On Dec. 8, 2022 the Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee (OSTAC) and members of the public listened to a presentation on the Markel and Wottge Open Space Plan. This presentation included an overview and history of the sites, a summary of feedback received from the public outreach conducted to date, and a discussion of next steps. The OSTAC presentation, initial survey results, and project updates can be viewed at https://www.broomfieldvoice.com/markelwottgeplan. The next in-person feedback opportunity will be an open house where residents can comment on alternative plans for the sites; this will be held in early winter 2023. Residents can also use the comment box at the bottom of the Broomfield Voice page to submit their comments and questions to the project staff. 

Colorado has 360 days of sunshine which means that there are plenty of trails to hike and activities to do outside, even in the winter! Open Space and Trails wants to share some ideas for fun winter outdoor activities on open space, parks and trails. See you on the trails!

The oil and gas environmental due diligence related to the Carlson 1-24 well site located at 13781 Fox Ridge Drive (also called Parcel 4) has been completed and approved by Broomfield staff. This map shows the property location. The Carlson 1-24 oil and gas well has been plugged and abandoned. This environmental due diligence work was conducted to allow for the potential transfer of this property to the City and County of Broomfield as required by the Purchase Agreement. Here is the approved Phase II Report and City and County of Broomfield Confirmation Letter noting that the environmental testing is acceptable. The reseeding of the site was also completed on November 23. Once the native grass seed is established and receives final acceptance by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commision site inspector, Broomfield staff will address the final due diligence research to allow for the purchase of the property. Parcel 4 is planned to become part of the existing Markel Open Space.

The City and County of Broomfield is using a combination of focus group discussions, community events, a survey, and conversations with diverse populations to elicit feedback on the OSPRT Plan Refresh. The Open Space & Trails Advisory Committee and Parks, Recreation & Senior Services Advisory Committee will hold a joint meeting on Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. at the Broomfield Community Center to discuss topics such as the Needs Assessment, Parks Classifications, and Trail Prioritization Criteria. The public is encouraged to attend. Submit feedback at: BroomfieldVoice.com/OSPRTplan.

Broomfield is fortunate to have active raptor populations and nesting in a suburban setting. However, these majestic birds, which include species like the Bald Eagle, Great Horned Owl and Red-tailed Hawk can be sensitive to disturbances in their nesting and breeding habitats. To identify ways to minimize habitat impacts on raptors, Broomfield is creating a Raptor Management Plan. This plan is being developed by working within the state and federal regulatory framework and respecting private property rights.

Through coordination with biologists and raptor rehabilitation centers, current research is documenting the most common injuries, diseases, and impacts to raptors in our community so that Broomfield can identify ways to better manage habitat and ensure nesting success. The plan includes topics such as suggestions for protective measures, habitat enhancement concepts, a summary of community outreach, and a process to develop a monitoring program. Submit feedback at: BroomfieldVoice.com/RaptorPlan.

Excited to learn more about local wildlife and opportunities to increase your enjoyment of open space? The Open Space Speaker Series will return in Fall 2023! These virtual programs are free to attend and no registration is required. Click here to view previous speakers.