· Respondents defined passive recreation as activities that maintain high natural aesthetic qualities; that cause, at most, minor harm to the natural environment; that are relaxing, calming, quiet and leisurely; that are neither motorized nor organized sports-like activities;

· Sixty-two percent feel the management balance between recreation and environmental preservation on Open Space is "about right;" of those who felt the balance was wrong, nearly twice as many people felt that too much emphasis was placed on recreation;

· Thirty-nine percent believe the primary mission of Open Space is growth management and buffering; 23 percent listed recreation as the primary mission and 23 percent listed preserving wildlife and habitat;

· Sixty-seven percent said hiking, walking or running is their favorite Open Space activity;

· Twenty-seven percent saw bicycles as a source of conflict with other users and 26 percent named dogs as a problem; and

· Potential criteria for evaluating recreational uses were given the following order: impacts on vegetation and wildlife; enhanced appreciation of nature; impacts to views or other aesthetic values; benefit to the community; and conflicts with other visitors.

· Activities acceptable as passive recreation are non-motorized, are compatible with other Open Space uses and purposes, require minimal facilities and services, and do not degrade the environment;

· Priority should be given to preservation of sensitive areas;

· A variety of uses should be accommodated;

· Passive recreational uses should enhance the public's understanding of the natural environment; and

· The public should be actively included in decision making and in stewardship of Open Space lands and resources.

· Collect and incorporate community input throughout the development and implementation of the Visitor Plan;

· Collect and analyze visitor use information and policies;

· Develop policies for providing and managing appropriate visitor uses;

· Develop guidelines for locating trails and visitor facilities;

· Establish standards for providing visitor services;

· Develop policies for commercial activities / concessions;

· Implement policies, standards, and guidelines pertaining to visitor use; and

· Establish and implement a long term plan for monitoring visitor use.

1. Represent a cross-section of community viewpoints and have experience working with community issues. Members are expected to share their viewpoints; represent the best interests of the community; and work collaboratively with other Advisory Committee members, the community, and staff in developing an Open Space Visitor Plan.

2. Listen to and incorporate citizen input on the Open Space Visitor Plan including appropriate uses, access guidelines, and related facility and service needs. The Advisory Committee will prepare a report with the assistance of Open Space staff that will summarize public input and recommend guidelines which will be evaluated and used by staff to draft the Visitor Plan.

3. Attend Advisory Committee meetings, community workshops, and with Open Space staff assistance, prepare a report summarizing their work. Once the report is complete and has been presented to the Open Space Board of Trustees, the Advisory Committee’s role is complete.

4. All Advisory Committee meetings will be open to the public and there will be opportunities to comment directly to committee members and staff. Members of the Advisory Committee encourage all interested citizens to participate and let their views be known through the community workshops and other opportunities provided throughout the development of the Visitor Plan.

· Review and integrate public input from earlier workshops and outreach efforts.

· Clarify and prioritize issues.

· Assist in the research, review, and presentation of information related to the issues, including potential management actions.

· Evaluate goals and outcomes of the first community workshop including:

· Work with staff and public at the second community workshop to:

· Assist in developing a report to Open Space staff summarizing input from the Advisory Committee and citizens on the issues identified above (goals and objectives, definition of passive recreation, criteria for evaluating activities, and develop a range of considerations which will be evaluated and used by staff to draft the Visitor Plan).

1. Identify issues and concerns, develop goals, and establish the process for public involvement and developing the Visitor Plan;

2. Collect and analyze information on visitor uses;

3. Develop initial alternatives;

4. Draft plan with proposed policies;

5. Adopt and implement plan; and

6. Monitor and revise as needed.

1. Definition of passive recreation;

2. Relationship of passive recreation to other Open Space purposes;

3. Goals and objectives for managing passive recreation; and

4. Criteria to evaluate the appropriateness of specific recreational uses on Open Space.

· The Visitor Plan is predicated upon and must conform to the existing Open Space Charter (see Appendix 1);

· When making decisions regarding recreational issues, staff should use fair and objective criteria and the best available information;

· Staff should develop and implement these decisions in a fair and consistent manner, with appropriate public input;

· Passive recreational use of Open Space should not create significant adverse impacts to the environment;

· Where there is a reasonable doubt about the nature of potential impacts, or where all other considerations are equal, preference will be given to protecting the environment;

· Visitors are welcome on Open Space, as long as their use follows adopted rules, regulations, and management plans; and

· It is recognized that circumstances will change, and our knowledge of natural resource management will evolve. All parties should remain flexible so management changes can be made in a timely and appropriate manner.

· Offer constructive, restorative, and pleasurable human benefits that foster appreciation and understanding of Open Space and its purposes;

· Are compatible with other passive recreational uses;

· Do not have significant adverse impacts to natural, cultural, scientific, or agricultural values;

· Occur in an Open Space setting, which is an integral part of the experience; and

· Require only minimal visitor facilities and services directly related to safety and minimizing passive recreational impacts.

1.1 Provide a range of passive recreational activities and outdoor education opportunities consistent with the Open Space Charter and where compatible with other purposes.

1.2 Provide high-quality, well-maintained and safe passive recreational facilities (e.g. trails, access points) and visitor services.

1.3 Provide access points and trailheads to Open Space that encourage visitors to use alternate modes of transportation to get to Open Space (e.g. walking, bicycling, buses).

1.4 Minimize conflicts between passive recreational uses by informing visitors about proper trail etiquette and reinforcing with enforcement when necessary.

2.1 Enhance public education and outreach efforts to increase awareness and understanding of the natural, cultural, and agricultural values.

2.2 Promote research and monitoring.

2.3 Carefully manage activities to enhance visitors’ understanding of natural resources and to minimize environmental impacts.

2.4 Preserve and restore higher quality natural areas by directing visitor use to appropriate areas and away from sensitive areas. Some uses or levels of visitor use may need to be limited or not allowed to protect natural values.

3.1 Enhance public’s relationship with the Open Space program.

3.2 Seek input and discussion in planning, decision-making, and implementation efforts.

3.3 Communicate Open Space activities, achievements, issues, management challenges, and messages.

3.4 Solicit ideas for volunteer programs and implement these programs with neighbors, visitors, and interest groups.

· Social impacts such as crowding and conflicts, indicated by the number of complaints (e.g. comment boxes in certain areas or periodic surveys), use levels at select locations monitored annually and correlated with visitor conflicts, and dog poop counts.

· Environmental impacts, indicated by the number of social trails (condition, width, erosion), number of violations in resource protection areas, existing plant and animal inventories correlated with visitor use, and specific research projects.

· Motorized activity (except motorized wheelchairs).

· Involves collection of natural or cultural features (except by permit or license).

· Requires visitor facilities beyond designated soft-surface trails or requires a high

level of services and/or equipment to safely accommodate proposed use or to minimize impacts.

· Has significant adverse impacts to natural, cultural, scientific, or agricultural values.

· Competitive sporting event.

· Preserving the quality of other visitor’s experiences (considering potential conflicts, crowding, visual or aesthetic concerns such as leaving materials or equipment, and how activities are organized or structured).

· Ability to yield to other visitors (considering the average capabilities, speed, and control of participants).

· Effect on adjacent public and private land uses (considering noise, trash, traffic, and parking problems that may be associated with the activity).

· Compatibility with long term preservation of:

· Compatibility with leaving no trace (leaving physical evidence or remains which may affect natural values such as equipment placed and left or other markings such as paint or flagging).

· Activity’s dependence on a natural, near natural, or agricultural setting (is an Open Space setting integral to the experience and are more appropriate settings available which can better accommodate the activity such as a developed park?).

· Activity’s ability to increase peoples’ appreciation of nature or understanding of Open Space purposes (e.g., educational aspects).

· Compatibility with a low level of visitor facilities (e.g., soft-surface trails, small parking areas, and minimal signs needed to provide a safe, quality experience or to mitigate impacts to other visitors and natural, cultural, scientific, or agricultural values).

· Compatibility with low levels of visitor services (e.g., minimal maintenance, enforcement, monitoring, and education needed to provide a safe, quality experience or to mitigate impacts to other visitors and natural, cultural, scientific, or agricultural values?).

· Safety considerations (accident track record, past liability issues, number of emergency responses associated with an activity).

· Non-profit or for-profit activity.

· Level of benefit to community (does it address unmet or insufficiently met community needs, is it needed to safely allow an activity?).

· Number of participants and how often do they participate.

· Minimal or no promotion/advertising requirements.

· One time or on-going event.

· Expense and complexity required to allow or regulate the activity.

1. Create a reasonably precise expectation of what the acceptable range of behavior by visitors is, and is not;

2. Establish more definitive standards to evaluate and apply the passive recreation criteria, and to evaluate the overall success of the Visitor Plan;

3. Reduce the burden on staff to unilaterally establish what represents acceptable behavior;

4. Have user groups effectively use peer pressure and be "self-policing;"

5. Determine when education is not adequate and enforcement or other, more direct, management strategies are necessary;

6. Encourage user groups to balance advocacy with accountability and responsibility;

7. Encourage user groups to take a leadership role in establishing a code of ethics; and

8. Incorporate existing user group education programs and efforts to reduce the burden of Open Space staff.

· Commercial uses should meet a higher level of compatibility with Open Space criteria.

· Commercial uses should not affect other visitors’ use of an area (no exclusive use).

· No significant adverse impacts should be allowed and participants must be taught low impact techniques.

· Preservation or restoration of natural areas characterized by or including terrain, geologic formations, flora, or fauna that is unusual, spectacular, historically important, scientifically valuable, or unique, or that represent outstanding or rare examples of native species;

· Preservation of water resources in their natural or traditional state, scenic areas or vistas, wildlife habitats, or fragile ecosystems;

· Preservation of land for passive recreation use, such as hiking, photography or nature study, and if specifically designated, bicycling, horseback riding, or fishing;

· Preservation of agricultural uses and land suitable for agricultural production;

· Utilization of land for shaping the development of the city, limiting urban sprawl and disciplining growth;

· Utilization of non-urban land for spatial definition of urban areas;

· Utilization of land to prevent encroachment on floodplains; and

· Preservation of land for its aesthetic or passive recreational value and its contribution to the quality of life of the community.

· Any form of this activity that requires collecting of natural or cultural features should be required to obtain a permit.

· Generally speaking, small groups (1 to 4) are compatible with preserving the quality of other visitor’s experiences. Large groups (15 or more) could cause crowding, participants could block trails while viewing, and fill up parking spaces.

· Individuals or groups could wander onto adjacent private lands and cause impacts to private landowners.

· Nature study helps us to understand the landscape and biodiversity and contributes to an understanding and appreciation of nature.

· The act of studying could have impacts to natural, cultural, scientific, and/or agricultural values. Most users have little impact, but random collecting of cultural artifacts and rare plants is a big issue. User groups (e.g., Audubon, Boulder County Nature Association, Colorado Archaeological Society) need to take a lead on peer pressure efforts. The desire to know and find elements of biodiversity and cultural resources is healthy and needs to be channeled into constructive uses (e.g., research efforts).

· Impacts vary significantly depending on how much off-trail use occurs. Reoccurring use may create social trails.

· Formal study plots require pins or flagging that could affect other visitors and natural, cultural, scientific, and/or agricultural values.

· There is a strong relationship to a natural, near natural, or agricultural setting and most participants are looking for something specific to this type of setting. This close relationship leads to a strong connection to the landscape.

· These activities don’t require much in terms of visitor facilities, but large groups require adequate parking spaces.

· Large organized groups should have their own liability insurance.

· Large group impacts could be mitigated by requiring permits and insurance.

· Large group and off-trail use impacts could be addressed by education and outreach to user groups (establishing and strongly encouraging appropriate code of ethics), and peer pressure.

· Intensive or formal study sites could be mitigated by requiring permits and developing study requirements and report guidelines. Staff could identify information needs and encourage activities which meet these needs.

· Staff would be required to administer permits, conduct education and outreach efforts, and to enforce flagrant violations.

· Provides individuals and families close by opportunities to learn and appreciate natural environment.

· Require permits and insurance.

· Limit group size, require education, and review business plan.

· Very compatible with other visitors and very little conflict occurs (even though hiking is the most common activity on Open Space).

· Legal right of ways are necessary for hiking on adjacent private lands.

· Off-trail damage is the primary concern and could result in damage to sensitive plants and wildlife, agricultural plantings on leased pasture, and disturbance to cultural resource sites. Large number of users could increase impact levels.

· An Open Space setting is integral to this activity.

· Trails, trailheads, and signs are needed.

· Staff are needed to construct and maintain facilities, educate visitors, and enforce regulations.

· Could be safety concerns associated with visitors and cattle when these uses occur in the same areas (especially small children during calving season or when bulls are present).

· Hikers should be strongly encouraged to stay on trails or may need to be required to stay on trails in environmental sensitive areas. Impacts could be minimized through more comprehensive education programs.

· Trails should not be located in sensitive or critical habitats.

· Seasonal restrictions could be used to minimize conflicts with agricultural uses (calving season, periods of intense agricultural equipment use, bulls).

· Close by opportunities for the most popular Open Space passive recreational activity.

· Generally speaking, small groups (1 to 4) are compatible with preserving the quality of other visitor’s experiences. Large groups (15 or more) could cause crowding, participants could block trails while viewing, and fill up parking spaces.

· Photography may help us to understand the landscape and biodiversity and contributes to an understanding and appreciation of nature. Sometimes involves off-trail use (though usually only at very low levels of use). Impacts vary significantly depending on how much off-trail use occurs. Reoccurring use may create social trails and impact plants and animals.

· Access to closed or restricted areas could pose problems.

· There is a strong relationship to an Open Space setting and most participants are looking for something specific to this type of setting. This close relationship leads to a strong connection to the landscape.

· Trails and trailheads are needed to provide reasonable access, but no special facilities or services required.

· Large group impacts could be mitigated by requiring permits and insurance.

· Large group and off-trail use impacts could be addressed by education and outreach to user groups (establishing and strongly encouraging appropriate code of ethics), and peer pressure.

· Staff would be required to administer permits, conduct education and outreach efforts, and to enforce flagrant violations. Large group activity may need to be permitted.

· Since the activity may involve off-trail activity, access restrictions may be necessary in certain locations to protect sensitive habitat or species.

· Could create a disturbance if used by large groups or for filming motion pictures. Commercial filming should be by permit only and for a fee.

· There should be no exclusive use of an area.

· Could result in conflicts with slower speed, on foot use (based on citizen input from phone survey) particularly on steep, narrow trails.

· Steepness of the trail could influence compatibility with other uses.

· Seasonal closures should be considered to avoid use of trails when wet.

· Provide education to encourage participants to ride down the middle of the trail (which would minimize environmental impacts).

· Bicycling can occur along roads and concrete trails, but an Open Space setting is preferred by most participants (safer than roads and more scenic). Many will not participate in the activity if confined to roads and concrete trails.

· Adequate trail maintenance is required and wider trails or trails with periodic opportunities to pull or step to the side would allow bicyclists to pass other visitors easily.

· Trailhead information services would be helpful.

· High use areas could be managed by alternating days of use and/or establishing one direction travel (if loop trail). Significant increases in participation might warrant more comprehensive education efforts or restrictions to ensure continued compatibility with other visitors.

· Wet conditions on trails and potential impacts that could result could be addressed with seasonal closures.

· Possibly allow only on wider, flatter trails or trails with periodic opportunities to pull or step to the side allowing bicyclists to pass other visitors easily and minimize conflicts (particularly in high use areas such as trailheads).

· Possibly design trails with curves and natural features to reduce speed of bicyclists.

· Effects on wildlife could be reduced with seasonal closures.

· Cumulative impacts could be minimized by offering "connector corridors" that dissipate use over larger, existing trail systems (although this could increase environmental impact).

· Provides a safe and aesthetically pleasing setting to enjoy the outdoors and an opportunity to exercise.

· Instruction of cyclists, whether commercial or not, could help increase the level of the riders’ education and awareness of environmental and social concerns and improve their understanding of trail etiquette.

· A permit system could be developed to control group size, location of activity, and its nature.

· This activity could result in collecting fish and a permit would be necessary (state fishing license).

· Anglers use riparian edges of streams and lakes which could pose a safety concern.

· Trash is often left behind which detracts from other visitors’ experiences and could pose safety concerns (hooks, tangled fishing line).

· This activity could result in impacts to fish populations (both native and non-native) and could have an effect on riparian vegetation.

· Could disrupt wildlife which rely on areas used for fishing (for water, food, and shelter).

· Trash is often left behind which could harm wildlife (hooks, tangled fishing line).

· This activity primarily occurs off-trail and could fragment plant and animal habitat.

· Fishing is closely related to an Open Space setting and it could increase peoples’ appreciation and understanding of the natural environment.

· Additional visitor facilities may be needed to manage stream-side / lake-side effects.

· Visitor services would be needed to enforce state catch limits and other restrictions.

· Could impose catch and release limits.

· Could designate fishing activities to select locations. Considerations for designating fishing areas include access and parking, native fisheries restoration potential, potential escape of non-native fish into other water ways, and impacts to riparian vegetation. For example, the east side of Wonderland Lake is a dam and angler use would not harm riparian lands. Access is already good and no special facilities would be required.

· There is a slight hazard (but probably acceptable) from fishing hooks colliding with other visitors. In high use areas, other visitor activities could be separated to avoid this hazard.

· Stocking should be carefully evaluated and should not conflict with native fisheries or long term restoration efforts.

· Provides opportunities for families to get out and enjoy nature.

· Possibility of fishing instruction classes.

· Horse can be unpredictable and could cause conflicts on high use multi-purpose trails (particularly bike trails).

· Equestrians are generally polite and considerate of other visitors.

· The possibility of increasing use levels from the Boulder area is unlikely, but increases could occur from other areas like Jefferson County.

· Existing trail ethics require all other users to yield to horses because of the animal's unpredictability.

· Impacts to other visitors could be greater with large trail rides (commercial) versus small, individual users.

· Horse manure may disturb other visitors, but it dries fast and decomposes quickly.

· Off-trail use could cause vegetation trampling (similar to cattle) and could result in formation of social trails if reoccurring off-trail use.

· Some wildlife seem to be less disturbed by visitors on horses.

· Very dependent upon an Open Space setting.

· Horseback riding occurs on and off of designated trails. Horses can cause more wear on trails and may require more maintenance (especially during or after rain).

· Larger parking lots for horse trailer parking would improve equestrian access (especially during busy weekends), but is not essential.

· Gates create obstacles for equestrians, should be minimized whenever possible, and should be easy for equestrians to open and close.

· Some incidences of horses running away and injuring people.

· Education and outreach to Boulder County Horseman’s Association and other equestrians could help alleviate concerns.

· Consider opening agricultural corrals adjacent to parking areas (Flatirons Vista) for more horse trailer parking when these areas are not in agricultural use.

· Damage resulting from use during wet and muddy trail conditions could be addressed through increased educational efforts.

· Potentially channel use to certain areas and restricting use in some areas.

· Signs should clearly inform visitors of potential trail uses to increase awareness and minimize conflicts.

· Preservation of western culture, provides a safe and aesthetically pleasing setting to enjoy the outdoors, may enhance other visitors experiences as an opportunity to see a horse, and allows people with special disabilities to access and enjoy Open Space.

· Commercial livery operations provide riding opportunities for people who don’t own horses.

· Could continue current policies (require permits to control group size, location of activity, and its nature). Education efforts should be required and fees should be reasonable.

· Instruction of equestrians, whether commercial or not, could help increase the level of the riders’ education and awareness of environmental and social concerns and improve their understanding of trail etiquette.

· Compatibility with other Open Space uses depends on individual tolerance of other user groups. Many visitors have had negative encounters with dogs (some bitten or nearly bitten). Other visitors enjoy having pets on Open Space.

· Dog walkers have a low compliance rate with rules, regulations, and ethics.

· Could pose conflicts and safety concerns (especially for young children, seniors, and other small dogs).

· Unremoved dog excrement remains for long periods and is significant concern for other visitors.

· Depending on compliance with existing dog regulations, it may be difficult for dog walkers to yield to other visitors.

· Depending on compliance with existing dog regulations, potential impacts will vary. Low compliance presents a major problem for wildlife. Dog excrement is sometimes left behind and could affect natural values (fertilizer for weeds which tend to favor disturbed areas along trail edges; dog feces and urine leaves a scent behind that some wildlife can smell causing them to avoid areas because of predation).

· Uncontrolled dogs could harass wildlife and livestock.

· If dogs stay within the trail corridor, little additional fragmentation occurs. Dogs straying away from trail corridors could significantly increase disturbance to wildlife.

· A natural setting is not essential and could be provided in a developed park setting, but many participants prefer an Open Space setting.

· Dog excrement bags and trash cans are helpful at trailheads.

· Need increased education and enforcement services. Considerable monitoring / education / enforcement is required due to numerous types of uses and low compliance with regulations.

· Few injuries and emergency response associated with type of activity, but safety issue is emphasized by those fearful of dogs. Could be safety concerns associated with visitors and their pets when these uses occur in the same areas as agricultural activities (especially during calving season, periods of intense use of agricultural equipment, or when bulls are present).

· Dog excrement bags and trash cans are needed at trailheads.

· Need increased education, enforcement, and monitoring services.

· Could change regulations to be more restrictive if compliance does not improve.

· Dog parks could be created and off-leash use could be restricted to these areas.

· Could require testing and a highly visible permit for all off-leash dogs and their owners. Rangers could do periodic spot checks to insure compliance.

· Seasonal restrictions could be used to minimize conflicts with agricultural uses (calving season, periods of intense agricultural equipment use).

· Many Open Space visitors enjoy walking their pets and these visitors are typically very frequent users.

· Dog trainers frequently use Open Space areas and could be permitted. Large groups of dogs could increase overall impacts.

· Slow moving traffic (especially elderly and very young visitors) could be impacted by joggers passing by at high speed over and over again (especially on narrow trails).

· Joggers can slow up and yield to others, but may not do it consistently.

· Icy or muddy trails often result in joggers going off-trail resulting in trampled vegetation along the edge of the trail and trail widening.

· Wildlife may not want to use or cross heavily used trails.

· Jogging can be done almost anywhere, but it is more enjoyable in an Open Space setting. Serious joggers appreciate the varied terrain of Open Space trails.

· Some education and signs may be necessary to lessen impacts on slower moving visitors and trail widening when trails are wet or icy.

· Due to higher speeds, there is a greater risk of tripping or twisting ankles on rocky or uneven surfaces which may require emergency services.

· Potential impacts to other visitors could be alleviated by establishing an ethic among joggers to slow down when passing other visitors, and encouraging runners to use wider trails and/or trails with low numbers of slow speed users. This can probably be accomplished through an educational effort since most joggers live nearby and are regular Open Space visitors.

· If use levels by joggers increase significantly and result in increased complaints, then some popular trails may need to be closed to joggers, especially during high use time (e.g., weekends).

· Trail widening and vegetation trampling is a common problem. Educational efforts (such as "get muddy" signs) probably will not be effective because muddy jogging shoes or icy trails can cause falls and related injuries. In addition, muddy shoes are heavy and uncomfortable when jogging. Other options to improve these problems would be to fix sections of trail that are prone to ice and mud with crusher fines, large flat rocks, or trail relocation. If problems continue to become serious, it may be necessary to close some trails to jogging on a seasonal basis.

· Other concerns: high use levels could disrupt wildlife in some areas at some times. Temporary closures or rerouting of trails may help if this becomes a serious problem. Off-trail jogging should not be allowed anywhere because of impacts to vegetation and wildlife, and the increased risks caused by rocks, cactus, and other off-trail hazards.

· Organized competitive running events should not be allowed as this will involve many runners and result in impacts to other visitors and on natural plants and animals. Also there are many other more suitable locations available for this type of activity.

· A variety of distances and terrain should be provided to accommodate a wide variety of skill levels. Subject to the concerns mentioned above, as many trails as possible should be open to jogging. Smoother, drier, ice-free surfaces are desirable.

· Very popular passive recreational activity which provides an opportunity to exercise in an Open Space setting.

· Running clinics could be allowed if the number of participants is limited to small groups (perhaps 12 or so), the number of runs is relatively few (perhaps one run per week for 8 weeks), and the jogging occurs in an appropriate place and time that will not bother other visitors or result in trail widening. All participants should be instructed in minimizing impacts.

· Individual instruction (tutoring) of a student or two by experienced runners may not need to be regulated. However, instructors should be permitted so that they can be told to inform their students of the impacts of jogging and how to minimize them.

· Generally very compatible with other uses, but more trash is generated from this type of activity which could impact other visitors.

· Off-trail use could result in trampling of vegetation and disturbance to wildlife. Off-trail use is sometimes desired, but usually only occurs at low levels.

· The use of camp fires or stoves may pose a threat of wildfire.

· Can be done in a developed park setting, but many prefer an Open Space setting.

· Picnic tables are preferred by some visitors, but are not essential.

· Trash generated from picnicking may require trash cans and higher service levels.

· Picnicking may increase the need for restroom facilities and associated maintenance needs.

· Developed picnic areas (with tables, benches, and trash cans) could be located in easily accessible and pleasant locations.

· Stress leave no trace in education efforts.

· The use of camp fires or stoves could be prohibited to minimize any threat of a wildfire.

· Provides nearby opportunities for families to enjoy Open Space.

· Catering groups sometimes request use of certain areas for large events and these type of uses could be permitted if facilities are adequate for the proposed event.

· Could be conflicts and safety issues if sledding occurs near trails or roads.

· Primarily an off-trail activity and could impact sensitive plants (particularly when snow cover is thin) and wildlife. Impacts are limited by the low number of days per year that sledding occurs (because of inadequate snow).

· Snow covered hills are essential, but activity could occur in developed parks.

· Monitoring and repair of damage may be needed.

· Additional signs and staff may be needed to designate appropriate areas.

· Parking and access gates could be an issue if use develops in areas without these facilities.

· Could prohibit on hills where safety and/or environmental sensitivity are issues, but only if sledding is anticipated or actually occurs.

· Activity levels could increase significantly and designated sledding locations should not be visible from roads or advertised in any way.

· Close by opportunity to enjoy the outdoors during the winter and families often participate in sledding.

· Snowshoe etiquette dictates that snowshoeing recreationists should not walk within cross-country ski tracks because divots are created.

· On uphill terrain cross-country skiers require wider space/trails than on level terrain.

· Sometimes difficult for cross country skiers to yield quickly on uphill terrain or steep downhills.

· Substantial off-trail use, in addition to trail use, is likely and could adversely affect natural values in sensitive areas.

· There are no concerns with vegetation trampling if activity occurs on-trail or snow cover is sufficient.

· An Open Space setting is integral to the recreational experience.

· Minimal facilities are needed (parking, trails, signs). Many cross-country skiers appreciate groomed tracks.

· With adequate snow cover, these activities can be pursued appropriately in any Open Space areas in which passive recreational activities are allowed. If areas need to be designated, criteria for such location-specific determinations include considerations of public safety and resource protection.

· Trail signs are needed to identify and encourage on-trail use (especially in sensitive natural areas).

· Close by opportunity to enjoy the outdoors during the winter.

· Anticipated commercial use considerations may arise in the context of special, organized racing events and should not be allowed.

· Potentially unacceptable impacts to vegetation from stopping.

· All-terrain equipment may generate noise and affect other visitors.

· Fast, uncontrolled participants may not be able to effectively yield to other visitors.

· Safety issues associated with participants (off-trail hazards such as rocks and cactus) and potential of run-away boards hitting other visitors.

· Participants probably desire to be off-trail. Off-trail use could result in damage to sensitive plants and wildlife, agricultural plantings on leased pasture, and disturbance to cultural resource sites. Large number of users could increase impact levels.

· Depends on individual motivations, but could occur in more developed settings (e.g., concrete trails and skate parks).

· Roller bladers would require wider trails (especially when climbing).

· Could cause damage to trails and may require additional maintenance.

· Could restrict off-trail activity and only allow on trails where biking is allowed.

· Establish a yielding priority for uses and clearly mark start of trail and low visibility areas.

· Signs should clearly inform visitors of potential trail uses to increase awareness and minimize conflicts.

· Participants should slow down, be prepared to stop if necessary, and yield to other visitors (especially when approaching from behind). Stricter rules may be needed for high speed uses.

· Need more information on this use.

· Provides close by opportunities to participate in new outdoor activities.

· Could create conflicts with other visitors if conducted on narrow, heavily used trails due to the greater width of wheeled vehicles.

· Some wheeled vehicle activities could occur of higher speeds and pose conflicts (training dog sleighs for competitive purposes).

· Off-trail use could trample vegetation and result in erosion.

· Could occur along roads and concrete trails, but an Open Space setting may be preferred (safer than roads and more scenic).

· Adequate trail maintenance is required and wider, low use trails are more suitable.

· Could designate wide, flat trails for this activity or permit on a case-by-case basis.

· Could create additional opportunities for people with special disabilities to access and enjoy Open Space.

· Potential commercial uses for wagon rides and similar activities.

· Higher degree of caution must be exercised to avoid collision/falls for bicyclists/runners, but not as significant for hikers, snowshoers, etc.

· Bright artificial lights (halogen lights) could distract other visitors and impact adjacent landowners.

· Wildlife and livestock could be disturbed since they are generally not acclimated to night time activity by humans and the time period that recreationists could disrupt wildlife would be extended (feeding, access to water, and rest). Need to monitor and collect information regarding impacts to wildlife and livestock (could be additional impacts from activities with artificial lights and night time activities with no lights, but artificial lights probably have a higher potential for disturbance).

· Activity dependent, but assume the same relationship as other day time uses.

· Level of facilities and services is activity dependent, but would need increased ranger presence.

· Generally speaking night time activities are less safe than day time because of decreased visibility.

· Impacts to trailheads and neighbors (partying or vandalism) could be addressed by closing parking lots.

· Safety considerations could be addressed by education efforts and increased patrol by rangers. This would require extending current service periods (monitoring and enforcement).

· Wildlife impacts could be addressed by monitoring to determine if there are significant impacts (may be difficult to determine if from human presence alone or from artificial lighting).

· Many night time activities do not require artificial lighting (e.g., moonlight walks).

· If activity is acceptable as a day time activity, night time use may be acceptable. Night time activities would be more acceptable on open lands with wide trails and good visibility.

· Some existing code of ethics (photography and wildlife) address night time uses and these should be explored and promoted to minimize impacts.

· Could potentially limit the types of artificial lights allowed and for what purposes (needed for activity versus an occasional use such as coming down from a long hike or climb).

· Restrictions on use of artificial lights could pose a potential safety/liability issue.

· Could limit areas where these activities would be allowed. Possibly allow in certain urban areas and not in areas where there would be wildlife concerns.

· Must consider other uses associated with night time (partying, use of artificial lights along commuting trails) when developing management techniques.

· Allows for after work relaxation and exercise and provides an opportunity for participants to experience nature in a nocturnal setting.

· Commercial use may be preferred because groups can be responsible for each other.

· Increased numbers generally mean increased noise and limiting the number of participants may reduce conflicts with neighbors and wildlife.

· Motorized uses are not allowed and would not meet the "must meet criteria."

· Model gliders could create aesthetic or noise (if motorized) concerns for other visitors.

· Most glider flying occurs off-trail and is likely to concern some users.

· Proximity to roads and highways and other users could result in collisions.

· Primarily occurs off-trail and could result in additional disturbance to native plants (from glider crashes and off-trail use associated with activity, wildlife (particularly raptors), and agricultural crops and livestock (also a consideration for other activities).

· An Open Space setting is not essential and could be provided in a developed park setting.

· Adequate parking areas and access to Open Space is needed. There are few, if any facilities in existing areas where this activity occurs resulting in unsafe roadside parking and potential creation of social trails.

· Could limit uses to certain areas or only by permit (with possible limits on locations, seasons, time periods, etc.).

· Provides outdoor recreation opportunities for handicap visitors.

· Most orienteering events occur off-trail and are likely to concern some users.

· Sometimes flagging and other materials are used which could create an aesthetic concern to other visitors.

· Primarily occurs off-trail and could result in additional disturbance to native plants, wildlife, and agricultural crops and livestock. Off-trail use is likely to cause more disturbance than trail activities.

· An Open Space setting is not essential and could be provided in a developed park setting.

· Off-trail use may pose higher risk of encountering hazards.

· Small groups could be allowed and no materials should be left behind.

· Heavy off-trail use would not be appropriate because of impacts to natural, cultural, scientific, or agricultural values and use levels could be limited (most sensitive areas first and least sensitive last). This type of activity would not be appropriate in areas where on-trail use is essential to protect the ecosystem or visitor.

· Provides an opportunity to learn important outdoor skills which may prevent people from getting lost.

· Emphasize leave no trace concepts when permitting and use on-trail as a preference.

· Groups should be limited to ten or less participants to minimize impacts.

· Education and enforcement should be used to minimize concerns.

· Generally compatible with other uses because of limited season (primarily practiced from April through September), low levels of use (approximately 25 active Boulder pilots averaging 10 to 12 flights per week during the season), very little trail use is involved in the activity, most but not all launch sites occur on private land, and most landing activity occurs on flat terrain, often park land, majority of flight is spent at altitude where other users of Open Space don't see the activity, and the activity is virtually noiseless.

· The only potential to interface with other Open Space visitors is on the landing. The pilot has significant control of the aircraft should a change in his flight path be required to avoid an unforeseen conflict.

· Potential to "spook" horses and startle other visitors.

· Participants often erect temporary streamers for a visual wind direction reference. Streamers left on-site could be considered an aesthetic concern by other visitors.

· On Open Space launch sites there are few, if any, facilities available (parking and easy access) which could create parking in neighborhood streets and trespassing problems.

· Little off-trail activity occurs in the participation of this sport when participants launch from private lands. On Open Space launch sites, participants are primarily off-trail and could create social trails and could result in impacts to plants and animals (especially in fragile shale barren communities in north Boulder).

· Vegetation trampling could occur where participants launch from Open Space or in areas where they disassemble their equipment and load it on their vehicles. This occurs within 10-20 feet of the parking area and typically at the roadside. The activity is not practiced in wet weather.

· Effects on wildlife (particularly raptors) are unknown.

· Potential to "spook" horses and livestock as these bright and multicolored aircraft descend to land, but this activity typically does not occur in these areas.

· Hang gliders require a ridge or mountain from which to launch and a relatively flat, unimproved open area to land.

· No special facilities or improvements are required except for launch sites on Open Space where adequate parking and easy access are useful. Near by automobile access is desirable for the transportation of the disassembled equipment.

· If there were increasing levels of all activities on Open Space, a few well placed signs could mitigate potential impacts to other visitors.

· Good safety track record of 30 years of hang gliding activity. A Liability insurance policy is paid for by local participants and names the city of Boulder as a named insured. Accidents occur occasionally and are often severe. Emergency services must be available at all times when paragliding is likely to occur.

· Work with local hang gliding groups to identify additional considerations and ways to mitigate impacts.

· Contact with a representative of the local club is the most direct and effective means of communication and control of those participating in the activity. Signs might help mitigate potential conflicts.

· Potential conflicts could result in a situation where the activity would require exclusive use. If so, a permit or rental system should be considered.

· Could establish a permit system.

· Could designate use to certain areas (both individual and commercial uses).

· User groups should be required to mitigate trail damage.

· There exists a strong aesthetic and scientific value for spectators and participants of the sport.

· Finding the suitable topography and access to parcels of land conducive to the sport of hang gliding presents one of the greatest challenges to current participants of the sport.

· Hang gliding instruction is very site-specific and the impacts resulting from the instruction of hang gliding will be more significant than those associated with recreational participation. There exists a far greater number of participants involved in instruction, a higher level of activity and a far greater impact in terms of on-trail and off-trail use. Hang gliding instruction is more visible to other Open Space Visitors and will occur more frequently. Currently hang gliding instruction primarily occurs off-trail in the shale barrens in North Boulder Valley (north of Lee Hill Drive and west of Highway 36). These shale barrens are a very fragile plant community and off-trail use could impact this plant community.

· It may require more supervision to manage the commercial activity and direct communication with those providing the instruction would be effective. A permit process may be a very viable mechanism to manage this activity.

· Many participants feel that if commercial training was not allowed, it could virtually eliminate the sport (because of technical nature of activity and need to be properly trained).

· The activity is virtually noiseless.

· Streamers left on-site could be considered an aesthetic concern by other visitors.

· On Open Space launch sites there are few, if any, facilities available (parking, trails, and easy access) which could create parking in neighborhood streets and trespassing problems.

· The only potential to interface with other Open Space visitors is hiking to launch sites and on the approach to landing. Paragliders generally have less control of the aircraft and could land on other visitors.

· In areas where horseback riding occurs, there would be a potential to "spook" horses as these bright and multicolored aircraft descend to land.

· Currently most of this activity occurs off-trail (or on undesignated trails) and could impact native plants and wildlife. Off-trail use could result in damage to sensitive plants and wildlife, agricultural plantings on leased pasture, and disturbance to cultural resource sites. Large number of users could increase impact levels.

· Effects on wildlife (particularly raptors) are unknown.

· There are significant impacts at one of the existing popular launch sites (large area where vegetation is trampled and denuded from constant launch preparation).

· Paragliders require a ridge or mountain from which to launch and a relatively flat, unimproved open area at the base of the ridge to land.

· No special facilities or improvements are required except for launch sites on Open Space where adequate parking and access trails are useful.

· Accidents occur occasionally and are often severe. Emergency services must be available at all times when paragliding is likely to occur.

· Paragliding could be designated to certain areas. Some factors to consider when evaluating potential areas include availability of parking and trails, environmental sensitivity of an area, and ease of signing and informing participants.

· Could create a permit system.

· Should obtain more input from paragliding organizations and participants on potential ways to mitigate concerns.

· There exists a strong aesthetic and scientific value for spectators and participants of the sport.

· Finding the suitable topography and access to parcels of land conducive to the sport of paragliding presents one of the greatest challenges to current participants of the sport.

· The majority of current paragliding use is from commercial paragliding instruction schools. Without proper training this activity can be very dangerous.

· Paragliding instruction is very site-specific and the impacts resulting from the instruction of paragliding will be more significant than those associated with recreational participation. There exists a far greater number of participants involved in instruction, a higher level of activity and a far greater impact in terms of on-trail and off-trail use. Currently paragliding instruction primarily occurs off-trail in the area west of Wonderland Lake.

· Most bolts are put in with a motorized drill and would not meet the "must meet criteria."

· Aesthetic concerns can result from slings (left tied to trees, rocks, and bolts) and shiny bolts, chalk residue, rust from permanent anchor, and the sight of climbers on rock faces may offend some visitors. Climbers often shout commands to each other which could disrupt other visitors.

· Off-trail use when hiking to and from rocks can damage plants, interfere with wildlife, and may disrupt scientific values. Rock climbing during mating/nesting season can impact cliff nesting birds. Social trails may develop causing vegetation trampling and eventually soil erosion (especially in steep areas surrounding rock formations) and further spread of non-native weeds.

· Permanent anchors (bolts) require drilling holes in the rock, may cause visible rust stains on the rock, impact lichens and other vegetation, and often open up new areas to recreational use that have not been climbed by traditional methods potentially resulting in further fragmentation of plant and animal habitat.

· Although rock climbing can occur in a gym, rock climbers usually enjoy being in an Open Space setting.

· Permanent anchors are often used and would require periodic inspection and maintenance.

· Additional visitor services are necessary for monitoring and enforcement of raptor closures. Climbing accidents do occur and are often severe. Emergency services must be available at all times when climbing is likely to occur.

· Aesthetic and noise concerns could probably be managed by educational efforts to encourage climbers to wear natural colors and minimize communication during the climb.

· No new permanent anchors should be placed, unless a very compelling need is demonstrated and potential impacts could be minimized. If existing anchors are replaced, they should be replaced with anchors that will not rust. Nylon slings left behind for rappeling purposes should be natural in color and used only when absolutely necessary.

· Impacts to natural values is the most serious concern of rock climbing and management should focus on minimizing impacts by continuing raptor closures as needed (through education, monitoring, and enforcement) and establishing one standard "least harmful" route to rocks which are frequently climbed while discouraging other approach/descent routes. Education efforts would also be useful, but may be insufficient because of the number of climbers who do not reside in the vicinity of Boulder. If usage levels in an area result in a significant amount of harm, it may be necessary to close that area or limit when it may be used.

· Management of safety issues should focus on educating new climbers to the seriousness of accidents that can and do happen and encouraging them to learn on artificial climbing walls and then use only safe techniques. In addition, some of the costs of rescuing climbers should be borne by the climbers themselves and/or the climbing community. If too many accidents occur on any particular climbing route or rock, it may be necessary to close it or limit usage to well experienced climbers only.

· A permit system could be developed for replacement of old, unsafe bolts or for placement of new bolts.

· Could work with climbers to improve access trails and eliminate problem areas.

· Instruction in rock climbing should begin on artificial walls and then move outdoors. There are currently several areas outside of Boulder’s greenbelt that accommodate climbing instruction. There are few, if any, rocks on Open Space that would be appropriate for climbing instruction due to their distance from trailheads, type and difficulty of climbs, and impacts to natural values and other visitors as noted above.

· Individual instruction of one or two climbers from time to time is probably fine and may not need to be regulated except that each instructor should obtain a yearly permit and instruct students on how to mitigate the impacts of rock climbing. Any advertising should be minimal and local only.

· Significant increases in activity use levels could impact other visitor’s experiences and could create conflicts between individuals participating in these activities.

· Participants sometimes trespass and cause property damage to private landowners when boating (particularly during put in and take out)

· Water related recreational activities could impact natural values by disturbing wildlife and fragmenting plant and animal habitat. Many rare and sensitive species depend on riparian areas for food and shelter.

· There could be impacts to riparian vegetation during put in and take out.

· Activity dependent and will vary significantly between individuals. All activities are obviously dependent upon water, but some are more dependent on an Open Space setting than others.

· These activities typically require a higher level of equipment.

· Additional visitor services may be required to ensure a safe recreational experience due to higher risks associated with these activities.

· Generally recreational uses of streams and lakes are not compatible with Open Space purposes and other places are much more suitable for things like swimming and boating. If swimming and boating were to be allowed, they would have to be limited to no special development and designated to certain appropriate areas (depending on specific values of each site such as access and quality or restoration potential of natural values).

· Impacts on adjacent landowners might be alleviated by signs encouraging participants where to go, posting private lands, and law enforcement.

· This activity does not meet the "must meet criteria."

· Because of the nature of competitive sporting events, there is a serious potential for conflicts with other visitors. Participants generally are more concerned about the competitive event and scoring or finishing well rather than being courteous to other visitors. These type of events generally involve large numbers of participants and spectators and could cause conflicts with other visitors.

· Extensive markings are sometimes required and could create aesthetic concerns for other visitors.

· Competitive events can occur on and off-trail. Off-trail uses could damage native vegetation and disrupt wildlife. On trail uses may cause other visitors to go off-trail and cause impacts to natural, cultural, scientific, or agricultural values.

· Can occur in a variety of settings and more developed settings are available.

· Often require extensive facilities and staff to ensure compliance, safety of participants and other visitors, and to minimize conflicts.

· This activity is not compatible with Open Space criteria and should not be allowed. If allowed, it should occur only in limited areas.

· Most competitive events involve fees and prizes.

· Disturbing wildlife is likely because a significant amount of off-trail use occurs. Off-trail use could result in damage to sensitive plants and wildlife, agricultural plantings on leased pasture, and disturbance to cultural resource sites. Large number of users could increase impact levels.

· Can occur in a variety of settings.

· Unacceptable impacts to other visitors and natural, cultural, scientific, and agricultural values.

· Paint residue may be unattractive to other visitors.

· Other visitors could be hit by paint balls and would not have adequate safety gear.

· Weapons used in this activity create a loud, gun-like noise which could disturb other visitors.

· High likelihood of off-trail use. Off-trail use could result in damage to sensitive plants and wildlife, agricultural plantings on leased pasture, and disturbance to cultural resource sites. Large number of users could increase impact levels.

· Fast paced nature of this activity and noise could further disrupt wildlife.

· Could occur in other settings (developed parks, amusement centers).

· This activity is not compatible with Open Space criteria and should not be allowed.