A VISION FOR THE
ENVIRONMENT

Understanding that all natural systems have limits, we are committed to improve and protect the environment. So that we may meet the needs for present and future generations, we strive toward a balanced relationship between human populations and the ecosystems of which we are a part. We cherish clean air, pure water, wildlife, plant communities, and the vistas and visual spaces that surround us.

Transportation systems are improved and are integrated into land-use panning as they expand. Safe, clean, efficient, and cost-effective alternative modes are accessible to citizens throughout the county.

Social interaction is encouraged by the creation of many safe, mixed-use and accessible "people places." Children and elders are integrated into the daily life of the community. Each neighborhood has a "small-town" and "walkable" atmosphere. The uniqueness of each community is encouraged, while all collaborate to achieve sustainable goals for the regions among them.

Environmental Indicators

Taken together, these indicators clearly illustrate the varied yet related impacts of population growth and development on the quality of the air, land and water which surround us.

The high quality of the natural environment in Boulder county is a major community asset and has figured significantly in the economic growth and prosperity we've enjoyed. However, the costs and impacts of this growth cannot be ignored. Most of the environmental trends and conditions examined here - the "brown cloud," stream impairment, loss of biological diversity, transmountain water diversions - are directly correlated with urbanization, as measured by land annexations, vehicle miles traveled, and conversion of agricultural land.

Table of Contents/ Overview/Boulder County at a Glance/Air Quality/
Extirpated and Declining Species/Watershed Water Quality/
Water Imports from the Western Slope
/Land Annexation/
Agricultural Land/Vehicle Miles Traveled/Recycling/Sources of Data
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