Make East Boulder Creek open space something more special
While I understand Boulder County’s desire to open the East Boulder Creek open space area to the public, the current plan must not be approved. Locating a trailhead/parking lot on 109th Street is wrong.
First, it will have a serious impact on neighboring properties and neighborhoods.
Secondly, if it’s truly a goal to create a place for children and people with disabilities to connect to nature, placing the trailhead on 109th Street is a mistake. Although the new riparian corridor Boulder County is trying to reestablish is worth a look, the more interesting part of this property is still on the eastern side. That is where ponds and most wetland areas are found. That is where a greater abundance of nesting raptors, herons, migratory birds, mammals, a menagerie of other birds and rodents are more likely to be seen. Having children and people with disabilities walk 2½ miles, round trip, from a trailhead on 109th Street will make it difficult for most of them to ever see this area.
Turning East Boulder Creek into another recreation area is also wrong. This is a quiet and serene area that is rich in wildlife. Inviting large numbers of runners, bikers, dogs and anglers onto this property might prove to be a mistake. These recreational activities could have unintended consequences.
Instead, Boulder County might consider turning this into an Educational Wildlife Sanctuary. Place a trailhead closer to the middle of the property. Don’t build a through trail or connect it to 109th Street. Work with the Audubon Society, BCNA and other naturalists and biologists to design a trail system with viewing and sitting areas.
Encourage visitors to take their time to actually see and experience this wonderful natural area. Include educational signage describing the richly diverse wildlife population and why undisturbed native grasslands, streamside corridors, and wetlands are essential for their survival. This could be a wonderful place for schools and parents to bring their children. This could be a wonderful area for local artists. A quiet and serene place for contemplation.