Carolyn Holmberg Preserve Initial Public Comments

Most recent comments are shown first. There are 86 comments.

Michael Morton
Sep 03, 2020 Comment #86
Comments:
Greetings! My name is Michael Morton and i have been involved with Raptor Monitoring with the City of Boulder for almost 20 years. I also spend a great deal of time photographing local bird species. This includes many special encounters with the Carolyn Holmberg pair of bald eagles over the years. I am writing in support of the recommendations made in the Statement for Boulder County Parks and Open Space Concerning Bald Eagles in relation to Revised Management Plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF). I have watched the encroachment on both the nesting area and hunting territory of these eagles for many years now with a heavy heart. Rerouting of the cutoff trail and other measures taken will certainly have a positive impact on the pair. I believe these recommendations will preserve and protect the eagles and other species that make this such a special place to call home. Thank you!
Theo Kuhn
Sep 01, 2020 Comment #85
Comments:
Dear BCPOS Staff: Recent developments both within and outside of Carolyn Holmberg Preserve underscore the need for site-specific wildlife plans in the management plan update. The near-nest territory of the Stearns Bald Eagles spans Boulder County’s Carolyn Holmberg Preserve and neighboring Broomfield County land to the northwest. Throughout the summer, construction and oil and gas remediation have been occurring within and near the Broomfield portion of the eagle’s territory. During this period, the eagles have been avoiding that area, instead spending their time almost exclusively within the refuge of Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. Unfortunately, agricultural and recreational activity occurring within Carolyn Holmberg Preserve continues to disrupt the Stearns eagles. On August 31st, a tenant plowed the field surrounding last season’s nest tree (Nest F)—now their most utilized perch—and both eagles left the area. This type of disturbance has been documented several times this summer. In addition, Nest F and a new nest the eagles built in May are each less than 160 m from the cutoff trail south of Stearns Lake. This trail remains open as we approach the especially sensitive time period during which the eagles begin nest building and maintenance for the coming breeding season. The management plan update for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve can’t influence the rapid development occurring outside of the preserve’s borders, but it can do more to prevent wildlife disturbance within the preserve and enhance habitat for vulnerable wildlife species. Thank you for your stewardship and for providing the opportunity to contribute to the management plan update. (For more information about the Stearns Bald Eagles, visit our recent blog post on the Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies website: https://frontrangeeagles.org/2020/08/24/summer-2020-disturbance-and-the-stearns-bald-eagles/) Theo Kuhn, Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES).
Jan Kardatzke
Aug 19, 2020 Comment #84
Comments:
Thursday, August 20, 2020 BCPOS, The Broomfield Bird Club is an active member of the Broomfield Community, and the Board is in full support of the recommendations in the EEI report submitted earlier by the Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies. We are very concerned about the prairie dog management plan on the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve which does not protect the eagle’s primary food source. The second concern is the amount of foot and bike traffic during nest building, egg incubation, raising the young and fledging. Our overall concern is that if BCPOS isn’t proactive in these two areas, the resident eagle parents may choose to leave. This pair, who have raised their young in Carolyn Holmberg for more than a decade are well known and observed in Broomfield. Therefore, we as a Bird Club with nearly 100 members hope you will take into consideration our concerns and our support of the recommendations in the EEI document. Thank you for all you do to protect our wildlife and open spaces. Broomfield Bird Club Board Members Cindy Card Lauren Burke Joan Tobias Nancy Springs Judy Enderle Ellie McKinley Judy Shaver Linda Ott Jan Kardatzke Larry Boyer
Bev Baker
Aug 12, 2020 Comment #83
Comments:
Dear BCPOS Staff, I am commenting to the CHPRCF Management Plan update as a retired wildlife biologist working in Boulder County for 20+ years, a participant in the BCCP ERE 2013 update, long-time volunteer for the BCNA winter raptor survey and other local bird surveys, local resident, and regular visitor to CHPRCF to bird and hike. Adherence to the BCCP, especially the Environmental Resources Element, and the BCPOS Cropland Policy should be paramount. As you are well aware, human development and disturbance have extirpated a number of wildlife species in Boulder County and greatly reduced native habitats and ecosystems including shortgrass prairie. Therefore, protecting remaining critical habitats and restoring ecosystem function and native species where possible must be of the highest priority. I am extremely disheartened about the tenants’ disturbances of nesting burrowing owls causing nest failure. I consider it of the utmost importance that this is prevented from ever happening again. I support permanent closure and restoration of the designated trail section known as the cutoff trail and replacing it with use of 104th street and the trail along the south side of Stearns Lake. This would provide a larger contiguous area of habitat undisturbed by recreating humans, which is critical for a variety of wildlife species. More specifically it would protect nesting eagles and owls and give the bald eagles more freedom to select a suitable nest tree, while avoiding ongoing temporary closures of a portion of a regional trail. This would also provide a consistent year-round area for bald eagles to hunt and roost. As a keystone species, black-tailed prairie dogs are a critical component of the CHPRCF. If the 40-acre prairie dog preserve is no longer sustainable because it is now surrounded by intensive agriculture, creating or restoring grassland habitat on the southern portion of the property and managing the southern half of the property as natural grassland habitat, as suggested by Stephen Jones, has the potential to improve overall wildlife habitat at CHPRCF in the long term. Permanent closure of the cutoff trail would contribute to consolidating habitat in the southern half of CHPRCF for more effective long-term management. The CHPRCF updated management plan should include site-specific plans for BCCP-designated Wildlife Species of Special Concern including burrowing owl, bald eagle, and black-tailed prairie dog, as well as northern leopard frog which occurs in Buffalo Gulch and Rock Creek in BCCP ERE Critical Habitat #78. I oppose ANY additional trails, such as parallel trails for separate uses, at CHPRCF, to protect the area’s native ecosystems and wildlife species of special concern.. I am in favor of long-term, sustainable plans for Birds of Prey Foundation facilities on the property to continue their outstanding rehabilitation and education programs. Thank you for your stewardship of our amazing BCPOS lands and for the opportunity to comment. Bev Baker, Louisville.
Linda Andes-Georges
Aug 12, 2020 Comment #82
Comments:
I have written previously to present comments on the Rock Creek Management Plan II, but have become aware of some specific issues that I’d like to address here. I do wish to reiterate and expand on a few earlier points: -- Ecosytem health should be one of the County’s top priorities on large acreages such as this one—not lessee satisfaction or recreational “wants.” Over the 25 years I’ve lived here, the County’s former excellent record of maintaining resource protection has begun to suffer quite visibly in relation to other demands (recreational, agricultural, even political). -- Education should be a secondary benefit of properties like this one; this includes nature tours and signs to explain how the ecosystem works (or should work!); identification of keystone species and the species that depend on them; cautionary behavioral requests such as keeping dogs out of p.d. areas, and keeping ourselves a quarter mile or more away from raptor nests, etc. -- General management plans which have been set up specifically to frame and guide efforts such as this management update should be consulted before any draft plans are made; and the conclusions of these plans subsequently folded into policy for the area being studied. In this case, the BCPOS Cropland Policy should be re-read by POSAC members to inform their views and comments; and the Boulder County Comprehensive Plan should be referred to by staff in all discussions with POSAC members and the public. These documents are our bedrock; our “Constitution.” -- I strongly object to the agricultural monoculture currently being not only tolerated but encouraged by the County on this property (and others…). Furthermore, I object to the related elimination of prairie dogs, a species which has been for centuries the sustenance of resident and wintering raptors in the area. Because of the near-eradication of p.d.s (by development and by agriculture) Burrowing Owls have almost disappeared from the County. I have two friends who have witnessed the poisoning of these small raptors by the Rock Creek agricultural tenant in the past. This is a despicable act, and had I known about it in the previous decade, I would have raised a public ruckus over the matter. Lessees may have their economic motives but the County must not be prioritizing them over other values. Note that where ag needs conflict with wildlife needs, I have seen the County leaning far, far over backwards to accommodate the former. As recently as this year during my County volunteer surveys, I have witnessed (several times) a stampede of a tenant’s cows (a herd of a hundred) through the active nestsite of Burrowing Owls. To to no one’s surprise, the nest ultimately failed. The “ranch” where these incidents occurred is managed in an atrocious general manner: it is weed-covered chest-high (for me, admittedly a midget), and littered with ag equipment trash. We need to give our County staff firm directives (and support) about whom to tolerate as managers of our ag land, even if we lose a few. And yes—I’m aware that it is not easy to find good ones. -- While generally I would not encourage artificial structures in a natural area, and particularly near p.d. colonies, I believe that for a well-established breeding pair of large raptors (such as Bald Eagles, or possibly Osprey; certainly any species of concern)—given the dearth of large cottonwoods here—some structural aid could be considered to aid the breeding pair in nesting. -- Finally, given the wildlife issues at stake, it is not clear to me why the “Cut-off Trail” continues to be a designated trail. There is no obvious connection that makes recreation there an imperative. Its permanent closure seems desirable—and per CPW guidelines, a necessity--and any biker/hikers coming from the south should be directed up 104th St to the general access point near the parking lot. Hiking from there is very pleasurable, as I can testify re its popularity during the COVID era, having used it to meet members of my extended family. In conclusion, I would refer you to the recommendations of the Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Study concerning CHPRC Farm; their research has generated reasonable suggestions. I also very much admire the concept I have heard about through the BRON network, that of focusing ag operations in the northern half of the property and creating and expanding a large p.d. and grassland habitat in the southern half, with Stearns Lake at its heart. That would be true creative thinking! Thank you for soliciting and accepting public comment on these important matters, and for considering my own.
JAMIE SIMO
Aug 08, 2020 Comment #81
Comments:
I have read and concur with the recommendations in the report prepared by Eagle Environmental Inc. regarding the update to Boulder County Parks and Open Space's management plan for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm. Because the "cutoff trail" does not adhere to Colorado Parks and Wildlife's recommended buffer distance from Bald Eagle nests, it should be closed to prevent further disturbance to the resident pair of eagles. In addition, because Bald Eagles in the land-locked state of Colorado are dependent upon prairie dog colonies as their primary source of food, especially during nesting, take of prairie dogs within the multiple objective area surrounding the current Bald Eagle nest should be eliminated. Finally, due to the lack of good, naturally-occurring nest sites within the area of the preserve, an artificial nest structure should be constructed in a suitable tree in the preserve. I am aware that man-made structures within the BoCoPOS system are viewed by management as unfavorable, but it is becoming increasingly the case that wildlife is unable to flourish without human intervention. Exceptions have been made for Osprey platforms and bluebird boxes and should be made in this case as well. BoCoPOS should incorporate FRNBES data into their management planning for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve as well as other Open Space properties within the system as applicable rather than dismissing the group outright due to personal differences.
Carolyn Stalcup
Aug 08, 2020 Comment #80
Comments:
My name is Carolyn Stalcup and I have been involved with the conservation of Bald Eagles since 1996 when, as a member of a multi-media team at Vanderbilt University’s Cognitive and Technology Department, I traveled to Pigeon Forge, TN to watch the release of two young eaglets from the American Eagle Foundation’s hack tower overlooking Douglas Lake. Vanderbilt at that time was doing a huge study on the Bald Eagle, which at that time was still on the endangered species list. The study was designed to educate junior and senior high school students on ways in which various parts of the United States were endeavoring to bring back our National Symbol—with the hope that the students would be inspired to continue the effort to restore the Bald Eagle and protect its habitat. Soon after that trip, I began volunteering with the non-profit American Eagle Foundation as their webmaster, a position that extended into 2020 (eagles.org). I also led an initiative for the American Eagle Foundation to partner with the American Bird Conservancy on common goals to protect the Bald Eagle. A few years ago, I became aware of the Front Range Eagle Studies group in Boulder and since then have had many conversations with Dana Bove. I am currently building a website for this group, which we hope to launch in the very near future. The American Eagle Foundation has also helped to advocate for the nesting Bald Eagles in the Front Range by using their website to publicize the struggles that are facing the Bald Eagles there. (https://www.eagles.org/colorado-front-range-eagle-nests-need-immediate-help/) I have carefully read the EEI consulting report submitted by FRNBES and found it compelling and absolutely accurate—totally in keeping with the requirements and the SPIRIT of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which PROHIBITS among other things a decrease in its productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding. or sheltering behavior. Bald Eagles in the Front Range do not have the luxury of an abundance of suitable nesting trees from which to choose. Instead, they are forced to build in trees that are sometimes so fragile that they are unable to support a nest, or forced to leave a perfectly good nest when human encroachment from construction interferes with their daily activities. And coupled with that, if the food supply is removed (prairie dogs in this case) from normal ranging proximity to their home nest, that nest will fail. Further, when human activity increases close to a nest, as in the specific case of the Cutoff Trail, then the eagles will not feel safe to pursue their daily activities. With Covid 19 a major concern, people are using the Cutoff Trail more and more for their own recreation—to the detriment of the Bald Eagles. It is time for a broad plan that will safeguard the Bald Eagles in this area. It’s almost like wearing a mask to protect others from Covid 19. Please consider the Bald Eagles worthy of protection and allow Front Range Eagle Studies to participate in a specific management plan that will work for humans and eagles alike. The meticulous data they have collected will be of tremendous help in formulating a workable solution. Thank you so much for listening! Carolyn Stalcup 5012 Regent Drive Brentwood, TN 37027
Nancy Springs
Aug 08, 2020 Comment #79
Comments:
In regard to Bald Eagle nesting habitat at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve on Boulder County Open Space: I agree with all the major recommendations of the Eagle Environmental Inc. report to protect the nesting eagles at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. I fully support the Front Range Eagle group's efforts to study and record the valuable information here in our Broomfield and Boulder area. Sincerely, Nancy C. Springs 1662 Egret Way Superior, CO. 80027
Virginia Schick
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #78
Comments:
I am a supporter and volunteer for Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies. I am expressing my support for the report's recommendations, which are summarized here: a. Close the “cutoff” trail which passes 80 m from an active Bald Eagle nest site. b. Eliminate manipulative kill of prairie dogs, a key prey source, within the MOA designated area less than 1/2 mile from the nest. I have watched eagles hunt and eat countless prairie dogs. c. Please add a nest support structure to a tree suitable for nesting, given the scarcity of suitable trees in the area and potential for human disturbance. d. Develop a site-specific Bald Eagle management plan for CHPRCF as required by the BCPOS Cropland Policy, while also protecting critical habitat for this species of special concern as required by the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan.
Richard Ackerman
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #77
Comments:
I’m writing in support of the recommendations made in the Statement for Boulder County Parks and Open Space Concerning Bald Eagles in relation to Revised Management Plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF). I’ve been a volunteer for more than three decades in raptor programs for different entities including The Boulder County Nature Association, Boulder County Parks and Open Space, City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) and recently Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES). My role has been in observation and data collection on many different raptor species on our public lands. While not a scientist, my many hours spent in the field has given me insight into the behavior of our subjects and an ability to offer anecdotal information. It is important to note, different species and different individuals within those species react differently to stresses on themselves and their habitat. The bald eagle pair at The Carolyn Holmberg Preserve have struggled for some time to successfully mate and reproduce. Human activity has encroached not only on their prey opportunity but on their nest site(s) also. While human visitors look on in wonder and appreciation of bald eagles on a nest, their presence can and does have an impact on the success of the nesting attempt. Most often we cannot predict a negative impact but can only make note when birds are unsuccessful or simply abandon an area. A rerouting of a cutoff trail and other measures taken will, most likely, not be noticed by the public but can have a positive impact on this pair of eagles. To err on the side of caution is the most reasonable and most respectful option in this and other decisions going forward as we preserve and protect all that makes our open space lands so treasured.
Chris Boardman
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #76
Comments:
I have been a Boulder County resident for almost 25 years. I have read the report prepared for Front Range Bald Eagle Nesting Studies, and I agree with their recommendations. To be specific, please implement the following measures: -Permanently close the “Cutoff” trail. -Stop killing prairie dogs on multiple objective areas near eagle nesting sites. -Consider installing an artificial nest support in a suitably located tree. -Comply with CPW’s raptor buffer zone standards. -Create a site-specific management plan for the bald eagles.
Andrew Birch
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #75
Comments:
I have been a contract employee with FRNBES for over two years and manage their database, conduct GIS studies, perform statistical analysis for publication and dissemination of their studies. I have a PhD from the University of Colorado and have worked at the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research in Boulder for several years. I am proud to be a part of FRNBES and can attest to the rigorous and scientifically defensible standards of their scientific studies as I witness the care in which their Quality Assurance and Quality Control is performed. This is a group with the intent to do science right. I have read the EEI consulting report in reference to the nesting Bald Eagles at the Holmberg Preserve, and feel that FRNBES data and studies fully support all the recommendations made therein. I have helped FRNBES prepare data presentations for decision-making by state and federal agencies, and local communities when it comes to the issues involving nesting and roosting eagles. I was disappointed to hear that BCPOS management had recently decided NOT to allow FRNBES to present findings from years of data as applied to the current Holmberg planning. In my years of conducting scientific studies, I was extremely surprised to hear that pertinent science would be excluded from such critical decision-making processes. Please do not only consider the EEI recommendation, but I urge Boulder County to consider the extremely relevant science and information that FRNBES has collected on the nesting eagles at Holmberg.
Guy DiDonato
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #74
Comments:
My name is Guy DiDonato, and I am a resident of Larimer County. However, with respect to the current issue concerning nesting bald eagles at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, I want to express my opinion about the EEI report and the wisest course of action to protect these eagles. I have read the EEI report, and I agree with the recommendations therein. These bald eagles merit protection under current law; more importantly, they deserve our best protections as critical wildlife, important keystone predators, and national symbols. All reasonable actions should be taken to protect them, including: closing the "Cutoff Trail", an important post-COVID trail but not one of historical import; considering nest support in best identified trees to encourage nest-building activities; and eliminating take of prairie dogs, a primary food source of bald eagles, in the nearby Multiple Objective Area. These are, in reality, small changes in management and action that will greatly increase the likelihood of continued nesting activity in this area. Lastly, I have worked with the Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Survey group for nearly a year. In addition to being a concerned citizen, I am a wildlife statistician and ecologist. This group of citizens volunteers collect high-quality data from frequent and lengthy nest observations; they are the purveyors of the best available science concerning these birds in the Front Range. Please consider carefully what they have to say.
Ruby Bowman
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #73
Comments:
We reviewed the report prepared by Eagle Environmental, Inc. (“Statement for Boulder County Parks and Open Space Concerning Bald Eagles in relation to Revised Management Plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm”) for Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies. We support EEI’s recommendation to develop a site specific management plan for the Bald Eagles at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. Such a plan would be in agreement with county cropland policy. The eagle management plan should be part of the management plan for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm, which Boulder County Parks and Open Space is currently updating. The Bald Eagle is designated as a state and county Species of Special Concern. It is also identified as a species of greatest conservation need in the Colorado State Wildlife Action Plan. The Board of Commissioners should do everything in its power to protect the Holmberg Bald Eagles and to ensure that the eagles have sustainable habitat at the Preserve for years to come. EEI consultant Dale Stahlecker made a number of recommendations which we support. We urge the Board of Commissioners to include the following items in a Holmberg Preserve Bald Eagle management plan and to implement the recommendations as soon as possible: 1. Permanently close the “Cutoff” trail. 2. Eliminate the manipulative kill of prairie dogs on designated Multiple Objective Areas at the Preserve. Fifty percent of the food source for the Holmberg Eagles is derived from an area within a half mile of the nest, according to FRNBES observation data. The primary food source for the Holmberg eagles are prairie dogs. 3. Due to a shortage of nesting trees, consider installing an artificial nest support in a suitably located tree in the Holmberg Preserve. The artificial nest should be located where there is less repetitive human disturbance. This will enable Boulder County to comply with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) raptor buffer zone standards. 4. Reaffirm in a policy statement Boulder County’s commitment to comply with CPW’s buffer zone standards for nesting Bald Eagles and other raptors. Boulder County has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation. This was evident with the Board’s adoption of the policy statement ER 1.03 in the updated Environmental Resources Element of the Comprehensive Plan: “Acknowledging our responsibility to ensure that naturally occurring ecosystems and their native species population continue to exist and flourish in Boulder County, Boulder County will develop conservation and recovery plans for priority Species of Special Concern.” We are encouraged by this language and urge the Board of Commissioners to fulfill its promise to Boulder County residents by ensuring that the Bald Eagles will continue to exist and flourish at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve for many more years. Thank you for considering our comments. Sincerely, Stand with Our Saint Vrain Creek Ruby Bowman Shari Malloy Jamie Simo
David Vorzimer
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #72
Comments:
Subject Line: Comment is for Carolyn Holmberg Planning process. Regarding protection of the resident nesting eagles My name is David Vorzimer 4685 Tally Ho Ct. Boulder Colorado. I have been a Boulder County Resident for 41 years. I am in Agreement with the recommendations of the EEI consulting group submitted by FRNBES regarding protection of the nesting Eagle son the Holmberg property. I am in favor of closure of the "Cutoff Trail I also feel that the killing of the Prairie Dogs on Holmberg cuts off the main food source to the eagle. Please add nest support to best identified nest tree. Please develop a specific management plan to nesting eagles as mandated in County Cropland management policy, and protect critical habitat for these eagles. Thank You David Vorzimer D.C.
Lester Ronick
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #71
Comments:
As a lover of Colorado's Bald Eagle population and a 40+ year resident of Boulder County I am in complete support of the EEI consulting recommendations and fully closing the Cutoff Trail at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek. Please express this opinion, in my behalf to Boulder County Parks and Open Space and any other government entity you deem appropriate, Sincerely, Lester B. Ronick 734 LOcust Avenue Boulder, CO 80304
Charlie Stein
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #70
Comments:
Dear MS. Ratzel, I am a long time Boulder County resident and have read the EEI consulting report on and recommendations for protecting and sustain the nesting bald eagles on the Boulder County Holmberg Preserve. With the value these birds add to our ecosystem I endorse all the recommendation by the EEI Consultant to give them the best chance to survive and hopefully thrive into the future. Including: 1) permanent closure of the non-essential “Cutoff trail”; 2) eliminating prairie dog kill in MOA areas witting 1/2 mile of the eagle’s nest; and 3) developing a strong management plan that includes protections for these eagles. Sincerely, Charlie Charlie Stein
Ann Colpitts
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #69
Comments:
Dear Ms. Ratzel, My name is Ann Colpitts and I have been monitoring bald and golden eagles' nests for the past 1.5 years for FRNBES. I have assisted the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies with Eastern Screech Owl studies in the spring for 3 years. I am also an avid hiker and have spent most of my life participating in outdoor activities. I would like to briefly provide comments on the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek and the protection of eagle habitats at the park. I have read the EEI consulting report submitted by FRNBES and fully agree with their recommendations. I support closure of “cutoff” trail as it doesn’t conform to CPW 2008 guidelines. More importantly, the “historic use” caveat applies here, as post COVID trail use saw an exponential increase over pre-COVID use. There are other trails that can and should be used by hikers to protect the eagles' habitats. I also agree that take of prairie dogs should be eliminated on MOA designated areas on Holmberg, as PDs are these eagles' primary food source. As shown from eagle monitoring data, 50% of prairie dog consumption is within 1/2 mile from the nest. Due to the shortage of suitable alternates for nest trees in the near-nest area and repetitive human disturbance over time, please consider adding nest support to the best-identified nest tree, as shown by the EEI report. I also suggest that a management plan be developed that is specific to nesting eagles as mandated in County Cropland management policy. This would protect critical habitat for these eagles, which are a species of special concern, and is mandated in the Boulder Valley Comp plan. Please seriously consider the EEI report as Boulder County makes decisions regarding the future uses of the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. Also, please note that it was prepared by a highly qualified eagle expert and that it takes into consideration the nature of the park, its uses, as well as the eagle habitat and food sources. Thank you very much for your consideration, Ann M. Colpitts
Andrew Ogden
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #68
Comments:
Via email to mratzel@bouldercounty.org Marnie Ratzel Boulder County Parks and Open Space Re: Comments re Revised Holmberg Preserve Management Plan Dear Ms. Ratzel, I am a resident of Boulder County living in the City of Boulder. I am a practicing public interest environmental lawyer specializing in wildlife matters in Colorado and other states. The scope of my practice specifically includes the management of wildlife on Federal, state or local public lands. As you may already be aware, one of my clients is Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES) who I advise and represent on various matters. I am writing this email to participate in the process to develop a revised Management Plan for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, and to express my support for your consideration of the July 13, 2020 "Statement for Boulder County Parks and Open Space Concerning Bald Eagles in relation to Revised Management Plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF)” (EEI Statement) prepared by Eagle Environmental, Inc. (EEI) and submitted by FRNBES on July 15, 2020. After reviewing the EEI Statement, I wish to highlight several findings that I found to be significant and recommendations with which I agree: 1. The EEI Statement recommends closure of the “cutoff trail” because: (a) The precautionary closure of the Cutoff Trail in November 2019 was consistent with Colorado Parks and Wildlife guidelines [Page 4]. (b) Such "closure of the ‘Cutoff Trail' is consistent with the guiding principles of the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP), 2015 Update (City of Boulder 2015). According to the BVCP, the city and county will emphasize the protection and enhancement of critical wildlife habits and local species of special concern (...) including nesting Bald Eagles (...),” [Page 4]. (c) Such closure is consistent with guidance in the Boulder County Parks and Open Space (BCPOS) 2002 planning documents for the CHPRCF in balancing “compatible recreational use” with other priorities, including the maintenance of critical wildlife habitat [Page 4]. (d) The “post-COVID” use of the Cutoff Trail is not a “historical use”. 2. Given the shortage of suitable nest trees [Page 2] and recent loss of the nest and two nestlings in April 2020 [Page 4], the EEI Statement recommends that BCPOS work with FRNBES to study whether siting and constructing “a sturdy artificial base and sticks” located in a cottonwood tree in Rock Creek Farm could be a solution to providing sufficient distance of the nest from the Cutoff Trail to permit its continued use. Although not mentioned in the EEI Statement, providing a more secure nesting site may also prevent the unfortunate loss as experienced in the April 2020 nest failure. 3. The EEI Statement highlights the importance of maintaining Black-tailed Prairie Dog habitat within one-half mile of occupied Bald Eagle nests (FRNBES 2020), to provide an adequate accessible prey base. The removal of BPDs on the Helen Bryant property highlights the importance of maintaining BPD habitat on Rock Creek Farm within both the HCA and the MOA. [Page 5] 3. The EEI Statement highlights the requirement that "The BCPOS Cropland Policy (BCPOS 2017) requires a site- specific management plan for sensitive wildlife occurring on cropland including species such as Bald Eagles and burrowing owls” and the current absence of a Critical Wildlife Management plan for nesting Bald Eagles at the CHPRCF. [Page 5] The EEI statement recommends the formulation of such a plan "should be specific to nesting Bald Eagles and ensure that nesting activity is not disturbed by human encroachment, and that clear, adaptive plans for Bald Eagle management (...) are developed to prevent future conflicts.” [Page 5] Developing such a wildlife management plan is a foundational requirement for the successful management of sensitive and Page 3 of 4 imperiled wildlife on public lands, and must be a part of the revised Management Plan for the CHPRCF. Thank you for your acceptance and consideration of these comments as part of the process to develop a revised Management Plan for the CHPRCF. Please contact me if you have any questions regarding these comments or this matter. Sincerely, Andrew G. Ogden C: Eric Land, Boulder County Parks and Open Space Therese Glowacki, Boulder County Parks and Open Space Dana Bove, Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies
Greg and Joan Tobias
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #67
Comments:
I just completed reading the EEI plan for the protection of nesting Bald Eagles at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve on Boulder County Open Space land. The Bald Eagles in this area are beautiful birds, symbols of our country, and deserve our protection. We have visited this area several times in the past few years since moving to Colorado, and are always impressed to see these birds. We fully support the EEI plan for their protection and urge Boulder County Parks and Open Space to adopt it. Greg & Joan Tobias
Donna and Gary Busching
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #66
Comments:
7/15/2020 To: Boulder County Parks and Open Space This comment is in support of the EEI report and recommendations in the Statement for Boulder County Parks and Open Space Concerning Bald Eagles at Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm. It outlined the legal requirements to protect eagles, especially during their nesting season. Please continue to support their nesting success. This includes: closing the Cutoff Trail near the nest permanently; supporting the nearby prairie dog population, which is the predominant prey of eagles; considering providing a sturdy artificial base for a nest in a cottonwood in Rock Creek; and creating a wildlife management plan for nesting bald eagles at CHPRCF. Please also consider the joy having nearby eagles can provide Front Range residents. It brings a sense of joy and freedom to see an eagle pair soaring above on the thermals. Earlier this spring while on a bike ride, we felt this as we watched eagles doing a thermal ballet above the St. Vrain Greenery nest near Sandstone Ranch. Thank you for your efforts managing the Boulder Parks and Open Space. Donna and Gary Busching 186 Horizon Ave Erie, CO 80516 Cell: 630-867-4727 Email: dj28724@aol.com
Kay Landers
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #65
Comments:
Dear Boulder County, I use the open spaces frequently here in Broomfield, and volunteer with the Broomfield Open Space Pre School Nature Walks. I have observed eagles at the Metzger Farm open space and occasionally see them soaring while on my walks.... such a magnificent and wonderful sight! I appreciate those who work to preserve their nesting sites as we humans must share our space with all God's creatures. I support the recommendations stated in the EEI report, which I have read, that will protect the nesting eagles on the Holmberg Preserve. Kay Landers
Karen Steele
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #64
Comments:
In Regard to Support of Nesting Bald Eagles at Carolyn Holmberg I am a Broomfield resident (and Board Member of the Open Space Foundation) and I am in full support of the EEI report and plans therein stated to protect the nesting pair of eagles and their food source on the Carolyn Holmberg Property. Thank you, Karen Steele
Jean Wilkie
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #63
Comments:
We are in total support of protecting the bald eagles at Holmberg Preserve and fully support the recommendations to do so as stated in the EEI report. We also support an artificial nesting support if this is what is needed for a viable nest. Thanks to FRNBES for your hard work on behalf of the eagles which bring us such joy. Dan and Jean Wilkie 3745 Shadow Canyon Trail Broomfield, CO Jean Wilkie 303-517-9146
Amy Yarger
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #62
Comments:
To whom it may concern: I've read the EEI report and enthusiastically support the recommendations made by FRBES and EEI in order to protect bald eagles and their habitats at the Holmberg Preserve Amy Yarger Butterfly Pavilion Horticulture Director 720.974.1874 ayarger@butterflies.org
Norm Lowery
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #61
Comments:
On Jul 14, 2020, at 12:36 PM, Norman Lowery wrote: I have read the EEI report and accompanying recommendation and support the recent initiatives and all recommendations in the report to protect the bald eagles at the Holmberg Preserve. Norm Lowery 4300A Monroe Dr Boulder 80303 303-665-9468
Sandy Backland
Aug 07, 2020 Comment #60
Comments:
To Whom is Concerns, at BCPOS From Sandra Backlund, FRNBES Volunteer Re: Carolyn Holmberg Preserve wildlife management plan I observe one of the bald eagle nests in Boulder County for FRNBES (Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies) under the direction of Dana Bove. He has turned we volunteers into disciplined, objective observers of a currently successful nest that had one of two surviving eaglets this year. Last year, two succeeded from this nest. Watching the female bald eagle nestled over her eggs, day and night, high atop a towering cottonwood, in the most exposed position possible, through February storms, March freezes and April blizzards gives just one indication of the hardships she faces. In May and June, she is responsible for feeding huge “babies” that greedily devour prairie dogs she provides throughout the day. When she leaves to hunt, the eaglets are exposed to invaders and predators. Sometimes her male partner shares the jobs of hunting and “childcare”, but sometimes not. The further she or he must range for food, the more vulnerable the young eaglets. Also, the weaker the adult becomes. Human close proximity is one of the most disturbing “invasions” for bald eagles. If it’s disturbing them, some would say, then, that the eagles should find a new home. However, eagles, like humans, prefer the home they built in the area they call home …. If they need to move, there is not a good market for available nesting trees. They become “at risk”. Closing the cutoff trail at Carolyn Holmberg Preserve is the most beneficial choice to maintain the delicate balance we now have. FRNBES meticulously observes, records, researches and consults with the most respected experts in the field, and offers you, and the residents of Boulder, a responsible, well-researched request for us to do our best for the nesting bald eagles of Boulder County. In other parts of the country, we constantly hear of the “success” and proliferation of bald eagles, but the areas boasting this success have different conditions….here, our eagles have a harder existence. If we can’t help them, as least we should not make things worse. Respectfully, Sandra Backlund 2332 Rimrock Circle Lafayette, CO 80026.
Sherry Weible
Aug 05, 2020 Comment #59
Comments:
To Whom It May Concern: I have read the EEI consulting report drafted on behalf of FRNBES (protection of nesting eagles at Holmberg), and I would like to offer my wholehearted support for the recommendations included therein. Please protect the eagles from exponential trail usage and give them a protected area to nest in. Bald eagles need to have their nest and home range area protected from development and human interruptions. The loss of this nesting pair of bald eagles will have a profound impact on their recovery in our country. Bald eagles mate for life and could have from one to three eaglets every year. It is important that we protect every bald eagle nest in the USA. Our national bird was once almost completely gone but thanks to a great recovery project that included bringing bald eagles from Canada to repopulate in the USA the number of bald eagles have started to increase but they are still not at the number they were or should be. Please meet with FRNBES to discuss their report. Please take my words and those who support the protection of bald eagles into consideration before making a final decision on the welfare of the bald eagles. Thank you! Sherry Weible
Frederic Wiedemann, PhD
Aug 04, 2020 Comment #58
Comments:
BOTTOM-LINE: I am in total agreement with the recommendations of the EEI consulting report -- submitted by FRNBES ... regarding protection of the nesting Eagles on the Holmberg property. HERE'S WHY: • I love our Boulder County open space, and all its wildlife. • it is OK to inconvenience us humans a tiny bit to protect the eagles nesting there. In fact, let's clearly identify the nest, so we humans can show some deference to Nature's wondrous processes. • long-term, let's develop a specific management plan for nesting eagles -- as mandated in County Cropland management policy, and protect critical habitat for these eagles.
Theo Kuhn
Aug 02, 2020 Comment #57
Comments:
Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback on the management plan update for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm. As a field researcher with extensive experience studying Bald Eagles throughout the Front Range, I support the recommendations put forth by Eagles Environmental Inc. regarding the revised management plan as they are necessary to protect the future of the Stearns Bald Eagle pair. The preserve is a critical sanctuary for the Stearns eagles. They took refuge within its boundaries after extensive human-caused disturbance near their former nests, and now rely on the preserve to protect them in the midst of a rapidly urbanizing Front Range corridor. Failing to implement further protections could lead the eagles to abandon the area. This would be a loss not only for the eagles, whose future survival would be cast in further doubt, but for the recreationalists who benefit from their presence. The recommendations put forth by Eagles Environmental Inc. provide the best chance for protecting these eagles and the natural character of the preserve. Boulder County must 1) close the “Cutoff Trail” to prevent further interference with nesting behavior and 2) ensure that prairie dogs are a reliable prey source within the near-nest territory. These actions are necessary steps for the County to fulfill its obligations per the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (2015 update). In addition, Boulder County must develop a site-specific wildlife management plan for Bald Eagles within the preserve as required by the Boulder County Parks and Open Space Cropland Policy. Taking this step will allow staff to address situations that will once again appose wildlife, recreational and agricultural concerns, situations that will inevitably occur due to the unusual multi-use nature of the property.
Georgia Lopez
Aug 01, 2020 Comment #56
Comments:
Hello, I would like to include my comment regarding the report from Eagle Environmental Inc. to Boulder County Parks and Open Space concerning Bald Eagles in relation to revised management plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF). I have conducted raptor surveys for federal, state, and private sectors including Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies detailed reports of eagles within the Front Range. I have read the EEI consulting report submitted by FRNBES and fully agree with their recommendations. With this scientific data, a specific management plan for nesting eagles needs to be developed to protect critical habitat for these eagles. As EEI stated, eliminating the take of prairie dogs on MOA designated areas on Holmberg is essential, as prairie dogs are these eagles primary food source derived half a mile from their nest. Also, due to the shortage of suitable alternatives for nest trees in near-nest area and repetitive human disturbance over time, the consideration of adding nest support to best identified nest tree is favorable. I support the closure of the “cutoff” trail because it doesn’t conform to CPW 2008 guidelines. EEI consulting report is an exceptional resource for BCPOS to develop a management plan for these nesting eagles as mandated in the County Cropland management policy and the Boulder Valley Comp plan to protect their habitat. We must allow movement within our policies to be able to continue to develop and move with science and conserve wildlife and their habitat. Sincerely, Georgia Lopez Owner, Ecologist Circle Ecology, LLC
Kristan Pritz
Jul 29, 2020 Comment #55
Comments:
Hi Marni, In early 2020, Broomfield staff asked its Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee (OSTAC) to comment on the Carolyn Holmberg OS Management Plan Update (CHP-Update). Broomfield Open Space staff also shared comments with Boulder County Open Space staff in early 2020. Below is an updated summary of comments staff prepared that were reviewed by OSTAC on July 23 and adjusted to address comments made by OSTAC members at this meeting. Thank you for considering these comments in the planning process. COMMENTS: 1. CRADLEBOARD TRAIL ALTERNATIVE ROUTE: Provide an alternative trail route from Brainard Drive to Stearns Lake that can be used in tandem or as an alternative trail to the CradleBoard Trail. The current trail along the northern edge of Carolyn Holmberg could be improved to provide this access. 2. ROCK CREEK TRAIL TO STEARNS LAKE ALTERNATIVE ROUTE/RAPTOR GROVE: Provide an alternative trail route on the east side of the grove of trees where the eagles perched and started a second nest this year after the chicks did not survive in April 2020. The trail would connect to Stearns Lake east of the grove of trees. The trail that runs through the center of the grove would be removed. Even if the eagles depart, this grove of trees would provide a protected habitat area for raptors and other wildlife. 3. BIRDS OF PREY:Provide a plan for the Birds of Prey Facility, so hopefully, this important non-profit can stay on the property or find another suitable home. 4. PRAIRIE DOGS: Continue to provide a designated prairie dog area(s) that protect(s) the colony(ies) and also allow(s) for growth. Develop proactive strategies to minimize prairie dog migration onto adjacent agricultural properties and thereby reduce conflicts with landowners. Develop ways to enhance how prairie dog habitat can support raptors in the area (example: raptor poles to support the predator/prey relationship). 5. 104TH TRAILHEAD EXPANSION: Consider expanding slightly the parking at the trailhead off of 104th. The trailhead is often full given the popularity of Stearns Lake. We support analyzing the carrying capacity of this area and realize this must be considered with any expansion to make sure there is not over-use of Stearns Lake. 6. BRAINARD DRIVE TRAILHEAD DESIGNATION: Consider a limited trailhead parking area off of Brainard at the CradleBoard Trail entry. Right now, there is a rough pull-off and this area is often muddy and cars are parked in a variety of unsafe positions. 7. OIL AND GAS: Evaluate the future potential for oil and gas development on the Property, so these potential impacts are understood and addressed. 8. SHARED USE OF THE RANCH HOUSE: Foster a plan for the continued shared use of the Carolyn Holmberg Ranch House for education. This site is a very valued amenity. Boulder County Open Space investment in this historic site is greatly appreciated. 9. LAND MANAGEMENT COLLABORATION: Share weed, trail, wildlife, and other related land maintenance plans/procedures with Broomfield staff that also work on these issues to increase awareness of each entity's maintenance practices and concerns. The Broomfield Open Space and Trails staff and OSTAC look forward to continuing to work together on the CHP-Update. Kind regards, Kristan Pritz Director of Open Space and Trails One DesCombes Drive, Broomfield tel 303-438-6335
JoAnn Hackos
Jul 27, 2020 Comment #54
Comments:
I have recently read the EEI consulting report regarding the bald eagle nests on the Holmberg Preserve and agree with its recommendations. Please agree to close the "cutoff" trail as advised by EEI. Since the pandemic, this cutoff has seen an enormous increase in use and lies dangerously close to the eagles' nesting area. It also doesn’t conform to the required nest setbacks. Closing it will have no serious effect on hiking. Recognize that bald eagles use prairie dogs as a primary food source. Consequently, do not exterminate the prairie dogs from the Holmberg Preserve. Their important colonies are within a 1/2 mile of the nest. What may be most important is to follow the EEI recommendations to build a nest support into the bald eagle best tree which is weak and failing. There are few if any other suitable in this area for the eagle nest. A nest support may be exactly what is needed to encourage the eagles to continue nesting in this area. I hope you will develop a comprehensive management plan that applies specifically to the bald eagles in Boulder County. As an inveterate bird watchers and enthusiast about the environment, I believe you have the opportunity to follow the EEI study report and do the right thing. Sincerely, JoAnn Hackos Evergreen Audubon Conservation Board Member Monitor of Golden Eagle nests in Jefferson County
Diane Kristoff
Jul 27, 2020 Comment #53
Comments:
Dear Ms Ratzel, Ms Glowacki and Mr Lane, I have been observing bald eagles in Colorado with Front Range Bald Eagle Studies since March 2017 and have been studying eagles and other birds for 40 years. I have learned that any nesting bird needs some seclusion when building and raising young in and near the nest. Bald eagles, in particular, need more space than for example, a robin. The need for specific buffers surrounding a bald eagle nest of 1/4 mile year round and 1/2 mile during the breeding season wherein no human activity should be allowed has been substantiated with extensive data by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, FRNBES, and most recently by Dale W. Stahlecker of Eagle Environmental, Inc. whose report you have received. EEI states, in part, "that BCPOS should formulate a wildlife management plan specific to nesting bald eagles to ensure that nesting activity is not disturbed by human encroachment. " Since the Cut-Off trail is only 800m and passes 80m from the new bald eagle nest and bisects the entire eagle use area for gathering nest material, foraging, perching, and flights for any reason, the human disturbance is well within the buffer area. Therefore, I feel it needs full closure. The Cut-Off trail is only a short trail and destination within the park can be reached by other trails. Visitors to the park can easily view the eagles from the new trail west of the Cut-Off as proposed by EEI in their report. It states that "it will be necessary to close the trail year round to encourage the eagles to nest there in 2021." If the eagles are given more space to breed and raise young, they should become residents of the preserve for many years and encourage people to come and observe them. When we can see and enjoy nature in its many forms, we are more inclined to protect it. Plus, in these challenging times, nature provides much needed mental relaxation. Therefore, I hope the revised management plan for CHPRCF includes the year round closure of the Cut-Off trail. Thank you for your consideration, Diane Kristoff FRNBES board member Foothills Audubon Club vice president and conservation committee chairperson Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
Dana Bove
Jul 26, 2020 Comment #52
Comments:
Please find copied below the text of the Consulting Report by EEI Inc. pertaining to Nesting Eagles at CHPRCF and recommended management and planning Report was in pdf format with accompanied Figure submitted to BCCPOS on July 15, 2020 July 15, 2020 Via Email BCPOS Holmberg Planners and Management Boulder County Parks and Open Space mratzel@bouldercounty.org; elane@bouldercounty.org Re. Submission of EEI Consulting Report on Nesting Bald Eagles at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farms and For Review in Current Planning Process Dear Boulder County Parks and Open Space: In October of 2019, the Stearns Bald Eagles began nesting at the Holmberg Preserve following repeated encroachment by development at their prior nest site. Since BCPOS is currently in the planning process for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farms (CHPRCF), our board members and staff at Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES) elected to contract an independent consulting report and study by Eagle Environmental Inc (EEI) to address science-based recommendations aimed at protecting and sustaining these nesting eagle on this multi-use, open space property. (Please see attached report by EE) Dale Stahlecker and his colleagues Robert Murphy and Ryan Nielsen at EEI are among the most respected and well-published eagle research scientists in the country. Dale was a lead author on seven chapters of the “Raptors of New Mexico”, published in 2010, including a summary of Bald Eagle breeding and wintering ecology in the U.S.’s fifth largest state. For more information, see his bio and a list of publications by him and other Eagle Environmental Biologists at: http://www.eagleenvironmental.net FRNBES shared nearly five years of well-documented scientific data with EEI that was accessed and evaluated for the CHPRCF consulting study, including the underlying database for the FRNBES data. FRNBES is currently utilizing this same data in several manuscripts that are nearing submission for peer-reviewed publication. We respectfully request that the attached EEI consulting report be officially logged in as a formal submission for the current CHPRCF planning process. Further, we ask that this consulting report be critically reviewed by all pertinent parties to CHPRCF planning, including BCPOS staff, management, POSAC, and the Boulder County Commissioners. Sincerely, Theo Kuhn Dana Bove Georgia Anderson Diane Kristoff Statement for Boulder County Parks and Open Space Concerning Bald Eagles in relation to Revised Management Plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF) Prepared for: Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies by Dale W. Stahlecker Eagle Environmental, Inc. 30 Fonda Road Santa Fe, NM 87508 13 July 2020 The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), as our national bird, was a charismatic mega-faunal driver for the passage of the Endangered Species Protection Act of 1966 and the more comprehensive Endangered Species Act of 1973. The Bald Eagle was removed from the Endangered Species List in 2007 because the species had rebuilt breeding populations in the lower 48 states (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2007). Long before endangered species became a catch phrase, however, the Bald Eagle Protection Act of 1940, later amended to become the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668-668c), prohibits anyone, unless with valid U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permit, to “take” either eagle. Take is defined as “pursue, shoot, attempt to shoot, …molest, or disturb”. The Act further defines “Disturb” to mean: “to agitate or bother a bald or golden eagle to a degree that it causes, or is likely to cause, based on the best scientific information available, 1) injury to an eagle, 2) a decrease in it productivity, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior, or 3) nest abandonment, by substantially interfering with normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering behavior” (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2020). Potential disturbance to nesting Bald Eagles at Rock Creek Farm is the primary purpose of this statement. Note that the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act provides nearly the same protection for eagles as the Endangered Species Act did. Bald Eagles are among the most scientifically studied bird species (Buehler 2020). Multiple researchers have made efforts to quantify the effects of human disturbance on Bald Eagle behaviors, including breeding effort and success (Anthony et al. 1995). Humans on foot can elicit the strongest negative responses (ie., McGarigal et al. 1991), with particular reference to pedestrians and nesting eagles (Fraser et al. 1985, Grubb and King 1991). These authors have recommended buffer zones around occupied nests of 400-600 m wherein no human activity should be allowed during the breeding season. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2020) refers web visitors to a Colorado Parks and Wildlife PDF that recommends a buffer zone that excludes surface activities (beyond that which historically occurred in the area) for occupied Bald Eagle nests of one quarter mile year-round and one half mile during the breeding season (October 15 and July 31; Colorado Parks and Wildlife 2008). These recommendations are “more extensive than the National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines (USFWS 2007) due to the generally open habitat used by Colorado's nesting bald eagles.” Breeding Bald Eagles first occupied the Stearns Lake territory between 2010 and 2012. They nested successfully during 5 of 7 seasons in their original nest tree from 2012 to 2019 (Figure 1; pre-2020 nest). Not only was this nest on private land, but it was also in a finger of the City and County of Broomfield, though surrounded by Boulder County, which remains a party to the conservation easement on that land. Construction of townhomes near the original nest tree in 2013-2014 corresponded with abandonment of the nest in May 2014; this was immediately followed by nest construction at or near Perch D, just south of Stearns Lake (Figure 1). After townhouse construction was completed in early fall of 2014, the eagles returned to resume nesting in their original nest location (FRNBES unpub. data, 2020). A large housing construction project within 200 m of the original nest in 2018-2019 was likely the reason the eagles chose to begin to build a nest at Perch F in October 2019 (Figure 1). There is a shortage of suitable nest trees in their near-nest area (Figure 1; FRNBES unpub. data, 2020); therefore the Figure 1. Perch/Nest locations of Stearns Lake Bald Eagles, 2012-2020. Includes an evaluation of nest site suitability (FRNBES unpub. data, 2020) eagles built the new nest in a nearly dead old-growth cottonwood with poor supporting limbs for the nest. Weekly (or nearly so) photographs documented the westward collapse of the nest (FRNBES, unpub. data, 2020), which finally gave way on 18 April 2020, causing the loss of two nestlings. Boulder County Parks and Open Space (BCPOS) closed the nearly 800-meter long “Cutoff Trail” (Figure 1) in mid-November 2019, because the nest was only about 150 m from the trail. The nesting eagles began utilizing the areas east and west of the “Cutoff Trail following trail closure to derive nest materials, as well as for hunting and perching (FRNBES, unpub. data, 2020). The precaution of the trail closure met CPW (2008) guidelines, even though there were typically few users on this Rock Creek Farm trail through 2019 (FRNBES, oral commun., 2020). The eagles were successful in hatching young, but the structural failure of the nest doomed the effort. The Cutoff Trail was re-opened after Nest F failed (22 April), and COVID-induced local hiking increased there almost exponentially. Most of the work by the eagles on the Perch D nest occurred during inclement weather 10-11 May when there were few hikers. FRNBES (unpub. data, 2020) staff and volunteers documented 37.5 hikers/hour in 6 hours of observation in 12-17 May 2020. The eagles also attempted to build a nest in Perch A during April and May, 2020; however, only a few sticks accumulated, likely due to the dense canopy and poor crotch support afforded. Nest building at perch D has been only sporadic and largely confined to the early morning since mid-May (FRNBES unpub. data, 2020). Nest D is only 80 m from the Cutoff Trail, so it will be necessary to close the trail year-round to encourage the eagles to nest there in 2021. The post-COVID use of the Cutoff Trail is not historical use, so year-round closure is necessary to give this eagle pair the best chance of success in 2021 and beyond. This recommendation of closure of the “Cutoff Trail” (Figure 1) is consistent with the guiding principles of the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP), 2015 Update (City of Boulder 2015). According to the BVCP, the city and county will emphasize the protection and enhancement of critical wildlife habits and local species of special concern. Local species of special concern, as identified in the BVCP, include nesting Bald Eagles and thus a management plan to protect their critical habitat is consistent with guidance under this plan. Furthermore, the previous planning documents for CHPRCF (BCPOS, 2002) prioritizes preservation of critical wildlife habitat; wetlands and riparian areas; unique stands of shortgrass prairie; historic/archaeological resources; and to maintain agricultural production. In terms of trail usage, the guidance in the report advises to “provide compatible recreational use” in reference to the above stated protections. Closure of the ~800 meter-long “Cutoff Trail” would be consistent with these priorities, and still maintain the goals for this property and the BVCP (City of Boulder 2015), which state that “a county-wide trail system shall be promoted to serve transportation and recreation purposes”. For a possible long-term solution, I recommend FRNBES work with BCPOS to consider if a sturdy artificial base and sticks (i.e., Hunter et al. 1997) could be added to an ideally located but currently unsuitable cottonwood in Rock Creek Farm. If placed in a cottonwood more removed from the trail, and if the Bald Eagles were to move to the artificial nest, they could have sufficient distance from the trail that it would not need to be closed. THE IMPORTANCE OF PRAIRIE DOGS TO COLORADO BALD EAGLES Black-tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) are a keystone species in native grasslands of eastern Colorado (BCPOS 2016). They were also the predominant prey during the 1980s expansion of Colorado’s breeding population of Bald Eagles (Kralovec et al 1991) and are the predominant prey at Boulder County eagle nests (FRNBES unpub. data, 2020). FRNBES data also documented continued use of the Broomfield City/County field with Perch A, because of the extensive prairie dog town there, while the eagles were not nesting. Because this land is private, continued existence of this valuable prey source can never be assured. During the past year, in fact, the private landowner removed all prairie dogs from the 40 to 60-acre conservation easement parcel immediately south of the pre-2020 nest tree (FRNBES, written commun., 2020). For Rock Creek Farm, BCPOS (2016) reported 99 acres of HCA (Habitat Conservation Area), to be managed as prairie dog habitat, and 291 acres of MOA (Multiple Objective Area), to be managed for prairie dogs as well as compatible activities. The remainder of the 967 acres was either unsuitable or was to be managed as NPD (No Prairie Dogs) Area. But most foraging flights from occupied nests by Colorado Front Range Bald Eagles are 3 minutes or less in duration, so FRNBES observations suggest that most foraging occurs within one-half mile of occupied nests (FRNBES unpub. data, 2020). Foraging flights in southwest Colorado in good prairie dog habitat were of similar length (Stahlecker, pers. observations). There are only NPD zones within one quarter mile of the nest in Perch D and the only MOA area within a half mile is to the west of the track road/proposed trail (Figure 1). In order to improve the likelihood of a successful nesting at Perch D, manipulative kill of prairie dogs within that MOA should be reduced or eliminated and only reinstated if there are clear issues between prairie dog numbers and other resources in that MOA. RECOMMENDATION FOR A SITE-SPECIFIC WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR NESTING BALD EAGLES AT CHPRCF The BCPOS Cropland Policy (BCPOS 2017) requires a site-specific management plan for sensitive wildlife occurring on cropland including species such as Bald Eagles and burrowing owls. Currently, there is no Critical Wildlife Management plan for nesting Bald Eagles at CHPRCF, nor is such a plan mentioned in the current BCPOS planning documents or maps. Since nesting eagles are now new to the Holmberg preserve, I recommend that BCPOS formulate a wildlife management plan as advised in the BCPOS Cropland Policy. Such a plan should be specific to nesting Bald Eagles and ensure that nesting activity is not disturbed by human encroachment, and that clear, adaptive plans for Bald Eagle management as suggested in the BCPOS Cropland Policy are developed to prevent future conflicts. LITERATURE CITED Anthony, R.G., R.J. Steidl, and K. McGarigal. 1995. Recreation and Bald Eagles in the Pacific Northwest. Pp. 223-241 in Wildlife and Recreationists: Coexistence through Management and Research (R.L. Knight and K. Gutzwiller, eds.). Buehler, D.A. (2020). Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), version 1.0. In Birds of the World (A. F. Poole and F. B. Gill, Editors). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.baleag.01 Boulder County Parks and Open Space. 2002. Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm: Management Plan Addendum. 59 pp. Boulder County Parks and Open Space. 2016. Prairie Dog Habitat Element of the Grassland and Shrubland Management Policy. 87 pp. Boulder County Parks and Open Space. 2017. Cropland Policy. 65 pp. https://assets.bouldercounty.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/boulder-county-croplandpolicy.pdf City of Boulder. 2015. Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan. https://wwwstatic.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/BVCP_2015_Update-5-1-19-1-201905011635.pdf Colorado Parks and Wildlife. 2008. Recommended buffer zones and seasonal restrictions for Colorado raptors. https://www.fws.gov/coloradoes/documents/CDOWRaptorBufferGuidelines2002_2008.pdf Fraser, J.D., L.D. Frenzel, and J.E. Mathisen. 1985. The impact of human activities on breeding Bald Eagles in north-central Minnesota. Journal of Wildlife Management 49:585-592. Grubb, T.G., and R.M. King. 1991. Assessing human disturbance of breeding Bald Eagles with classification tree models. Journal of Wildlife Management 55:500-511. Hunter, P., N.A. Mahoney, P.J. Ewins, D. Baird, and M. Field. 1997. Artificial nesting platforms for Bald Eagles in southern Ontario, Canada Journal Raptor Research 31:321-326. Kralovec, M.L., R.L. Knight, G.R. Craig, and R.G. McLean. 1992. Nesting productivity, food habits, and nest sites of Bald Eagles in Colorado and southeastern Wyoming. Southwestern Naturalist 37:356-361. McGarigal, K., R.G. Anthony, and F.B. Isaacs. 1991. Interactions of humans and Bald Eagles on the Columbia River estuary. Wildlife Monographs 115. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007. National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines. http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/issues/BaldEagle/NationalBaldEagleManagementGuidelines .pdf U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2020. https://www.fws.gov/coloradoes/Migratory_Birds.php Brief on Dale Stahlecker: Dale grew up in Colorado and graduated from Colorado State University with B.S. (1973) and M.S. (1975) in Wildlife Biology. Throughout his career as an agency and then consulting biologist, his interest in raptors (particularly eagles) have been predominant. Settling in New Mexico in 1980, long-term monitoring of breeding by raptors became his forte’. He was lead author on seven chapters of the “Raptors of New Mexico”, published in 2010, including a summary of Bald Eagle breeding and wintering ecology in the U.S.’s fifth largest state. For more information, see his bio and a list of publications by him and other Eagle Environmental Biologists at: http://www.eagleenvironmental.net
Irene Fortune
Jul 26, 2020 Comment #51
Comments:
Comment on behalf of Foothills Audubon Club July 17, 2020 To: Boulder County Parks and Open Space Regarding: Request to close the Cutoff Trail at Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Thank you for taking comment as part of updating the management plan for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. We support permanent closure of the Cutoff Trail at Rock Creek, due to the close proximity of a new Bald Eagle nest. As a bird-watching club with just shy of 50 members, we enjoy watching birds. We also want future generations of people to see them too. In order for that to happen, birds need a secluded place to reproduce or the recently-reported bird population declines will continue. People are excited to see large birds and the Eagles may become permanent attractions to the park. There is an established pattern that people begin noticing birds, then animals and nature more broadly, after first noticing a large majestic bird such as a Bald Eagle. This interest encourages people to spend more time in nature which promotes good health which is a good reason to have parks in the first place. About Foothills Audubon Club: Members live in Larimer, Weld and Boulder Counties. We are outdoor enthusiasts and avid promoters of sharing our planet with the animals, birds and plants that reside alongside us. We fully support open space and carefully planned access and trails so that people can experience local wildlife without impacting their populations. Best Regards, Irene Fortune President, Foothills Audubon Club
darryl dargitz
Jul 26, 2020 Comment #50
Comments:
I’ve been a resident (4483 Wellington Road, Boulder CO) since 2000 and strongly feel the recommendation to close the Cutoff trail in the EEI consulting report, submitted by the Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies people, should be followed by the county for these reasons: • The county open space has been and will continue to be a precious gift to the residents of the county, and, more importantly to the wildlife ecology with whom we share the land. • Protecting our natural gifts, even if it represents a minor inconvenience to us, is very important to the future of our beautiful environs. And I wholeheartedly recommend the county develop and implement a long-term management plan to protect our emblematic eagles and other raptors that have important, natural functions to fulfill. Darryl Dargitz
JAN KARDATZKE
Jul 24, 2020 Comment #49
Comments:
As a Broomfield resident of 38 years, and a frequent user of the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, I support the report being submitted by Front Range Nesting Bald Eagles which addresses the protection of the resident eagles in the Preserve. This includes closing of the Cutoff Trail, a possible manmade nest building framework in an appropriate tree, and an agreement to protect the prairie dogs near the nest tree so the eagles food source is not compromised.  These recommendations protect our nesting eagles and support the Vision Statement of the BCPOS. Thank you. Jan Kardatzke
Al Backlund
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #48
Comments:
I have been a volunteer with the FRNBES for more than a year and I, along with some of my colleagues, have been observing a nest one day a week in Weld County. We record the activities of the birds every three minutes for 1.5 hours. This data is then entered into a database and combined with observations from other nests observed by our organization in the area and used for further analysis of the eagle’s activities. Some of my colleagues have been assigned to observe a nest near Stearns Lake in the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. Although the eagles seem to accommodate some amount of disturbance from surrounding activities they are challenged when the disruption becomes too close to their nest. The pair that has nested in this area have reared some young but inclement weather this year caused the nest to collapse and the eaglets to be lost. There is also some evidence that nearby construction has had an effect on their nest site and caused them to attempt to rebuild in a new location. As I understand, the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (BVCP) contains provisions for the management of eagles in the BCOS areas. The Stearns Lake eagles have had a rough time and are again in the process of rebuilding their nest. They have chosen one of the few tall cottonwoods for their nest that is very near a cutoff trail used by some hikers. We have observed that they are affected by people coming too close to their nest and believe that closing or rerouting the cutoff trail would prevent most of the problem. The report by Eagle Environmentals, INC commissioned by FRNBES is quite explicit in their analysis and suggested resolutions for the nest. It seems that information provided by organizations such as this that have quite extensive experience in the subject area would be used to form a plan for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. The recovery of these gracious and beautiful birds after the outlawing of DDT has been wonderful. There has been some great success in certain parts of the US but although there has been some success our area is a challenge for them. When we have an opportunity to protect a designated open space area to accommodate some of their requirements I don’t understand why there is any hesitation. The recommendations to accommodate this nesting pair by closing or rerouting the cutoff trail and allowing the prairie dog colony to exist are certainly two actions that would be beneficial to this nesting pair.
Stephen Jones
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #47
Comments:
Dear parks and open space staff, As a grassland ecologist/naturalist with more than 35 years' experience carrying out breeding bird and raptor inventories on Boulder County open space properties, I have a few thoughts concerning your update of the Rock Creek Farm/Carolyn Holmberg Preserve management plan. Over the past 30 years, we've witnessed a pretty steady degradation of our remaining shortgrass prairies in Boulder County. Part of this has to do with incursion of subdivisions and roads, part of it reduction in grazing--leading to mixed-grass prairies replacing shortgrass prairies--and part of it due to management of remaining protected areas primarily for agricultural production rather than for native species preservation. At Rock Creek Farm we've seen replacement of possibly our best remaining area of shortgrass prairie in the northern half of the property with a pumpkin farm, deep tilling of previously semi-natural areas in the southern half of the property, and careless disturbances of nesting birds of special concern. In summer of 2019, the tenants actually sprayed herbicides on a field within 3 m of an active burrowing owl nest with depending young, and the nest was abandoned. Nesting bald eagles have been stressed in the area for the past decade, first by unconscionable construction of new housing developments within 160 m of their active nest, and more recently by Boulder County Parks and Open Space's decision to reopen a popular hiking trail that passes within 100 m of an active nest, abandoning their publicly stated, long-standing support for state-recommended bald eagle nest buffers. I'm confused by the levels of disturbance and habitat fragmentation at Rock Creek Farm. Throughout the years, Boulder County Parks and Open Space has been exemplary in their adherence to Comprehensive Plan policies to protect and enhance habitat for species of special concern. This is stated as a primary goal in the Boulder County comprehensive plan, and the Environmental Resources Element, one of the most thorough in North America, gives careful guidance for protecting listed species and habitats. Recently, the department seems to have begun to trade political expediency for sound and responsible natural resources management. In the case of bald eagles, until very recently every bald eagle nest in Boulder County has been located on a public or private property that was closed to public access. The eagles clearly choose these sites over disturbed sites. At Rock Creek Farm, the levels of disturbance gave the eagles no choice, and they have had to build their new nests within proximity of trails or housing developments. It seems we owe them, at least, some effort to buffer these nests from further disturbance, in accordance with the long accepted state guidelines. Another thing I've learned about bald eagles, after a dozen years monitoring nests professionally for the City of Longmont and various private companies, is that the traditional description of a "nesting season" simply doesn't apply to them. Bald Eagles defend their nests and nesting territories year-round. While monitoring a nest along St. Vrain Creek just south of Longmont for more than 30 hours in October, 2010, I observed one or more bald eagles perched on their nest high in a cottonwood more than 30% of the time. So it's simply disingenuous ever to say that bald eagles are "finished" nesting or unlikely to nest successfully. That's why Colorado Parks and Wildlife has stipulated nesting buffers throughout the year, making them strictest during the months when nesting pairs are most likely to have eggs or dependent young. Another thing we all have learned after years of observation is that the best way to stem disturbance and extirpation of native species is to minimize habitat fragmentation and enlarge patch size. You have an excellent opportunity to do this at Rock Creek Farm. Tenants and some staff have proposed removing the 40 acre prairie dog preserve in the northern portion of the property, using the argument that it is too small and too surrounded by disturbance to serve as functioning habitat for native species (actually it wasn't this way when it was created; it's been staff's adherence to tenant demands that has created this situation). Should you choose to do this, appropriate mitigation might include creating 120 acres of additional grassland habitat in the southern portion of the property; and managing the entire southern half of the property, plus Stearns Lake, primarily as natural grassland habitat. If you can accomplish this, we might actually see a gradual return of some apparently extirpated species, including white-tailed jackrabbit and nesting lark buntings, to this preserve. This kind of recovery is still possible, but we are running out of time. The more we proceed with a strategy of "balancing" habitat conservation with recreation and other disturbances, the more likely we are to lose more native species. It often strikes me it is incredible that there are more than 400,000 humans living in Boulder and Broomfield counties, and fewer than a dozen pairs of nesting bald eagles, yet some of our public agencies often seem to prioritize human convenience over species protection. This pretty much boggles my mind. There are hundreds of places to go hiking in Boulder County, but only one place for each of these bald eagle pairs to nest. It seems immoral for us to continue to put pressures on them when all we need to do is revise our trail maps and close a few trails once in a while. In the same vein, it's hard to believe that less than 1% of native shortgrass prairie habitat remains viable in Boulder County. At least, here, you have the opportunity to expand that number slightly, while also increasing the quality of the remaining habitat. Thanks for considering my comments, Steve Stephen Jones, Boulder County Audubon Society 3195 Darley Ave. Boulder CO 80305 303-494-2468
Charlotte Bujol
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #46
Comments:
My name is Charlotte Bujol and I have been observing nesting bald eagles for several years. I am very familiar with the Stearns pair. As you are aware, nesting bald eagles have a tough go of it in a good year, and the Stearns pair have had more than their share of difficulties. Most of their failures are the result of human encroachment in some way either by developments, recreation and lack of knowledge, and oil and gas activity. This past season, after a difficult season with the Garrett development, they moved and chose an inferior tree. There are just not that many viable old growth cottonwoods to choose from in their territory, to which they remain faithful. This new sub-par tree, a dead one, failed this year in April and two young perished. After that tragic event, they almost immediately began searching for a new tree and found one ever closer to the Stearns Lake cut-off trail. They almost always flush with human activity, and the close proximity of that trail provides quite a bit. For this upcoming season, I urge you to close the small section of the trail for the entire year to give these birds a fighting chance. And please incorporate policies which provide for prairie dogs (a vital food source in their habitat) for the Stearns eagles. The science is there. FRNBES has spent many years studying these eagles and is more than willing to provide whatever information you may need to make decisions to protect these birds and their fragile habitat. I have read the EEI consulting report provided by FRNBES and agree with the recommendations in the report. Please protect these eagles by employing these minor policy changes. You may be surprised at how much support you receive from your constituents who love these majestic creatures. Thank you for your consideration and all that you do for Boulder County. Sincerely, Charlotte Bujol
Catalina Achim
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #45
Comments:
I offer my full support for the recommendations included in the report prepared by Eagle Environmental, Inc. (EEI) for the Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES) regarding the protection of the nesting eagles at Holmberg Preserve. About myself and my interest in eagles: My name is Catalina Achim. I live in Alexandria, VA. As the country came to almost a stop a few months ago, I discovered a bald eagle nest close to Pittsburgh, PA, that has a live camera. Observing the eagles together with a community of people from all over the world helped and continues to help me survive these challenging times. I saw how the family of eagles raised two eaglets that successfully fledged. The eagles were once common in PA, then disappeared due to pollution, and finally, in the last couple of decades, have returned because people changed their ways and made it possible for people, eagles and nature, in general, to live again in a more harmonious way. As I followed the Pittsburgh eagles over a few months, I learned about eagles, raptors, and birds in general. I became increasingly aware of how important it is for us to respect and protect them not only because we like them but also because of their essential roles in our environment. Why I write to you: I read the EEI consulting report submitted by FRNBES and fully agree with the recommendations made in the report. I support the closure of the shortcut trail because it doesn’t conform to CPW 2008 guidelines; the presence of people so close to the nest interferes with the eagles' ability to undertake their daily activities. I support the elimination of the take of prairie dogs on MOA-designated areas on Holmberg because it would cause the loss of the primary food source for the eagles. I also ask you to please make possible additional support for the nest tree and the nest itself because the eagles don't have suitable alternatives in the area they currently live in, and are familiar with. I understand that the County Cropland management policy mandates the development of a management plan for the nesting eagles and that the Boulder Valley Comp plan mandates the protection of the habitat critical for the eagles. Please make sure that these mandates are met for the benefit of the eagles, their environment, and the people who live in the area. What I seek from you: Please implement measures based on the EEI report to make sure that the bald eagles continue to be able to live in the Holmberg Preserve. Please skip the stage Pittsburgh went through in which the eagles had to leave their habitats because of deleterious human activity. We can learn from the Pittsburgh experience without recreating it at the expense of the eagles. We the people don't have to make room for ourselves by pushing nature out, we are much smarter than that. We can use our minds and hearts to live in harmony with nature and as stewards of nature, which is in our own interest. Please take action that shows that this is the case for the eagles in the Holmberg Preserve. Thank you for your consideration, Catalina Achim
Andrew Forkes-Gudmundson
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #44
Comments:
My name is Andrew Forkes-Gudmundson, and I am the deputy director of LOGIC. We work with Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES) on issues related to eagle habitat in several regulatory venues, and they recently brought this issue to our attention. I have read the EEI consulting report drafted on behalf of FRNBES, and I would like to offer our wholehearted support for the recommendations included therein. Specifically, we request that: The "Cutoff" Trail be closed indefinitely, as it does not conform with CPW's 2008 Guidelines and the COVID19 pandemic has driven traffic on the trail up significantly, The "taking" of prairie dogs on the MOA-designated of the CHP be eliminated, Due to the extreme shortage of suitable alternatives for tree nests in the immediate vicinity of the current nesting location, and due to repeated human-caused disturbances, artificial nesting support be added to a suitable tree in the area, and BCPOS develop a management plan specific to nesting eagles as mandated in County Cropland management policy to protect critical habitat for these eagles, and protect their habitat as mandated in the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan.
Anita Wilks Coal Creek Canyon
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #43
Comments:
After reading the EEI consulting report drafted on behalf of FRNBES it is apparent Boulder County Planning isn't even willing to meet with the folks that took the time, energy and did the research to recommend closure of the Cutoff Trail so these nesting Eagles have a chance to reproduce and care for their young. This issue is addressed in documents CHPRCF (BCPOS) to prioritize preservation but staff ignores their own guidelines here.
Mike Chiropolos
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #42
Comments:
July 20, 2020 Parks & Open Space Advisory Committee Eric Lane, BCPOS Director Marni Ratzel, Resource Planner Submitted via email to elane@bouldercounty.org and mratzel@bouldercounty.org re: Update to the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm Management Plan, Grasslands Habitat and Bald Eagles Dear BCPOS Advisory Committee Members, Eric, and Marni: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Holmberg Preserve Plan Update. As a Boulder County resident for most of the last three decades, I appreciate the service and dedication of Board members and staff to conservation of our world class Open Space system in Boulder County. This comment focuses on 1) the need for conservation of habitat, sensitive wildlife species and ecosystems, and 2) an adaptive management approach that continues to respond to new information, science and on-the-ground conditions. Specific recommendations include: • The need for a site-specific management plan for the nesting bald eagles, supported by the comprehensive body of wildlife biology that contributed to the recovery of the bald eagle from the brink of extinction as the nation’s leading Endangered Species Act success story • The need for BCPOS to establish best management practices (BMPs) for sensitive wildlife populations and habitat on BCPOS Croplands consistent with Appendix X of the Croplands Policy • The ongoing need for a dynamic and adaptive management regime consistent with sound natural resource management policies The BCPOS Cropland Policy requires developing BMPs and site-specific management plans for sensitive wildlife occurring on cropland, including species such as burrowing owls, bald eagles, and black-footed ferrets. Chapter 9 of the policy, “Natural Resources on Cropland”, is pasted below in relevant part. Appendix 10 of the Cropland Policy provides for developing BMPs for wildlife in cropland. This has yet been done. Now is the time for BCPOS biologists and other experts to develop wildlife BMPs with appropriate opportunities for public comment and participation. Completing this commitment from the Cropland Policy should be a high priority. BCPOS currently develops and implements dynamic, site-specific management strategies and plans for burrowing owls when new nests, individuals or populations are identified on BCPOS holdings. Black-footed ferrets on or adjacent to cropland would also trigger specific analysis and management changes due to federal, state and local protections. Site-Specific Management Plans: Nesting bald eagles will benefit from site-specific management plans, consistent with BCPOS policies and state and federal guidance. This means applying proven conservation policies being applied for other BCPOS sensitive species to bald eagles. Burrowing owl management offers a “how-to” for developing BMPs and other mitigation measures and management. Dynamic, adaptive management is a fundamental tenet of natural resource management policy. The success of coordinated federal, state, local, public, and private recovery efforts under the Endangered Species Act (“ESA”) led to the federal delisting of the bald eagle in 2007. In Colorado, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (“CPW”) kept it on the state list as a species of special concern; and CPW classifies it as a “Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need”. The Colorado Natural Heritage Program classified breeding bald eagles as S1B, or “Critically Imperiled”; and nonbreeding bald eagles as S3N or “Vulnerable”. Locally, in a 2015 Boulder County Resolution Supporting the Endangered Species Act, the Commissioners found that “the Endangered Species Act has saved over 99% of the species designated for protection under the Act from extinction, including iconic species in Colorado such as the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon.” Resolution 2015-15. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (“USFWS”) Northern States Bald Eagle Recovery Plan recognized the importance of site-specific management plans for essential habitats, including breeding areas. “Each of these sites is important yet unique in size, configuration, and needs for protection and management; hence, each requires an individual management plan. Such plans are already commonplace and well established for many breeding areas.” Recovery plan at vi, and Executive Summary (underlining added). The Recovery Plan establishes the importance of bald eagle nests and of site-specific management plans for nests. “At nesting sites adult eagles invest considerable effort and resources in construction of nests, laying and incubation of eggs and rearing of young. Such is not the case with wintering sites.” Id. at Appx G 1. “Management Guidelines for Breeding Areas” provides additional direction for Site-Specific Management Plans: Basic information and essential habitat. Site-specific management plans should be tailored to the size and configuration of essential habitats, and should address such factors as the prey base, habitat used for foraging, and any other features necessary for maintaining habitat suitability. In addition, management plans should clearly specify restrictions on human activities and habitat alterations in establishing buffer zones around nests[.] Id. at E5 (underlining added). Regarding prey base management, USFWS recognizes that “[i]n some breeding areas, particularly in the west, mammals form a portion of the diet of bald eagles. Land management in these areas should maintain an adequate prey base in terrestrial habitats.” Id. For bald eagle nests and other wildlife that prey on prairie dogs as a vital foraging source, fencing is among management tools that should be addressed to further management goals. Immediate Management Decisions For the nesting “Stearns Pair” of bald eagles at Holmberg, I have reviewed the Eagle Environmental Inc. report authored by Dale Stahlecker and submitted to BCPOS by Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES). I support: • The recommendations for closure of the “cutoff” trail at this time in the interest of eagle conservation during an important juncture for this nest and pair. • Protection of the bald eagles’ prey base. Because prairie dogs are documented to be an important food source for these bald eagles throughout their life cycle including breeding and all four seasons of the years, I support maximum protections for the prairie dog colony on the property with details to be determined by the Site-Specific Management Plan. • The recommendation to add nest support at a tree on the property that will give the nesting pair the best chance to thrive and survive at this site. The resilience of these eagles is an inspiration to visitors from across Boulder County and the Front Range. Let’s give them a fighting chance! • As the EEI report recommends, management should “ensure that nesting activity is not disturbed by human encroachment, and that clear, adaptive plans for Bald Eagle management as suggested in the BCPOS Cropland Policy are developed to prevent future conflicts.” BCPOS Cropland Policy Boulder County’s Cropland Policy requires (“shall”) complying with recommended buffers for new occurrences of sensitive and protected species. The Holmberg Preserve Plan Update and the scope of the as-yet aspirational Croplands Wildlife BMPs are appropriate places for specific Bald Eagle conservation measures. To the extent tenants may be affected conservation policies, the Cropland Policy required compensating tenants for any losses due to natural resource protections. The “Natural Resources on Cropland” policy commits to protecting natural resources. “Natural resource protection is part of the BCPOS mission of Boulder County Parks and Open Space. Sustainable agricultural practices include protecting natural resource systems.”. The Cropland Policy directs staff is to work with tenants on BMPs and site-specific management plans for nesting eagles (9.3); recommended buffers apply (9.4); tenants can be compensated for any losses (9.5); and BCPOS approval is required for prairie dog control (9.8). Compensation provides: 9.5. At the beginning or at the renewal of a lease, lease terms may be modified to protect natural resources. If during a lease term, measures, approved by Boulder County, to protect a natural resource impact the terms of the lease, Boulder County shall compensate for the losses[.] Appendix 10 to the Cropland Policy is titled “Wildlife Best Management Practices for Cropland”. Establishing these BMPs is overdue. The policy commits “to include specific recommendations and mitigations” for BOCC approval. Thus, both the Holmberg Preserve Update and the Cropland Wildlife Appendix are appropriate documents to address bald eagle conservation and other wildlife issues arising on cropland. Pending development and approval of final plans (including a Site-Specific Management Plan as recommended by EEI) and BMPs, interim policies need to comply with federal and state law and county policies by protecting eagles and their prey base against human encroachment. Cropland Appendix 10 provides that “BMPs provide a foundation for developing customized leases, operating plans, and/or management plans that benefit designated priority species at the Federal, State or County level.” It commits to developing BMPs based on literature reviews, including “published guidelines and technical reports” such as the CPW 2008 Raptor Buffers and other scientific documents FRNBES has compiled and submitted on Bald Eagle conservation. The cited portions of the Cropland Policy are pasted below. Conclusion The ESA and other wildlife and environmental protections are targeted by the current administration in Washington, D.C. This elevates the urgency for Colorado, Boulder County and BCPOS to develop and implement cutting-edge science-based conservation strategies for native wildlife including the bald eagle, recognized as the leading success story of the most effective environmental law in our nation’s history. Bald eagles are the leading species recovery story in American history. Along with other grasslands species, eagles are a key part of healthy open space ecosystems in Boulder Valley. Stakeholders look forward to working with BCPOS staff and the Commission on 1) finalizing the Holmberg Preserve Update, 2) site-specific management plans for sensitive species, and 3) developing Wildlife BMPs for cropland. Thank you for reviewing and considering these comments, and the hard work and dedication of BCPOS, other county officials and volunteers on stewardship efforts at the Holmberg Preserve, across the BCPOS system and in coordination with sister agencies across the region. Sincerely, /s Mike Chiropolos, Esq. Chiropolos Law FNRBES Board Member 3325 Martin Drive Boulder CO 80305 303-956-0595 mike@chiropoloslaw.com ATTACHMENTS TO COMMENT: 1) Cropland Appendix at 21: 9. Natural Resources on Cropland Natural resource protection is part of the mission of Boulder County Parks and Open Space. Sustainable agricultural practices include protecting natural resource systems. 9.1. Boulder County and its agricultural tenants shall abide by all federal and state laws governing wetlands, wildlife, and plant species. 9.2. The County Comprehensive Plan Critical Wildlife habitats shall be considered a priority for protection when leases and agricultural operating plans are developed. 9.3. For any wildlife designated as State Threatened or Species of County or State Concern, POS staff shall work with tenants to develop best management practices and site-specific plans to manage them. (Appendix 10: Wildlife Best Management Practices) 9.4. If a new occurrence of a protected species occurs on POS land, no additional disturbance within the recommended US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) or Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife (CDPW) buffer shall occur. Existing operations can continue except where prohibited by these agencies. 9.5. At the beginning or at the renewal of a lease, lease terms may be modified to protect natural resources. If during a lease term, measures, approved by Boulder County, to protect a natural resource impact the terms of the lease, Boulder County shall compensate for the losses at the tenants share of an average crop insurance claim. 9.6. All cropland shall be defined as a No Prairie Dog Area as outlined in section 6.3 of the Prairie Dog Element of the Grassland Management Policy. ### 2) Appendix 10 at page 55 of Cropland Policy: Appendix 10: Wildlife Best Management Practices Wildlife Best Management Practices for Cropland This document is meant to serve as general outline for inclusion into the Draft Cropland Policy. This document will be further refined to include specific recommendations and mitigations pending full acceptance and approval of the Cropland Policy by the Board of County Commissioners. Overview The following Best Management Practices (BMP) are general guidelines for the protection of wildlife found on agriculture-focused Open Space properties. These BMPs have been developed for a broad geographic area, therefore each described BMP will not always be the most applicable. However, BMPs provide a foundation for developing customized leases, operating plans, and/or management plans that benefit designated priority species at the Federal, State or County level. BMP Development Process These wildlife BMPs for cropland will be further developed using literature review, State, Federal, and nonprofit published guidelines, and technical reports. All BMPs will be developed in collaboration between Resource Management and Agricultural Resource staff. This is a living document which reflects the most current knowledge and information available and will be continuously updated.
Gabrielle Katz
Jul 23, 2020 Comment #41
Comments:
Dear BCPOS, It is my understanding that Boulder County is currently in the process of updating its management plan for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF). While I understand that BCPOS is committed to managing its properties for multiple uses, we cannot ignore the changing geographic context within which this mandate is being carried out. Throughout North America, including the Front Range and eastern plains of Colorado, there is an apocalyptic loss of bird and insect biodiversity (as has been well documented in many scientific studies). All around us we are witnessing an incredible loss of habitat to development, in addition to the widespread impacts of climate change. In this context, the value of open space to wildlife must be given extra weight as you plan for the future. I am writing to request that as part of your management planning for CHPRCF, that you create a site specific management plan for bald eagles. This species is of considerable value to Boulder County residents. It is important that any future management plans for this area take into account the nesting sites and food source areas for these birds. Specifically, it is critical that bald eagle nest sites remain undisturbed and that sufficient prairie dog colonies remain intact within the immediate nest areas to serve as food supply for the birds. I have had the opportunity to read the EEI report prepared for Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies, and am supportive of their ideas for conserving bald eagles at CHPRCF. These ideas include closing the Cutoff Trail in order to remain in compliance with CPW buffers around bald eagle nests, and the creation of a bald eagle conservation plan for the site that includes coexistence of prairie dogs (and no lethal control of prairie dogs at the site). Thank you for considering these ideas. Gabrielle Katz Boulder County
Leslie Gura
Jul 21, 2020 Comment #40
Comments:
Note: I live in North Carolina, but I and my family owns a significant amount of rural land in Boulder County. Thank you for planning for the future of the Carolyn Holmberg preserve. I appreciate the multiple uses and constraints at the preserve. I do believe that critical habitat and wildlife preservation should inform decisions about all other uses of the preserve. I support expansion and restoration of native grasslands and riparian areas and protection of native prairie dog habitat to ensure survival of raptors on the preserve. I also strongly support diversion/closure of trails to protect nesting raptors. Visitor access certainly may be balanced with the higher priority of protecting wildlife and its habitat, including nesting sites. Of course our open spaces provide wonderful opportunities for recreation and enjoyment of wildlife, but we should carefully plan to maintain the vibrant diversity of species. My specific suggestions follow: 1. the past decade has shown a reduction in viable nesting spots for eagles. Development encroached on previous successful nests. Please close the cutoff from Cradleboard. 2. Consider adding nest support to the most desirable nesting tree. 3. Preserve prairie dog colonies in MOU areas. Prairie dogs are essential for the survival of raptors. 4. Include eagles specifically in the final plan Thank you for your consideration.
Janet Kern
Jul 20, 2020 Comment #39
Comments:
I wondered what Carolyn Holmberg would have to say about Rock Creek Farm, so I tried to find her original ideas for the Open Space named for her. It sounds like she intended this to be more of a farm/income source for Boulder County, with some areas left to be a great place for wildlife to live. But as more and more of this area becomes agricultural at the expense of the natural environment, I wonder if she would recommend removing the word “Preserve” from the name Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. The word “preserve” is misleading since less and less is being preserved. Where did the Short-grass Prairie go? Where will the Prairie Dogs be when more of their area is labeled as an MOA or NPD? Where are the Burrowing Owls that used to share the Prairie Dog holes? Were some of them lost so pumpkins could be planted north of Stearns Lake? Where will the Bald Eagles go when their food is no longer in places that are safe for them to hunt without trail-users crisscrossing their flight paths? Where are the strong, alive old-growth Cottonwood Trees? If nothing is being preserved, then the name should be changed to Carolyn Holmberg Farm and Trails. OR … Preserve the areas where the Prairie Dogs are currently, making those areas not accessible to farmers or their animals. Move the Birds of Prey flight cages out of the flood zone to be near the Birds of Prey ICU, preserving that section of Rock Creek for wildlife and natural plant life. Allow nesting platforms to be built in the suitable trees and close off the current cut-off trail to encourage the Bald Eagles to build there... Then wait to see where they choose to build before determining final trail re-routing, based on recommended distancing for the Bald Eagles, and thus preserving a safe space for them. Finally, keep the name Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, because you have indeed helped preserve the bit of nature there.
Mary Donaldson
Jul 15, 2020 Comment #38
Comments:
Thank you for allowing the opportunity to provide input for the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve area. I am not a wildlife expert but I do think we need to protect the wildlife that makes sense by the experts. I don't think more cattle grazing use should be considered. We need less, not more agriculture in the world. I would not want to see paved trails, dirt and crusher fines are better. I would like to see something done near the Cradleboard Trail, if it's possible. This is a nice short cut/loop to the the trail system and it is not well maintained, wet/muddy or closed. There is also a lack of clear signage indicating whether it's open/closed and why. If the area is closed for nesting, a sign educating the public on the importance of this should be a priority so people will respect the purpose. Thank you for all you do to manage this special and beautiful area.
George Wolf
Jun 25, 2020 Comment #37
Comments:
I would like to make sure the current Habitat Conservation Area remains with this designation. According to your map, this is the southeast most corner of Carolyn Holmberg Preserve, stretching between the railroad track and the Boulder County line to the south, Hwy 287 to the east. It appears this could be the last refuge for the ground wildlife in CHP. Other reasons to maintain the HCA designation here are: 1) It is not in the flood plain so does not need to be disturbed. 2) It is already a prairie dog colony. 3) It has most of CHP’s Significant Natural Communities for plant ecology. 4) It includes some of the Archaeologically Sensitive Area which also should not be disturbed. 5) It is not part of any Significant Agricultural Lands. 6) Many birds and coyotes frequent this area along with the wild ground animals.
Georgia Lopez
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #36
Comments:
Topic: Farm operations, wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures Thank you, Boulder County Open Space and Marni Ratzel, for taking the time to consider my recommendations. I am a field ecologist who has monitored the Stearn’s Bald Eagle nest for three and half years. My concern is about how the current BCPOS documents addressing the action item of new planning at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve does not address nesting Bald Eagle’s as well as how the new plan will ensure that the farms operations will protect Burrowing Owls. The Multiple Objective Areas should incorporate a buffer zone so that both habitat for Burrowing Owls is protected and food resources are available for the nesting Bald Eagles. Circle Ecology LLC
Theo Kuhn
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #35
Comments:
Topic: Wildlife and prairie dog management Thanks to BCPOS and POSAC for considering my recommendations for the upcoming Holmberg management plan. Since the fall of 2019, a pair of bald eagles has nested at the south end of the Homberg preserve. Our group, Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies (FRNBES), has closely observed the pair’s behavior for hundreds of hours. We understand that this is a multi-use preserve with potential friction between the needs of wildlife, recreation, and agriculture. In order to ensure that the survival needs of the resident bald eagles—a designated State Species of Special Concern—are met, a site-specific management plan for the bald eagles of Carolyn Holmberg Preserve must be developed. A good management plan would draw on the model of existing management plans—such as those that exist within the preserve for Burrowing Owls, another protected species—to ensure that the preserve has ample resources and space for bald eagles. In order to ensure that the eagles can feed themselves, the management plan should include a suspension of prairie dog lethal control within a buffer surrounding the nest. FRNBES studies in the northern Front Range have shown that bald eagles derive a significant proportion of their food from prairie dogs within just a half-mile of their nest. Last fall, this pair moved their nest into the preserve while construction was ongoing near their old nest just to the west of the preserve. Within the last two weeks, both eaglets in the new nest died, a sad fact which reflects the continued vulnerability of this pair. With a site-specific bald eagle management plan, BCPOS has the opportunity to set an example for other open space programs by demonstrating dynamic, flexible, local management that guarantees a safe haven amidst the rapidly developing Front Range.
JoAnn Hacko
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #34
Comments:
Topic: Wildlife and prairie dog management The Stearns Lake Bald Eagles have recently established a new nest on the Homberg management area, after years of having to tolerate extensive disturbances on and around their original nesting tree. Boulder County is presently developing a new management plan for the Homberg property. The current planning fails to include management for the nesting Bald Eagles, even though some other critical wildlife is included in the planning. Boulder County has long permitted the destruction of Prairie Dog colonies, impacting the source of prey food animals for Bald Eagles and other raptors. The continued destruction of the prairie dogs is extremely detrimental to the continuing health of the Bald Eagles and their young. The lack of prey animals can likely result in the death of the young from starvation. We strongly recommend that Bald Eagles, Burrowing Owls, and other endangered avian species be included in the Boulder County planning. Specifically, we strongly recommend that a plan be developed to ensure that nesting Bald Eagles not be disturbed so that they can continue to produce healthy young with adequate prey species. Poisoning prairie dogs’ results in the extermination of Burrowing Owls and eliminates the critical prey species of the Bald Eagles and other raptors. JoAnn Hackos, PhD Evergreen Audubon Conservation Board Member Audubon Colorado Council Conservation Committee Member
Ann Colpitts
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #33
Comments:
Topic: Wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures In order for the two eagles at the Stearn's nests to find sufficient prey for themselves and their offspring, please do not diminish the prairie dog habitat within 1/2 mile of the Stearn's eagles' nests and perches as this distance has been found to be the common hunting distance for these eagles, according to Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies in Boulder County. Also, please follow Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules that specify no surface occupancy or disturbances within 1/2 mile of an eagles’ nest or perch. Georgia Lopez, 249 Bowen St. Longmont. Action Item: April 23, 2020 7:15 p.m. Update to the Management Plan for Carolyn Holmberg Preserve Topic: Farm operations, wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures Thank you, Boulder County Open Space and Marni Ratzel, for taking the time to consider my recommendations. I am a field ecologist who has monitored the Stearn’s Bald Eagle nest for three and half years. My concern is about how the current BCPOS documents addressing the action item of new planning at the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve does not address nesting Bald Eagle’s as well as how the new plan will ensure that the farms operations will protect Burrowing Owls. The Multiple Objective Areas should incorporate a buffer zone so that both habitat for Burrowing Owls is protected and food resources are available for the nesting Bald Eagles.
Diane Kristoff
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #32
Comments:
Topic: Wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures First, I want to thank Boulder County Parks and Open Space for the good work they have done to protect wildlife, including bald eagles. Because bald eagles have built a new nest within the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve since the last management plan was written, a site-specific plan for the bald eagle nest is needed. There are now two nests 1280 meters apart that the bald eagles are using. A 1/2-mile buffer around the nests should be designated as critical wildlife habitat and the bald eagles should be added to the critical wildlife list within the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. Data collected by Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies over the past five years including at least 10 different nests along the front range show the bald eagles depend heavily on prairie dogs caught within a 3-minute flight from their nest. Therefore, the updated management plan should ensure Multiple Objective Areas do not have an upper limit on the elimination of prairie dogs so that some prairie dogs are left for the bald eagles. Also, the updated management plan should reconsider the elimination of the prairie dog preserve, especially since the Trillium area is an NPD and virtually all the prairie dogs have been eliminated from the Shirk property. Perhaps some sort of equal land designation switch, amenable to all interested parties, can be worked out. I thank Boulder County Parks and Open Space for considering my comments. volunteer field biologist and board member Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies
Jan Kardatzke
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #31
Comments:
Topic: Wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures I’m writing as a concerned citizen who visits Carolyn Holmberg Preserve weekly. We are so fortunate to be able to enjoy the diversity of animals, plants and habitats at the Preserve. As Bald Eagles were not present when the original management plan was developed, now is the perfect opportunity to acknowledge their importance, as well as, the prairie dogs which are their primary food source in this area. This pair of Bald Eagles is consistently nesting in the Preserve; therefore, it’s important to update the management plan to consider their hunting area which research shows is a half mile circle around the nest. When Bald Eagles are residents, we need to look at prairie dogs differently. Therefore, I would propose a flexible designation for prairie dog management each year depending where the Eagles nest. Currently in most of these areas the plan says that prairie dogs can be removed. With a designation of HCA for the half mile perimeter around the nest, the Eagle’s prey would be protected giving the nest a chance to be successful. We have a responsibility to manage Bald Eagle habitat for their safety not only because they are a protected species, but because of the joy and pride they bring to the people who use this area. Our community values Bald Eagles and we know that’s an important part of the Boulder Parks and Open Space mission. Thank you for listening to my thoughts and suggestions and for all the good work you do protecting our land in Boulder County.
Jamie Simo
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #30
Comments:
Topic: Farm operations, wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures In October of 2019, a pair of Bald Eagles moved into the area of the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm (CHPRCF) designated as critical wildlife habitat. Because Boulder County Parks and Open Space (BCPOS) is currently in the initial phases of updating its management plan for CHPRCF, this is the perfect opportunity to revise the plan to better fit the needs of nesting Bald Eagles, a Colorado Species of Special Concern. CHPRCF is a unique Open Space property under BCPOS management in that it hosts a multitude of sometimes conflicting uses: recreation, agriculture, conservation, historic preservation, raptor rehabilitation, and oil and gas exploration. One of the biggest sources of conflict is the management of prairie dogs on the 1,124-acre preserve. As most of the preserve is under an agricultural lease, all but 99 acres are designated as either no prairie dog areas (NPD) or multiple objective areas (MOA). Within the preserve there is a 40-acre prairie dog preserve, which is also designated as a MOA. In a MOA, prairie dogs are allowed, but there is no upper limit on the number of them that may be exterminated. In Colorado, prairie dogs are a major food source for Bald Eagles. Data provided from Front Range Nesting Bald Eagle Studies, show that this is particularly true for Bald Eagles feeding chicks. However, most of the land surrounding the nest tree for the Bald Eagles within the preserve is designated as either NPD or MOA. One of the considerations for the update of the management plan is re-designating the 40-acre prairie dog preserve as cropland, which would make it an NPD. I am in favor of this re-designation only if lethal control of prairie dogs within a half mile radius of the Bald Eagle nest tree be suspended so that a larger, contiguous area of prairie dog habitat is available within the Bald Eagle’s territory.
Charlotte Bujol
Jun 09, 2020 Comment #29
Comments:
Topic: Wildlife, prairie dog management, and standard operating procedures The BCPOS Cropland Policy requires a site-specific management plan for sensitive wildlife occurring on cropland including species such as bald eagles and burrowing owls. Currently, there is no Critical Wildlife Management plan, or even accompanying maps for nesting Bald Eagles in the current BCPOS planning for the Holmberg preserve. Front Range Nesting Bald Eagles Studies (FRNBES) data from four Bald Eagle nests in the northern Front Range (including Stearns and Hygiene nests) demonstrate that 22 to 53% of prey is derived within 1/2 mile of each nest. At the Stearns nest, prairie dogs comprise 32 percent of derived prey. The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) is a federal law that mandates protection of eagles. BGEPA unequivocally forbids the “significant” interference of feeding, foraging, or sheltering of eagles—as determined by best available scientific data. The Stearns Lake Eagles now have two intensively utilized “nest sites” that require planned management as mandated under the BCPOS Cropland plan, as well as protections as stated under BGEPA. BCPOS must develop a Critical Wildlife Management plan for Holmberg designed for nesting Bald Eagles, and that plan must include a coordinated plan for prey protection at their old nest site as well. The 90-acre Trillium parcel, which is adjacent to the old nest tree is currently designated as NPD. Protection of prey source on the NPD Trillium property must also be considered in the context of a mandated conservation plan for nesting eagles at the Holmberg preserve.
Lisa Cech
Jun 08, 2020 Comment #28
Comments:
Please keep Sterns Lake and Carolyn Holmberg trails etc the way they are. It is just right as far as foot traffic and bike traffic. It is already crowded on weekends. It is one of the few places we can take our dog because most everyone follows the leash law. There are plenty of off leash parks etc for folks to go to and with the number of prairie dogs on the land the colony would become more stressed. We have found that voice and site control is hit and miss- with many owners having little to no control over their dogs. Off leash in this area would negatively impact the ecosystem and the calm vibe of the place. We also don’t need paced trails- they are fine as they are! Thanks, Lisa Cech
julie rieken
Jun 06, 2020 Comment #27
Comments:
please, please don’t pave. westminster paved Big Dry Creek trail and now it is undesirable. i like the feel of earth under my feet. and the sound.
BK Loren
Jun 04, 2020 Comment #26
Comments:
This is literally the only place where I can safely walk my dog and be assured that the vast majority of people will observe the ON LEASH LAWS. Please keep enforcing the law. There are numerous places for off leash dog walking in Boulder County. No dog should be off leash in this area at any time, due to habitat care and respect for people who must walk dogs on leash or choose to do so without being accosted by other dogs with poorly trained guardians. ( That is not a typo.) Also, I concur: no paved trails. The crusher fine trails are perfect. Additionally, I support full closure of specific areas when wildlife habitat is at a crucial stage. For instance, I fully supported the closure of cradle board to protect the owls. Though I use that trail to commute, I was glad to take the detour to respect the owl habitat. I also would have been in full support of closing off both sides of the trail around the now defunct eagle nest. Wildlife and habitat must take precedence. The viewing area only brought in too much traffic. I disagree that Stearns is now attracting an unsustainable number of visitors. Once the eagle viewing went away, so did the hoards. This fact supports the idea of not offering a viewing area. The early morning over-filled parking lot is almost exclusively caused by runners. Runners are respectful users of open space. I welcome them. Allowing off leash dogs is NOT a respectful use of open space. I am adamantly against off-leash dogs. That practice is also disrespectful to pedestrians, runners, cyclists, and people whose dogs must be leashed for one reason or another. Frankly, all public trails should require leashes. The voice and sight control rule in Boulder is ineffective, again, because of lazy guardians. I have almost never met a dog in Boulder county that is truly voice and sight command trained. Once in a rare while, yes. And even then there is that “one” time when the dog breaks training and the results range from outright rudeness to others or sad and disastrous for others. I’ve experienced both. Thank you so much for the work you do. Personally, I think Stearns Lake and Carolyn Holmberg preserve are both perfect as is. If changes are made, they should be minimal. Thank you and for you hard work and public service!
Cassidy Sainsbury
May 28, 2020 Comment #25
Comments:
Dear Parks and Open Space, Thank you so much for caring for the Rock Creek Farm area. I noticed that some of the considered updates in the new plan are for trails. I understand completely the need. I only email to beg of you not to pave or build cement trails as a replacement. Dirt, roadbase, or clay trails maintain the rural character of the space. Cement production counts for 20% of world emissions and is terrible for the knees of runners, joggers, and walkers leading to earlier osteoarthritis which has its own downstream effects. Open space and trail are much better served by dirt paths. These paths are able to welcome all including bikers and those who have disabilities without the negative effects. Kindly, Cassidy
Tamar Krantz
May 23, 2020 Comment #24
Comments:
I saw the sign on the trail today encouraging public input. I did not read the plan, but looked at the presentation and learned that the plan update will include the objective of sustainable use and stewardship and will include updating visitor access and accessibility. Closures due to COVID 19 have put unsustainable pressure on Stearn's lake. I have been going there for 15 years and have never seen it so busy or so trashed. I visited this morning at 7:30 am, Saturday May 23. The parking lot was overflowing and visitors were parked on the road by 9:00. https://photos.app.goo.gl/4Fv5G82ammgjBUZk8 Please see this link to view photos. I would recommend temporary closure of the park. The number of restrooms, parking, and trash cans are not adequate at the present time. I would like to see the plan prioritize habitat conservation over all other uses in the Stearn's lake area. The plan should include turning away visitors when parking lot is full and implementing emergency closures when human impact isn't controlled. Thanks for your consideration.
Larry Harkreader
May 14, 2020 Comment #23
Comments:
I use the preserve for running, biking, and bird watching. Creating good off road access to the 36 bike path would be great. Rerouting current track is fine but please allow paths to Broomfield on both sides of 287. If we are to help the eagles nest....a blind? Encourage a nesting site away from trails (perhaps man made structure). At pumpkin patch time, cars are dangerous. Drivers are looking to get in and out fast and don't watch for bikers or hikers. Great fun to run along fences with draft horses and longhorns. Thanks
Kyle Shefte
May 11, 2020 Comment #22
Comments:
Allow dogs off leash in the fenced in trail areas.
Timothy Williams
May 03, 2020 Comment #21
Comments:
I have been going here for 15 years and was glad to see the oil well road removed. Where the corn field south of lake is I would like to see to see a small trail along the south side of creek
Janet Schofield
May 02, 2020 Comment #20
Comments:
This is a lovely open space which gets a very substantial amount of use. The only suggestion I have it that you could use a few more benches that could be used to sit near the lake and some trees by them to eventually provide shade, since it is very warm during at least a third of the year.
Dawn Demko NA
Apr 22, 2020 Comment #19
Comments:
***Comments were originally submitted on April 04, 2020 via Boulder County POS Feedback form*** Hi there, I have been running and/or walking my dog in the Carolyn Holmberg preserve for over 10 years. I knew the bald eagles in the area before they moved to the big cottonwood tree over by Corsica Park. They, as you know, are now back by the pond. But my suggestions resides around keeping them there. The trail has been closed/detoured (hooray!) but the little jog in the trail was left open, which is the place users get closest to the eagles nest. When the gas well was there, a dirt road was in place. Can we please re-route the trail to where that dirt road was to remove the right hand jog in towards the eagles' nest? The trail that little jog leads to is closed and re-routed away from the nest. I drew on a map what i mean and attached it. Cradleboard is the red trail. The trail jog I speak of is circled in purple. The re-route I suggest is the orange line. It connects to the re-routed trail directly. The space between the red cradelboard trail and the orange re-route is actually filled with small trees and brush. People and bikes would go out of sight, a natural barrier between eagles and human activity would exist. We ran them out of the beautiful cottonwood tree, lets not run them out of their new home too please. That area is clearly their hunting ground. It provides for them quite well if the fact they have adorable eaglets every year is any indication. Thank you
Dana Bove NA
Apr 22, 2020 Comment #18
Comments:
***Comments were originally submitted on April 22, 2020 via email*** The assessment of the Holmberg plan should include an assessment of our FRNBES comments. While we see that BCPOS has Wildlife Resources mapped on your Homberg planning documents, there is no mapping and barely a text mention of a Bald Eagle nest and associated territory. Perhaps the omissions on the Stearns eagles in the planning documents reflect that the planning documents have not kept pace with movement of the nest early last fall? Other major changes in the area also include new ownership of the former Shirk property, which as you know has resulted in removal of PD’s on that large parcel where the eagles once hunted extensively. These recent and significant changes—including the recent failure at the Stearns nest and loss of 2 eaglets AFTER the past storm cleared—once again emphasize that past nest history can be problematic, and present and future changes that impact wildlife resources equally need to be considered.
Tim Kenkel
Apr 20, 2020 Comment #17
Comments:
Is there a way to put in an alternative route that isn’t through muddy areas to avoid the lengthy wildlife closures.
Betina Mattesen
Apr 19, 2020 Comment #16
Comments:
I value the health of the endangered short grass prairie and native biodiversity in this area over agriculture and recreation. It will be your privilege to firmly protect and enhance this richness, in the public interest, and doing so will provide much needed environmental education. Thanks.
Cynthia Volin
Apr 16, 2020 Comment #15
Comments:
I would like for there to be more attention given and made to retain and promote "natural" ecology, protection, preservation and enhancement of habitat for wildlife on the Carolyn Holcolmb property. I think there is too much emphasis at present on farming and rationalization of the property's "making money" for the city. This property is "worth it" to the city and its residents far beyond financial "return" to the city. The space is heavily utilized and the value of it for your citizenry as an accessible, beautiful and natural open space where raptors and eagles live and fly, far surpasses any value of direct economic gain from this space for the city. Please enhance the wildlife value of this property. The scenery is majestic and marvelous. I would, specifically, like to see more of the current farmland "left" as open, managed wild space, with wildlife encouraging habitat, trees and shrubs, planted around the pond and along the current hiking and biking trails and additional trails added in the farmland North from the current walking trail. Please expand the the prairie dog areas as part of the increased attention to promoting native ecosystems and habitat..
Suzanne Webel
Apr 14, 2020 Comment #14
Comments:
Rock Creek Farm is an excellent example of an incredible shrinking trail plan. Many years ago it was possible to enter the trail system at the current (tiny) trailhead parking area on S104th St; from there one could make several loops on a combination of designated and social trails to the southwest and to the northeast. Some of these trails used existing old ranch roads and gave visitors an unparalleled experience of agriculture, a small riparian area, and drop-dead-gorgeous front range scenery... a true respite from urban sprawl in the middle of sprawling development. Then the hard-packed major regional commuter trail was approved, with the (unfair) tradeoff being to close all the wonderful quieter trails on the property. Now, unless you happen to be a bicycle commuter, there's not much passive recreational appeal left at Rock Creek Farm. For the new management plan I urge you to reinstate at least two quieter loop trails as described above, for those of us who are not bicycle commuters to enjoy. These reinstated trails would have minimal environmental impact and would greatly improve the quality of the visitor experience, at very low cost. Also please consider enlarging the TH parking area and designate a couple of spaces for horse trailer parking. Thank you for your consideration.
Brian Cavanaugh
Apr 13, 2020 Comment #13
Comments:
says ***Comments were originally submitted on March 19, 2020 via email*** Thanks for taking the time to hold the meeting on March 11. Unfortunately I was unable to attend but wanted to provide a couple quick comments. I don’t want to be a neighbor picking little things apart and support your initiatives. I know Rob is my prairie dog partner so I have copied him! My points below might be off base if I misread the documents online and missing the meeting didn’t help. A couple points: 1. Prairie Dogs: The area to the south of my property is designed as a Multiple Objective area. The area to the north of me is designated as a No Prairie Dog area. My north 40 acres is in really nice crop and livestock pasture condition, simply because no prairie dogs come from the north side due it being a NPD. Unfortunately, my south 40 acres is much different. After $25,000 and 1200 prairie dogs holes taken care of in October, I am finally able to start getting the land back up. All of these prairie dogs came from the south MOA. Even 5 months later they are coming back quickly and I have significant liabilities and have shut off areas that are used for pasture, business, and crop. Long story short, would it be possible to have a buffer area below my property as a NPD (no prairie dog), similar to my north side. I would imagine Al Green, to my east, could benefit from this as he experiences the game thing on the south side. Anything would be much appreciated! 2. Cradleboard Detour Trail: I believe this is still proposed as a detour only and not a year round trail head. I couldn’t exactly tell from the proposal presentation. A few points: a. If a proposed main trail head and not detour: I would like to oppose this for a variety of reasons. b. If a detour to continue, I’d like to propose a couple things if possible. c. Overall, myself and Al Green are really the only homeowners impacted by the current detour trail as it starts/ends at my property gate and starts/ends at Al Green’s gate. Otherwise there are really no residences impacted so I hope you’d be open to thoughts. Thanks for your time and hopefully this doesn’t come across as a pain!
Joel White NA
Apr 13, 2020 Comment #12
Comments:
***Comments were originally submitted on March 2, 2020 via email*** Greetings, I am unable to attend the open house meeting next week for the management plan, but I wanted to offer my comments on the plan. First, this area is a critical regional connector trail that is used not only for recreation but also commuting. I would love to see alternate routing established for those times of the year when there are wildlife closures, such as the Cradleboard trail. The temporary trail that is used is often a swampy mess that is directly downhill from livestock pens, which leads credence to the old saying "Crap flows downhill". It is pretty revolting to pass through, and probably unsafe. That being said, the alternative to going all the way to Wadsworth is just unrealistic for most people as it adds a tremendous amount of miles and times. I encourage you to look at some alternative routing for permanent regional connector trails which will not only help disperse the traffic that will surely increase in future years, but provide ways to enact closures to protect wildlife and still give viable commuting routes for those of us trying to minimize car trips. Thanks for hearing my concerns.
Raymond Churgovich
Apr 13, 2020 Comment #11
Comments:
I would like to suggest that at all the gates entering the preserve have the grate/bridge for cyclists so they do not have to open and close the gates. I see too many gates left open and I think this would reduce this.
Ramesh Bhatt
Mar 30, 2020 Comment #10
Comments:
I echo the views of many of the previous commentators. Please do not sacrifice wildlife habitat for agriculture. Currently, the equivalent of about 40% of the contiguous U.S. is used for pasture (https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2018-us-land-use/ ). Do we need more in Boulder? In contrast, prairie dogs are now confined to about 5% of their original habitat. Clearly, prairie dogs should have priority over agriculture, especially given that most current agricultural practices are inefficient and chemical and carbon intensive. Similarly, birds should have more protection than recreation, so trails should not be operated or modified at the expense of birds. I hope that you prioritize wildlife and habitat protection over agriculture and human recreation. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Alicia Miers
Mar 30, 2020 Comment #9
Comments:
I often bring my equine (donkeys and horses) to walk or ride on the open space. I have seen other equine being exercised there. There are very few trails left in this county that I feel comfortable brining equine to, secondary to the number of off-leash dogs and bikers who fail to yield to equestrians. I have not had those problems here. (I do bike and have dogs as well so this is not a call out to any certain user group). We park at Stearns Lake Trailhead when bringing the animals over. The website says that there is one spot for trailer parking, indeed I can fit my smaller trailer into the lot but there is no designated horse trailer parking and any larger rig would not fit where I am able to park mine. I highly endorse the agriculture use of the area, it is part of our local heritage and should be embraced rather than viewed as a nuisance. Sustainable grazing practices could be researched and implemented to offset the damage to grasslands. Colorado State University has several specialist who could be queried to help develop a sustainable grazing plan. Perhaps the size of the pumpkin far could be reduced in order to accommodate additional areas of cattle grazing. I completely support trail closures to protect endangered nesting birds. The area has a rich variety of birds and is popular among bird watchers. We should do everything we can to preserve the presence of these endangered birds on the landscape. I support Birds of Prey foundation operations, they provide a very valuable and specialized service to our area's wildlife. Prairie dog management is an issue throughout the front range, primarily due to lack of natural predators. Building tolerance for coyotes and fox could help return the ecosystem to more balance. State law allows for open season on coyotes and I know local residents who are liberal in their use of lethal control of coyotes. Natural denning areas for coyotes and fox in the eastern part of the county have been disturbed by development and increasing mortality from vehicles. Without natural predators on the landscape, prairie dogs will be a continual issue. Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback. I am a trail runner and therefore very familiar with almost all of the counties open space and trail systems. I find this area by far to be one of the most calm areas within the system due to decreased human presence. In summary, this is a wonderful place and I would continue to prioritize the agriculture and wildlife issues over visitor access of the area.
Linda Andes-Georges
Mar 28, 2020 Comment #8
Comments:
Although I try to pay attention to these matters, I have belatedly discovered that the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve at Rock Creek Farm is undergoing a management plan update. A very long time has lapsed – 18 years! – since its previous update, and only slightly less since I last submitted comments on part of the management of this area. In those days, a good friend of mine was still attempting to arouse citizen commentary on one regrettable aspect of the County’s effort to be friendly to local agriculture, which resulted in a very large portion of the property being devoted to raising pumpkins for Halloween use. The predictable side-effect of this monoculture was the disappearance of the formerly common use of the property by Burrowing Owls (and indeed, other owls). Since then, Burrowing Owls have become so rare in the County that even a single pair is a cause for rejoicing. I vowed then not to be as complacent in the next round of management planning. Here we are. Land use in this area is now, in my opinion, no longer “balanced” but rather dominated by three principle uses: agricultural, extractional (mining), and recreational. While there is still significant acreage for prairie dogs (the preserve and the HCA), the noise levels and intense recreational use (70K visits a year!) have made this keystone ecosystem fairly dysfunctional. Admittedly and regrettably, the public sees them mostly as pests. Tallgrass borders around p.d. acreage could diminish some of their tendancy to spread into undesirable directions.But their ongoing presence is critical for sustaining a complete ecosytem, which should be one of our goals on large properties such as this. In terms purely of acreage, lease areas for agricultural use are, I feel, far greater than they should be. The small ecosystems remaining there could be vastly improved by enlarging them and by planting native shrubs (such as mixed shelterbelt clusters for Long-eared Owls, and noise protection by shelterbelts in certain places). Acreage for native grasses should be increased for prairie birds and mammals. We could have Badgers and White-tailed Jackrabbits there with the right habitat improvements. Instead, we have pumpkins more or less for a single-season use. I don’t know about the status of raptors in the area but hope to hear more about that in the next open house. And... raptors do not eat pumpkins. I look forward to some really creative ideas from Staff as to how we can spiff up habitats for wildlife, which, incidentally, will give us recreationists something interesting to look at while we hike around.
Peter Ruprecht
Mar 28, 2020 Comment #7
Comments:
I am grateful that the Holmberg Preserve exists and that there are many opportunities for public involvement as its management plan is updated. I am an avid raptor watcher and believe that the Holmberg Preserve is one of the top two locations in the county for viewing birds of prey. Besides the nesting Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, and Burrowing Owls, large numbers of other raptors hunt there, especially in winter. I believe it's the only place in the state where I've had a nine-species day! Obviously the large concentrations of prairie dogs make a big contribution to this raptor nexus, but the addition of shortgrass prairie areas, cattail marsh, and the riparian corridor are also important. As you consider how best to manage this area, please ensure that this combination of habitats is expanded and enhanced rather than being degraded. In particular, I would oppose any reduction in prairie dog areas, especially due to expansion of the pumpkin and corn maze entertainment area. While festive autumn activities are clearly a well-loved attraction, I think they're already overwhelming nearby road and parking infrastructure and should not be grown. I appreciate the concerns about trail closures due to nesting birds. If possible, please re-route trails to avoid sensitive habitat so that both human and non-human users can get uninterrupted benefit from the area. For several years I been involved with a breeding bird survey at Hodgson-Harris Reservoir, which holds water for Rock Creek Farm and the Holmberg Preserve. In 2019, county biologists and water managers carefully adjusted water levels on the reservoir to improve habitat for wintering waterfowl and breeding shorebirds. Survey volunteers recorded a significant increase in bird diversity, much of which was likely a result of this new water scheme. It would be great if the management plan for RCF could take into account the needs of this important upstream habitat as well. Much of my purpose in this comment is to advocate for the birds and animals who cannot speak for themselves and who do not provide a direct financial return. I hate to see their natural habitats continually ratcheted back by the advance of buildings, drills, and plows. This relatively tiny preserve has been set aside for them in a huge ocean of development; let's optimize it for their use. Again, thank you for the opportunity to provide input on your upcoming decisions!
Suzanne Bhatt
Mar 26, 2020 Comment #6
Comments:
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the stewardship and future of the Carolyn Holmberg preserve. In balancing the multiple needs and demands on our open spaces, the primary value should be on the preservation of the habitat itself and its native wildlife, with all other uses managed to support this highest goal. In this vein, I would support expansion and restoration of native grasslands and riparian areas and oppose increased agricultural use or any elimination of native prairie dog habitat, a keystone species critical to the survival of the many other owl and raptor species present on the preserve. It appears that re-evaluation of the appropriateness of cattle on the property is needed, given damage to the grasslands, encroachment into riparian areas, and lack of other appropriate grazing areas within the preserve. The emphasis on agriculture in our open spaces sets up repeated conflicts between prairie dogs, a native species that has been exterminated in almost all of its original range, and farmers/ranchers. As noted by a previous commenter, prairie dogs and the species that depend on them for survival seem to always be the losers in this scenario, which I believe clearly runs counter to the mission of BCPOS to protect native habitats and their inhabitants. I also oppose any loosening of restrictions on trail use that serve to protect nesting owls and raptors. Visitor access must be carefully balanced with the higher priority of protecting wildlife and its habitat, including nesting sites. To this end, any expansion or rerouting of trails should be very critically evaluated in terms of the impact of greater visitation to the health of the preserve's ecosystem. While a critical role of our open spaces are to provide public opportunities for recreation and wildlife watching, there is no value in allowing greater access if the richness and biodiversity of the areas we wish to visit are destroyed in the process. Any consideration of new or modified trails should be informed first and foremost by the reasonable carrying capacity of the ecosystem and how those changes impact sustainability. Again, I thank you for this opportunity to comment and urge you to put the health of our precious open lands and wildlife first, so that we can all continue to enjoy this treasure for many generations to come.
Chris Petrizzo
Mar 16, 2020 Comment #5
Comments:
Thank you for soliciting citizen feedback. My biggest concern is protecting the existing prairie dog population (including the 40-acre Preserve). As our region’s population has increased, there are fewer and fewer areas for prairie dogs. In this particular site, the County has taken active measures to protect both the nesting Bald Eagles and Burrowing Owls—both of which would not be here without the prairie dogs. This open space also hosts other raptor species, including additional Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Red-tailed, Swainson’s, and Ferruginous Hawks, and Prairie Falcons—all of which are here because of the prairie dogs. I encourage the County to consider the other species that we all value, which are dependent upon the prairie dog population. I also would like to see that agricultural uses are monitored, and have ramifications when violating laws/agreements. Specifically, this includes: - Farming and grazing right up to the edge of the wetland area on 104th (isn’t this a violation of Federal Law, and/or encroaches upon Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse habitat?) - Allowing cattle to escape into riparian zones - Unauthorized poisoning of prairie dog burrows, during burrowing owl nesting season. (documented with the County biologist) - Motorized vehicle use within 40-Acre Preserve, while burrowing owls were nesting (documented with County biologist) I appreciate that you are updating the Plan, and seeking for a balancing of values. I hope that you will also consider that it is often the case that each time we re-balance, wildlife gets a smaller and smaller portion of the pie.
Dustin Duckett
Mar 12, 2020 Comment #4
Comments:
Thanks for the community involvement on this project. 1. Prairie Dogs are overpopulate and the new plan should detail how this will be better managed in the future. Ideally a new praire dog plan will be created in partnership with Lac Amora Open Space as the prairie dog overpopulation is also destroying natural landscape and private property in that adjacent area as well. 2. There are 4 oil rigs on the Homburg property and the new management plan should include discussion on the rigs. Which ones are active? Who owns them? Who benefits from them? Are any being added or shut down in the future? What is the safety and roadway access plan for those? 3. Fish in Stearns Lake. Would be great to if the new plan includes detail from the fishery manager. When was the last time the lake was stocked? What does the current stock assessment show? What is the management plan for the fish populations. 4. The current Holmberg management plan on this website is dated 2002. Quite surprising to me that the current plan is 18 years old. Is that time frame normal? Can the 'new' plan detail when the plan will be updated next time? Maybe every 5 years makes sense.
Jeorg Houck
Mar 12, 2020 Comment #3
Comments:
I support the continued preservation of the existing farm buildings and support the growing of pumpkins and corn for the fall activities, but otherwise feel agricultural production is not a high priority. I do not support cattle grazing or the presence of cattle at all. The grasses cannot support this use, please eliminate. I do not support converting the prairie dog preserve to crop land, but do support better prairie dog management. I also support rerouting trails away from nesting birds, and would prefer to see less closed trails. The closures make regular use of the area difficult. I also do not support trail closures for fall activities (pumpkin patch). I do not support increasing the size of Stearns Lake. I do support all of the listed "Opportunities to Explore" for "Visitor Access and Accessibility" as well as "Historic Buildings, Cultural, and Paleontological Resources". Finally, all oil and gas wells should be capped and discontinued (I think they are?).
Dan Haught
Mar 12, 2020 Comment #2
Comments:
The prairie dog colonies on this property have clearly outgrown their boundaries, and have caused significant destruction to native grasslands. This has also resulted in increased invasive weed species, as noted in your presentation. Since the population of prairie dogs has clearly outgrown the ability of predators to manage them naturally, I am wondering how the county plans to restore balance to these competing interests. Since the prairie dog population is clearly over-represented, does the need for a specific conservation area for prairie dogs continue to exist? Can this area be converted into a Multiple Objective Area (MOA) in order to facilitate increased prairie dog management practices on the property? Thank you.
Dave Wyner
Mar 11, 2020 Comment #1
Comments:
Hello, First, I want to say thank you. I appreciate all the hard work the county puts in to maintaining and managing the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. Second, I want to share input on the county’s long-term plan to connect the Rock Creek Trail as it exits the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve with the Coal Creek Trail by adding a length of trail along 104th Street. I am the co-founder of a nonprofit organization called Groundwork Ranch that operates at an equine facility on the northeast corner of Dillon Road and 104th, which we lease from the property owners, Lottie and Dave Grimes. I feel our business and the public’s safety could be negatively impacted by the proposed connector trail. For the past 10 years, we’ve provided equine-assisted therapeutic and learning services to numerous people from our community who are facing difficult challenges, including: o people with early-stage dementia and their full-time care partners o teenagers with significant emotional and behavioral issues o foster parents of children who have experienced trauma o and people who have survived sexual and domestic violence o among others All of our programs are developed and delivered in collaboration with human service organizations and funded by community members and businesses; there is no cost to the people we serve. I want to be very clear that Groundwork Ranch does not oppose the proposed connected trail. Rather, we’d like to work with the Boulder County and the city of Louisville and look for possible solutions to our concerns. Our concerns The proposed connector trail on 104th Street will parallel a four-rail split rail fence for approximately 300’ along the horse paddock, which is where we hold most of our groups. There is currently approximately 20’ of grassy land between the road and the four-rail split rail fence. Arguably the most important aspect of our ability to serve the community is the privacy of the property. We work with vulnerable people, and offering a safe, peaceful, and private sanctuary is necessary to working with the difficult issues those people face. We are concerned that a connector trail directly outside the fence line would increase foot and bicycle traffic, thereby significantly decreasing our client’s privacy and putting us as licensed mental health professionals at risk of violating our legal and ethical obligations to protect our clients’ confidentiality. Not only is the outdoor space essential to how we help the people, but the well-being of our horses is also a primary concern. We fear that increased pedestrian traffic may jeopardize the horse’s health by adding additional stress and increasing the likelihood of passers-by feeding the horses unsafe items. Finally, we are concerned that a connector trail in such close proximity to our fence would allow passers-by to reach through the fence to try to pet the horses. While our horses are extremely accustomed to working with people, it is the nature of horses to explore the world using their mouths. This could result in a passer-by being bitten, not out of defensiveness or aggression, but simply due to the horse’s natural curiosity. We fear this could put our business at significant financial, legal, and reputational risk for any injury a passer-by may experience. Because of its importance to our ability to serve our clients, we have invested a great deal into the property and the community, and have planned our future around continued investment. It is not feasible for us to consider moving to another location. Possible solutions As I said, we are not opposed to the creation of a connector trail. As outdoor enthusiasts, we understand the value of such a trail to the community. We’d like to offer suggestions to address the concerns I’ve outlined above: 1) Keep us informed of construction plans and dates 2) Plant a significant and mature hedge that would be effective when the trail is opened. Significant would mean at least 6’-8’ high, 3’-4’ wide. This hedge will need to be of a type of plant that horses do not eat, or planted far enough away that they cannot reach it. When the trail becomes operable, the hedge should already provide the privacy we require to conduct our business as well as the safety our horses and passers-by need. 3) A thick line of pine trees may also be suitable, although this could still allow easy contact with the horses. 4) Building a solid fence or wall during trail construction could be a solution. However, a solid wooden fence may not stand up to the wind we often experience at the ranch. Perhaps if the fence/wall was built in conjunction with trees or bushes, that would minimize the force of the wind against the barrier. We have discussed these options with the property owner, and they are willing to consider these or other alternatives. We’d like to invite your team to come to the ranch to see the property and get a better idea of how this trail will impact our business and the community. Please feel free to contact me to arrange a visit or to discuss any questions you may have. Thank you very much. Sincerely, Dave Wyner President Groundwork Ranch Equine-Assisted Empowerment Center of Colorado dave@groundworkranch.org 720-441-1271