, moth and butterfly
habitat, and other similar conservation targets.
Capacity to
Manage
An all-access trail needs to be carefully designed to ensure ADA
compliance.
Recommended
Action
Build an all-access portion of the trail from the parking lot along
the north valley loop to the cabin. Trail features could include a
picnic area and self-guided interpretive features.
Picnic Areas
Many of the responses and comments
that were received as part of public
outreach efforts indicated a desire to
create picnic opportunities at Bobcat
Ridge. Typically the City’s Parks
department has constructed and
maintained picnic shelters. However, as
the number of regional natural areas
expands and these sites become
destinations, it may be feasible to
develop picnic shelter near the parking
lot and picnic waysides along the trail
system.
Opportunities Opportunities to develop wayside areas along trails for picnicking
are abundant. Waysides could consist of a short spur off the main
trail to a seating area (fabricated benches, or made of rocks, logs
or natural materials), and appropriate signage. There is limited
area for a picnic shelter in proximity to the parking area or along
the all-access trail.
Constraints Shelter and table will require routine maintenance.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Wayside areas along trails and a picnic shelter will provide a high
quality visitor experience including for visitors that cannot walk
into the mountainous areas. Design, capacity, and level of
maintenance will strongly influence the visitor experience in the
picnic shelter area.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Any picnic area will need to be monitored to ensure litter and
food scraps do not attract wildlife. Careful consideration must be
given to placement of the picnic shelter so that it doesn’t impact
scenic views. Social trails in and around the picnic areas may
occur.
Capacity to Manage Ranger and maintenance staff would monitor wayside picnic areas
and the picnic shelter. Routine cleaning and trash removal would
be required at the shelter.
Recommended
Action
Plan and build wayside picnic areas in trail design. Include
“Leave No Trace” information in education efforts. Use wildlife
safe trash receptacles. Determine location of picnic shelter in
proximity to the parking lot or along the handicap accessible trail.
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching and wildlife viewing are a staple
recreation activity on City natural areas.
Although there is abundant opportunity for this
activity in the region, public feedback indicated
that Bobcat Ridge Natural Area would be a
choice destination for this activity.
Opportunities Staff and volunteers have documented a large variety of wildlife
including deer, elk, wild turkey, mountain lion, black bear, nesting
raptors, and over 90 species of birds.
Constraints The extent of access and level of visitor use is the main constraint.
A trail system accessing a variety of habitats throughout the
property will permit enhanced viewing opportunities. Heavy visitor
use during elk mating season and songbird nesting season could
however have the potential to disturb wildlife unless managed
through establishing safe viewing locations, limiting times, or
imposing seasonal closures.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
The size of the property, when considered with adjoining protected
land and the variety of ecotones present, provide for a high quality
wildlife watching experience.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are recreation activities at the
core of the Natural Areas Program’s mission. These activities are
anticipated to have minimal impact on biological resources at
normal levels of use. Modifying the times and locations wildlife
can be viewed will be strong tools to ensure that wildlife and plant
communities are not disturbed. Existing Natural Areas regulations
protects against disturbing wildlife. Wildlife watching must be
restricted to open areas, except on guided interpretive walks.
Capacity to
Manage
Wildlife viewing is a generally safe activity. Additional ranger
patrols may be required during times of seasonal closures, songbird
migration, or elk mating season to ensure resources protection.
Recommended
Action
Provide regular guided wildlife watching field trips, including
to areas not open to the public. Provide wildlife watching
educational products.
Interpretive Walks
Education is a primary focus of the Natural
Areas program. The program has an active
Master Naturalist Program in addition to staff led
interpretive programs. Bobcat Ridge Natural
Area abounds with opportunities for both natural
and cultural history walks.
Opportunities The Natural Areas Program has an active education staff and more
than 75 volunteer Master Naturalists. The wide diversity of
wildlife and plant communities, combined with interesting
topography, geology, scenery, and human history of the site provide
a variety of themes and topics for interpretive walks and
educational activities.
Constraints The site’s topography may limit the ability to accommodate a
parking lot suitable for school bus parking, which may limit the
number of school programs offered.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
The diversity of natural and cultural history features together with a
well-designed trail system provides the highest quality visitor
experience.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Interpretive walks will occur on the same trails available for
wildlife viewing. Interpretive walks are anticipated to have
minimal impact on biological resources at normal levels of use.
Modifying the times and locations that wildlife can be viewed will
ensure wildlife and plant communities are not disturbed. Natural
Areas regulations protect against disturbing or harassing wildlife.
Capacity to
Manage
Education staff has the capacity to plan, advertise and deliver
programming at this site. The availability of Master Naturalists
may be limited during the spring as program demand is high at this
time. However, the desire to lead field trips at Bobcat Ridge is
high.
Recommended
Action
Conduct regular guided wildlife watching field trips, including to
areas closed to the public. Provide self-guided learning
experiences through a variety of educational products.
Rock Climbing
For several years, the Natural Areas Program has received a growing number of requests to
open portions of some natural areas for the purposes of rock climbing and bouldering. The
regional recreation analysis shows that the number of areas open for rock climbing is limited
and declining. Although Bobcat Ridge is geologically limited as a climbing resource, the
inclusion of this activity in this management plan is intended to evaluate what resources exist
and determine the feasibility for the area to support this use.
Opportunities There are no known rock-climbing sites at Bobcat Ridge.
Constraints There has not been a complete inventory; however, the geology at
Bobcat Ridge is limited for rock climbing. Sandstone deposits
along hogbacks in the valley are not suitable for rock climbing.
They are also sensitive habitat for raptors, birds, snakes and
mammals. At the bases are rare and sensitive plants. The mountain
area of the site has some climbable rock outcrops, but ledge faces
are limited and degree of difficulty is low.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Sites are not high quality (pitch, hardness of rock, suitable anchors,
etc.) and access to potential sites is difficult or lengthy.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Hogback areas should be considered off-limits to rock climbing
since significant biological resources (nesting raptors and rare
plants) have been documented for these areas.
Capacity to
Manage
Ranger staff have not been trained or equipped to deal with
managing rock climbing areas.
Recommended
Actions
Prohibit rock climbing on hogback ridges to protect sensitive
ecological resources. Conduct an inventory in mountain area for
potential climbing areas. If prospective locations exist, provide
opportunities based on ecological and safety considerations.
Hunting
Any hunting that is considered for Bobcat Ridge needs to contribute to and be compatible
with the ecological and recreation objectives for the property.
Opportunities Game species such as deer, elk, and wild turkey inhabit Bobcat
Ridge. Bobcat Ridge is adjacent to Roosevelt National Forest
which permits hunting. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has
recommended hunting here to avoid overbrowsing, overgrazing and
unnatural concentrations of wildlife.
Constraints Natural Areas regulations prohibit hunting. The likelihood of
hunters trespassing onto Bobcat Ridge from adjacent US Forest
Service property is high and has been documented during the 2004
season. Rangers are not armed and would be at a disadvantage in an
enforcement situation. Hunting on neighboring property may
require temporary closures of Bobcat Ridge trails to ensure visitor
safety.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Game species are common at Bobcat Ridge. There has been active
hunting on the property in the past by neighbors and a professional
outfitter.
Resource
Protection
Hunting as a sport is generally a low impact activity with the
exception of hunting camps. However, hunting does destroy native
wildlife that the Natural Areas Program seeks to protect. Hunting
can be used as a tool to manage herd numbers when overuse occurs
or diseased animals are found.
Capacity to
Manage
Rangers are unarmed. Enforcement activities or field situations
would pose a threat to officer safety and place the rangers at a
serious disadvantage. The Natural Areas Program has not
previously managed hunting on any of its natural areas.
Recommended
Actions
Analyze and consider possibilities for recreational hunting in the
future. Hunting at this site may be an appropriate recreation and/or
ecosystem management tool. Any consideration of hunting will
strongly emphasize wildlife and vegetation management, visitor
safety, the safety of the city’s rangers, and the city’s ability to
enforce hunting regulations.
Backcountry Camping
Public feedback indicates a desire for backcountry camping. Opportunities for backcountry
camping are regionally limited to federal lands and Lory State Park.
Opportunities Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is well suited for designated
backcountry camping. The mountain area of the site has a variety
of suitable areas.
Constraints Infrastructure, regulations and a permit system needs to be
developed. Human waste is a major issue. Attracting wildlife such
as bears could become an issue.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Bobcat Ridge offers opportunities for overnight getaways close to
urban areas.
Ability to
Protect Resources
Designated camping sites need to be in areas that do not impact
protected resources. Open fires would not be permitted.
For visitor safety reasons, campsite should be closed during fire
bans and during hunting season due to the close proximity of the
national forest where hunting is permitted. Camping sites require
close monitoring to ensure that regulations are adhered to and so
that garbage does not accumulate and attract wildlife.
Capacity to
Manage
The Natural Areas Program has not permitted or managed this use
previously. A permit system needs to be administered. Designated
camping sites need to include tent platforms and a plan for dealing
with human waste. Natural sources of water for use by campers are
limited in the mountain area and would require purification.
Recommended
Action
Complete a feasibility plan to address management issues and
identify potential campsites.
Campground/Car Camping
This recreation activity was limited on a regional basis to local federal lands and county
parks such as Horsetooth Mountain Park.
Opportunities Limited to valley area of Bobcat Ridge.
Constraints Even a small campground would dominate the valley of Bobcat
Ridge. Most valley locations would conflict with existing cattle
grazing leases and adjacent neighbors. Substantial road
construction would be required. Campground camping would
require expand working hours and for staff to be routinely on call.
High Quality
Visitor Experience
Interior locations would be best for a high quality visitor
experience, but requires roads which severely impact ecological
resources. Locations in the periphery of the property would impact
neighboring properties.
Resource
Protection
Impact of the footprint of the campground, roads, necessary water
sources and restrooms would impact terrain, wildlife, and visual
resources.
Capacity to
Manage
Daily maintenance would be required. At this time ranger staff is
not permitted by policy to work after dark.
Recommended
Action
Eliminate this recreation activity from consideration as a potential
use at Bobcat Ridge.
B. Trail System
It is the intent of the Natural Areas Program to provide a high quality visitor experience
while protecting the natural and cultural resources. Currently, Bobcat Ridge Natural Area has
several two-track roads in use for the ranching and previous logging operations. Portions of
these may serve as trails. Portions that are not suitable as trails will be closed and restored. It
is suggested that for every mile of new trail, one mile of existing roads not planned for use be
restored, so there is no net gain (i.e. no gain in site disturbance).
Citizens indicated they would like a trail system with wayside picnic areas with scenic views
of the undeveloped valley, hogback cliffs and the mountains. They also said that trails
through different ecotones and a diversity of habitats would be popular. Participants enjoyed
visits to the tipi rings and cabin, and expressed a desire that these be destinations in the trail
system. Finally, there was strong support for separate-use trails (hiking and biking on
different trails).
The recommended trail layout is shown in Figure 6.1. There is no public trail access east of
the Hansen Feeder Canal. The canal poses an extreme public safety concern. The trail layout
is designed to avoid views or access to the canal so that visitors are not tempted to venture
off trail to investigate the area. Brooks Canyon and the hogback cliffs are sensitive habitats
and are closed to general public use. Guided nature walks to Brooks Canyon during the
appropriate seasons will be allowed.
Trails that cross drainages will be designed to minimize impacts to the habitat (i.e. limiting
stream flow, or creating erosion). A spur trail will lead visitors to the historic cabin and will
provide scenic views of the hogback cliffs; however it will also respect the buffer distances
needed for the nesting raptors.
Three separate phases of construction providing continued expansion are recommended and
outlined below. Throughout all phases of construction, a primary consideration will be the
utilization of current trail building techniques that will reflect the different trail uses intended
for sections, (i.e., ADA, pedestrian, mountain biking, and equestrian).The appropriate trail
layout and use of measures such as grade dips, switchbacks, and tread armoring will be
utilized to minimize the disturbance created and alleviate erosion problems to the greatest
extent possible. Due to the high level of use expected by the various user groups, it is
anticipated that the level of tread compaction and displacement from public use will be
elevated, and the associated maintenance costs will rise proportionately.
Phase I – Valley Loop (construct prior to opening)
Phase I trails (delineated in red) are multi-use trails through the valley avoiding the canal
area. These trails will give the public an introduction to the site, including access to cultural
and natural features. Hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking will be accommodated
on Phase 1 trails. The trail segment between the parking lot and the cabin will be an ADA
compliant trail. A self-guided nature walk will be installed along this segment. Natural
Areas Program staff will work with ranchers to locate trails in existing cattle pastures.
Installation of cattle guards, spring-loaded pedestrian gates and other features to mitigate
impacts to grazing operations will also take place during this phase.
Phase II – Mahoney Park and Green Ridge Segment (construct within 1 – 3 years)
Phase II trail segment (shown in blue) will provide multi-use access to Mahoney Park and
the high point on Green Ridge.
Phase III – Mountain Loop (construct within 3 – 5 years)
Phase III trail segment (shown in green) will complete the Mountain Loop. The northern
part of the Mountain Loop will be designated as a hiking and equestrian trial (no mountain
biking); the southern part will be a multi-use trail. Both segments will connect in Mahoney
Park.
Eden Valley Access
A possible second access trail is shown in yellow. This multi-use trail would provide access
to the neighborhood south of Bobcat Ridge. This would be walk-in only (no parking lot) and
may be constructed during one of the phases mentioned above.
C. Managing Visitor Use
Seasonal closures and limited recreation areas may be necessary for reducing the impact of
recreation on certain wildlife species. The Natural Areas Program will monitor the amount
and locations of visitor use, timing issues, visitor behavior, types of uses and visitor
expectations.
The trail system and designated visitor use areas are located to ensure the safe use and high
quality visitor experience while ensuring sustainability of the resources. Some trails may
cross or come near areas identified as sensitive or potentially sensitive. Best management
practices will be used to ensure the sustainability of long-term recreational use without
damage to the resources. For instance, some trails may have seasonal closures and some
trails will be designated for certain uses only such as foot traffic.
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement actions adhere to guidelines and objectives established in the Natural Areas
and Trails Ranger Manual. Natural Areas and Trails Ranger personnel will provide primary
law enforcement responsibilities. Rangers’ primary responsibilities at Bobcat Ridge will
include patrolling, educating the public about rules, regulations and resource management,
issuing warnings and/or citations, monitoring site conditions for misuse and maintenance
needs and calling for assistance in situations requiring emergency response.
Rangers have a limited commission to enforce Natural Areas regulations and City of Fort
Collins code. Rangers are unarmed and are not equipped to deal with certain situations. In
situations involving criminal activities, rangers will call for appropriate back up. Colorado
Division of Wildlife will handle situations involving illegal hunting. All other criminal
activities will be handled by Larimer County Sheriffs Office.
The on-site ranger will be responsible for the primary patrol and enforcement responsibilities
at Bobcat Ridge. All other Natural Areas and Trails Ranger personnel will provide a
secondary role in enforcement activities. Ranger trucks and all-terrain-vehicles will not be
used to patrol the site, but may be used only for maintenance and in emergency situation (see
below).
A horse mounted patrol program based at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is currently under
consideration and may be implemented in the future. The mounted patrol program would
include a facility and horses to be maintained by the on-site ranger. The intent of the
mounted patrol is to provide an effective means to patrol the area while providing a soft,
approachable image to the public appropriate to the site.
Emergency Response Plan
Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is the first natural area in the City of Fort Collins system that has
extensive backcountry. This, combined with the property’s relatively large size and remote
location, warrant an emergency response plan to ensure visitor safety and site protection.
Emergency response may involve several agencies and fire protection districts. For all
emergencies, 911 will be the primary contact number. Emergency dispatch will send the
appropriate response, as determined by the nature of the emergency. Callers should provide
the physical address for Bobcat Ridge Natural Area as 8281 West County Road 32C. The
main entrance gate is one mile west of County Road 27. A list of responding agencies is
provided below:
AMBULANCE / FIRE / POLICE
Any Emergency 911
Larimer County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) 970-416-1985
Fort Collins Police Services 970-221-6545
Larimer County Emergency Services (LCES) 970-498-5301
Natural Areas and Trails Rangers 970-416-2147
Thompson Valley EMS 970-669-1235
FIRE
Any Fire 911
Loveland Fire Department 970-962-2537
Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) (station 9) 970-221-6570
WILDLIFE and NATURAL RESOURCES
Colorado Division of Wildlife 970-461-4003
Aimee Ryel (law enforcement)
Fort Collins Natural Areas Program 970-416-2815
Larimer County Parks and Open Space 970-679-4570
United States Forest Service 970-498-1360
Lenora Arevalos (law enforcement)
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Emergency 911
Larimer County Health Department 970-498-6775
Rich Grossman
City of Fort Collins Natural Resource Dept 970-224-6179
Margit Hentschel
HOSPITALS
Mckee Medical Center (Loveland) 970-669-4640
Poudre Valley Hospital (Ft. Collins) 970-495-7000
Future fire management at Bobcat Ridge is being addressed as part of the comprehensive
restoration plan (prescribed fire).
Vehicle Access
There are two vehicle entrances into Bobcat Ridge. The north entrance address is 8281 West
County Road 32C. The south entrance can be accessed by driving west onto CR 29 from CR
27. CR 29 runs through Eden Valley Ranch and ends at the canal road and gate.
Bobcat Ridge is able to accommodate air and vehicle evacuations should medical
emergencies arise. Responding agencies may include LCSO, LCES, Loveland Fire, PFA,
Thompson Valley EMS and Natural Areas Rangers. Medical supplies and equipment will be
cached in a storage area located near the entrance or parking lot. The storage area will be
available to Natural Areas employees and emergency crews.
The power line service road that provides accesses to Mahoney Park will serve as the
primary vehicular access road leading to the westernmost ridgeline. The emergency accesses
will be marked appropriately to guide emergency response crews.
Wildfire
Wildfire operations falls under the jurisdiction of the Loveland Rural Fire District (LRFD).
All wildfires at Bobcat Ridge will be suppressed. A memorandum of understanding is being
developed with Loveland Rural Fire District which states that shall provide initial attack and
response. Natural Areas Fire Crew and Poudre Fire Authority may provide assistance as
requested and directed by LRFD.
Air Support (Flight for Life and Helitack)
Bobcat Ridge will have emergency accesses from the air that will be suited for air operations
related to medical evacuations (Flight for Life) and wildland fire operations (Helitack). All
valley portions of Bobcat Ridge are currently accessible by air transport and two landing
zones will be located close to the top of the westernmost ridge in the areas near Mahoney
Park and in the upper reaches of what is currently referred to as the Ginny Trail.
Landing zone (helibase) pads will require periodic maintenance to clear debris, downed trees
and anything material, natural or unnatural that could become airborne and hit the
helicopter’s rotors. Natural Areas Ranger staff will be responsible to ensure this condition is
maintained. No ground disturbance will be necessary as native ground cover seals loose dirt
and prevents formation of dust clouds during take off and landing. The helibase will require
100 feet diameter clearance for the rotors. Existing areas currently meet these specifications.
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Federal
Rocky Mountain NP X X X X X X X X X X X
Roosevelt NF X X X X X X X X X X X X
State
Lory State Park X X X X X X X X X X X
Boyd Lake SP X X X X X X X X X X
County
Horsetooth Mtn. Park X X X X X X X X X
Horsetooth Reservoir X X X X X X X
Devil’s Backbone OS X X X X X X X