Peaks Region Management Plan
Includes Cathedral Spires Park, Pine Valley Ranch Park, and Reynolds Park
APPROVAL PAGE
Management Planning is an on-going process. Plans will never be considered “completed,” although, they will be reviewed periodically so they take into account environmental, social and political changes and reflect those changes.
Having reviewed its contents, this ______Peaks Region Management Plan, drafted in and revised in ______(date), has been adopted by the planning team members. Signature Date ______, ______Regional Park Supervisor ______, ______Regional Planning Coordinator
Peaks Region Management Plan Jefferson County Open Space i 2013
Table of Contents
Executive Summary: Peaks Region Management Plan ...... vii
Chapter 1: Jefferson County Open Space Management Planning ...... 12
Chapter 2: Detailed Information on Cathedral Spires Park ...... 5
Park Vision ...... 5
Location...... 5
Chronology of Development ...... 5
Amenities ...... 5
Park Capacity ...... 6
Historical Background ...... 6
Natural and Cultural Resources ...... 8
Activities ...... 9
Visitation & Use Trends ...... 9
Location Map ...... 10
Park Map ...... 11
Acquisition History Map ...... 12
Management Context ...... 14
Management Unit Designation Map ...... 15
Agreements Table ...... 16
Work Plan Summary ...... 17
Actions Map ...... 19
Action Items ...... 20
Discussion Items ...... 21
Chapter 3: Detailed Information on Pine Valley Ranch Park ...... 23
Park Vision ...... 23
Location...... 23
Chronology of Development ...... 23 Peaks Region Management Plan Jefferson County Open Space ii 2013
Amenities ...... 24
Park Capacity ...... 24
Historical Background ...... 25
Natural and Cultural Resources ...... 26
Activities ...... 27
Visitation & Use Trends ...... 27
Location Map ...... 28
Park Map ...... 29
Acquisition History Map ...... 30
Management Context ...... 32
Management Unit Designation Map ...... 34
Agreements Table ...... 36
Work Plan Summary ...... 37
Actions Map ...... 38
Action Items ...... 39
Discussion Items ...... 43
Chapter 4: Detailed Information on Reynolds Park ...... 61
Park Vision ...... 61
Location...... 61
Chronology of Development ...... 61
Amenities ...... 62
Park Capacity ...... 62
Historical Background ...... 62
Natural and Cultural Resources ...... 64
Activities ...... 66
Visitation & Use Trends ...... 66
Location Map ...... 67
Park Map ...... 68
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Acquisition History Map ...... 69
Management Context ...... 71
Management Unit Designation Map ...... 72
Agreements Table ...... 73
Work Plan Summary ...... 74
Actions Map ...... 76
Action Items ...... 77
Discussion Items ...... 78
List of Tables ...... v
List of Figures ...... v
Appendix A: Open Space Management Directions System ...... 80
Appendix B: Operational Documents Used in Park Management ...... 86
Appendix C: Laws and Regulations ...... 87
Appendix D: Stakeholders and Constituencies ...... 89
Glossary: Terms and Acronyms ...... 91
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List of Tables
Table 2a: Cathedral Spires Park Leases, Licenses, Easements, Contracts and Agreements ...... 16
Table 3a: Pine Valley Ranch Park Leases, Licenses, Easements, Contracts and Agreements ...... 36
Table 4a: Reynolds Park Leases, Licenses, Easements, Contracts and Agreements...... 73
List of Figures
Figure 2a: Cathedral Spires Park Location Map ...... 10
Figure 2b: Cathedral Spires Park Map ...... 11
Figure 2c: Cathedral Spires Park Acquisition History Map ...... 12
Figure 2d: Cathedral Spires Park Opportunities and Constraints Analysis ...... 13
Figure 2e: Cathedral Spires Park Management Unit Designation Map ...... 15
Figure 2f: Cathedral Spires Park Action Map ...... 19
Figure 3a: Pine Valley Ranch Park Location Map ...... 28
Figure 3b: Pine Valley Ranch Park Map ...... 29
Figure 3c: Pine Valley Ranch Park Acquisition History Map ...... 30
Figure 3d: Pine Valley Ranch Park Opportunities and Constraints Analysis ...... 31
Figure 3e: Pine Valley Ranch Park Management Unit Designation Map ...... 34
Figure 3f: Pine Valley Ranch Park Action Map ...... 38
Figure 4a: Reynolds Park Location Map ...... 67
Figure 4b: Reynolds Park Map ...... 68
Figure 4c: Reynolds Park Acquisition History Map ...... 69
Figure 4d: Reynolds Park Opportunities and Constraints Analysis ...... 70
Figure 4e: Reynolds Park Management Unit Designation Map ...... 72
Figure 4f: Reynolds Park Action Map ...... 76
Peaks Region Management Plan Jefferson County Open Space v 2013
Executive Summary
Peaks Region MANAGEMENT PLAN
Includes Cathedral Spires Park, Pine Valley Ranch Park, and Reynolds Park
Peaks Region Management Plan Jefferson County Open Space vi 2013
Executive Summary: Peaks Region Management Plan
Background:
In April of 1999 Jefferson County Open Space initiated a Management Planning process for its open space areas. The agency committed to developing management plans for each park and undeveloped open space in the system. In 2012, 9 regions were identified and all 29 Management Plans are now a part of one of these regions.
Management Plan Objectives and Organization:
This Peaks Region Management Plan is part of the Jefferson County Open Space system-wide effort to provide for protection and appropriate use of Jefferson County’s recreational, natural and cultural resources. This Plan is issue-driven. It identifies significant management issues at the parks and then recommends management approaches and actions to respond to those issues.
This Plan is organized as follows: • Jefferson County Open Space Management Planning provides an explanation of Open Space’s approach to Management Planning throughout the Open Space system. • Descriptions of Cathedral Spires Park, Pine Valley Ranch Park, and Reynolds Park provide a description of the parks, their history and major attributes, trends in visitation and use, the Management Unit, action items, and work plan summaries. • Appendices present information that complements the main body of text with information about the Open Space Management Designations System, and the Operational Documents used in park management.
Park Staff:
Role of a Regional Park Supervisor: • Responsible for all activities at a number of parks, defined by a park region. • Establish yourself as the public point of contact and ambassador for the Parks and properties in the region. • Be aware of topics of interest to the public and users in the park region and communicate all items of sensitivity with your section Manager and the Communications Manager. • Review the Regional Management Plan documents periodically and lead an annual field visit. • Recommend Priority Actions to section manager and/or management team and coordinate the timing and implementation of these for the Park Region. • Work with the respective section managers for budget and resource allocations
Peaks Region Management Plan Executive Summary Jefferson County Open Space vii 2013
necessary for appropriate scheduling and implementation of Priority Actions
Park Operations: On-site management of the Peaks Region is the responsibility of multiple Open Space sections. The Park Operations section is divided into several subsections: Park Services, Natural Resources Management, and Trail Services. Park Operation manages the daily operations of Open Space’s parks, including but not limited to, trail maintenance; fence and sign maintenance and construction; trailhead facility maintenance; forest and wildlife management; and road and parking lot maintenance. The Park Construction subsection of Park Planning and Construction provides trailhead and entry signage, structure maintenance and construction. The Ranger subsection of Administration/Education Services provides patrol and emergency services on the parks. Each subsection utilizes operational documents to guide their management activities.
Peaks Region Management Plan Executive Summary Jefferson County Open Space viii 2013
Cathedral Spires Park:
Park Location and Description: Cathedral Spires Park consists of 769 acres, and is located seven miles south of Conifer and one and one-half miles south of Reynolds Park. The Park is south of Resort Creek Road and north of Platte River Road. The property encompasses two parcels of land, one known as the Dome and one known as the Spires.
Activities: • In 2007 Denver Water Board allowed public access over the southern portion, giving park visitors legal public access to Cathedral Spires Park.
Park Vision: The vision for Cathedral Spires Park involves balancing human use with resource preservation. This is accomplished through the application of management units upon the landscape, which define a spectrum of recreational opportunities, environmental education and interpretation opportunities, and natural and cultural resource conservation efforts. Cathedral Spires Park has been designated a Natural Management Unit. The park's location is remote and its rock formations are a significant landmark and a valuable aesthetic resource. Management of the park will strive to maintain protection of the peregrine falcons, wildlife, other natural resources and use of the climbing resources.
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Pine Valley Ranch Park:
Park Location and Description: Pine Valley Ranch Park consists of 884 acres, and is located in the southern part of Jefferson County, just west of the town of Pine. The North Fork of the South Platte River bisects the Park diagonally from the northwest to the southeast, and defines the character of the Park. The valley area, home to two federally-listed threatened species, is heavily used for recreation, social gatherings, and both natural and cultural interpretation, while the remainder of the Park is steep, rocky and forested.
Activities: • Recreational: Fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, large group events including weddings, company picnics and reunions. • Educational: Interpretive programs utilizing the observatory and “Depot” visitors center on astronomy, fire ecology, history of Pine Valley Ranch and Pine area and natural resources.
Park Vision: The vision for the management of this Park is to provide visitors year-round access to the richly diverse cultural and natural resources so abundant at Pine Valley Ranch Park, while protecting the Park’s fragile resources. The objective is to balance the public’s present level of access to the Park’s natural resources with increased access to the varied cultural resources derived from the property’s historic uses. Pine Valley Ranch Park is a microcosm of Colorado’s history during the 19th and 20th centuries and provides myriad interpretive opportunities.
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Reynolds Park:
Park Location and Description: Reynolds Park is comprised of approximately 1,900 acres located along the north and south sides of Foxton Road, just north of Pine and southeast of Evergreen, Colorado. The terrain is a rocky valley with steeply-ravined hill sides that drain to a riparian corridor in Kennedy Gulch. Ranging in elevation from 7,000 feet along Kennedy Gulch to 8,100 feet along the ridgelines, the Park lies within the transitional area between the Foothills and Montane ecological zones. Camping, picnic areas, two restrooms, and approximately 5.9 miles of trail are available and dramatic vistas of the South Platte Valley are available to hikers that gain the ridgeline on the western side of the Park.
Activities: • Recreational: Hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, dog-walking, trail-running and wildlife viewing are popular activities at Reynolds Park. • Mountain-bike use at Reynolds had been observed to be infrequent, and since 2004, has not been permitted. Reynolds is one of only two Open Space parks where camping is available.
Park Vision: The vision for Reynolds Park is to maintain its relative serenity, current visitation, and intact natural values by managing its trail use to be hiker and equestrian only and by limiting further development. Reynolds Park offers the quiet and solitude that many Open Space visitors seek. This characteristic results from Reynolds' distance from populated areas, its limited Park facilities, and its relatively low trail mileage. Since there is the desire to maintain Reynolds Park's characteristic quiet and solitude, it is appropriate to make this Park hiker and equestrian use only.
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Chapter 1: Jefferson County Open Space Management Planning
Management Planning Approach:
Management Planning Principles: This Plan uses four basic principles to ensure the long-term public value of Management Planning:
1) Management Plans will be continuously revised: Management Planning is an on-going process. Individual plans will never be considered “completed,” although, they will be considered “mature,” ready to be acted upon, when they have been reviewed. This plan shall be reviewed periodically so it has the ability to take into account environmental, social and political changes and reflect those changes. 2) Management Plans are the primary document for communicating resource management information: Plans will be written to clearly communicate park and region specific resource stewardship issues, management approaches, and actions to the rest of the agency, the public and other stakeholders. 3) Park staff plays an integral role in producing and revising Management Plans: In this way, those responsible for implementing the plan have a vested interest in making it succeed. 4) Members of the public may participate in development of and updates to Regional Management Plans: Directly involving park stakeholders in producing and revising plans fosters better understanding of how their particular interests fit into the larger resource Management Unit while also giving them a stake in the plan’s success.
Management Planning Steps: For efficiency and consistency among Management Plans, Jefferson County Open Space standardized the planning process by incorporating information that is applicable throughout the agency and providing this “model” format for presenting regional and park-specific information.
Regional Management Planning includes: 1. Establishing the park Management Unit. 2. Gathering preliminary natural, cultural, developmental and recreational resource information about the park and region. 3. Requesting information and opinions from people interested in or affected by park management decisions (stakeholders) on issues of concern to them. 4. Clearly defining issues. 5. Identifying and evaluating options for resolving management issues. 6. Drafting a management plan that explains the management approach and the specific management actions proposed to address issues. Peaks Region Management Plan Executive Summary Jefferson County Open Space xii 2013
7. Finalizing and implementing the Regional Management Plan. 8. Reviewing the management plans periodically to evaluate progress, identify new issues, and generate annual budgets/work plans. 9. Revising the management plan to respond to new issues and to reflect management changes.
Park Management Decisions: Resources and resource management issues vary between region and parks, but the essential challenge for the Open Space Program is accommodating public recreational use and protecting natural and cultural resources. Open Space staff utilize the following guidelines to help achieve a balance of recreational use and resource protection.
1) Systems Perspective: JCOS lands are within a larger system of outdoor spaces managed by local communities, state and federal agencies. Planning and decision- making will take into consideration the region, adjacent and nearby public lands and waters, and strive to maintain an important niche of “urban” open space and natural areas, taking into account the role of human interaction with these natural systems. 2) Public Values: There are many different values that county residents and other stakeholders have for JCOS. Planning and decision-making will consider all values and not the exclusive use or opinions of a single, smaller group. JCOS needs to respect and integrate the values and preferences of all residents, including major stakeholders such as recreationists and adjacent landowners. 3) Sustainability: Natural, cultural and recreational resource protection is of paramount concern for managing Jefferson County’s Open Space areas. Management tools and techniques, facility types and design, and visitor management techniques that minimize impacts on these resources will be favored. 4) Economic Considerations: Using the financial resources of Jefferson County efficiently and effectively is critical, but this is not to suggest the least expensive option is the preferred. Environmental considerations should be judged equally with technical and economic considerations in planning and decision-making. 5) Appropriate Recreation: It is recognized that JCOS cannot be “all things for all people,” and difficult capacity and allocation decisions are necessary. 6) Appreciation and Education: A major purpose of JCOS is to help increase public appreciation and understanding for our great outdoors and our natural/cultural environments. 7) Respect the Resource: Much is not known about how ecosystems operate or how one activity may affect it or other activities. Planning and decision-making should reflect scientific findings and monitoring efforts by JCOS. When two or more alternatives are identified through an evaluation process, the alternative that least impacts the resource and visitor experiences and preserves future options should be the preferred alternative.
Management Context:
Open Space lands are classified into Management Unit’s according to ecosystem and cultural resource protection requirements, and their capability and suitability to provide opportunities for visitor experiences. Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 1 Jefferson County Open Space 2 2013
Open Space staff has adopted three land classifications:
1) Sensitive Areas are those that are very special, fragile, and highly valued for their natural or cultural features. Preservation and protection are the paramount considerations for these areas. Visitation to these areas is limited, controlled and monitored through a registration permit system.
2) Natural Areas are relatively large areas where ecological processes dominate and humans can typically experience a sense of solitude and remoteness.
3) Recreation Services and Amenities Areas provide opportunities for a wide variety of outdoor recreation experiences while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the natural resources.
Also utilized in park management is a Special Protection Area, or an SPA. It can be thought of as an overlay to one of the Management Unit Designations (MUDs) noted above. It has been created to address any unique item that requires special management actions, such as but not limited to: safety, a park access issue, natural resource concerns or restoration opportunities, cultural or environmental issues, biodiversity enhancement, time sensitive implications, a political imperative, other management consequences or opportunities. An SPA can be created within any MUD when specific resources, that are deemed significant, face real or potential impacts or opportunities that warrant special management actions. Given the preservation and protection already provided within a Sensitive Area, it is unlikely that a SPA will be needed. An effort at restoration, however, could be an applicable use of special management actions in a SPA. Specific location(s) and boundaries will be shown with the SPA labeled to denote the resource(s) in need of protection or special management. Issue-driven actions will be formulated to address the SPA.
Management Directions:
Resource Management: Resource Evaluation Management (REM) is a framework to establish and manage specific natural, cultural and recreational resource issues. Key issues are identified and, where feasible, monitored. Indicators and thresholds may be useful in developing desired standards. Each Regional Management Plan identifies 6 steps to assess the applicable approach. Three of these steps are relevant to best management practices for resources. The other 3 relate to the use of measurable indicators and an achievable standard. In these cases the conflicting resource issues must be identified with an ability to compromise a resource issue, and clear direction as to the resource priority, to attain and manage for the identified standard. Resource monitoring provides a flow of information that may indicate a need to alter or adapt management.
Managing a diverse collection of natural, cultural, and recreational resources is a balancing act. Park staff faces increasing pressure to accommodate public recreational use of natural and cultural resources while also protecting those resources from unacceptable degradation. How much public use is too much? What kinds of use can Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 1 Jefferson County Open Space 3 2013
a resource sustain? Over the last 40 years several approaches to resource management have been developed to increase harmony between recreational use and resource protection.
Open Space Resource Management can be summarized as follows:
1) Identify key resource and management issues (step 5 if no indicators present) 2) At selected times and places, choose measurable indicators of natural, cultural and recreational resource conditions: identify quantifiable events or physical properties that gauge resource conditions, e.g., area of bare ground in campsites, incidents of vandalism, reported visitor conflicts, etc. 3) When indicators are utilized, then measure, monitor and analyze indicators: reach qualitative and/or quantitative conclusions of resource conditions and visitor experiences, to determine best management practices. 4) When indicators are utilized a specific standard or threshold shall be established. 5) Explore and select most appropriate management option(s). 6) Evaluate management actions: determine successes and/or failures of applied management actions and, if necessary, over a period of time, adapt either management actions or standards.
A resource management process recognizes that any recreational use of natural or cultural resources will cause some degree of change to those resources. Key park resources can be assessed over time to determine if their condition achieves or remains within acceptable standards. If standards are not met, either additional management actions may be selected and implemented or resource standards may be changed, whichever is deemed appropriate.
In most cases, measuring changes or impacts to all resources in an area is impractical. For this reason, only limited resources and issues will have specific indicators utilized to determine the appropriate standard and management strategy. Typically only a few resource-related or visitor experience matters of heightened public or staff concern will require indicators and associated standards. These will provide additional information and guidance with management decisions.
Another practical consideration is the ability to establish and monitor indicators. Indicators are typically quantifiable measurements or qualitative observations or events that gauge the condition of a particular resource or resources. The use of indicators is an additional tool to evaluate standards, can reduce the need for comprehensive resource inventories, and allows persons without extensive technical expertise to monitor change.
JCOS utilizes resource management techniques that are adaptive and by monitoring resources and establishing standards, is able to provide a flow of information that may indicate the need to change a course of action.
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Chapter 2: Detailed Information on Cathedral Spires Park
Introduction:
Park Vision: The management of Cathedral Spires Park reflects Jefferson County Open Space’s mission of balancing human use with resource preservation. This is accomplished through the application of management units upon the landscape, which define a spectrum of recreational opportunities, environmental education and interpretation opportunities, and natural and cultural resource conservation efforts.
Minimal development will provide limited parking and trail access which will help mitigate the development of social trails and resource degradation, thus advancing the goal of preserving the area’s aesthetic, recreational and habitat values. Cooperation and collaboration with various entities, including the Denver Water Board and private landowners, will enhance opportunities for trail easements, trail connections and trail access to the area.
Location: Cathedral Spires Park is located seven miles south of Conifer and one and one-half miles south of Reynolds Park. This property is south of Resort Creek Road and north of Platte River Road.
Chronology of Development: No development has taken place.
Amenities: The property currently has limited development. Figure 3a, Park Map, illustrates proposed development on Cathedral Spires Park. Prior to obtaining legal public access, JCOS proposed low level development including the construction of a parking lot near the Platte River Road. Public access occurs from established parking areas along Platte River Road. JCOS installed a 2-panel kiosk at the main parking lot and a 1-panel sign at the east most parking location in 2011. Development in this area will provide parking and trailhead amenities to climbers and hikers, and will serve as a point of contact between Open Space and park users.
Additionally, a wildlife viewing area is proposed that will allow visitors to observe the resident peregrine falcons in their natural habitat. Trail construction will include enhancements/and development of the existing social trail from the south. Due to the topography, the trail will end before reaching the rock formations, allowing dispersed access to individual climbing sites. The trail will contour well below the climbing formations to allow for raptor nesting closures and signage will describe where cross- country travel is appropriate. Further trail development will be reviewed if access between the Spires and the Dome is achieved and if there are potential connections to other trails to the north. Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 1 Jefferson County Open Space 5 2013
JCOS staff initiated public access improvements to the existing social trails in 2011 and 2012. The west climbing access to Cathedral Spires was improved with a volunteer project in 2011. A 2012 volunteer project improved approximately 1/3rd of the east climbing access trail. Staff will continue to improve the east route.
Park Capacity:
Acreage: The total area under Open Space administration is 769 acres, more or less, consisting of 444 acres, more or less, of fee owned land plus 120 acres, more or less of Conservation Easement and 205 acres leased from the Denver Water Board.
Historical Background: Cathedral Spires Park is located near Foxton Colorado and about 2.1 miles northwest of Buffalo Creek. The body of water given the name Buffalo Creek is believed to have been named by John C. Fremont in 1844 based on the number of roaming buffalo in the area. The Buffalo Creek area was used by the Ute Indians as a summer refuge and was permanently settled between 1863 and 1870.
In 1878, the population was approximately 1,000 people, most of whom were employed as loggers and to a lesser degree miners or ranchers. Buffalo Creek developed businesses such as a blacksmith shop, meat market, saloons, boarding houses and various other enterprises in support of the logging, mining and ranching activities.
The area supported 10 large sawmills that shipped their lumber via the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroads. By 1880, daily trains hauled up to 40 carloads of lumber per day to Denver. In 1883, John W. Green bought a store that, to this day, is still known as the J. W. Mercantile Company. In 1898, the original store burned down and was rebuilt as stone building that still stands today.
In the 1920s and 1930s, the Buffalo Creek area was frequently a destination for short holidays and summer retreats for people from Denver. This area offered lots of places to go hiking, picnicking and exploring. Some popular destinations were Top of the World, Dome Rock, Banner Rock, Bishop Peak, Crystal Mountain, The Cathedral (spire) and Elk Creek Falls.
Peter Hubbel, the author of South Platte: The Rock Climber’s Guide, stated, “The actual climbing history of the South Platte dates back to 1924 when the prolific climbing pioneer Robert Ellingwood, along with Agnes Vaille and Stephen Hart, made the first ascent of The Bishop Chimney on The Bishop in the Cathedral Spires area. This climb was considered to be one of the hardest climbs in the country at that time.”
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) had a camp in Buffalo Creek around 1933. In 1934, the road to Pine Junction was widened for two-way traffic. By the late 1930s, REA had offered to bring electricity to the area, but World War II put it off until 1947. In later years, the area has continued to be a popular locale for summer cabins and Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 2: Cathedral Spires Park Jefferson County Open Space 6 2013
outdoor adventures. Generations of families have kept and used these cabins. In 1974 the J. W. Green Mercantile Company was placed on the Register of Historic Places and is the sole business of Buffalo Creek.
Acquired: In May 1997, The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) United States Department of the Interior did patent to Jefferson County 284 acres. The patent was issued pursuant to the Recreation and Public Purposes Act for lands located in Sections 19 and 20, TS., R70 W.
In July 2001, a Lease of 40 acres was patented by the BLM for the SW¼ SE¼ of Section 20, T7S, R70W. This patent was granted for protection of peregrine falcon nests and non-conflicting educational and recreational uses.
On November 25, 2003, 80 acres was acquired from Vern Witbak. The purchase price for this tract was $160,000 or $2,000 per acre as authorized by OSAC Resolution #03-24 and BCC Resolution #CC03-526. The property is within the Cathedral Spires Natural Area and is suitable for recreation uses, preservation of geological features, protection of peregrine falcon nesting sites and access to existing Open Space Cathedral Spires property.
On October 28, 2004, a Conservation Easement for 120 acres, was acquired from Resort Valley Ranch East, Inc. The purchase price for this easement was $239,400 or $1,995.00 per acre, as authorized by OSAC Resolution #02-025 and BCC Resolution #CC04-555. The property is within the Cathedral Spires Natural Area and is suitable for preservation of significant geological features, protection of peregrine falcon nest sites and potentially for recreation uses including a trail corridor.
The Open Space Advisory Committee (OSAC) passed Resolution #93-071 on October 7, 1993, stating that the subject lands (patent and lease) were suitable for scenic preservation of significant geological features and would help meet park, open space and recreational needs.
On October 11, 2007, The Denver Water Board executed a Lease Agreement with the County for public recreation purposes over approximately 205 acres. The property is leased at no cost to the County for a term of twenty-five years and provides public access to Cathedral Spires Park. The lease was authorized by OSAC Resolution #07-24 and BCC Resolution #07-641.
On June 26, 2008, 20 acres was acquired from The Petrites Family Trust. At the same time 20 acres were also acquired from Patrick J. Foley and J. C. Heinen. The total purchase price for the two tracts was $145,000.00 or $3,500.00 per acre as authorized by OSAC Resolution #06-05 and BCC Resolution # CC08-265. The property was acquired for the purposes of contiguity and buffer to Cathedral Spires Park, unique or scenic corridor values and wildlife habitat preservation. Also acquired was an administrative access right for Open Space Staff to three designated parking areas at the end of Cathedral Trail and walk-in access from that point to Open Space land. Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 2: Cathedral Spires Park Jefferson County Open Space 7 2013
Natural and Cultural Resources: The following is a synopsis of the natural and cultural resources found at the Cathedral Spires and Dome properties.
Vegetation: Natural Resource staff surveyed the Cathedral Spires property in August of 1998. The property referred to as the Dome was not surveyed at that time because legal access could not be obtained. • Ponderosa pine/mountain mahogany (Pinus ponderosa/Cercocarpus montanus)- 25% • Douglas-fir/cliff jamesia (Pseudotsuga menziesii/Jamesia americana)- 50% • Ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir/mountain muhly (Pinus ponderosa-Pseudotsuga menziesii/Muhlenbergia montana)- 25%
The Colorado Natural Heritage Program reports the presence of a foothill ponderosa pine savanna (Pinus ponderosa/Muhlenbergia montana) near, or part of this property, which they list as a rare and/or imperiled community.
Wildlife: There are many species of wildlife that utilize this property, however, there are three that warrant specific management considerations. • Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) - A pair of falcons have utilized the cliffs that make up Cathedral Spires and the Dome. This pair has been monitored by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) for many years and the cliffs have been an important site in the reestablishment of the peregrine falcon over its historic range. Cooperation between CDOW, Jefferson County Open Space, and volunteers has allowed for the implementation of a seasonal closure during the falcons’ breeding season. Potential threats to the breeding success include human and natural disturbances. Jefferson County Open Space can only manage the human disturbances. These human disturbances are likely to occur from some sort of recreation such as hiking trails or rock climbing too near the nest ledge. Previously listed as a Threatened or Endangered Species, closures were enforced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and CDOW. Since delisting, enforcement rests with local land managers. Since falcons move nesting ledges from year to year, and the multitude of both private and public ownership in this area, enforcement will become more difficult. Currently peregrine falcons are considered a state Species of Special Concern.
• Mexican spotted owl (Strix occidentalis lucida) - Jerry Craig, raptor biologist with CDOW, suggests the possible presence of the Mexican spotted owl. This species is found in areas with available cliffs and old-growth or mature ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir. While monitoring the peregrine falcons at this site, CDOW staff found what they thought was a tail feather from a spotted owl. Natural resource staff surveyed Cathedral Spires one time for the presence of the spotted owl in August of 1998. Its presence was not determined; however, additional surveys and annual monitoring are needed. This species is listed as
Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 2: Cathedral Spires Park Jefferson County Open Space 8 2013
both a Federal and State Threatened Species. Closures for the peregrine falcon would likely benefit the spotted owl as well.
• Pawnee montane skipper (Hesperia leonardus montanus) - the Colorado Natural Heritage Program rates this insect as globally rare. Surveys failed to report positive sightings, but the habitat and elevation are consistent with known ranges. Additional information on land management concerns can be obtained from the Natural Resources Department. Passive recreation should have no real effect on this skipper. Land management practices that might alter the forest and vegetation pose the real threat. Forest management and noxious weeds pose the greatest concern, but erosion from established or social trails should also be considered.
Cultural Resources: A cultural resources survey was conducted by Foothill Engineering Consultants, Inc. in 1996 to fulfill the requirements for acquisition of Bureau of Land Management property. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Jefferson County Open Space Planning section. The survey did not find any cultural resources on these parcels. However, a chert flake was spotted while accessing this property. This type of chert is found in Middle Park, not the Front Range. The survey reports that this represents prehistoric connections between Middle Park and the Front Range. This flake was only noted and not collected since it was found on private property. It is only mentioned here because of the potential for acquiring additional property in the area.
Activities: In 2007 Denver Water Board allowed public access over the southern portion, giving park visitors legal public access to Cathedral Spires Park.
Visitation and Use Trends: A wide variety of data is collected throughout the Open Space system to establish amount of use and types of use on the different parks. This information is collected through a variety of methods, including mechanical counters, visitor surveys and observations. Since the Cathedral Spires property has not been developed and public access has not been secured, there is no current visitation information.
Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 2: Cathedral Spires Park Jefferson County Open Space 9 2013
Figure 2a: Cathedral Spires Park Location Map Figure 1. Cathedral Spires Park Location Map
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Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 2: Cathedral Spires Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 12
Figure 2d: Cathedral Spires Park Opportunities and Constraints Analysis
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Management Context:
This section identifies and describes the Management Unit that has been designated for Cathedral Spires Park. See Figure 2e.
Natural Area Management Unit: Below is the justification for designating Cathedral Spires Park, in its entirety, a Natural Area Management Unit. 1. Steep terrain, not ideal for development of trails and facilities, leads to the interior of the park and the rock formations at the top. 2. A priority is to maintain the aesthetic value and low level use. 3. Falcons can be managed through seasonal closures. 4. Development (parking/access) will be minimal. 5. Climbing resource.
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Figure 2e: Cathedral Spires Park MUD Map
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Cathedral Spires Park Leases, Easements, Contracts and Agreements: Jefferson County Open Space often enters into agreements with other public and private organizations and individuals on behalf of a park. These agreements sometimes help the park to fulfill its recreational or stewardship objectives while providing a service or benefit to the other party. Agreements of this type are legally binding, and as a result, form a critical element of a park’s legal and policy context. Leases, easements, contracts and agreements entered into on behalf of this park are outlined in Table 1a, following.
TABLE 2a: CATHEDRAL SPIRES PARK LEASES, LICENSES, EASEMENTS, CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
Agreeing Parties Description Location Agreement Type
Exception U.S.A. Right of Way for ditches and canals constructed under Act of 1890 Patent FO426838
Reservation U.S.A. All Minerals to U.S.A. Patent F0426838
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Work Plan Summary:
The Figure on the following page reflects the five-year financial strategy for Cathedral Spires Park. The “issue-driven” actions identified in the Actions Map (Figure 2f) correspond alpha-numerically to the “Action Items,” portion of this chapter. The Actions Map (Figure 2f) shows the temporal relationship between the issues.
Definitions:
1) System-wide Priority Criteria
A decision whether to implement a particular management action is based on system-wide priorities, which are derived from the following criteria:
• Universal Accessibility/life safety/public health • Resource protection • Special studies/planning • Cyclic maintenance
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Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 2: Cathedral Spires Park Jefferson County Open Space 18 2013 Figure 2f: Actions Map
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Action Items:
An explanation of identified issues specific to Cathedral Spires Park and the actions proposed to resolve them follow. The issues and actions articulated below correspond alpha-numerically to Figure 2f. Implementation of the preferred management options may be limited by staffing and/or budget constraints.
Climbing Management: C.2.a. A climbing management inventory with management recommendations was completed. As the park evolves, the management recommendations will be implemented.
Develop Interpretive Plan: D.1. An interpretive plan will be developed to provide interpretive opportunities at this park.
Signage: F.1. A simple kiosk will be installed at the parking areas to provide information about rules & regulations, park map, seasonal closures and some background/history of the park, in addition to any interior signage needed.
Trails: H.1. Design Trail Once easements and/or other acquisitions are accomplished, a trail or trail system may be designed for visitors providing access to the rock formations and between the areas known as The Dome and The Spires. In designing any future trails, consideration will be given to the patterns of climbers and should accommodate the most direct route possible. As such, the resulting design may not conform to the usual trail standards.
H.1.a. Existing Social Trail System Until a more formal trail is designed and constructed, if one is, the lease with DWB allows the public to use the existing “social trails”. A more thorough inventory and evaluation of the existing trail system will be conducted and improvements and modifications will be implemented as necessary.
H.2. Construct Trail(s) Upon completion of a trail plan/design, construction will take place.
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Discussion Items:
Although the following discussion items were not considered issues by the Open Space staff, they are included here for the administrative record.
1. Application Commitments – As part of the acquisitions process for the Cathedral Spires properties, Open Space staff prepared Application Form 2740-1, Plan of Development, for the Bureau of Land Management. A statement of need, the proposed use of the land, and a management/maintenance plan were described therein. Staff felt that monitoring these commitments in relation to development of the property was important. The broad commitments stated in this document are: “the goal of preserving the property’s natural condition in order to protect the nesting cliffs and feeding habitat of the peregrine falcon”; allowing public access to the park; and providing interpretive and recreational opportunities.
2. Trail Connections – A recent acquisition has made a trail connection between Reynolds Park and the Colorado Trail possible. The potential of incorporating Cathedral Spires into this trail connection should be considered.
3. Two Forks – While Two Forks Dam was a potential for over a decade, recent inquiries with the Denver Water Board (DWB) indicate that the area very specific to Cathedral Spires is not being looked at as a dam site. Because of the shift in the Two Forks plans, the DWB indicated to staff that negotiations for the property south of the Spires, which could allow public access to the park, would be considered.
4. Negotiations with Denver Water Board regarding trail connections from Reynolds to the Colorado Trail began in 2006. These discussions include a potential trail easement to allow public access from the south up to the formations within the park.
2008 Update: 5. Issues completed include: A.1. Legal Public Access from the South C.2. Develop a Climbing Management Plan
6. The lease agreement (dated 10/07), over Denver Water Board property includes the property to the south of Cathedral Spires Park, gaining legal public access. It also includes property to the east/north-east, for purposes of developing a regional trail system that will extend from Reynolds Park to connect with the Colorado Trail. Potential also exists to tie a trail in to Cathedral Spires Park from the north in the future.
2009 Update: 7. Issues completed include:
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B.1. Administrative access on Cathedral Spires Trail Road
2010 Update: 8. Issues completed include: E.2. Identifying parking areas I.1. Recreation and Use Assessment I.2. Natural Resource Assessment
9. Issue moved to discussion items due to non-interest from landowners
Public Access: A.2. Legal public access to the Dome still remains an issue.
An historical system of social trails has been developed across the Denver Water Board (DWB) property in order to access the rock formations for climbing. Purchase of this property or acquisition of a trail easement through it, will allow public access and will maintain current use patterns that have been established in accessing the property. Purchase or easement through DWB property will also provide potential parking and trailhead opportunities, focusing public access to established areas.
A portion of the rock formations, which provide popular climbing routes, is located just outside the Open Space boundary. Management of only part of the climbing areas will present challenges in applying regulations and guidelines for use. Securing the adjacent property will allow consistent and comprehensive management of both the climbing resource and the peregrine falcons.
Both the Cathedral Spires area and the Dome are valuable climbing resources. Climbers often travel between the two formations while recreating. Gaining access between the two will allow for better management of both areas and tie the two formations together into one contiguous management area.
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Chapter 3: Detailed Information on Pine Valley Ranch Park
Introduction:
Park Vision: The management of Pine Valley Ranch Park reflects the Jefferson County Open Space mission of balancing human use with resource preservation. The Park provides group and individual picnic areas with shelters. The Park also offers both hiker-only and multi- use trails; lake and stream fishing; ice skating; ice fishing; a warming shelter for ice skating; access to extensive adjoining Pike National Forest property and trail system; educational opportunities that include the operation of a restored observatory and the “Depot” information station; and a large tract of relatively undisturbed habitat that supports a wide diversity of flora and fauna, including two federally-listed threatened species.
The vision for the management of this Park is to provide visitors year-round access to the richly diverse cultural and natural resources so abundant at Pine Valley Ranch Park, while protecting the Park’s fragile resources. The objective is to balance the public’s present level of access to the Park’s many natural resources with increased access to the varied cultural resources derived from the property’s historic uses. Pine Valley Ranch Park is a microcosm of Colorado’s history during the 19th and 20th centuries, and provides myriad interpretive opportunities.
Location: Pine Valley Ranch Park is located in the southern part of the County, just west of the town of Pine. The Park is accessed from Pine Junction and U.S. Highway 285 via Pine Valley Road (County Highway 126) to Crystal Lake Road. See Figure 3a.
The North Fork of the South Platte River bisects the Park diagonally from the northwest to the southeast, and defines the character of the Park. The valley area, home to two federally-listed threatened species, is heavily used for recreation, social gatherings, and both natural and historic interpretation, while the remainder of the Park is steep, rocky and forested. The area also is under study by the U.S. Forest Service for Wild and Scenic River designation.
Chronology of Development: 1986: Acquired Pine Valley Ranch (804 acres) 1994: Pine Valley Ranch Park was dedicated on July 23rd Development included parking lots, restrooms, shelters and trails Observatory restoration completed 1995: Lodge “mothballing” process 1997: Acquired BLM Unit #912 (80 acres) “Pine Valley Ranch Park and Lodge Marketing and Management Plan” (Univ. of Denver “Ecotourism Management” class project)
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“Pine Valley Partnership” Capstone Project by D.U. student, Lee Jirik 1999: Decree authorizing storage of water in the lake as well as the operation of the wells on the park was entered on June 11, 1999 in Case No. 96CW1146 Pine Valley Ranch. 1999 – 2001: Demolition of restaurant and kitchen Roof replacement Exterior restoration Fire protection Fire suppression Water storage system 2001: Adaptive Reuse Study completed 2004-2005: Erosion Control and Drainage Improvements Pine Lake Diversion Pipe Replacement Warming Hut Improvements 2006: Exterior Log Coating Removed from Lodge New Exterior Coating Applied to the Lodge 2007: Begin Exterior Log Restoration/Replacement 2008-10: Log Restoration/Replacement continues
Amenities: • Parking lot (3 connected lots) – total of 180 spaces, including end-to-end spaces for horse trailers in the upper lot • Ranger’s residence • Baehr Lodge (Baehr Lodge has been re-roofed and repaired to preserve the structural integrity of the building, and the 1970s additions have been removed. It has been “mothballed” pending a determination of its use or disposition.) • Picnic shelters – large shelter for 120 people; small shelter for 64 people; lake shelter for 24 people (large and small shelters may be rented) • Warming shelter for ice skating – accommodates 60 people • Picnic areas – 6 tables near shelters; 4 tables at Depot; 2 tables along river • Gazebo – maximum of 25 people permitted on island at any time • “Depot” visitor center • Restrooms • Observatory • Concrete trail • Accessible fishing piers on Pine Lake • Natural surface trails
Park Capacity: Pine Valley Ranch Park can accommodate a maximum of 180 cars between its three parking lots. Including non-motorized access to the area, this equates to approximately 515 visitors at any one time on the Park.
Many of Pine Valley’s visitors use the property as an access point for longer outings into the Pike National Forest. Consequently, although the parking lots may be at capacity, the Park itself may not have reached capacity. Also, the high number of large group
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activities held at Pine Valley Ranch Park and the associated concentrated use in the core Parkland Area may give a false impression of a Park that has exceeded its capacity. The collection of further data is necessary to draw meaningful conclusions.
Acreage: 884 acres
Historical Background: The Ute Indians, Colorado’s only native tribe, roamed across Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico for centuries, and were present in the Pine Valley area from about 1100 AD until the 19th century. The Utes were removed from the area by the U.S. government following the 1879 Meeker Massacre in northwestern Colorado. However, a few artifacts of Ute encampment have been identified on Pine Valley Ranch Park.
Gold seekers followed dreams of riches up Pine Valley on their way to Leadville, first on foot or mule, and later on the narrow gauge railroad. In the early 1860s ranchers began homesteading in the area, while other settlers quickly turned to cutting timber and building sawmills. The timber industry, although not as glamorous as discovering gold and silver, was a significant force in Colorado’s frontier development. By 1870 the Pine Valley area had 11 sawmills and eagerly supplied Denver’s growing demand for lumber and railroad ties.
A town was established in August 1866. It was called Pine Grove by the railroad, and Pine by the postal service. In 1873 the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad Company was incorporated by some well-known names in Colorado - John Evans (later Governor of the State), W. S. Cheesman (of Cheesman Park fame), Bela Hughes, and David Moffat (of the Moffat Tunnel).
The recent history of the property dates back to the late 19th century when J.W. Hildebrand, Thomas Busher, and the Liming family homesteaded Pine Valley. In 1908, Charlie Eggert, owner of the Eggert Ice Company of Denver, purchased the property to be used for harvesting ice from the many nearby lakes, most of which he had built and owned. Pine Valley was an ideal location for ice harvesting because of the comparatively long winter combined with easy access to Denver over the Colorado & Southern Railroad. Eggert’s ice operations in the Pine area continued well into the 1920s.
William B. Baehr, president of Chicago’s North Continent Utilities Company, a major electrical, natural gas and hydroelectric company, vacationed in Colorado in 1925. Baehr visited the Pine Valley area, fell in love with what he saw, and decided it was the ideal spot to build a summer home for his family. Baehr had visited Europe where he admired various Bavarian hunting lodges, and dreamed of a lodge of his own. Pine Valley was the perfect setting for his dream, and Baehr soon bought the Pine Valley property.
Baehr Lodge is a 27-room lodge, complete with wrought iron fixtures (forged on site), arched ceilings, hand etched log paneling, railings and balconies. Two distinctive
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octagonal roof towers, tall stone chimneys, and multiple steeply pitched gables create Baehr’s desired image of a Bavarian hunting lodge amid the Colorado Rockies.
William Baehr was a successful businessman, and Pine Valley Ranch soon became more than just a summer home, with the help of a man named Conrad Johnson. Johnson was born as Konrad Johanson on August 14, 1892, in Eskilstuna, Sweden, near Stockholm. Johnson went to school through the sixth grade, and then worked in a print shop for a while. Having an adventurous nature, the boy ran away to sea, sailing the Baltic Sea for several years until he and a shipmate contracted typhoid fever when Konrad was 16. The ship’s captain assumed they would die and put them off the ship in Hamburg, where they were hospitalized. They both survived and travelled around Germany and Denmark. The Swedish Embassy in Copenhagen helped reunite Konrad with his mother. In 1910 the pair arrived in New York City. Konrad became a U.S. citizen, changed his name to the more American sounding Conrad Johnson, and moved west. Although Johnson had a thick Swedish accent, he hoped people would think he’d been born in this country.
Following William Baehr’s death, Pine Valley Ranch was sold in 1956 to a private group of wealthy Denver families, among them Dr. Robert Dudley, Francis Van Derbur, Helen Bonfils, William Boyd, and Dr. James Rae Arneill, Jr. They used the property as a vacation spot and fishing retreat until 1975, when they sold Pine Valley Ranch to the Winegard Realty Corporation of Burlington, Iowa.
New cabins were built, a swimming pool, sauna and dining room were added, and the ranch operated as a conference center and family resort for about 11 years. Pine Valley Ranch was purchased by Jefferson County Open Space in February, 1986, for $2.35 million. Development of the Park was delayed for a number of years by the proposed construction of the Two Forks Dam. About $1.5 million was spent to construct amenities prior to opening Pine Valley Ranch Park in July 1994. On June 10, 1998, Baehr Lodge/Baehr Den of the Rockies was listed in the State Register of Historic Properties in recognition of its contributions to the heritage of the State of Colorado.
Acquired: The Park contains 884 acres and is made up of two acquisition projects: the original Pine Valley Ranch purchase in 1986 comprised 804 acres, and the 1997 purchase of BLM Unit #912 added an additional 80 acres to the Park. See Figure 3c. The Board of County Commissioners passed Resolution #CC85-368 on April 22, 1985, stating that: Pine Valley Ranch would be suitable for a unique Park offering a multiplicity of recreational opportunities; the river provides riparian habitat; adjacency to the Pike National Forest offers park users additional outdoor recreation opportunities and the property’s improvements and buildings could enhance the recreational experience of park visitors. A management plan was developed in conjunction with the BLM Unit #912 purchase and is on file in the Acquisitions File Room.
Natural and Cultural Resources: Natural resources of note for this Park include:
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• Steep, rocky and forested hillsides composed largely of granitic soils that are highly erosive • 17.5 acres of wet meadow • A valley floor dominated by Pine Lake • The North Fork of the South Platte River Two species are federally-listed as threatened: • The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse • The Pawnee montane skipper butterfly o Habitat for these species includes the valley floor and the lightly forested hillsides. • Also contains habitat for elk, bobcat, deer, bears, and mountain lions. • Significant fisheries exist in Pine Lake, and in the North Fork of the South Platte River. • Cultural resources for the Park consist of: Baehr Lodge, a restored observatory, a gazebo (“pagoda”), the narrow gauge railroad bed and other traces of a ranch that was fully operational until after World War II. • None of the cultural resources identified on the Park was associated with prehistoric habitation. • Baehr Lodge is the focal point of the cultural tapestry that Pine Valley Ranch represents.
Activities: Recreational: Fishing, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, large group events including weddings, company picnics and reunions. Educational: Interpretive programs utilizing the observatory and “Depot” visitors center on astronomy, fire ecology, history of Pine Valley Ranch and Pine area and natural resources.
Visitation and Use Trends: Pine Valley Ranch Park receives approximately 36,600 visitors annually. Pine Valley’s group picnic shelters are generally reserved (through a paid reservation) for nearly every Saturday and Sunday from May through September. The Park Services Section monitors group use of all Open Space parks and facilities for a wide variety of special activities and large group use. In 2001, a Special Activity Policy was implemented, which significantly reduced the total number of special activity permits required.
Park Services’ records indicate that Pine Valley Ranch Park attracts by far the greatest number of large groups of all Open Space parks, despite being the Open Space Park furthest from Metro Denver. Future visitation to the Park is likely to be even higher if Pine Valley’s facilities are expanded. Staff believes that a strong market exists for those expanded facilities, particularly if they were to include opportunities for more year-round use.
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Figure 3a: Pine Valley Ranch Park Location Map
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Figure 3b: Pine Valley Ranch Park Map
Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 3: Pine Valley Ranch Park Jefferson County Open Space 29 2013 Fi g ur e
Figure 3c: Pine Valley Ranch Park Acquisition History Map
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Figure 3d: Pine Valley Ranch Park Opportunities and Constraints Analysis
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Management Context:
This section identifies and describes the management units that have been designated for Pine Valley Ranch Park. See Figure 3e.
Sensitive Area Management Unit: All species of wildlife, even those that are adaptable and visible, require some degree of undisturbed space and time for certain aspects of their life history (breeding, foraging, resting, hiding, etc.). If portions of the landscape are available with little to no disturbance, these species will utilize them as needed and thus continue to occupy and utilize the entire landscape. Eventually, those species of wildlife that are adaptive will become part of the more visible watchable wildlife that the public has come to observe and enjoy on Open Space parks.
Below is the justification for designating the area a Sensitive management unit and, thereby, limiting and controlling public access. A Sensitive Area in this park has not been designated, although Pine Valley Ranch Park contains habitat and populations of two federally listed threatened species, the Pawnee montane skipper and the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. Since these two species inhabit an area that has already been developed with trails and other amenities, it would be impractical to limit access to that area.
Natural Area Management Unit: Below is the justification for designating the majority of the Pine Valley Ranch Park acreage as a Natural Area Management Unit.
1. Trout fishery in Pine Lake and in the North Fork of the South Platte River Note: Pine Lake is periodically stocked by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), while the river is not. Heavy fishing use on the lake removes a large portion of the fish right after stocking, leaving poor fishing for those who may fish a few weeks later before the lake is stocked again. Since the river is only rarely stocked, it has to depend on natural reproduction to maintain a sport fishery. However, the river is not very productive, due mainly to very cold water temperatures. 2. 17.5 acres of wet meadow in otherwise decomposing granite rock land 3. Habitat for elk, bobcat, deer, bears and mountain lions 4. River corridor provides habitat for populations of two federally-listed threatened species, the Pawnee montane skipper and the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. In order to protect these two species, the sensitive habitat within the Natural Area will be monitored and maintained to an acceptable level for the species. Any expansion or addition of amenities will be considered secondary to preserving the habitat of these two species. 5. Natural surface trails
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Recreation Services and Amenities Area Management Unit: Below are the existing facilities that justify designating the approximately 25 acres of valley floor area as a Recreation Services and Amenities Area Management Unit.
1. Ranger’s residence 2. Parking lots 3. Baehr Lodge/Baehr Den of the Rockies The lodge at Pine Valley Ranch Park is a valuable resource and was listed as “Baehr Lodge/Baehr Den of the Rockies” on the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties in 1998, “in recognition of this property’s contribution to the heritage of the State of Colorado.” Currently, the area around Baehr Lodge has been fenced to keep the public out. The additions to the original lodge that were made in the mid- 1970s have recently been removed, and the exterior is being maintained to prevent further deterioration of the building. Between 1995 and 2001, a variety of potential uses were researched which will provide a basis for determining the future use for Baehr Lodge. 4. Facilities available, including picnic shelters, warming shelter, picnic areas, gazebo (pagoda), “Depot” visitor center, restrooms, observatory 5. Concrete trail 6. Accessible fishing piers on Pine Lake 7. ADA accessibility 8. Trailhead for access to an extensive trail network in the Pike National Forest 9. Like the Natural Area, this area contains habitat and populations of the Pawnee Montane skipper and Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. As such, the sensitive habitat within the Recreation Services and Amenities Area will be monitored and maintained to an acceptable level. Any expansion or addition of amenities will be considered secondary to preserving the habitat of these two species.
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Figure 3e: Pine Valley Ranch Park MUD Map
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Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 3: Pine Valley Ranch Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 35
Pine Valley Ranch Park Leases, Easements, Contracts and Agreements: Jefferson County Open Space often enters into agreements with other public and private organizations and individuals on behalf of a park. These agreements sometimes help the park to fulfill its recreational or stewardship objectives while providing a service or benefit to the other party. Agreements of this type are legally binding, and as a result, form a critical element of a park’s legal and policy context. Leases, easements, contracts and agreements entered into on behalf of this park are outlined in Table 1b.
TABLE 3a: PINE VALLEY RANCH PARK LEASES, LICENSES, EASEMENTS, CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS Agreement Type Agreeing Description Location Parties Agreement Regarding Denver An Agreement regarding mitigation of Copy available Mitigation of Impacts from Water impacts from the permitting, construction, in Acquisitions’ the Permitting, Board and operation of the Two Forks Dam and file room. Construction, and Reservoir is attached in Appendix 2. It is Operation of the Two staff’s understanding that this document Forks Dam and Reservoir has no currently binding constraints or requirements.
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Work Plan Summary:
The Figure on the following page reflects the five-year financial strategy Pine Valley Ranch Park. The “issue-driven” actions identified in the Actions Map (Figure 3f) correspond alpha-numerically to the “Actions Map”, portions of this chapter. The Actions Map (Figure 3f) shows the temporal relationship between the issues.
Definitions:
1) System-wide Priority Criteria
A decision whether to implement a particular management action is based on system-wide priorities, which are derived from the following criteria:
• Universal Accessibility/life safety/public health • Resource protection • Special studies/planning • Cyclic maintenance
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• ***Action Map Unavailable***
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Action Items:
An explanation of identified issues specific to Pine Valley Ranch Park and the actions proposed to resolve them follow. The issues and actions articulated below correspond alpha-numerically to Figure 3f. Implementation of the preferred management options may be limited by staffing and/or budget constraints.
Use of Baehr Lodge/Lodge-related Issues: A.1. Baehr Lodge, Pine Valley Ranch’s historic lodge, should, if feasible, be opened A.2. to the public. It is one of the park’s most prominent resources, and was listed on Colorado’s State Register of Historic Properties on June 10, 1998, in recognition of the property’s contribution to Colorado’s heritage. This listing allows Open Space to apply for and receive special grant funds. Nearby in the Pine area is the North Fork Historic District, which is listed as a National Historic District. The Open Space Department will pursue Baehr Lodge’s designation as a National Historic Property at some appropriate future date, following the determination of the Lodge’s future use. Baehr Lodge is one of the historical focal points for Pine Valley Ranch Park and the surrounding community. It generates strong interest from the public and expressions of anticipation of public access to this valuable historic structure. Opening Baehr Lodge is consistent with the Master Plan’s stated Educational Goal to “Protect and interpret historically important cultural resources and facilities on open space lands.” (p.18, 1998 Master Plan) Public access to Baehr Lodge would support increased year-round park use and expanded interpretive programming by providing physical access to a valuable registered historic structure. Open Space proposed determining, prior to the fiscal year 2004, whether it is feasible to open Baehr Lodge to the public, including its use or disposition. As of March, 2005, no decision has been reached.
A.1. Exterior Restoration of Baehr Lodge – A.2. Study analysis of feasibility of opening Baehr Lodge – Complete A.2. to be revisited as “Other Priority” in 2010. - Complete A.3. Develop conceptual plan to facilitate public visitation to the Lodge. – Complete A.4. Implement Conceptual Plan
Hi Meadow Fire Consequences: B.1. The Hi Meadow Fire during the summer of 2000 had a wide variety of impacts B.2. upon Pine Valley Ranch Park. PVR’s decomposing granite soil became B.3. hydrophobic (water repelling) due to the intense heat of the fire. When Pine Valley received heavy rains during the weeks following the fire, the hydrophobic soil on the steep slopes, combined with the sparse, burned vegetation to result in massive erosion. Adjacent properties at higher elevations experienced similar levels of erosion, which swept downhill onto the park and into the valley. Numerous alluvial fans of gravel-like soil, some many feet thick, were dumped Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 3: Pine Valley Ranch Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 39
across park access roads and trails, and nearly reached the river. Fences were buried, and culverts were clogged. Buck Gulch jumped its banks and, without the construction of a sandbag wall, would have flowed directly into Pine Lake, threatening its fishery. Buck Gulch Trail was seriously eroded. Park View Trail includes a series of wooden and crusher fine steps with wooden railings which were heavily burned. Alluvial fans of granitic gravel were deposited throughout the Preble’s mouse habitat, which is largely willow growth, and into the river. These alluvial fans had a profound impact on the Preble’s habitat, particularly by restricting the mouse’s free movement throughout its normal range. A large, deep alluvial fan buried a segment of North Fork Trail to the west of the lake, and resulted in the trail being temporarily closed to the public. Water quality issues arose as a result of the fire and run-off, which also threatened PVR’s fishery. The threat of invasive noxious weeds and mountain pine beetle infestation also increased following the fire.
The reintroduction of the natural fire cycle to the ecosystem at Pine Valley Ranch Park brought some benefits as well as problems. For example, many of the native tree and plant species in the area rely on fire to sustain a healthy population. Fire recharges the soil with carbon, which benefits plant species, and in turn benefits wildlife. Smaller periodic fires reduce the threat of a truly catastrophic fire coming into the area by reducing accumulated ground fuels. Fire also brings in many avian species, which thrive on insects in the burned out trees.
The Hi Meadow Fire radically intensified a pre-existing erosion problem on the PVR property. Heavy erosion is inherent to the decomposing granite that dominates the topography at PVR, and presents an ongoing challenge for managing the property. Open Space will undertake a study to develop a comprehensive erosion control plan for Pine Valley Ranch Park (PVR). The study will assess ongoing drainage and erosion problems throughout the park, and will pay particular attention to the ongoing problems within the core area of the park. The core area assessment will include, as a minimum, parking lot instability, and erosion in the shelter area, along concrete trails, access roads, and around Baehr Lodge. The study will also address alluvial fan-related issues. A component of this study will address the redirection of Buck Gulch and bridge protection in the area. Another component of this study will address how PVR is impacted by erosion problems on adjacent properties during times of heavy rain, and how run-off and erosion on PVR affect adjacent landowners’ properties, and how to mitigate these effects. Continued erosion threatens Open Space’s sizeable investment in the facilities and resources at Pine Valley Ranch Park. As a result of the contract with Wenk, the Erosion Control Plan is complete, approved, and ready to be implemented in 2004. Designs and construction document were produced in 2005 with construction expected in 2006.
B.1. Implement erosion control plan Complete 2006 B.2. Contract to design new water delivery system for Pine Lake (include outflow raceway) Complete 2005 Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 3: Pine Valley Ranch Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 40
B.3. Contract to remove and replace water delivery system and repair outflow raceway. Complete 2006
Fishing Management Plan: B.4. To reach the goal of maintaining a recreational fishery where the park user has a reasonable chance to catch fish, Open Space will work with appropriate agencies to develop a fishing management plan for the park. Actions recommended by this plan may include habitat improvements and changes to existing regulations. Denver Water Board issues, such as construction of a diversion structure, have potential impact on improving and maintaining both the river and the lake as fishing resources. Dredging the lake, perhaps with a floating dredge and vacuum pump, could enhance fishery quality.
The dredging project has been canceled. After testing it was determined that adequate depth could not be achieved by dredging that would improve the habitat.
B.4.a. Contract for design and CDs to dredge Pine Lake Canceled 2007 B.4.b. Contract to dredge Pine Lake Canceled 2007
Trail System/Pike National Forest Interface: C.1. Pine Valley Ranch Park, unlike other Open Space parks, abuts a national forest. The extensive trail network created by this common boundary is a major attraction for park visitors, particularly equestrians and mountain bikers. The shared boundary also creates secondary entrances to the park, where visitors may enter without access to Open Space park maps, and other information and amenities currently provided in the park’s core area. A pedestal sign of Open Space Rules and Regulations is currently posted in this area. Signs will be added along the trails at the park’s boundary to provide information to those entering the park at these secondary entrances. This signs will facilitate visitor education and compliance with Open Space expectations. Open Space will expand communication with the U.S. Forest Service to coordinate improving signage within the Pike National Forest for the benefit of visitors entering their property from Pine Valley Ranch Park.
C.1. Develop and install trail markers at park boundary trail crossings. Complete 2005
Power Lines: D.1. A network of power lines currently runs over the parking lot, to Baehr Lodge and D.2. to the residence. Consistent with ideal general design criteria, these wires will either be buried, or, if that is prohibitively expensive, rerouted. At the time of the Lodge restoration, Open Space will research the options and cost of making the wires less conspicuous, and abandon and remove all unused power lines. Consideration of the power line issue is on hold until decisions have been made regarding the use of Baehr Lodge.
D.1. Research options and costs of removing/relocating power lines Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 3: Pine Valley Ranch Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 41
D.2. Abandon and remove all unused power lines
Pine Lake Warming Hut: E.1. The Warming hut near Pine Lake needs to be retrofitted to make it effective as a E.2. warming structure. The current fireplace is small and inefficient and will be replaced. The shelter opening will have a wind screen constructed. The fireplace should be closed during summer months. E.1. Warming Hut - Design/retrofit fireplace & new wind screen Complete 2004 E.2. Installation of Warming Hut Improvements Complete 2005
F.1. Review request by Crystal Lake Resorts to include a portion of the river within the park boundaries in their plan for "Gold Medal" classification and make recommendation. Complete 2006
G.1.a. Evaluate the trail system for bench locations that will offer an opportunity for a G.1.b. broader cross section of park users to access the trail system by having benches located along trails to offer rest points. G.1.a. Determine bench type and locations. Complete 2006 G.1.b. Install bench(s) Complete 2006
H.1. Conduct visitor survey Complete 2006
I. Buck Gulch Crossing – During the Spring runoff and Summer thunderstorm events the Buck Gulch Trail has been washed out at the base of Buck Gulch on several occasions and in the Winter the water in the area backs up and freezes creating a hazardous crossing. The existing culvert is not adequate. I.1.a. Determine type of crossing and design crossing structure. Complete 2008 I.1.b. Construct gulch crossing structure. Complete 2008
J. Erosion of Concrete Trail (by restroom/trail head) – During thunderstorm events water collects from several areas and runs down along the edge of the concrete trail. J.1.a. Evaluate erosion/drainage issue Complete 2007 J.1.b. Design corrective measures Complete 2008 J.1.c. Construct corrective measures. On Hold
K. Evaluate current fishing regulations for the river to determine if the quality of the fishery would be substantially improved by a regulation change to catch and release, flies and lures only. How would the change impact the park user experience? What enforcement issues, if any, would the change create and how might they be addressed. K.1.a. Evaluate current fishing regulations for the river to determine if the quality of the fishery would be substantially improved by a regulation change to catch and release, flies and lures only. Complete 2009-Regulations Unchanged
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Discussion Items:
1. Water Rights The following text describes the conclusions of the PVR team regarding water rights at Pine Valley Ranch Park: Water rights are an increasingly valuable resource. Water is a finite resource in heavy demand due to Colorado’s recent population growth explosion. Pine Valley Ranch Park’s requirements for water should be priority before water rights are transferred, traded or sold. We should maintain our current water rights by utilizing them on the park for habitat enhancement and other appropriate uses. We should coordinate within Open Space on all decisions affecting the water rights at Pine Valley Ranch Park. We should identify all those wells that are no longer serviceable and officially abandon them, and then seal those wells identified. This would clean up our legal records and facilitate getting new wells permitted for our future needs. The Pine Valley Ranch Park portion of the Wheeler & Associates water study will be attached in Appendix E.
Since the team’s discussions early in the development of the PVR plan, it has been learned that: a. In April, 1999, Timothy Buchanan, Open Space’s water attorney, took the issue of PVR water rights to the District Court Water Division #1 for the State of Colorado. The Court’s ruling in Case #96-CW1146, filed May 17, 1999, shifted Open Space’s PVR water rights to use for storage in Pine Lake and the operation of wells on the property. b. Those wells that are no longer serviceable have been identified and will be officially abandoned and sealed.
2. Original Intentions for Use of the Property Pine Valley is a developed park that has been open to the public since 1994. Development of the park was delayed for a number of years by the proposed construction of the Two Forks Dam. The park was opened upon completion of what was, at that time, termed Phase I development. To complement its current uses, the original conceptual plan for the park proposed additional development, including trails on the north side of the park, a camping area at the western end of the meadow, and public use of Baehr Lodge.
During the acquisition proposal evaluation and purchase process, at public meetings, and in the original conceptual plans for Pine Valley Ranch Park, a high standard of resource and facility accessibility was a priority. Pine Valley Ranch was developed as a park that would attract large groups and users of all ages and abilities.
3. Use and Feasibility Study (adaptive re-use study), March 2001
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A draft conceptual plan for public use of Baehr Lodge was completed in March, 2001, which included upgrades/additions to the Lodge and an adjacent camping area that included a mix of seasonal and year-round sites. 4. Existing Conditions Assessment Report, June 1996 The Existing Conditions Assessment Report and Master Plan has been utilized to guide the ongoing maintenance plan. To date the following items have been accomplished: • Removal/demolition of the 1970s additions to the Lodge. • Asbestos shingle abatement and replacement with new roof materials. • Construction of 30,000-gallon water tank and well for fire suppression. • Exterior log restoration; areas have been tested to determine methods for the removal of the old coatings.
5. Camping Camping as proposed in the original conceptual plan is not recommended, as there are other traditional camping opportunities in the adjacent Pike National Forest. However, a camp area that coordinates with the Lodge as outlined in the Use and Feasibility Study would be considered.
The issue of camping was reviewed for the March 2004 update, as it was a component of the original Pine Valley Ranch Park conceptual plans. The Team agreed that camping would only be considered if it were part of a proposal for the use of Baehr Lodge. Otherwise, there is ample camping available in the vicinity.
6. Restrooms Restroom facilities are adequate for the current park use, however, the following items are noted: • There is a gap in the maintenance procedures for the main restroom facility. Maintenance procedures need to be changed. • The restroom at the west end of the lake is closed during the winter season. It should remain open if it does not cause operational problems or be modified to accommodate year-round use. (The Team was informed later that the direction from Stanton La Breche is, and has been, that this restroom door is to be kept unlocked.) • The portable restroom unit located at the observatory should meet ADA standards.
7. Damage Deposits for Shelter Rentals Damage deposits should be considered due to extra cleanup and damage to the facilities by some of the groups that reserve the shelters.
8. Open Space should explore the addition of our “Park” area to the adjoining National Historic District and apply for National Registry for Baehr Lodge.
9. PVR videos of movies filmed in 1935, and photos from 1928 were received in August, 2001, from Herb Allen, great-nephew of William Baehr, which will support
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the proposed expanded cultural interpretation program. Also, Sandy Crane, as Director of Hiwan, received a large photo album from the Conrad Johnson family, which should be tracked down and reviewed for potential uses. Bridgit Silver, Graphics Coordinator, should be contacted to find out if OS can make still photos from the videos.
10. Staffing Due to Pine Valley Ranch Park’s demonstrated heavy public use and atypical diversity of amenities, Open Space should evaluate the resident staffing and potential additional staffing needs for the maintenance, law enforcement, and overall management of Pine Valley Ranch Park. Should the resident position be assigned as a ranger position or as a maintenance position?
11. Expanded Cultural and Natural Resource Interpretation PVR has perhaps the most diverse mix of natural, historic and cultural resources of all Open Space parks, and expanding the interpretive program will allow the Department to take full advantage of the interpretive opportunities offered by PVR’s untapped resources. The Team feels that a stronger emphasis should be placed on cultural interpretation than current programming includes. The Team feels Pine Valley Ranch should be interpreted as a microcosm of Colorado’s history during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Baehr Lodge/Baehr Den of the Rockies was listed in 1998 on the State Register of Historic Properties, in recognition of the property’s contribution to Colorado’s heritage. Public access to Baehr Lodge would support increased year-round park use by providing physical access to a valuable registered historic structure. that could accommodate both individual visitors and group programming. This would be a component of an expanded cultural and natural resource interpretation program. Baehr Lodge could support both personal and non-personal interpretation. Open Space will explore the cost, feasibility, and benefits of installing a video-link system to connect the Lodge to the observatory, Hiwan Homestead Museum, and the Lookout Mountain Nature Center. While public access to Baehr Lodge might possibly generate a certain amount of revenue toward its ongoing maintenance, the Team feels that Baehr Lodge should be treated in the same manner as Hiwan Homestead Museum and the Nature Center, and not be expected to fully pay its own way within the OS Program.
Assuming it is found feasible to open the Lodge to the public, Year-round use of Baehr Lodge for both individual visitors and group programming will be considered during the development of the Pine Valley Ranch interpretive plan.
The team’s discussion of potential topics for expanded interpretation include: forest fire ecology; threatened species; lodge / ranch history; the observatory; the 1927 chronometer; timber; the ice business; cattle; including the historic preservation of PVR brand “4L;” ranch and resort structures that are now gone; resort; owners and their families; the fishing management plan; and other topics identified in the Open
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Space Interpretive Plan. Railroad history should also be a strong component for historic interpretation. The Pine area’s North Fork Historic District will be incorporated into the park’s historic interpretation information. Also, the existence of the privately-owned La Foret Conference Center, a “twin building” to Baehr Lodge, located in Colorado Springs, may have interpretive value.
Open Space will explore the feasibility and cost of an off-site video link for observatory and other interpretive programs, to make them ADA accessible and to increase audience size when appropriate.
In conjunction with developing a park-specific interpretation plan, Open Space will develop a strategy for staffing to support expanded interpretation, including staffing the Depot visitor center.
If and/or when additional trails are developed they be utilized, where appropriate, to interpret the effects of the Hi Meadow fire to promote public understanding of the costs and benefits of forest fires, and other interpretive opportunities.
12. Conforming to ADA Accessibility requirements will be viewed as the starting point, with the concept of universal design being a guiding principle of park design and development at Pine Valley Ranch Park. The design and placement of additional benches and rest areas will incorporate the natural features of the area and may include clusters of upturned logs, split log benches, or a split log anchored to a rock outcropping. The design will also consider the location, user abilities, difficulty of the trail, etc.
Issues Moved to Discussion Items During the March 2004 Review of this Plan:
13. Natural, Historic, and Cultural Interpretation in Natural and Parkland Recreation Areas: Open Space will develop and implement a park-specific interpretive plan that will consider expanding the current natural, historic and cultural interpretive topics. The “Fire in the Pines” interpretive program will be one component of this interpretive plan. As of March, 2004, three “Fire in the Pines” interpretive signs are in place at Pine Valley Ranch.
14. Threatened Species: Open Space will regard preserving the habitat of Pine Valley’s two federally-listed threatened species, the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse, and the Pawnee montane skipper butterfly, as a limiting factor for additional park development and future use. In order to protect the two species, the sensitive habitat areas will be monitored and maintained to support a healthy population of the two species.
15. Denver Water Board Issues: The Denver Water Board (DWB) controls the flows in the North Fork of the South Platte River. According to Jessica Barbier, Water Engineer with the DWB, the long- expected rechannelization of the North Fork of the Platte River is unlikely to be
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done, in part due to the discovery of the Preble’s mouse and the need to protect its habitat. DWB does, however, still expect to replace the concrete diversion structure with a different design that would continue supplying water to the lake without silt accumulation. During this project, Open Space will coordinate with DWB on such matters as public safety, successful revegetation of the work site, and preservation of the Preble’s habitat. Open Space will also coordinate with the DWB to minimize impact on the park, its facilities, and the river fishery. The health of the fish population could possibly be improved in the course of this work, as a result of proper coordination between Open Space and the appropriate agencies. (The Water Study document is available in the Planning/Design and Development Library. The Two Forks Agreement is available in the Acquisitions File Room.)
Open Space will coordinate with the Denver Water Board on management issues, and preservation of the Preble’s mouse habitat on the park. Channelization of the Platte has been abandoned.
16. Wild and Scenic River Designation: The North Fork of the South Platte River has been under consideration for Wild and Scenic River designation. This is an ongoing process with a variety of possible outcomes. Open Space will continue to coordinate the U.S. Forest Service on all issues related to Wild and Scenic River designation. Open Space will continue to coordinate with the US Forest Service on all issues related to Wild and Scenic River designation. Designation has been put on hold.
17. Trail Development: In light of the widespread, serious consequences of the Hi Meadow fire, Open Space will not consider any further trail development within the park until re-vegetation and re-establishment of resource stability have been accomplished. Staff has determined that no trail development is required by our acquisition contract on the BLM parcel at Pine Valley Ranch. Open Space will not construct any trails to the north of the core area of the park.
No trails will be developed to the north of the core area of the park. No additional trails within the park will be considered until successful re-vegetation and resource stability have been accomplished. Open Space will explore potential easements for the development of additional trails and trail connections outside the park to connect Pine Valley Ranch Park with Pine and Bailey along the historic narrow gauge railroad bed. Development of such a trail will be contingent upon preservation of the riparian habitat.
Open Space will explore the possibility of establishing additional trails and trail connections outside the park, along the historic railroad bed, and potential trail easements will be evaluated. Trails connecting Pine Valley Ranch to Pine and to Bailey will provide significant new recreational opportunities to the public, and bolster the economy of these two neighboring communities. Although this is the historic narrow gauge bed, and therefore supports expanded cultural interpretation as well
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as increasing recreational opportunities, development of any trail will be contingent upon the preservation of the riparian habitat. As of March, 2004, the Plan proposed exploring trail easements towards Bailey and possible cooperative agreements for trail with Park County. Jefferson County Open Space will not buy land outside our county. The Plan Team thinks we should keep an open mind on future trail linkage possibilities.
Open Space will explore the possibility of establishing additional trails and trail connections outside the park, along the historic railroad bed, and potential trail easements will be evaluated. Trails connecting Pine Valley Ranch to Pine and to Bailey will provide significant new recreational opportunities to the public, and bolster the economy of these two neighboring communities. Although this is the historic narrow gauge bed, and therefore supports expanded cultural interpretation as well as increasing recreational opportunities, development of any trail will be contingent upon the preservation of the riparian habitat.
18. Park Staffing / Use of Park Residence: Due to Pine Valley Ranch Park’s demonstrated heavy use by large groups, and atypical diversity of amenities, Open Space will evaluate resident staffing and potential additional staffing needs for the maintenance, law enforcement, and overall management of the park. During the winter of 2003-04, Open Space staff considered these issues and developed new guidelines and expectations for large group use, costs, limitations, and policies, which will be tested during 2004.
19. Universla Accessibility / Universal Design: During the acquisition proposal evaluation and purchase process, at public meetings, and in the original conceptual plans for Pine Valley Ranch Park, a high standard of resource and facility accessibility was a high priority. Pine Valley Ranch was developed as a park that would attract large groups and users of all ages and abilities. Open Space will assess all existing park amenities for their compliance with accessibility standards and principles of universal design. Conforming to ADA Accessibility requirements will be viewed as a starting point, with the concept of universal design being a guiding principle of park design and development at Pine Valley Ranch Park. This assessment will include, as a minimum, reviewing trail surfaces, erosion problems, impediments to visitors’ smooth transition from one surface to another, and surface grade in areas of high public use.
Unlike all other non-urban Open Space parks, PVR has a concrete trail to the fishing piers at Pine Lake. Open Space will review all trails in the core area of the park and any necessary trail modifications will be made to ensure that heavy public use facilities, including restrooms, shelters, fishing piers and the Depot, are consistently accessible.
Open Space will be pro-active in applying principles of universal design to park design and development, and will develop new benches and rest areas where feasible and appropriate for a broader cross section of county residents. The
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assessment and any necessary improvements or modifications will be completed by the end of the year 2003.
As of Spring, 2004, we still need more benches at Pine Valley Ranch Park. The ADA assessment has been completed on the core area of the park. Outlying trails still need to be assessed for possible locations for benches, which may happen in 2004.
Discussion Items Update 2006 Review of this Plan (Annual Meeting Held 10/2005):
1. Denver Water removed concrete diversion structure from the river by the intake for Pine Lake. 2. Bench(s) have been elevated from “Discussion” to an Action Item.
Action Item Complete 2005: A.2. Study analysis of feasibility of opening Baehr Lodge - does not include contracted consultant. Projected Completion: 2006. Action Lead: Charlie (5/30/02). Status Unchanged. (7/8/02) Projected start first quarter of 2003 (9/30/02) Status Unchanged (12/31/02) (3/31/03)(6/04/03)(9/02/03)(12/03/03) Review of the Adaptive Reuse Study, done by Andrews and Anderson, as it pertains to the current site conditions (post forest fire) and explore phased implementation in conjunction with restoration.(3/30/04) Continuing to explore use and funding possibilities.(6/30/04) Anticipate starting reevaluation of camp ground concept/new alignment for boardwalk and group campground in October 2004. Completion in late 2004 or early 2005.(9/30/04) Working on draft of multi-year development plan.(12/03/04) Lower priority project. Draft of multi-year development plan in progress.(4/1/05) Multi-year plan in progress.(7/1/05) A draft of a multi-year phased development plan for the reuse of the lodge based on the original seasonal and year round cabin concept has been completed. The plan has not been circulated for formal review, and will be discussed as part of the yearly PMP update process.(9/30/05) Plan complete and awaiting formal review and approval.(12/30/05)
Discussion Items Update 2007 Review of this Plan (Annual Meeting Held 10/2006):
The following action items were completed in 2006:
B.1. Implement erosion control plan Projected Completion: 2006 Action Lead: Dennis. Considerable erosion control measures were completed after the fire. Consultant recommendations will be implemented upon completion of the study.(5/30/02) Status Unchanged. Plan just completed.(7/8/02) Portions of the plan to be contracted in 2003. (12/31/02) Design services for CD's to be contracted.(3/31/03) Nat. Res. to begin installation of consultant's recommendations and the CD's for the contracted portions are being produced. (6/04/03) Erosion control efforts continue. A plan to bridge Buck Gulch and direct stream flow has be formulated.(9/02/03) Wenk Assoc. are currently working on CD's.(12/3/03) Continuing design process. (3/30/04)
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Working with Wenk to finalize designs.(6/30/04) Wenk Assoc. are working on CD's for project bidding.(9/30/04) Awaiting CD's from Wenk and Assoc. (12/03/04) CD's estimated completion is mid April 2005.(4/1/05) CD's 95% complete by Wenk. Work to be contracted third quarter.(7/1/05) Pre-bid meeting scheduled for Oct. 4 and a bid opening Oct.17.(9/30/05) Construction contract awarded to Concrete Express. Work to begin Jan. 2006.Project includes B.1. and B.3.(12/30/05) Construction approximately 30% complete. (3/31/06) The erosion control project has been completed.(6/30/06)
B.3. Contract to remove and replace water delivery system and repair outflow raceway. Projected Completion: 2006. Action Lead: Dennis (5/30/02). Status Unchanged. To be contracted in 2004. (7/8/02) Status unchanged. (9/30/02) (12/31/02) (3/31/03)(9/02/03) To be contracted in 2004. (12/03/03) Will be contracted upon completion of design process.(3/30/04)(6/30/04)(9/30/04)Dependent on B.1. above.(12/03/04) (4/1/05)Work to be contracted third quarter.(7/1/05) Project out to bid.Pre-bid meeting scheduled for Oct. 4 and a bid opening Oct.17.(9/30/05)Construction contract awarded to Concrete Express. Work to begin Jan. 2006.Project includes B.1. and B.3.(12/30/05) Construction approximately 30% complete. (3/31/06) The water delivery system project has been completed.(6/30/06)
G.1.a. Determine bench type and locations. Projected Completion: 2006 Action Lead: Dennis Log style benches have been constructed in-house. Locations have yet to be determined.(3/31/06) A field trip will be scheduled to site bench locations.(6/30/06) A field trip will be scheduled in the fourth quarter to site benchs.(9/20/06) Project Complete (12/31/06)
G.1.b. Install bench(s) Projected Completion: 2006 Action Lead: Bldg Dependent on G.1.a. above.(6/30/06) Project Complete (12/31/06)
H.1. Conduct visitor survey Projected Completion: 2006 Action Lead: Jean Survey is underway and will be complete at the end of September.(9/20/06) Project Complete (12/31/06)
Action item F. was moved to Discussion Items because of the lack of response from Crystal Lake Resorts. F. Review request by Crystal Lake Resorts to include a portion of the river within the park boundaries in their plan for "Gold Medal" classification and make recommendation.
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Water Rights Information/Review
TIMOTHY R. BUCHANAN, P.C. ATTORNEYS AT LAW 7703 RALSTON ROAD ARVADA, COLORADO 80002 TELEPHONE: (303) 431-9141 FACSIMILE: (800) 803-6648 EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.trbpc.com TIMOTHY R. BUCHANAN [email protected]
November 10, 2006
ALAN E. CURTIS [email protected] HEATHER A. WARREN, LL.M. [email protected] KARA GODBEHERE GOODWIN [email protected]
Gay Ummel, Esq. Steven L. Snyder, Esq. Jefferson County Attorney’s Office 100 Jefferson County Parkway Golden, Colorado 80401
RE: Pine Valley Ranch Water Rights
Dear Gay and Steve:
Randy Frank and I recently inspected the water rights facilities associated with the Pine Valley Ranch. I have also reviewed the requirements of the Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, Ruling of the Referee and Judgment and Decree entered on June 11, 1999, by the District Court in and for Water Division No. 1 in Case No. 96CW1146 (“96CW1146 Decree”) with respect to measurement and delivery of the water associated with Pine Valley Ranch. This letter supplements the letter I sent Steve Snyder, Esq., dated July 28, 2006. I thought it would be helpful to review the structures associated with Pine Valley Ranch and the requirements of the 96CW1146 Decree. Water for Pine Valley Reservoir is diverted out of the South Platte River through a headgate and carried in an open box culvert to an underground pipe. The underground pipe carries the water to the west end
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of Pine Valley Reservoir and discharges into Pine Valley Reservoir. The water level in Pine Valley Reservoir is controlled by a “fixed channel” located on the east end of Pine Valley Reservoir. The reference to a “fixed channel” means that the water level in the reservoir is not easily adjusted, but remains constant based on the height of the fixed channel. There is an outlet gate separate from the fixed channel, which allows the water to be released out of the reservoir below the height of the fixed channel. Water that flows over the height of the fixed channel or is released out through the outlet gate flows through an open box culvert to the South Platte River.
Gay Ummel, Esq. Steven L. Snyder, Esq. November 10, 2006 Page 2
The 96CW1146 Decree provides for certain measurements of the water diversions, storage and release. In particular, the water diverted from the South Platte River is required to be measured, as well as the water that is released from the reservoir. There are several scenarios for diversion of water into the Pine Valley Ranch Reservoir, which are generally described as follows: 1. When the (1) the Mountain and Meadow Ditch, which was previously decreed a water right for 1.0 cubic feet of water per second of time (“cfs”) with an appropriation date of May 1, 1875, by a decree entered on May 22, 1913, and (2) the Mountain and Meadow Ditch No. 2, which was previously decreed a water right for 1.5 cfs with an appropriation date of May 1, 1875, by a decree entered on May 22, 1913 and on April 8, 1948, (collectively referred to as “Mountain and Meadow Ditch Water Rights”) water rights are in priority, water may be diverted from the South Platte River and no water is required to be released. 2. When the Pine Valley Reservoir water right, which was decreed a conditional water storage right for 23.7 acre feet per year, with the right to fill and refill whenever the water is in priority, with an appropriation date of December 31, 1948, is in priority, water may be diverted from the South Platte River and no water is required to be released. 3. Water may be diverted into Pine Valley Reservoir irrespective of the priority of the call on the South Platte River, but the rate of flow of diversions must equal the rate of flow of releases. With the current facilities, in order for the rate of flow of diversions to equal the rate of flow of releases, the Reservoir must be full. In order for Jefferson County to release a portion of the water for use by the Road and Bridge Department, one of the following conditions must occur: 1. There is water available for diversion and the (1) Mountain and Meadow Ditch Water Rights, or (2) Pine Valley Reservoir water right, are in priority and the water can either (1) bypass the diversion structure, or (2) be diverted and delivered to the South Platte River. [“In-priority option”] 2. There is either no water available for diversion or the (1) Mountain and Meadow Ditch Water Rights, or (2) Pine Valley Reservoir water right, are not in priority and the water can be released out of Pine Valley Reservoir and delivered to the South Platte River. [“Out-of-priority option”]
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Presently, the only way that Jefferson County can implement the Out-of-priority option is to release water out of the gate on the east end of the Reservoir. The problem with that approach is that in order to not store water out-of-priority, Jefferson County would need to keep the outlet gate open so that the inflow to the Reservoir equals the outflow out of the Reservoir, otherwise Jefferson County would be refilling the Reservoir and taking water that should be left in the South Platte River. Keeping the outlet gate open and monitoring the water flows would be quite labor intensive. An alternative approach would be to install a pipe in the Reservoir with a control gate that would allow Jefferson County to set the level of the Reservoir at a point below the fixed outlet channel. In order to implement the In-priority option, there are some structural changes that will be needed at Pine Valley Reservoir. One option would be to cut a hole in the box culvert that is used to divert the water out of the South Platte River, and install a headgate in the hole. Water would then be diverted out of the South Platte River and measured, and then a portion of the water returned to the South Platte River through the new headgate for use by the Road and Bridge Department. In order to implement both the In-Priority option and the Out-of-priority option, Jefferson County could raise the level of the water stored in Pine Valley Reservoir by installing some planks on the box culvert on the exist of the Reservoir. If a six inch plank was placed across the outlet, the water level would be raised by six inches and the volume of water stored in the Reservoir would be increased by approximately 2.9 acre feet. When Road and Bridge Department requires water and the other water rights are out- of-priority, a gate on the plank could be operated to release water out of the Reservoir. Another option would be to install a pump to withdraw water out of the Reservoir and deliver the water to the South Platte River. Water diversions are typically measured by use of a continuous recording meter, which is generally referred to as a “Stevens Recorder.” A Stevens Recorder operates by use of a float that moves up and down as the water levels change, and the float makes a notation on a paper. There are also more sophisticated measuring devises. However, the best scenario for Jefferson County would be to have a measuring device that would continuously record the amount of water diverted into Pine Valley Ranch Reservoir, and the amount of water that is delivered out of the Reservoir. The records of diversions and releases should also be periodically filed with the State Engineer’s office. I have tried to determine the both the least expensive procedure and the concept that would require minimal structural changes to Pine Valley Ranch structures. I believe that Jefferson County should, at a minimum, install a continuous recorder on the diversion and release structures associated with the Reservoir. In order to implement an agreement with the Road and Bridge Department, (1) whenever there is water under the In-priority option, the water could be diverted and released out the outlet structure, and (2) in order to make water under when the In-priority option does not work, the planking across the outlet structure raise the level of the Reservoir by up to six inches and water could be released and the level of the Reservoir lowered. Please let me know if you have any comments or questions. I apologize for the delay in responding on this matter.
Sincerely, TIMOTHY R. BUCHANAN, P.C.
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trb:wjg cc: Stanton La Breche Discussion Items Update 2008 Review of this Plan (Annual Meeting Held 11/2007):
The following action items were completed in 2007:
Erosion of Concrete Trail (by restroom/trail head) – During thunderstorm events water collects from several areas and runs down along the edge of the concrete trail. J.1.a. Evaluate erosion/drainage issue Complete 2007
The following action item was canceled in 2007:
The dredging project has been canceled. After testing it was determined that adequate depth could not be achieved by dredging that would improve the habitat. B.4.a. Contract for design and CDs to dredge Pine Lake Canceled 2007 B.4.b. Contract to dredge Pine Lake Canceled 2007
Discussion Items Update 2009 Review of this Plan (Annual Meeting Held 9/11/2008):
The following action items were completed in 2008:
II. Buck Gulch Crossing – During the Spring runoff and Summer thunderstorm events the Buck Gulch Trail has been washed out at the base of Buck Gulch on several occasions and in the Winter the water in the area backs up and freezes creating a hazardous crossing. The existing culvert is not adequate.
I.1.a. Determine type of crossing and design crossing structure. Complete 2008 I.1.b. Construct gulch crossing structure. Complete 2008
K. Erosion of Concrete Trail (by restroom/trail head) – During thunderstorm events water collects from several areas and runs down along the edge of the concrete trail.
J.1.a. Evaluate erosion/drainage issue Complete 2007 J.1.b. Design corrective measures Complete 2008
Discussion Items Update 2010 Review of this Plan (Annual Meeting Held 9/30/09):
The following action item was completed in 2009:
K. Evaluate current fishing regulations for the river to determine if the quality of the fishery would be substantially improved by a regulation change to catch and release, flies and lures only. How would the change impact the park user
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experience? What enforcement issues, if any, would the change create and how might they be addressed.
K.1.a. Evaluate current fishing regulations for the river to determine if the quality of the fishery would be substantially improved by a regulation change to catch and release, flies and lures only. Complete 2009-Regulations Unchanged
A RFQP is in process to repair the damage of an illegal ATV track that was constructed on Open Space property. The following is the Scope of Work for the RFQP.
REQUEST FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS AND PROPOSAL PINE VALLEY RANCH PARK, LAND RECLAMATION DESIGN/BUILD PROJECT
I. INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND
Jefferson County is requiring design and construction for the stabilization and remediation of the unauthorized “track” that was constructed on Jefferson County property. The “track” is approximately six feet wide and 2500 feet in length. After an approved contract has been signed, insurance and bond requirements met and a notice to proceed issued the chosen firm will provide immediate erosion control and water quality control to the affected area prior to and during the design and reclamation process. The design will include all elements to stabilize and restore the disturbed area to its original condition that will be compatible with the natural aspects of the surrounding area. The design shall include, but not limited to, performance measures i.e. number of grass seedlings per square foot, 100% biodegradable erosion blanket and erosion logs, organic fertilizers like Biosol, weed free mulch, etc. The County will provide general mapping and photographs of the disturbed area. The site is located at Pine Valley Ranch Park, Pine, Colorado. The project has a completion goal of ______.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
To be considered for award of this contract, the following minimum qualifications must be met:
A. The firm must be organized for the purpose of providing professional Land Reclamation Design and Construction services with a minimum of five years of design and construction experience. Specific reclamation experience, with at least 3 projects similar in scope is required. List specific restoration experience with native plant species and natural landscapes. B. The firm must have successfully completed at least three design-build projects within the last five years. C. The firm must have the capability of assigning to the project at least one project manager who:
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1. Has five or more years' experience in design, and /or construction, including design/build project experience. 2. Can devote 75% of his or her time to the project during planning, design, preparation of construction documents, and time during the construction as required. D. Demonstrated history of similar projects by supplying a list of names, addresses and phone numbers of the Owner of at least three design-build projects of comparable size and complexity during the last five years. Provide original and final contract amounts, estimated and actual completion dates and a list of any claims filed. Specifically highlight any restoration experience in addition to other landscape construction projects. E. The firm must have a proven ability for an immediate contract start-up as evidenced by past performance and current resources and personnel. F. Each firm is welcome to provide additional information, which further details its qualifications. However, each firm must ensure that all requested information is provided. G. Be advised that the successful firm will be required to provide evidence of current good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State and possess all required professional licenses. H. The firm must provide a sworn statement that neither itself nor any of its subcontractors in any manner participated in, or was responsible for, the unauthorized “track” construction on Pine Valley Ranch Park.
III. SCOPE OF SERVICES
The selected firm shall have the ability to provide the services as described below:
1. The County will identify the County Representatives. The County will designate a Project Manager to be the single point of contact for the construction phase of the Project.
2. Design/Build (D/B)Firm shall work with County Representatives to: • Identify and establish clear relationships and expectations with the County Representatives, D/B’s Project Team and others identified by Jefferson County as essential to the project. • Establish suggested meeting dates. • Clarify any unresolved questions or issues related to the project.
3. Throughout the project, the D/B firm shall prepare and distribute meeting agendas and minutes. In addition, the D/B firm shall record and distribute records of all verbal conversations related to the project.
4. The D/B firm shall include a minimum of one presentation to the County in their proposal.
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5. With the County Representatives assistance, develop a project schedule illustrating the major milestones for the project. The schedule shall be monitored and updated periodically. 6. Provide Site Assessment and Utility Analysis.
7. Submit application to Planning & Zoning for a Grading Permit. Provide necessary drawings and documents as a part of this process.
8. Prepare a Storm Water Management Plan. Submit application and obtain permit.
9. Obtain required permit(s) from, but not limited to Federal, State, County and Local agencies and any other necessary agencies or jurisdictions and complete all requirements of the permits.
10. Provide two year warranty and performance bond.
11. Provide formal and informal value engineering throughout the project. Work shall include as required civil, landscape design, materials and such other elements as may be appropriate.
13. Submit lump sum cost proposal for the deliverables and project construction. The lump sum to include but not limited to the completion of the design/CDs, P&Z approvals, and restoration of the unauthorized “track” and the associated impacts/damage. Updated cost estimates and schedule shall be provided throughout design process to facilitate analysis of project budget and scope, leading to final design.
14. For County approval, provide final Design/Construction Documents and review lump sum cost for the reclamation.
15. Upon review and acceptance of deliverables for accuracy and completeness a Notice to Proceed for reclamation/construction phase of the project shall be issued.
16. Complete reclamation/construction for the project according to the approved final Design/CDs. Meet all permit requirements, provide any necessary documentation and finalize/close out permit(s) as required.
IV. GENERAL SCOPE INFORMATION:
The Design/Build firm shall furnish all drawings in AutoCAD format, 2008 or earlier. The “e-transmit” command should be used for transmitting drawings. Each sheet of the drawings shall also be saved in Adobe PDF format. Specifications shall be saved in MS Word format. All files shall be provided on CD-ROM or DVD disks.
Hard copies of Final Construction drawings shall be delivered on one set of 24”x36” Mylar as well as engineer stamped prints, generally 11X17, as needed for permitting
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agencies, i.e. County Planning and Zoning. Three hard copies of the construction specifications shall be furnished to Jefferson County. V. SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS
Interested firms shall submit an original and four (4) copies, of the following documents, as well as any additional supporting documents to provide the requested information or to demonstrate compliance with the following criteria.
A. Provide the following project data for at least three (3) similar projects in which the scope of the project was comparable in size and complexity and that were completed within the past five (5) years. Specifically highlight landscape/restoration projects. Indicate if the project utilized a design/build contract.
1. Project owner, reference name and phone number. Please ensure reference contacts and phone numbers are current. 2. The estimated and the actual design and construction completion dates. Provide detailed explanations for late completion of design or construction. 3. The firm’s cost estimate and actual construction contract amounts for each project. In addition, provide the firm’s cost estimates for early design phases of the project. 4. Listing of all pending and/or settled construction litigation or claims involving the firm. Include detailed explanations for each occurrence.
B. Provide resumes for all principals, project managers, superintendents and other key personnel that may be involved in projects. Include any proposed subcontractors, design consultants, or specialists who will be involved with the project. All proposed subcontractors or sub-consultants will be evaluated and subject to approval by the County.
C. Provide information regarding when the firm was organized. If the firm is a corporation, in what state is it incorporated? How long has the firm been providing Design/Build services?
D. Provide insurance certificates demonstrating ability to meet requirements as shown in Exhibit B to this contract.
E. Are any lawsuits; Federal, State or local tax liens; or any potential claims or liabilities pending against you, your firm, or the officers of the firm at this time? ____Yes ____No. If yes, please explain.
F. Has your corporation ever filed for bankruptcy or corporate protection under applicable Federal or State Laws in the last seven (7) years? ____Yes ____No. If yes, please explain.
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G. Submit Cost Proposal in a separate, sealed envelope. Cost proposals will only be considered, opened and reviewed from firms that meet the minimum qualifications. Cost proposal will include:
1. Lump-Sum price and schedule for completion of Work as described in the Scope of Services. 2. Detailed explanation as to the firm’s approach to the project. 3. Statement that the firm can meet the goal of ______for completion of the project. 4. The cost proposal shall include two alternates as follows: a. Access through Jenkins property. b. Access through Brake property. 5. Two year warranty.
H. Each firm is welcome to provide additional information, which further details your firm's qualifications.
VI. SELECTION CRITERIA
Each proposal will be evaluated on the following criteria:
A. Recent, relevant experience in design/build of projects similar in size and scope. B. References. C. Key personnel’s professional background. D. Demonstrated ability to meet schedules or deadlines. E. Capability to provide accurate cost estimates. F. Litigation and claim history. G. Ability to meet Insurance Requirements H. Cost proposals will only be considered from firms that meet the established minimum qualifications. I. Overall quality of the submittal and demonstration of an understanding of the Work.
VII. METHOD OF AWARD:
The award will be made to the firm whose proposal is determined to be professionally and technically complete. The selection process may, however, include a request for additional information or an oral presentation to support the written qualification statement. Final firm selection will be based on both the written qualification data submitted and information provided at the oral interview, if one is held.
Jefferson County reserves the right to award this Contract to the firm that demonstrates the best ability to fulfill the requirements of this request for proposal. The successful firm will be chosen based on the qualifications and selection criteria discussed in this proposal. The enclosed agreement is substantially in the form that will be executed between the successful firm and Jefferson County.
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The successful firm shall commence work only after the transmittal of a Notice to Proceed. The successful firm will perform all services indicated in the proposal in compliance with the negotiated Contract.
Jefferson County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals in whole or in part received by reason of this Request for Qualifications and Proposal.
Jefferson County will not pay for any information herein requested, nor is it liable for any costs incurred by the participating firms.
Firms whose proposals do not meet the mandatory requirements may be considered non-compliant and may be rejected.
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Chapter 4: Detailed Information on Reynolds Park
Introduction:
Park Vision: The management of Reynolds Park reflects the Jefferson County Open Space mission of balancing human use with resource preservation. This is accomplished through the application of management units upon the landscape, which define a spectrum of recreational opportunities, environmental education and interpretation opportunities, and natural and cultural resource conservation efforts. Reynolds Park has one management unit designation (Natural Area) emphasizing specific priorities for the provision of recreational opportunities and protection of the park’s resources.
The vision for Reynolds Park is to maintain its relative serenity, current visitation, and intact natural values by managing its trail use to be hiker and equestrian only and by limiting further development. Reynolds Park offers the quiet and solitude that many Open Space visitors seek. This characteristic results from Reynolds' distance from populated areas, its limited park facilities, and its relatively low trail mileage.
Given that Reynolds does not currently see large numbers of mountain bikers, and the desire to maintain Reynolds Park's characteristic quiet and solitude, it is appropriate to make this park hiker and equestrian use only. There are few opportunities for a hiker/equestrian only experience in the mountainous parks within the system. Moreover, current use patterns indicate that few people seem willing to travel so far to enjoy what is a relatively limited mountain biking experience. As of 2004 Reynolds Park has been closed to mountain bike use.
The 2001 property acquisition, adjacent to the southeast side of the park, could provide excellent opportunities for long distance hiking, biking and horseback rides through the development of a regional trail. This vision includes the planning and development of a multi-use trail that could run southeast from Reynolds to the North Fork of the South Platte River and on to the Colorado Trail. If a trail is completed from Reynolds to other public lands to the south, the portion of the park on the east side of Foxton Road could revert to multi-use.
Location: Reynolds Park is located 6 miles south of Conifer on Foxton Road, four miles south of the Highway 285 junction. The property is located in portions of Sections 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, and 15, in Township 7 South, Range 70West of the Sixth Principle Meridian. See Figure 4a.
Chronology of Development: 1977 Development monies granted from State of Colorado Land and Water Conservation Fund Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 3: Pine Valley Ranch Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 61
1980-1983 North entry sign construction 1984-1985 Development of Idylease Campground, campground restroom and parking area 1985-1986 Development of main parking area, main picnic area and main restroom 1990 South entry sign construction 1993 Trail kiosk installed 1994 Wells developed at main picnic area and campground 2005 Resident Ranger changed to Resident Caretaker and the residence was remodeled 2005 Hand pump at main picnic area removed
Amenities: • 5.9 miles of hiking and equestrian trails (one interpretive trail) • Campground with 5 campsites, single-hole restroom and well • Main picnic area with approximately 10 picnic tables, 8 grills, restroom and well (well closed to public use in 2005) • Caretaker’s residence, barn, and associated outbuildings including the “bunkhouse” and “dancehall” • Various entry signs, kiosks, hitching rails.
Park Capacity: Currently, parking lot size greatly exceeds visitation: the main lot’s capacity is approximately 100 cars and the campground lot’s capacity is approximately 20 cars. The vision is to maintain the relative low visitation, the park’s intact natural character and to limit development. Accordingly, this plan recommends redevelopment of the main parking lot to be smaller, more attractive and equally functional. Assessment through ongoing monitoring of the park’s natural resources and visitor experiences is expected to be a component of this management plan’s updates in future years.
Acreage: 1,983 acres, more or less.
Historical Background: For over 10,000 years, hunter-gatherers migrated through the Front Range area, wintering in sheltered lowland areas of southeastern Jefferson County. From 12,000 to 7,000 years ago, Paleo Indians followed wildlife and ripening vegetation from the plains to progressively higher elevations as far away as South, Middle and North Parks, and then returned to lower elevation valley sites before beginning their annual cycle again. From 7,000 to about 2,000 years ago, semi-nomadic Archaic Indians settled in camps along the foothills, occupying open ridges, valleys and shelters among rock outcrops. They chose locations offering a reliable water source, shelter, diversity of plant and animal resources, and unobstructed views. Small groups began to stay in one place long enough to construct shelters and cultivate plants.
From 2,000 to 200 years ago Plains Ceramic Stage Native Americans were the first to use pottery and the bow and arrow. The Foothills region provided hunting grounds for multiple tribes, and the lowland areas continued to be used for winter camps and
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seasonal meeting grounds.
As miners arrived in the region they traveled up these same canyons. One of the primary routes that carried pack train to Leadville, a thriving mining community, crossed Reynolds Park. A narrow gauge railroad line was constructed in 1878, and Foxton was designated as “Park Siding.” The Probert family were the first settlers in Park Siding. Mr. Probert was from England or Scotland, and was highly skilled quarryman in the Platte Canyon quarries around Foxton. Quarrying continued in the Platte Canyon until 1936 when the railroad was scrapped. “Park Siding” was renamed in 1904 by an Englishman named Roach in honor of a “Foxton Hall” somewhere in England. Mr. Roach also opened up a wagon road from the foot of Kennedy Gulch, bridging the Platte River, and then finished up on the south side of the Platte to Foxton, where he bridged the river again. In 1895 Bennet B. Shepperd applied for a homestead patent on this property, and, in 1908, Louise Ruttledge applied for a patent nearby. Louise’s husband, Colonel Ruttledge, a personal friend of William Cody, built a three-room house, insulated with hay in the loft. The house served as a stop for pack trains from Denver to Leadville.
In 1913 Colonel Ruttledge sold his property to John A. Reynolds and his first wife. The couple had moved from New York when Mrs. Reynolds developed tuberculosis. Mrs. Reynolds had been a stage dancer and Mr. Reynolds a stagehand. Reynolds filed a homestead of 640 acres on December 10, 1919. He purchased Bennet B. Shepperd’s homestead, and later added 160 acres from Tom Butterfield. Reynolds added to the original house, and later remodeled it. He milled lumber on the property, and harvested firewood. In 1913, after building four small new cabins, and repairing the ten Mormon cabins in Piano Meadows, Reynolds and his wife opened a “guest ranch” to select visitors from the East. The cabins were all given names that ran together, such as, “Dodropin.” The Reynolds only invited those people whom they chose to include, and each visitor received a folder, complete with pictures, as a personal invitation to the ranch.
Idylease Ranch operated from 1913 until 1942. It is uncertain when Mrs. Reynolds died, but John Reynolds remarried. He and his second wife, Eva Dell Reynolds, ran Reynolds, a working ranch, from 1948 until 1975. The ranch became too much for Eva to manage after John died of cancer in 1954. She couldn’t afford to pay the taxes on the ranch, so, to avoid losing the ranch entirely, she burned down the cabins in Piano Meadows.
Reynolds Ranch was acquired by Jefferson County Open Space from the Matthes- Reynolds family on May 28, 1975, with Mrs. Eva Dell Reynolds making a gift of the ranch house, buildings and a part of the land as a memorial to her husband, John A. Reynolds. Reynolds Park was listed on the State Register of Historic Sites on February 4, 1977, and dedicated on October 21, 1977. A second tract of land was purchased from John and Vivian Tekler in 1980, and a third tract was acquired in 2001 from Open Lands Inc., a.k.a. Quapaw Investments. As homesteaded land, Reynolds Park truly represents the history and heritage of Jefferson County’s pioneers and early settlers.
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Acquired: The first tract acquired is located in portions of Sections 4, 5, 8, 9, and 10,and consists of 1,100 acres, more or less. This property was acquired from the Matthes-Reynolds Family in May 1975. This acquisition was approved by OSAC Resolution #36-74 on February 25, 1975 and the Board of County Commissioners Resolution #CC75-104 on April 29, 1975. This tract was acquired for trails, picnic areas and grills, parking areas and restrooms.
The second tract acquired is located in portions of Sections 8 and 9, and consists of 160 acres, more or less. This property was acquired from John and Vivian Tekler in 1980. This acquisition was approved by OSAC Resolution #10-78 on April 25, 1978 and the Board of County Commissioners Resolution #CC80-855 on September 29, 1980. This tract was acquired for Open Space Park and the recreational needs of the citizens of Jefferson County.
The third tract acquired is located in portions of Sections 10 and 15, and consists of 240 acres, more or less. This property was acquired from Open Lands Inc., aka Quapaw Investments. This acquisition was approved by OSAC Resolution #01-31 on September 6, 2001, and the Board of County Commissioners Resolution #CC01-425 on September 25, 2001. This tract was acquired for preservation of its natural surface trail opportunities and potential trail connections from Reynolds Open Space Park to the Colorado Trail.
The fourth parcel was acquired on July 7, 2004 from Arthur F. and Mary Jane Schmidt. This parcel is located on the southwest boundary of the park in the NE1/4 NW1/4 of Section 8 and contains 43 acres, more or less. This purchase was authorized by OSAC Resolution #04-13 on May 6, 2004 and the Board of County Commissioners Resolution #CC04-345 on June 29, 2004. This property was acquired for recreational uses, natural surface trail development, wildlife habitat preservation and scenic corridor values. See Figure 4c.
The Faller addition was acquired on December 26, 2007 and is comprised of 410 acres, more or less and was authorized by OSAC Resolution #07-28 and the Board of County Commissioners Resolution CC07-542.
In 2008 Open Lands Inc. deeded 30 acres, more or less, to the County. The property is located adjacent to the southern boundary of Reynolds Park, on the east side of Foxton Road, contiguous to Denver Water Board property and allows for the trail connection from Reynolds to the Water Board property. This acquisition was authorized by OSAC Resolution #08-16, on July 3, 2008 and the Board of County Commissioners Resolution #CC08-420 on September 30, 2008.
Natural and Cultural Resources: The following is a synopsis of the natural and cultural resources found at Reynolds Park.
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Vegetation: Natural Resources staff surveyed Reynolds Park during the summer of 1997. The dominant vegetation types fell into four main classifications throughout the property. • Ponderosa pine/mountain mahogany (Pinus ponderosa/Cercocarpus montanus)- 40% • Douglas fir/ninebark (Pseudotsuga menziesii/Physocarpus monogynus)-35% • Mountain mahogany/needle and thread grass (Cercocarpus montanus/Stipa comata)-20% • Narrowleaf cottonwood/willow (Populus angustifolia/Salix sp.)-5%
Wildlife: There are many species of wildlife that utilize this property, however, there are no known species of concern that would warrant special management. • Deer are common throughout the park. The Colorado Division of Wildlife’s GIS data indicates mule deer utilize the eastern area of the park as winter range, only a portion of an area much larger than Reynolds Park. No special management is required. • Elk are also common throughout the park. The Colorado Division of Wildlife’s GIS data indicates there are calving areas that cross the west boundary of the property. An area of elk winter concentration includes the entire park and surrounding area. No special management is required. • Beaver have not been known to impact the park, but the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s GIS data indicate a small area of overall beaver range along the riparian corridor on the northern one-third of the park. Unless there are signs of beaver damage to streamside trees, no actions are required. • There is occasional bear use along one of the drainages behind the resident ranger’s house and alongside the camping area. The campsites have food poles or storage lockers to discourage bear encounters with campers. • A 1994 flammulated owl survey reported a positive response near the trail junction of Raven’s Roost and Eagle View. Its presence does not require special management but merely indicates an old growth forest component, mostly lacking throughout the Front Range.
Cultural Resources: SWCA, Inc. completed a Class III Cultural Resource Inventory in 2001. The full report is available through the Jefferson County Open Space Planning section. One archaeological site and five isolated finds were recorded. The archaeological site is referred to as the Idylease Dude Ranch, consisting of seven structures. Those structures are the current Caretaker residence (once just a three-room cabin), shed, chicken coop, barn, pole barn, “dance hall” cabin and “bunkhouse” cabin. The isolated finds consist of remnants of a shelter with a log and branch roof over two large boulders, a prospecting trench with pit, another prospecting pit and two lumber mill sites.
The report indicates that none of the cultural resources would be eligible for National Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 4: Reynolds Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 65
Register of Historic Places.
There are additional prospecting pits throughout the newly acquired property to the south of the park that will likely be closed for safety reasons. Maintenance staff reported bat use in one of the mines. Closures will take into account future bat use.
Activities: Recreational activities are primarily trail-based with the majority of visitors being hikers or picnickers. As noted earlier, Reynolds Park has perhaps the lowest visitation rate of any of the parks within the Open Space system. Mountain-bike use at Reynolds had been observed to be infrequent, and since 2004, has not been permitted. Reynolds (along with White Ranch) is one of only two Open Space parks where camping is available. Horseback riding, dog-walking, trail-running and wildlife viewing are also popular activities at Reynolds Park.
Visitation and Use Trends: Reynolds Park receives relatively light recreational use. This is estimated to be 31,000 visitors per year, the lowest visitation rate of any rural park within the Open Space system. The average number of visitors per vehicle is estimated to be 2.79. There are several pull-outs along Foxton Road that are utilized for parking together with the two parking lots. Most visitors approach the park from Highway 285 and the majority of park visitors are hikers and picnickers. A significant number of repeat visitors are local residents who access the park through adjacent property.
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Figure 4a: Reynolds Park Location Map
Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 4: Reynolds Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 67 Figure 4b: Reynolds Park Map
Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 4: Reynolds Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 68 Figure 4c: Reynolds Park Acquisition History Map
Peaks Region Management Plan Chapter 4: Reynolds Park Jefferson County Open Space 2013 69 Figure 4d: Reynolds Park Opportunities and Constraints Analysis
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Management Context:
This section identifies and describes the Management Units that have been designated for Reynolds Park. See Figure 4e.
Natural Area Management Unit: Below is the justification for designating the entire Park a Natural Area Management Unit and, thereby, providing public access in the form of natural surface trails.
1. Wildlife Usage • The park provides year-round deer and elk use, as well as winter concentration areas for both species. • There are no known wildlife species utilizing the property in such a way to require additional management. 2. Vegetative Resources • Inventory results for this park indicate a mosaic of habitats. Ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir forests dominate the landscape. Also present are mountain shrub and intermittent stream riparian communities. 3. Recreational Resources • The area provides an ideal setting for visitors to appreciate wildlife in their natural habitat. • Park users experience a quiet, natural environment offering solitude and scenic views. • Trails are designated for hiker and equestrian use only, currently hikers make up the majority of park users. • Several small, unsheltered picnic areas are available along the creek. Five campsites are available after a half-mile hike from the parking lot.
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Figure 4e: Reynolds Park MUD Map
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Reynolds Park Leases, Easements, Contracts and Agreements: Jefferson County Open Space often enters into agreements with other public and private organizations and individuals on behalf of a park. These agreements sometimes help the park to fulfill its recreational or stewardship objectives while providing a service or benefit to the other party. Agreements of this type are legally binding, and as a result, form a critical element of a park’s legal and policy context. Leases, easements, contracts and agreements entered into on behalf of this park are outlined in Table 1c below.
TABLE 4a: REYNOLDS PARK LEASES, LICENSES, EASEMENTS, CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
Agreeing Parties Description Location Agreement Type Easement and Clarence Rask Ingress and Egress to NE¼NW¼ of Section 4 Bk. 1086/Pg. 414 Right of Way Right of Way Gerald Bylsma Ingress and Egress over Section 5 Bk. 2121/Pg. 145 Mineral and Ditch USA Right of Proprietor to extract ore Bk. 368/Pg. 392, Reservation Bk. 267/Pg. 68 Mineral Gifford Undivided 25% Bk. 535/Pg. 269 Reservation Mineral Peinze Undivided 25% Bk. 548/Pg. 130 Reservation Easement Hamelin Ingress and Egress to SE¼NW¼ of Section 4 Rec. # 79020078 Easement Jefferson County /Faller Et. Access Easement Rec. # F1490705 Exchange Al. Signage Colorado State Parks Land Grant from Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Number 08- and Water Conservation Fund required that recognition of State participation must 00689 be on signage
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Work Plan Summary:
The Figure on the following page reflects the five-year financial strategy Reynolds Park. The “issue-driven” actions identified in the Actions Map (Figure 4f) correspond alpha- numerically to the “Action Items,” portions of this chapter. The Actions Map (Figure 4f) shows the temporal relationship between the issues.
Definitions:
1) System-wide Priority Criteria
A decision whether to implement a particular management action is based on system-wide priorities, which are derived from the following criteria:
• ADA/life safety/public health • Resource protection • Special studies/planning • Cyclic maintenance
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Figure 4f: Actions Map
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Action Items:
An explanation of identified issues specific to Reynolds Park and the actions proposed to resolve them follow. The issues and actions articulated below correspond alpha- numerically to Figure 4f. Implementation of the preferred management options may be limited by staffing and/or budget constraints.
Regional Trail: A.2. Construct Regional Trail The Reynolds Park vision includes a multiple-use (hikers, equestrians, bikers) regional trail to connect the Park with public lands in the South Platte Valley and on to the Colorado Trail. A trail will be planned, designed and constructed. The necessary agreements, trail easements and/or acquisitions will be established. Biker’s access to the regional trail from Reynolds Park may require the re- examination of bike use on the east side of Foxton Road.
A.2.d. Develop plan/design parking facility for new trailhead Develop plan/design the main parking lot improvements for the new trailhead.
A.2.e. Construct parking facility for new trailhead Currently, the main parking lot is considered too large and aesthetically substandard. The parking lot will be redeveloped to improve its appearance, to be sized more appropriately and to ensure protection of the nearby riparian habitat. The main picnic area is quite close to the streamside habitat of Kennedy Gulch. Whereas the current use is low enough so as not to exhibit trampling, erosion, or vegetation loss, further hardening of the picnic pads and traffic control measures might provide greater protection to the riparian corridor. This work is to include the design and implementation of stabilization measures.
Improve Picnic Area: C.1. Design Work C.2. Construction Work The main picnic area is quite close to the streamside habitat of Kennedy Gulch. Whereas the current use is low enough so as not to exhibit trampling, erosion, or vegetation loss, further hardening of the picnic pads and traffic control measures might provide greater protection to the riparian corridor.
D.1. Interpretation The cultural resources survey indicates that none of the cultural resources qualify for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. There are nonetheless opportunities for interpretation of the historic Idylease Ranch (Ranger’s Residence and associated outbuildings). Non-personal natural resource interpretation can be expanded beyond the current “interpretive trail.”
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Discussion Items:
Although the following discussion items were not considered issues by Open Space staff, they are included here for the administrative record.
Discussion Items: 1. Campground improvements were discussed and it was determined to be appropriate for maintenance staff to affect improvements. 2. The on-going functionality of the clivus type restrooms, including the two at Reynolds in particular, was discussed as a potential issue. The current maintenance program consists of periodic pumping, making the lack of bio-decomposition less of an imperative circumstance. Alternatives will be evaluated when addressing the issue of “Improve picnic area.” 3. The installation of a park bench at Eagle’s View was discussed.
12/1/03 The in-progress Schmidt Acquisition (OS03-034) was discussed for opportunities for additional trail and scenic-view areas.
12/4/04 The vacant residence was discussed, Rangers do not feel an operational need to house a Ranger at Reynolds and Management Team intends to fill the vacancy with a Caretaker. Presumably this is intended to facilitate maintenance of the buildings but to what end? In the absence of historical values and given that no park operations require a residence than what need is there to facilitate or even continue maintenance of a residence.
12/01/05 Rangers have requested signage along the road in the Reserve property to help enforce regulations, particularly with a specific local landowner who is utilizing this road. Consultation with Acquisitions and with the County Attorney’s did not clarify this landowner’s rights with regard to usage of this road. Ranger staff will investigate this further.
12/31/06 The use of the road in the Reserve property and the legitimacy of this use is still unclear.
9/13/07 Maintenance section reported that all of the known mine openings have been filled in or covered.
Observations of increased public-use were discussed although there was no consensus regarding the validity of the observations.
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There was considerable discussion of the plans to improve the parking and picnic areas. Dennis presented what preliminary concepts had been discussed and how there was a suggestion to “cordon-off” and re-landscape some of the existing developed parking so as to allow for future expansion. Some team members felt that this provision was contrary to the parks vision of minimal development and visitation. The need for parking for visitors to the proposed regional trail was discussed, and how it would be most desirable to keep this parking area from harming the riparian corridor. The consensus was to have the development effort focus on riparian protection (less parking) on the river side of the park (west), and to keep any possible parking expansion (if necessary) on the regional trail/campground side of the park (east).
10/27/09 Action items B.1. and C.1. (Redesign/renovate parking area and picnic area) are, according to Dennis, on hold until approx. 2012. Much of the planning and design work for the Campground parking lot will await completion of the Regional Trail Phase I and II to evaluate the types and number of users of the trail. Cal has been in communication with the owners of the 40 acre Faller property. At this time they are far apart on what each party thinks the property is worth. A.2.a. was added – Develop plan/design campground parking lot improvements for the new trailhead. This will be an “Other Priority” for 2010.
10/28/10 A Phase I Environmental Assessment (EA) was conducted at our request on the Faller property in October. The results of this EA will be used to determine the suitability of the Faller property as an addition to Reynolds Park. Planning for the new trailhead facilities will be completed in 2011 with construction set for 2012.
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Appendix A: Jefferson County Open Space Management Designations System
Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) implements a Management Unit Designation (MUD) system as an integrated approach by which land and water areas are classified according to ecosystem and cultural resource protection requirements, and their capability and suitability to provide opportunities for visitor experiences. It is one part of an array of management strategies used by Open Space to assist in maintaining ecological integrity through a framework for the area-specific application of policy directions, such as for resource management, appropriate activities, and research. As such, management units provide a designation for park managers and park visitors alike. The application of management units requires sound information related to ecosystem structure, function and sensitivity, as well as opportunities and impacts of existing and potential visitor experiences.
The MUD system provides a means to reflect principles of ecological integrity by protecting park lands and resources and ensuring a minimum of human-induced change. In certain Open Space parks not all management units will be represented. In some cases, Special Protection Areas (SPAs), such as environmental or cultural areas, may be created when unique management is warranted. Park management teams will denote the SPA with the resource(s) to be addressed (e.g. Lichen Rock Garden SPA) and include the specific management actions necessary for the protection and use of such areas or sites (e.g. N.3, Enforce stay on trail requirement). The process to create a SPA is analogous to the creation of issue-driven actions (with details in Chapter IV, Management Directions, of the PMP), along with the need to map and label the specific location and boundaries of the SPA on the Concept Plan. A SPA may be removed if the management objectives have been accomplished or the underlying MUD is sufficient to manage the resource(s). This Special Protection Area will complement the management unit system and is important to the protection of unique and valued resources. Likewise, a temporal management technique (e.g., seasonal closures) may be considered for certain areas as part of the management planning program.
The following three management unit designations (MUDs) and associated guidelines serve to, first, provide a linkage between the “vision” of the Jefferson County Open Space Master Plan and the park or field-level management plans; second, define the JCOS “system;” and finally, provide management guidance for the different types of lands within JCOS.
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RECREATION SERVICES AND AMENITIES NATURAL AREA SENSITIVE AREA AREA GOAL STATEMENT GOAL STATEMENT GOAL STATEMENT The intent of this management designation is to provide The intent of this management The intent of this management designation is to services and amenities to the visiting public. While designation is to provide provide opportunities to maintain portions of JCOS assuring the ecological integrity and long-term opportunities for relatively large, that are very special, fragile, biodiverse and in need sustainability of the natural resources, outdoor contiguous portions of JCOS to of preservation and protection. Ecological and recreation opportunities provide social interaction and remain as naturally operating cultural resources are to be managed for information to enjoy and learn about the natural and ecosystems and for habitat preservation versus conservation. These areas may cultural resources found in JCOS. Visitor conveniences, conservation to be balanced with serve as sanctuaries, as outdoor museums for education programs, facilities and other amenities such public recreation. To the extent archaeological and historic resources, or as outdoor as trailheads, parking lots, trails, restrooms and shelters compatible, moderate trail-based classrooms for educational and research purposes. may be provided, if they are needed and complement outdoor recreation opportunities may Preservation and protection of naturally operating the provision of high quality nature-based outdoor be provided to those seeking social ecosystems are the paramount considerations for recreation opportunities, and will generally be interaction, to experience the sights, these areas. Since public use will be restricted, concentrated and located at public accesses on the sounds, and smells of nature, and to guided interpretive services may be available. The periphery of JCOS parks. experience limited outdoor area will be posted as a Sensitive Area. amenities.
A Special Protection Area (SPA) can be thought of as an overlay to a Management Unit Designation (MUD), created to address any unique item that requires special management actions, such as but not limited to: safety, a park access issue, natural resource concerns or restoration opportunities, cultural or environmental issues, biodiversity enhancement, time sensitive implications, a political imperative, other management consequences or SPECIAL PROTECTION opportunities. An SPA can be created within any MUD when specific resources, that are deemed significant, AREA (SPA) face real or potential impacts or opportunities that warrant special management actions. Given the preservation and protection already provided within a Sensitive Area, it is unlikely that a SPA will be needed. An effort at restoration, however, could be an applicable use of special management actions in a SPA. Specific location(s) and boundaries will be shown on the Concept Plan with the SPA labeled to denote the resource(s) in need of protection or special management. Issue-driven actions will be formulated to address the SPA.
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APPENDIX A: Recreation Services and Natural Sensitive Amenities Areas Areas Areas GUIDELINES
Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Notes Refer to the Outdoor Recreation Management Recreational Uses Guidelines and Uses Allowed on designated trails Endorsed On-trail Uses X X X only. Could be monitored for Endorsed Off-trail Uses X X X impacts.
Allowed at designated sites, subject to size restrictions, Special Activities X X X permit required. Could be monitored for Endorsed Water-based Uses X X X impacts. Pre-existing uses must be compatible with the goals Pre-Existing Uses X X X established for these areas. Off-road Motorized Vehicles X X X
Interpretation Supervised program for educational and scientific purposes within Sensitive Nature Study/Research X X X Area. Supervised program for educational and scientific purposes within Sensitive Educational Programs X X X Area.
Facilities/Design
Preferred location is Parkland Kiosks X X X Recreation Service Areas. Provided in accordance with Interpretive Waysides/Exhibits X X X interpretive plans.
Preferred location is Parkland Memorials/Recognitions X X X Recreation Service Areas.
Preferred location is Parkland Recreation Service Areas and prefer gravel surface in Parking X X X Natural Areas. In Sensitive Area closure and other notices may be on the Signs/Signage X X X boundary.
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APPENDIX A: Recreation Services and Natural Sensitive Amenities Areas Areas GUIDELINES Areas
Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed p Notes p Parkland Recreation Service Trail Surface X X X Area location; primarily Trail Bridges/Boardwalks X X X Prefer the majority of facilities Facilities (shelters, benches, in the Parkland Recreation restrooms, etc.) X X X Service Areas.
Preserve when possible, cost effective, and interpretation is Historical structures X X X a key component May be removed if not Existing facilities/structures X X X compatible, historic, safe. Not typically provided given monitoring requirements, but possible with water line Drinking water facilities X X X connection.
Wildlife
In consultation with DOW mitigation measures may be Mitigate Nuisance Wildlife X X X taken with minimal impact. In cooperation with DOW if Fish Stocking X X X appropriate.
Habitat enhancement may be undertaken to restore natural Habitat Enhancement X X X ecological processes. In cooperation with DOW if Releasing Wildlife X X X appropriate. Promote, enhance and Endangered or Threatened & CO protect habitat used by these Species of Concern X X X species. May be a resource management tool when Hunting X X X authorized. May be a resource management tool when Trapping X X X authorized.
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APPENDIX A:
Recreation Services and Natural Sensitive Amenities Areas Areas GUIDELINES Areas
Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Notes Removal only if posing a Trees/Shrubs Pruning/Removal X X X hazardous condition. Native species may be planted for ecological and Vegetation Management X X X management reasons.
In accordance with County Fire Management X X X Wildfire Mitigation Ordinance. To promote diversity, improve forest health and/or Forest Management X X X ecological restoration. In accordance with Army Corps of Engineers regs. & Wetland Protection X X X for ecological functions. Typically not compatible but may be used where Grazing X X X appropriate. An allowable management tool to assure quality Closed Areas X X X resource protection.
General Maintenance For weed control, grassland restoration and vegetation Mowing X X X management projects. Fencing may be erected or removed for visitor and ecological management Fencing X X X reasons.
Regulatory Receive County permits for all grading related activity if Grading X X X required. Document FSTAG Accessibility X X X recommendations.
Natural Resource Management As outlined in the CO and Jeffco Noxious Weed Noxious Weed Control X X X Management Act and Plan. Control as outlined in the Pest Management X X X Pest Control Act. Other Undesirable Weeds X X X
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APPENDIX A: Recreation Services and Natural Sensitive Amenities Areas Areas GUIDELINES Areas
Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Allowed Conditional Not Allowed Notes Other Easements can be allowed or maintained if they are Easements Granted X X X compatible. Leases can be allowed or maintained if they are in the Leases Granted X X X best interests of JCOS.
Posting of public notices must Posting Notices X X X serve a JCOS purpose. Typically for muddy trails or other public safety and Temporary Closures X X X resource protection need.
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Appendix B: Operational Documents Used in Park Management
Planning & Development:
Design and Development: • Design Guidelines • Open Space Sign Manual
Planning: • Current Open Space Master Plan • Open Space Preservation Concepts Priority List
Administration and Education Services:
Lookout Mountain Nature Center: • Open Space Interpretive Media Plan • Group Program Plan • Public Services Plan • Guiding Principles for Interpretive Services
Visitor & Resource Protection: • Recreation & Visitor Management Plan • Park Patrol Plans • Colorado Revised Statutes • Open Space Rules & Regulations • Ranger Operations Manual
Park Operations:
Park Services: • Open Space Fence and Posting Standard Operating Procedures • Jefferson County Open Space Maintenance Standards Manual
Trails Services: • Natural Surface Trail Management Guidelines
Natural Resources Management: • Resource Management Concepts
Park Construction: • Jefferson County Open Space Building Maintenance and Construction Standards
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and Guidelines Appendix C: Laws and Regulations
Jefferson County Open Space operates within a framework of laws and regulations that govern jurisdictional behavior. Interpretation of, and compliance with these laws and regulations requires sound and thoughtful judgment. The state and federal laws and county regulations that are applicable to county Open Space lands with which park staff should be familiar before taking action are presented below.
LAWS AND REGULATIONS Number Title Description Colorado Noxious CRS 35-5.5 Weed State law that requires control of noxious weeds. Management Act CRS 35-4-107 Pest Control Act State law that enables the County to require control of pests. Federal law that makes it unlawful to import, export, take, sell, purchase, or barter any Bald and Golden 16 USC 668- Bald or Golden Eagle, their parts, products, nests, or eggs. “Take” includes pursuing, Eagle Protection 668C shooting, poisoning, wounding, killing, capturing, trapping, collecting, molesting or Act disturbing the eagles. Federal law that makes it unlawful to import, export, take, sell, purchase, or barter any 16 USC 703- Migratory Bird migratory bird, their parts, products, nests, or eggs. “Take” includes pursuing, shooting, 712 Treaty Act poisoning, wounding, killing, capturing, trapping, collecting, molesting or disturbing migratory birds. 16 USC 1531- Endangered Federal law that makes it unlawful to take, possess, sell, or transport endangered 1544 Species Act species. Historic Federal law establishing a program for the preservation of Historic Properties 16 USC 470 Preservation Act of throughout the Nation. 1966 Protection and Executive Order stating that the Federal Government shall provide leadership in Exec. Order Enhancement of preserving, restoring, and maintaining the historic and cultural environment of the 11593 the Cultural Nation. Environment 16 USC 431- Antiquities Act of Federal law that makes it unlawful to appropriate, excavate, injure, or destroy any 433 1906 historic or prehistoric ruin or monument, or any object of antiquity without permission. Federal Native 25 USC 3001- American Graves Federal law establishing requirements for the treatment of Native American human 13 Protection and remains and sacred or cultural objects. Repatriation Act Federal law that guarantees equal opportunities in the areas of employment, state and local government services, public accommodations, and telecommunications. Public Law 101- Americans with Guidelines include: Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines, 336 Disabilities Act Recreational Facilities Accessibility Guidelines, Outdoor Developed Areas Accessibility Guidelines. Regulation 7, Emissions of Air Quality By authority of Federal Clean Air Act, State regulation stipulating requirements for Volatile Organic Control storage and transfer of volatile organic compounds. Compounds Commission Regulation 8, Control of Air Quality Hazardous Air By authority of Federal Clean Air Act, State regulation stipulating requirements for Control Pollutants, Part B asbestos abatement. Commission Asbestos Regulation 19, Air Quality Lead Based Paint By authority of Federal Clean Air Act, State regulation stipulating requirements for Control Abatement individuals and firms engaged in lead-based paint activities. Commission
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Number Title Description Public Law 92- Clean Water Act Federal law governing pollution in the nation’s streams, lakes, and estuaries. 500 Section of Clean Water Act authorizing the Secretary of the Army to issue permits for Section 404 of Permits and the discharge of dredged or fill material into the navigable waters at specified disposal PL 92-500 Licenses sites. Regulation 61, Point Source Water Quality Discharge and By authority of Federal Clean Water Act, State regulations that apply to all operations Control Control discharging to waters of the State from a point source. Commission Regulations State Highway Access Code, By authority of the Federal Highway Administration, State law regulating vehicular 2 CCR 601-1 Colorado access to or from any public highway. Department of Transportation 1988 Edition of Uniform Traffic MUTCD, Control Devices, By authority of the Federal Highway Administration, State law regulating traffic control Revision 3, Colorado devices. September 3, Department of 1993 Transportation Jefferson County County Planning and Zoning regulations. A complete listing can be found at Development http://206.247.49.21/ext/dpt/public_works/planning/zoning/build-permit-chklist.htm Process
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Appendix D: Stakeholders and Constituencies
Park management often involves the need to work closely with individuals and organizations that care about the public resource. The “stakeholders” may be park users; they may be neighbors; or they may be persons who are simply interested in the park’s resources and who desire those resources to be managed in a certain way for certain outcomes. This table lists known stakeholders and constituencies. They should be informed of significant developments or changes that might occur in or for the park.
PEAKS REGION STAKEHOLDERS AND CONSTITUENCIES
Contact Person Phone #, Description of Interest in Name of Address, E-mail Address Organization (as of date) FAX # Park(s), size of org. Access Fund 303-545-6772 Climbing Interest Black, Petritus, Adjacent landowners Priest, Foley Argyle American Alpine 303-384-0110 Climbing Club American Mtn. Climbing Guides Assoc.
Bureau of Land 303-239-3600 Previous property owner Management Colorado Div. of Mindy Clark 303-291-7368 Fisheries management Wildlife Colorado Division of Jerry Craig Dan 303-291-7336 Peregrine falcon management Wildlife Coil
Colorado Mountain 303-279-3080 Climbing Club Colorado White 303-430-4853 Kayakers Water Denver Water Board Marie Basset 303-972-5160 Adjacent property owner Chuck Smith Water flows in Platte River Denver Water Board 303-628-6605 Jessica Barbier Water Engineer
Maryelle ( last name unknown) 303/628-6201 Property Manager, 100 West 12th Ave. Owner of neighboring lands Denver Water Board Denver, CO 80254 required for Regional Trail Neil Sperandeo, Recreation Specialist 303/628-6289 Russ Mason Division of Wildlife 303-838-5860 State Game (South) State Game Regulations 303-291-7123 Inspector Dan Coin (North) IMBA 303-545-9011 Mountain Bikers Assoc. Intermountain Rural Electrical 303-674-9759 Power lines Association Jefferson County Bruce Carpenter [email protected] 303/271-5278 Responsible for maintenance of
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Contact Person Phone #, Description of Interest in Name of Address, E-mail Address Organization (as of date) FAX # Park(s), size of org. Road and Bridge Foxton Road Owner of large parcel west of Neighbor Danny Wirth 303/759-3200 Denver Water Board North Fork Vol. Fire. Curt Rogers 303-838-5257 Chief, EMS, Fire Services Dist. Building & Zoning Park County 303-838-9266 Potential trail connections Dept. Platte River Cabins Steve Sarango 303-838-9195 Nearby Bed & Breakfast Reynolds Reserve 14201 Broadview Cir., 720-320-7374 Scott Appel Reynolds Reserve subdivision - Homeowner Assos. Conifer, CO Grantor of funds for State of Colorado development of Campground Land and Water (Reynolds Ranch Park
Conservation Fund Development Project – May 10, Program 1977 - $21,084 – Grant Number 08-00689. Ad hoc advisory group of Open Amy Ito Space staff, OSAC members, 700 Jefferson County Pkwy, and cycling, hiking, and Trail Use Task Force Manager of 303/271-5937 Planning & Ste. 100, Golden, CO 80401 equestrian constituents, formed Development to help with Open Space trail issues Fisheries management and Trout Unlimited Dave Nickum 303-220-7766 recreational use Jurisdiction of public lands in District Ranger South Platte Ranger District, the Reynolds region and owner U. S. Forest Service 19316 Goddard Ranch 303/275-5610 Randy of lands that might be Court, Morrison, CO 80465 Hickenbottom necessary for the Regional Trail US Fish & Wildlife Kathleen Linden 303-275-2370 Threatened species Service US Forest Service Steve Priest 303-275-5610 Adjoining public lands USFWS 303-236-7400 Peregrine falcon management
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GLOSSARY: ACRONYMS AND TERMS USED IN THIS PLAN
ACRONYMS
ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act TERMS Hard-surface trail: Trails with asphalt or CDOT - Colorado Department of concrete surfaces. Hard-surface trails Transportation are typically constructed by external contractors. CPW – Colorado Parks and Wildlife Natural-surface trail: Trail developed from DWB - Denver Water Board on-site materials and/or local soils. This could also include importation of HCP - Habitat Conservation Plan aggregate materials (e.g., crusher fines or road base) for trail surface. Natural- IGA - Intergovernmental Agreement surface trail construction is typically accomplished in-house. IPM - Integrated Pest Management Trailhead: Point of origin that provides JCOS - Jefferson County Open Space information and access to a trail system. More intensely managed trailheads OSAC - Open Space Advisory Committeeprovide parking and information.
ROW - Right of Way Interpretation: A specialized communication process that aims to provoke and inspire REM - Resource Evaluation Management visitors to appreciate, learn more, or understand the object, topic, event, or site that is being interpreted, and act responsibly when interacting with natural or cultural resources.
Parks Management Planning Team: A team composed of representatives from various Open Space sections that is responsible for Management Plan development and implementation.
Open Space Management Team: A team comprised of the director and managers from each Open Space section.
REM: A framework to establish and manage specific natural, cultural and
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recreational resource issues. Resource that may indicate a need to alter or monitoring provides a flow of information adapt management.
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