HomeMy WebLinkAbout8659RESOLUTION NO. 8
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A GRANT AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF PUEBLO, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AND THE
STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST
FUND RELATING TO THE ARKANSAS RIVER AND FOUNTAIN
CREEK PLANNING PROJECT AND AUTHORIZING THE
PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME
WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo supports the enhancement and preservation efforts along
the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek; and
WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo has received a grant from The State Board of the Great
Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund for the development of a plan for the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek
project, subject to the execution of a grant agreement; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, COLORADO, that:
SECTION 1
The grant agreement dated December 7, 1998, between the City of Pueblo, a Municipal
Corporation, and The State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund, for the Arkansas River
and Fountain Creek project, a copy of which is attached hereto (a copy of the City's complete application
is on file in the office of the City Clerk), having been approved as to form by the City Attorney, is hereby
approved.
SECTION 2
The President of City Council is hereby authorized to execute and deliver the Grant
Agreement on behalf of the City of Pueblo, a Municipal Corporation, and the City Clerk shall affix the
seal of the City thereto and attest same.
SECTION 3
Funds in the amount of $20,000, Account 001- 0100 - 111 -000 - 010 -0104, are hereby
appropriated, budgeted and irrevocably pledged to meet the City of Pueblo's financial obligations of the
Contract.
SECTION 4
The Resolution will become effective upon final passage.
INTRODUCED: March 22.1999
BY: Al Gurul
I COUN ER ON
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APPROVED: U,.�i cif C� � >/
ATTESTED BY:
Cl CLERK
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
GRANT AGREEMENT
Name: Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project
Completion Date: No later than June 2, 2000
Contract Number: 9136
PARTIES TO AGREEMENT:
Board: The State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
Address: 303 East 17 Avenue, Suite 900
Denver, CO 80203
Telephone: (303) 863 -7522
Grantee:
City of Pueblo
Address:
211 East'D' Street
Telephone:
(719) 543 -6006
Contact Name:
Steven Meier
Contact Title:
Senior Planner, Department of Planning and Development
Date:
December 7, 1998
CONTEXT OF AGREEMENT:
A. The Board is a political subdivision of the State of Colorado, created by
Article XXVII of the Colorado Constitution, adopted at the November, 1992 General
Election. The Constitution appropriates a portion of the net proceeds of the Colorado
Lottery to the Board and directs the Board to invest those proceeds in the State's parks,
wildlife, open space and recreational resources.
B. In 1994, the Board created a statewide grant program, pursuant to which
eligible entities could apply for grants for Planning and Capacity Building Projects to
which Grantee responded with a detailed application (the "Project Application ").
C. Grantee submitted a Project Application to the Board which contemplates
the execution of the Project entitled and described above (the "Project "), a copy of which
is incorporated by reference and attached as Appendix A.
D. The Board approved Grantee's Project Application on December 2, 1998,
subject to the execution of a detailed Grant Agreement the conditions of which are set
forth herein.
E. Grantee anticipates that the Project described in the Project Application
Project 9136 Page I
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
will be substantially completed on June 2, 2000.
F. Grantee has undertaken responsibility for obtaining the match (funds and
in -kind contributions) described in the Project Application.
G. The parties intend this document to be the detailed Grant Agreement
required by the Board. The Grantee shall carry out the Project in accordance with this
agreement and a work program to be approved by the Executive Director of the Board
pursuant to this Agreement.
AGREEMENT
The parties agree as follows:
1. Grant and Project The Board hereby grants to Grantee the sum not to exceed
$40,000, subject to the terms of this Agreement. These funds shall be used by Grantee
solely to complete the Project described in Grantee's Project Application as approved by
the Board. Grantee hereby agrees to use its best efforts to complete the Project.
2. Project scope The Project, Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project,
as described in the Project Application, will not be materially modified by the Grantee
without the written approval of the Executive Director of the Board. In multi -phase
projects, this Agreement only pertains to the identified phase of the Project, and not the
Project as a whole.
3. Information to be provided upon execution of this Agreement NO FUNDS
WILL BE DISBURSED BY THE BOARD UNLESS AND UNTIL THE GRANTEE
FURNISHES THE BOARD WITH THE INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THIS
AGREEMENT. Prior to execution of this Agreement, Grantee will submit the following
information to the Board's staff:
a. A resolution adopted by the governing body of the Grantee authorizing the
execution of this agreement and approving its terms and conditions;
b. A detailed Work Plan and Budget for this Project. Grantee hereby agrees
to promptly submit all material revisions to their Work Plan and Budget. As provided
further below, the Board reserves the right at any stage of the Project to withhold funding
if (i) modifications to the Project are so substantial as to make it, in the Board's
reasonable judgment, substantially different in quality or kind from that approved by the
Board, or (ii) there have been delays in the implementation of the Project which, in the
Board's reasonable judgment, make the Project impracticable;
Project 9136 Page 2
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
C. Project funding which will (i) briefly identify each major stage or
milestone of the Project, (ii) set out the source, amount and anticipated date of each
disbursement of funds for the Project, and (iii) show the Board payment with respect to
the Project; and
d. The payment schedule agreed between the parties is checked below:
0 OPTION A: Payment on contract completion. Full payment of
the contract amount will be made upon project completion and submission of the
information required in paragraph 3 and 4.
A . OPTION B: Progress payments. 50% payment upon submission
of the information required by this paragraph 3, including a signed copy of the grant
agreement. In addition, 25% will be distributed upon submission and approval of a
periodic progress report in a form similar to Appendix B. The final 25% of the grant
award will be withheld against all the requirements detailed in paragraph 4.
4. Disbursement of Funds Prior to final payment by the Board at the completion of
the Project:
a. The Grantee must provide to the Board:
(1) Written assurance the Project has been substantially completed
according to the work plan and budget, along with Project Expenditure Documentation
detailed in Appendix C (the "Project Expenditure Documentation "), and reports as noted
above to support this claim;
(2) Written assurance that no material modifications or delays have
been made or experienced (or the Board has been advised of the modifications or delays
and has elected to continue to participate in the funding of the Project);
(3) Written assurance that matching funding has been received as
outlined in the Project Expenditure Documentation (Appendix C) (or the status of efforts
to secure matching funding has been disclosed to Board staff and it has been found to be
satisfactory); and
(4) Written assurance that the representations made to the Board in the
Project Application continue to be true (or, if there have been any material changes, the
Board has been advised of such changes and has assented to them).
b. The Board will release funding subject to the following conditions:
(1) Disbursement shall be made on the basis of costs incurred. A
reduction in total Project cost or Grantee's matching funding may cause a proportional
reduction in the grant award, and;
Project 9136 Page 3
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
(2) Grantee shall submit a written request for reimbursement as
outlined in the Project Expenditure Documentation within 180 days of Project
completion. Projects are considered completed upon accomplishment of the objectives
stated in the Project Application or expenditure of the entire grant amount. Failure to
submit the request for reimbursement within the specified time period may result in
reduction or loss of grant dollars even if there are undisbursed amounts remaining in the
grant.
5. Waiver The Executive Director may waive one or more of the obligations in
paragraphs 3 and 4 of the Agreement, or may require performance of one or more of
these obligations subsequent to disbursement.
6. Compliance with regulatoly requirements and federal and state mandates The
Grantee hereby assumes responsibility for compliance with all regulatory requirements in
all applicable areas, including but not limited to nondiscrimination, worker safety, local
labor preferences, preferred vendor programs, equal employment opportunity, use of
competitive bidding, and other similar requirements. To the extent permitted by law, the
Grantee will indemnify the Board from any liability or any failure to comply with any
such applicable requirements.
7. Nondiscrimination During the performance of this agreement, the Grantee and
its contractors shall not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for
employment because of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical handicap,
medical condition, marital status, age or sex. The Grantee and its contractors shall ensure
that the evaluation and treatment of their employees and applicants for employment are
free of such discrimination.
8. Publicity and Project Information Grantee agrees:
a. Grantee shall acknowledge Board funding in all publicity issued by it
concerning the Project;
b. Grantee shall cooperate with the Board in preparing public information
pieces; and
C. Grantee shall give the Board the right and opportunity to use information
gained from the Project.
9. Audits and Accounting Grantee shall maintain standard financial accounts,
documents, and records relating to the use, management, and operation of the Project.
The accounts, documents, and records related to the Project shall be retained by the
Grantee for five (5) years following the date of disbursement of funds under this
Agreement. The Board, or its designated agent, shall have the right, upon reasonable
notice to the Grantee, to audit the books and records of Grantee which pertain to the
Project and to the use and disposition of Board funds. The Grantee may use any
accounting system which follows the guidelines of "Generally Accepted Accounting
Project 9136 Page 4
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
Practices" published by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
10. Withdrawal of Board Funding The Board may withdraw its approval of funding
to the Grantee and cease funding of the Project if, in its sole discretion, it determines
conditions have occurred which fundamentally change the expectations of the parties or
which make the grant infeasible or impractical.
11. Grantee's inability to complete Project If the Grantee determines with reasonable
probability that the Project will not or cannot be completed as reflected in the Project
Application the Grantee will promptly so advise the Board, and cooperate in good faith
with respect to alternative solutions to the problem before any further funds are advanced.
12. Governmental Immunity The following provision applies to the Board. This
provision may apply to the Grantee if the Grantee qualifies for protection under the
Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, C.R.S. §24 -10 -101 et seq ( "CGIA ").
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, no term or
condition of this Agreement shall be construed or interpreted as a waiver, either express
or implied, by any party to this Agreement, of any of the immunities, rights, benefits or
protection provided under the CGIA, as amended or as may be amended (including,
without limitation, any amendments to such statute, or under any similar statute which is
subsequently enacted). The parties agree that no provision of this Agreements a ll be
construed in such a manner as to reduce the extent to which the CGIA limi e liability
of any party to this Agreement. Cz I io-Ks1
13. Liabili . To the extent permitted by law, the Grantee shall be r onsible for,
indemnify and hold harmless the Board, its officers, agents and employees from any and
all liabilities, claims, demands, damages or costs resulting from, growing out of, or in any
way connected with or incident to this Agreement, except for the ne�gence or
willful and wanton conduct of the Board its officers, agents, or employees. Grantee
hereby waives any and all rights to any type of express or implied indemnity or right of
contribution from the State of Colorado, the Board, its officers, agents or employees, for
any liability resulting from, growing out of, or in any way connected with or incident to
this Agreement.
14. Assignment Grantee may not assign its rights under this Agreement without the
written consent of the Board.
15. Good faith There is an obligation of good faith on the part of both parties,
including the obligation to make timely communication of information which may
reasonably be believed to be of interest to the other party.
16. Applicable Law Colorado law applies to the interpretation and enforcement of
this Agreement.
17. Independent Contractor Grantee is an independent contractor acting in its
separate capacity and not as an officer, employee or agent of the Board.
Project 9136 Page 5
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
18. Severability If any provision of the Grant Agreement, or the application thereof
is found to be invalid, the remainder of the provisions of this Grant Agreement, or the
application of such provision other than those as to which it is found to be invalid, shall
remain in full force and effect.
19. Entire Agreement Except as expressly provided herein, this Agreement
constitutes the entire agreement of the parties. No oral understanding or agreement not
incorporated in this Agreement shall be binding upon the parties. No changes in this
Agreement shall be valid unless made as an amendment to this contract, approved by the
Board, and signed by the parties in this Agreement.
20. Fax and Counterparts This Agreement may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be an original but all of which when taken together shall
constitute one Agreement. In addition, the parties agree to recognize signature to this
Agreement transmitted by telecopy as if they were original documents.
STATE BOARD OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS COLORADO TRUST FUND
By:
Will
Date
GRANTE .
By:
Name: Cori nne Koehl Pr
Title: President of City Council
Dated: 3 -22 -99
Project 9136 Page 6
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
APPENDIX A
PROJECT APPLICATION
Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project
Project 9136 Page 7
0/94
Great Outdoors Colorado
PLANNING GRANT APPLICATION — SUMMARY FORM
(Please see instructions for completing this form on the next page.) For planning projects that will
directly advance the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund's mission of preserving, protecting,
enhancing and managing the state's wildlife, park, river, trail and open space heritage.
Participant Information
1. Applicant: City of Pueblo 2. Third Party/Partner:
3. Applicant Address: 4. Third Party Address:
211 E. "D" Stre et, Pueblo, CO 81003
5. Applicant Contact:
Name: Steven Meier
Title: Senior Planner, Dept. of
Planning and Devel.
Telephone #:(719) 543 -6006
Fax #: (719) 543 -0572
E -mail: none
6. Third Party Contact:
Name:
Title:
Telephone #:
Fax #:
E -mail:
PROJECT INFORMATION
7. Project Title: Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project
8. U.S. Congressional District: 9. Colorado Senate District #: 3
Third Colorado House District #: 45 & 46
10. County: Pueblo
11. Brief Description of Project (please describe the scope and nature of this project):
The City of Pueblo is requesting funds to help develop a master plan for the Pueblo
Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project. The Planning Grant will allow the City to hire a
project coordinator whose key role will be to develop a strategic plan for implementation of the
pilot projects identified in the recently completed Pueblo Natural Resources and
Environmental Education Strategic Plan. The Plan will focus only on the significant natural
resource and environmental education projects along the City's two major river corridors.
12. Applicant and Partner Contributions:
Source
Amount
Cash or In -Kind
City of Pueblo
$ 15,000
Cash
Pueblo County
$ 5,000
Cash
City of Pueblo
$1,500
In -Kind
Pueblo County
$ 1,500
In -Kind
Pueblo Greenway and Nature Center
$ 2,000
In -Kind
Pueblo Zoological Society
$ 4,000
In -Kind
University of Southern Colorado
$ 3,000
In -Kind
13. Project Funding:
Grant Request: $45,000
Local Match: $32,000 ($20,000 Cash & $12,000 In -kind services)
Total: $77,000 (Sponsor and Partner Total from #12 above)
14. Primary oag is /objectives for planning project: (i.e. develop open space plan for county; prioritize
land acquisition opportunities; funding mechanism to support open space program.)
1. To establish a strategic plan for implementation the coordinated natural resource,
environmental education, habitat improvement, open space, trail, park, and recreational
projects.
2. To coordinate the many different partnerships who are involved with the different
projects, both financial and in -kind contribution.
3. To identify which pilot projects are achievable.
15. Tasks to undertake to achieve goals /objectives for planning project: (i.e. inventory existing
needs; develop selection criteria to prioritize acquisitions; explore options for developing; dedicated
funding source.)
1. To hire aproiect coordinator whose role will be to develop this strategic plan.
2. To determine which pilot projects identified in the PNREEC strategic plan best meet the
objectives, have achievable funding goals, and realistically could be completed within
the next 2 -3 years.
3. Complete an implementation plan, in conjunction with the PNREEC partners that will
formalize projects and establish detailed project budgets that integrate funding to more
fully secure project partnerships.
4. Complete pilot project schedules based on timing of funding and coordination of projects
that create a logical progression of implementation.
16. End Products/Deliverables for planning project: (i.e. county open space plan; program
selection criteria; determine appropriate funding mechanism for community.)
1. A Strategic Plan focusing on the key pilot projects which are achievable with in a two to
three time frame.
2. A Strategic Plan identifying the partnerships and their responsibilities.
3. A determination of how water qualily issues will incorporated with the project.
4. Determine appropriated means of funding the implementation of the proiects (i.e. GOCO
"Legacy"
17. Authorized Signature: .,&L Date:
I. Eligibility Requirements
A. Project Types:
Multi- jurisdictional planning — The planning project involves several different federal,
state, and local agencies; educational institutions; interest organization; and private
businesses /land owners.
2. Multi- objective planning — The planning project will strategically lead to a larger more
tangible project which will preserve, protect and manage wildlife, parks, rivers, trails and
open space.
B. Recipients:
The grant recipient will be the City of Pueblo.
C. Required Matching Resources:
The total cost for the planning project is estimated to cost $79,000. The grant request if for
$45,OOOf from Great Outdoors Colorado, The City and their partners will provide a cash match in
the amount of $20,000 and $14,000 match in in -kind services.
A Eligible Costs:
Funds used in completing the planning project will only be spent on eligible cost such as: to hire a
project coordinator who's role will be to work on this newly formed project; all expensed associated
surveying, legal and professional services; public processes in order to complete the plan; travel and
postage expenses. The grant funds will not be used to fund an existing staff position.
E. Maximum Grant:
The total project is estimated to cost $79,000. The grant request is for $45,000.
F. Project Period:
The project will be completed within a 12 month period from the grant's contract award date.
rd
II. Selection Criteria
A. Characteristics and Need for the Project
The Pueblo Arkansas River & Fountain Creek Project clearly falls into two GOCO project
types: Multi jurisdictional Planning, and Multi - objective Planning. The project will
coordinate planning efforts by State Parks, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Army Corps of
Engineers, City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, University of Southern Colorado, School Districts
# 60 and #70, Pueblo Zoo, Friends of the River Trails, and the Greenway and Nature Center
of Pueblo to into an overall strategic plan for the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek areas.
The plan will allow each of the agencies to proceed with pilot projects which have been
identified in the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Strategic Plan
( PNREEC Plan) in a coordinated and integrated manner. (note: the PNREEC was funded
by GOCO through a planning grant in 1997).
The pilot projects identified in the PNREEC Plan that are along the Arkansas River and
Fountain Creek incorporate all of the categories within the multi - objective planning section.
These projects offer a combination of wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, open space, parks,
open space, environmental education, and trails within an overall theme that focuses on
environmental experiences offered by the two waterways. The following narrative will
address the need and benefits of this multi jurisdictional effort that integrates the multi -
objective planning categories.
1. a. Need For and Benefits of the Planning Activity:
(1) Need For Project
In January 1995 more than 75 representatives from community organizations and
citizens joined together to discuss ways to improve environmental education
throughout Pueblo County. The outcome of these discussions resulted in the
formation of the Pueblo Natural Resources Environmental Education Council,
referred to as PNREEC. Shortly after the formation of PNREEC the Council
embarked on the completion of a plan to inventory and identify significant natural
resource and outdoor recreation opportunities within Pueblo County. PNREEC
envisioned that this effort would invoke long range direction in planning and resource
protection; along with creating and enhancing partnerships in developing
environmental education opportunities and natural resource sites. As a measure of
the significant efforts by the PNREEC group they received statewide recognition
from the Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education and the Colorado Chapter
of the American Society of Landscape Architects. An important component of the
PNREEC Plan was the completion of questionnaires, interviews, surveys, and public
meetings to determine the community interest and the need, for protection of natural
resources and incorporating environmental education as a key part of the
conservation efforts. The general consensus of the responses from these efforts
strongly indicated that -- "diversity of the natural resources in Pueblo County is of
great interest to the area's citizens, natural scientists, and educators as a living,
learning laboratory for all to experience and enjoy."
The PNREEC Plan resulted in the identification of 57 pilot project sites throughout
Pueblo County. The pilot project sites were separated into four physiographic
regions: mountains, foothills, plains, and waterways. Recognizing resource
limitations, PNREEC identified the need to focus on a theme that exemplified the key
goals of the group. Through an extensive process the PNREEC members agreed to
focus on a combination of plains and waterway pilot projects along the Arkansas
River and Fountain Creek. The key goal of the program is to focus on the
environmental qualities of the corridors, interpretation of the ecological values, and
allowing trail access to the waterways for residents of nearby neighborhoods.
Following the identification of the key pilot projects along the two waterways, the
PNREEC members recognized the need for a coordinated planning effort to assist the
City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, State, and Federal agencies in developing a plan for
the implementation of the key projects along the two waterways. They recognized
that each agency alone was not capable of bringing the various projects together into
an overall project implementation plan. They acknowledged a critical need to have a
coordinator that would work with the PNREEC partners to determine what role each
agency should undertake to ensure the successful completion of the projects, along with
their responsibilities for long -term funding and management of the projects. The key
role of the project coordinator will be to develop an integrated project plan that identifies
which pilot projects have achievable funding goals, and realistically could be completed
within the next 2 -3 years.
All of the partners have recognized the importance of working in a unified effort to
complete projects that meet their agencies specific goals and objectives. They have
participated as members of the PNREEC Council to develop steps needed to complete
pilot projects along the two waterways. In addition to the local partners, the Army Corps
of Engineers has recently identified the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek as sites for
future improvements to in- stream habitat and the riparian environments within the
floodways immediately adjacent to the normal river channels. The Corps of Engineers
has been working with the Division of Wildlife, the Pueblo Conservancy District, and the
City of Pueblo to complete a habitat improvement plan and funding program. The
project will provide extensive habitat improvements along the Arkansas River and
Fountain Creek within the proposed project planning area.
The PNREEC plan documents the need to provide for a balance of public values
along the stream corridors that will have an impact on the types of pilot projects that
can be completed which provide the greatest value to the Pueblo region. The issues
of preserving and enhancing habitat for wildlife and environmental education will
need to be balanced with the City of Pueblo's capacity to meet water quality
standards within the streams, flood protection, control of storm water runoff. The
6
benefit of this plan will be to determine which of the pilot projects can be
accomplished that meet the overall public values and do not create long -term
financial obligations that the partners are unable to fund.
There is a need to begin implementing the pilot projects within the PNREEC
Strategic Plan. The agencies have an opportunity to dramatically improved river
habitats through the efforts of the Army Corps of Engineers and the abandonment of
gravel mining operations below Pueblo Dam in the Chain -of -Lakes area. The benefit
of this plan will be to determine the feasibility of the proposed improvements and
determine how partners can take advantage of the environmental education and other
related opportunities.
There is also a need to develop a strategic plan that incorporates ways the PNREEC
partners can leverage their financial resources with each other, in conjunction with
the Army Corps of Engineers, GOCO, Federal Highway Administration, and non-
profit foundations to fund the pilot projects. The benefit of this plan will be to focus
on projects that the partners are financially capable of completing and have the strong
likelihood of receiving additional funds from other partners.
Colorado State Park's long -term plans for Lake Pueblo State Park are to expand the
operating area of the park east along the Arkansas River to Pueblo Boulevard. This area
includes several of the key pilot projects identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan
including the State Honor Farm land, Greenway and Nature Center improvements,
Chain -of -Lakes project (old mining pits), stream habitat improvements, and a trail
connection to Pueblo West. The Colorado Division of Wildlife anticipates playing a
primary role in the management of wildlife and stream enhancement projects, along with
the environmental education programs planned for both the Arkansas River and Fountain
Creek.
• How Will The Planning Project Address The Needs Described Above?
The end product of the project will be a strategic plan that is completed through
the leadership of a project coordinator, in conjunction with the PNREEC
members. The plan will prioritize the pilot projects along the Arkansas River and
Fountain Creek waterways that are identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan. The
higher priority projects will be the focus of continuing funding efforts by the
PNREEC members.
The prioritizing of pilot projects will take into account the need to balance public
values for the natural resources, along with the environmental education and
recreation opportunities for each of the waterways.
The plan will also examine the costs and feasibility of completing the proposed
pilot projects and analyze those factors in relationship to the future plans and
7
activities of the Division of Wildlife, Lake Pueblo State Park, Army Corps of
Engineers, and the other management agencies.
• What Will Be Gained?
This planning effort will assist the City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, State, and
Federal agencies to develop a plan for implementing the key multi- objective pilot
projects identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan. A critical need is to coordinate
with the PNREEC partnership agencies to determine what role each agency should
undertake to ensure the successful completion of the projects, along with their
responsibilities with long -term funding and management of the projects. In order to
develop an integrated project plan it is necessary to determine which projects have
achievable funding goals, and realistically could be completed within the next 2 -3
years. The PNREEC Strategic Plan identified potential pilot projects that could be
part of a regional environmental education program. This planning project will assist
the PNREEC partners in developing a plan that formalizes projects, establishes
detailed project budgets that incorporates the timing of funding and coordination of
projects that establishes a logical progression of the pilot projects.
Pilot projects will progress from the concept/identification stages, that are
identified in several local and state plans (see section on related plans), to a point
where more detailed plans and funding strategies are completed to enable the
agencies to begin securing funding to complete the projects. Some of the key
project components include the coordination of water quality and habitat issues
within the streams, acquisition of water rights, land acquisition for some of pilot
projects, location of an Environmental Education Center and the relationship of
other environmental education programs and facilities to the new facility.
Additional project tasks include coordinating potential federal funding from the
public and private funding programs.
• What Is The Importance Of This Planning Effort To The Community, Region,
and/or State?
The planning effort will bring the organizations that have already been involved
in the PNREEC Strategic Plan into a focused effort to complete many of the pilot
projects along the two rivers. The planning effort will solidify State Park plans to
extend the boundaries of Lake Pueblo State Park east toward Pueblo Boulevard
and address future management issues of the State Honor Farm property.
Through coordinated efforts by the PNREEC partners the most suitable site for an
Environmental Education Information Center that will serve as the focal point for
environmental education activities in Southern Colorado will be determined.
The planning effort will also result in a specific plan that recommends ways to
fund development of the following types of pilot projects identified in the
PNREEC plan:
R
1. The enhancement of in- stream habitat for the Arkansas River and Fountain
Creek that incorporates funding opportunities from the Army Corps of
Engineers, the Colorado Division of Wildlife, Colorado State Parks, and
private foundations.
2. Riparian and short grass prairie restoration efforts and enhancement of
recreation and environmental education facilities at the Greenway and Nature
Center of Pueblo.
3. Floodplain parks along the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek that promote
environmental education and provide outdoor recreation opportunities.
4. Exhibits at the Pueblo Zoo that focus on local, indigenous wildlife, along
with a trail connection from the zoo to the river trail system.
5. The recommendation for the implementation of trail projects connecting the
Pueblo West and the St. Charles Mesa areas to the river trail system.
6. The plan will develop funding strategies for completing improvements to the
existing sections of the existing river trail system that do not meet current
design and safety standards.
0 What Is The Approximate Size Of The Area That Will Be Covered By The Plan?
The area covered within this plan is a 15 -mile corridor that extends to a
maximum width of one -half mile. The area includes the ten mile reach of the
Arkansas River between Lake Pueblo Dam and the confluence with Fountain
Creek; and the five mile reach of Fountain Creek extending north from its
confluence with the Arkansas River. The pilot project planning area encompasses
approximately 1275 acres.
• Map of Area
See attached map of the project location.
(2) Plans That Directly Relate to the Planning Effort
ffort
Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Strategic Plan (199 7)
This plan has served as the basis of developing the project theme for the enhancement
and reclamation of the two major stream corridors within the City of Pueblo. The
plan provides a list of potential pilot projects that are incorporated into an overall
environmental education, protection of wildlife habitat, and recreation theme. This
plan will continue to provide the initial inventory information and public
documentation supporting the concept for implementing projects within the plan.
Lei
Pueblo Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan (1996)
This document is a plan, prepared by the City of Pueblo, for the Arkansas River and
its two tributaries, Fountain Creek and the St. Charles River. The purpose of the plan
is to aid resource managers to understand the issues surrounding water use in Pueblo
County, and how to balance the traditional supply management approach with
progressive demand - management. The plan will be used to evaluate the proposed
pilot projects in conjunction with the need to balance the competition between
traditional uses (generally agriculture) and new recreation and environmental uses.
In addition, the plan will be used to evaluate proposed in- stream improvements in
relationship to the need to preserve watercourse uses, stream classifications, and
standards desirable for cost - effective residential, commercial, and industrial
development and urban drainage.
Lake Pueblo State Park Master Plan 0989)
This document was developed by Colorado State Parks to provide guidance for the
management and future expansion of the park. The information in the plan will be
used to evaluate the pilot projects proposed in the PNREEC Strategic Plan that are
below Pueblo Dam and east along the Arkansas River to Pueblo Boulevard. The plan
will also be used to review options for the management of the area east of Pueblo
Dam including the Honor Farm property, Greenway & Nature Center facility, in-
stream recreation uses between the dam and Wildhorse Creek.
Teaching Environmental - Science Naturally Program (1995)
This program developed by eight local, state, and federal agencies established a local
outdoor environmental science classroom program. The program was developed to
enable teachers to offer hands -on, first -hand experiences to students. A key
objective of the program is to expose students to the nature and knowledge of science
in order to promote a sense of history and importance of science in their lives. The
plan offers environmental curriculum for the Rock Canyon area in Lake Pueblo State
Park and the Arkansas River & Dam at Lake Pueblo State Park. These programs
have formed the basis for an expansion of the environmental education program
extending along the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek.
Pueblo River Trail Expansion (1998)
This plan identifies opportunities for the expansion of the Arkansas River trail system
east beyond the confluence with Fountain Creek, with connections to the St. Charles
River and the St. Charles Mesa neighborhoods. The plan proposes a series of
construction phases to complete the trail project over an extended period of time.
The plan will be used to evaluate initial trail alignment and design options to the link
the St. Charles Mesa area to the existing river trails system.
Preliminary Master Plan (1994) prepared for the Pueblo Conservancy District
The Pueblo Conservancy District was established in 1922 to be responsible for the
operation and maintenance of flood control facilities along the Arkansas River within
in
the City of Pueblo. The Preliminary Master Plan was developed for the Conservancy
District as an initial assessment and concept for the development of lands along the
Arkansas River as open space and recreation. The information in the plan will be
used in the evaluation of pilot projects proposed in the PNREEC Strategic Plan that
are along the Arkansas River. The plan will also be used to guide the development of
these recreational opportunities and public access to the Arkansas River within the
Conservancy District project area. The Master Plan is limited to the area along the
Arkansas River corridor from the Board of Water Works plant west of Wildhorse
Creek to the confluence of the river with the Fountain Creek east of Runyon Lake.
Pueblo 1990 Bicycle System Plan Update (1990)
This document provides an update and evaluation of Pueblo's 17 -mile River Trail
System within the floodplains of the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek. The plan
separates the trail system into eleven segments and provides an evaluation of each
section. The recommendations in the plan will be incorporated into the review of the
river trail improvements and connections pilot projects identified in the PNREEC
Strategic Plan.
1. b. Description of Goals /Objectives/Tasks/End Products:
The scope of the project is to complete an implementation plan that will coordinate
the efforts of the PNREEC partners to complete pilot projects identified in the
PNREEC Strategic Plan that are located along the Arkansas River and Fountain
Creek corridors.
Implementation Plan Goals /Objectives:
1. Establish a strategic plan for implementation of coordinated natural resource,
environmental education, open space, park, trail and recreation projects.
The plan will prioritize the pilot projects along the Arkansas River and
Fountain Creek that are identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan. The
projects will include a combination of all the GOCO funding areas.
2. To coordinate the many different partnerships who are involved with the
different projects.
The project coordinator in conjunction with the PNREEC members will work
cooperatively to further develop pilot project plans and continue fostering the
partnerships in order maximize project implementation activities and the
ability to leverage development and management funds.
IF
3. To identify which pilot projects best meet the objectives of the project and are
achievable.
The plan will focus on projects that best meet the objectives of the project, are
financially feasible, do not contain unrealistic land acquisition expectations,
and are achievable in a 2 -3 year period of time.
Project Tasks:
1. To hire a project coordinator
The project coordinator will work with the PNREEC members to complete a
strategic plan for implementing the key pilot projects along the Arkansas
River and Fountain Creek. He coordinator will responsible for the final
completion of the plan.
2. To determine which pilot projects identified in the PNREEC strategic plan
best meet the objectives, have achievable funding goals, and realistically
could be completed within the next 2 -3 years.
This task is the backbone of the project that requires the coordinator and
PNREEC members to evaluate pilot projects, identify opportunities to
leverage funds, coordinate management responsibilities if projects are
implemented. Ultimately, this portion of the project is the key to maintaining
a strong level of support from the participating agencies.
3. Complete an Implementation plan, in conjunction with PNREEC partners that
formalizes projects and establishes detailed project budgets that integrate
funding to more fully secure partnerships.
The implementation plan will identify funding requirements, potential
funding sources and partnerships for habitat improvements, natural park areas,
land acquisitions, interpretive centers, and trail linkages, along with providing
a logical progression for the development of the projects along the two
waterways.
Products/Deliverables:
1. A Strategic Plan focusing on the key pilot projects along the Arkansas River
and Fountain Creek which are achievable within a 2 -3 year timeframe.
The plan will be used by the PNREEC members as a guide for the
development of specific pilot projects. It will also be utilized as a document to
explain and justify the projects recommended for future implementation along
11)
the waterways. The plan will also be utilized as a supporting document for
future funding proposals and requests.
2. A Strategic Plan identifying the partnerships and each partners responsibilities
within the overall Arkansas River and Fountain Creek projects.
The plan will provide recommendations for the management of the in- stream
habitat areas, natural park areas, interpretive displays and exhibits, along with
the trail linkages to the river trail system. This portion of the plan will be
critical for the long -term sustainability of the overall project.
3. A determination of how water quality issues will be incorporated with the
project.
The section of the Strategic Plan will focus on the issues surrounding water
quality and the classification of the streams based on the sustainability of
healthy aquatic species. Another aspect of this section will be an analysis of
the ability to improve water standards that allow for the public to have contact
with the water in the streams. This analysis will take into account other water
users issues and the ability of the City of maintain Class Iwater quality
conditions and still provide for public safety and diversified use of the water
resources.
4. Determine appropriate means of funding the implementation of the projects.
This section of the plan will recommend funding strategies, funding
partnerships, and the ability of the PNREEC members to leverage their funds
with GOCO, other state agencies, federal programs, private foundations, and
educational institutions.
Implementation of the Plan
The pilot projects will require a coordinated management strategy for the Arkansas
River and Fountain Creek areas. This strategy will need to address both physical
improvements and public programs along the waterways. The benefit of this strategy
will be to develop management programs for the PNREEC partners that most
effectively protect the natural resources, provide for public use and education, and
limit the duplication of responsibilities along the waterways.
1. c. Threats and Urgency:
The Army Corps of Engineers is currently working in conjunction with the City of
Pueblo and the Colorado Division of Wildlife to complete significant habitat
improvements in the Arkansas River and wetland improvements in the Fountain
Creek levee area. The Army Corps of Engineers has indicated that up to $4 million
iz
dollars could be anticipated to assist with the funding of these significant
improvements. The City of Pueblo, Colorado Division of Wildlife, and the other
PNREEC partners are in a unique situation to coordinate the efforts of the Army
Corps of Engineers and leverage additional public and private funds to implement
other pilot projects identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan.
Also, there is the opportunity to acquire a series of old gravel pits that are now lakes
and are adjacent to the Arkansas River and below Pueblo Reservoir. The lakes were
established by Valco, Inc., a gravel mining company that has used the area for their
operations during the past 20 years. The lakes cover an area approximately 500 acres
in size that are located on the south side of the river across from the current location
of the Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo. Valco, Inc. has extinguished its gravel
resources in this immediate area and intends to relocate its gravel mining operation
within the next couple of years. The company has offered to donate the property that
contains the series of lakes to the City of Pueblo provided the City can obtain water
rights to account for the evaporative loss of water from the lakes. The value of the
donation is estimated to be between $400,000 and $500,000. The location of the
lakes is also within the area that has been identified for the expansion of Lake Pueblo
State Park. This 500 acres would provide a significant addition of preserved wildlife
habitat and environmental education opportunities to the Arkansas River corridor. If
the water rights issue related to the evaporative water loss is not resolved, Valco, Inc.
could withdraw their offer to donate the property to the City of Pueblo.
As well as, all PNREEC partners are working in supporting the project and are ready
to begin the implementation of the proposed pilot projects identified in the PNREEC
Strategic Plan.
2. b. Need and Benefits of Multi- jurisdictional Planning:
This planning effort will assist the City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, State, and Federal
agencies to develop a plan for implementing the key multi - objective pilot projects
identified in the PNREEC Strategic Plan. A critical need is to coordinate with the
PNREEC partnership agencies to determine what role each agency should undertake to
ensure the successful completion of the projects, along with their responsibilities with
long -term funding and management of the projects. In order to develop an integrated
project plan it is necessary to determine which projects have achievable funding goals,
and realistically could be completed within the next 2 -3 years. The PNREEC Strategic
Plan identified potential pilot projects that could be part of a regional environmental
education program. This planning project will assist the PNREEC partners in developing
a plan that formalizes projects, establishes detailed project budgets that incorporate the
timing of funding and coordination of projects that establishes a logical progression of
the pilot projects.
Pilot projects will progress from the concept/identification stages that are identified
in several local and state plans (see section on related plans), to a point where more
14
detailed plans and funding strategies are determined which will enable the agencies
to begin securing funding to complete the projects.
B. Impact of the Project
1. Project Results:
The strategic plan will prioritize the key element in the Arkansas River and Fountain
Creek Project. It will also develop a funding plan for these projects and coordinate
the management of the river corridors in conjunction with State Parks, the Division of
Wildlife, the City of Pueblo, and the Pueblo Conservancy District. The PNREEC
Committee recognizes that all the pilot projects identified along the river corridors
will not be able to be completed as part of this plan but will be based on available
funds, land availability and cost, and the ability to secure outside funds for specific
portions of the project. The identified projects will have realistic implementation
plans that can be acted on by the appropriate agencies in a systematic progression that
fits with the overall program goals. The resulting projects will be proposed to GOCO
for funding to assist in the accomplishment of the PNREEC Council's goals of
creating and enhancing partnerships and public opportunities within Pueblo County
for awareness, appreciation, and environmental educational experiences in the use
and stewardship of our natural resources and open -space heritage.
The completion of this implementation plan will establish a plan for the PNREEC
partners to preserve and enhance the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek corridors
which are critical areas for birds and riparian animal species in Southern Colorado.
The plan will recommend a strategy to acquire water rights that will result in the
donation of the 500 -acre Chain -of -Lakes property that will likely be incorporated into
the operations of Lake Pueblo State Park, the Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo,
and the Colorado Division of Wildlife. The strategic plan will also recommend
strategies for the development of natural park sites along both the Arkansas River and
Fountain Creek. The trail linkages identified within the PNREEC Strategic Plan will
also be included as part of the regional efforts to link communities to the river
corridors.
The strategy for monitoring and evaluating the program results includes:
1. The Planning Director of the City of Pueblo Planning & Development
Department will supervise the Project Coordinator.
2. Conducting monthly meetings with PNREEC members to monitor the progress of
pilot project plans and funding strategies.
3. Monitoring the key components of the planning effort that include:
a) Water quality and quantity issues in relation to the Army Corps of Engineers
project
b) Water rights needed to secure the Valco property donation
c) Coordination of pilot projects with the Colorado Division of Wildlife
15
d) Coordination of pilot projects with Colorado State Parks
e) Coordination of pilot projects with other affected agencies
The success of the planning effort will be defined and measured by the success of the
partnerships that are formalized to implement the key projects included in the plan.
These partnerships should result in the securing of supplemental grant funds and
donations to enable the plan to be implemented.
2. Likelihood of Implementation:
The projects recommended for the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Plan will be
implemented through a series of joint projects involving federal and state agencies,
local city and county funds, and contributions from private foundations. The
PNREEC partners have indicated their interest in participating in a funding plan that
would incorporate funding from the Army Corps of Engineers, the donation of the
Valco Chain -of -Lakes property, funding from Great Outdoors Colorado, Colorado
State Parks, and the Colorado Division of Wildlife. The City of Pueblo and Pueblo
County have identified the need to provide matching funds for grant projects
identified through this planning process. Funding from the Federal Highway Scenic
Byway Fund and the Federal Highway Enhancement Program will be pursued by the
City of Pueblo and Pueblo County in conjunction with land acquisition of scenic river
corridor property and the development of bicycle /pedestrian access to the river
corridors. The Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo and the Pueblo Zoological
Society will be pursuing contributions from private foundations to assist in funding
displays, an Environmental Education Center, and other improvements.
The potential sources of funding for the Arkansas River/Fountain Creek corridor pilot
projects include the Army Corps of Engineers, GOCO Legacy Grant, Colorado State
Parks, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Valco, Inc., TEA21 Enhancement Project,
Federal Highway Scenic Byway Program, City of Pueblo, Pueblo County, State Trails
Program, Private Foundations, and Educational Institutions. The total project
expenses could reach an estimated $10 million, although several pilot projects could
be completed without all the potential sources of funding. At this time the City has
had preliminary discussions with the funding partners, and they all believe that now is
the time to bring the plan to fruition.
3. Catalyst and Demonstration Value:
The City of Pueblo's plan for implementing pilot projects in the PNREEC Strategic
Plan is a key step for the more than 75 organizations and individuals that initially
were involved in the PNREEC planning process. This project will result in an
implementation plan that will be a powerful tool in securing partnership funds for
development of the pilot projects. While similar strategies have incorporated
cooperative partnerships between funding agencies, the PNREEC concept
16
emphasizing a community -wide effort to enhance environmental education has not
previously been undertaken by other communities in Colorado.
C. Leveraging and Partnerships
1. Leveraging of Funds:
Source
Amount
Cash or In -Kind
City of Pueblo
$15,000
Cash
Pueblo County
$ 5,000
Cash
City of Pueblo
$ 1,500
In -Kind
Pueblo County
$ 1,500
In -Kind
Pueblo Greenway & Nature Center
$ 2,000
In -Kind
Pueblo Zoological Society
$ 4,000
In -Kind
University of Southern Colorado
$ 3,000
In -Kind
Total Amount
$32,000
($20,000 Cash/$12,000 In -Kind)
Please see letters of support for documentation.
2. Partnership and Support:
a. Partnerships
In addition to the in -kind and cash match, members of the Pueblo Natural
Resources and Environmental Education Council will be providing non -cash
support through regular council meetings to provide direction on the
implementation of the plan. Representatives from Pueblo School District #60 and
Pueblo School District #70 will also provide support for the implementation plan.
Letters of Support:
• Pueblo Conservancy District
• Pueblo School District #60 (letter forthcoming, will be forwarded)
• Pueblo School District #70 (letter forthcoming will be forwarded)
b. Support
17
In addition to the in -kind cash and services match, members of the Pueblo Natural
Resources and Environmental Education Council will be providing non -cash
support such as gathering the necessary graphic materials, information, expertise,
and current materials. Partners include, but are not limited to, the local Arkansas
Valley Audubon Society, US Army Corps of Engineers, Natural Resources and
Conservation District, the Girl and Boys Scouts of America, Friends of the River
Trails, Board of Water Works, and the Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway. (See list
of PNREEC members in the Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental
Education Strategic Plan included within the Planning Documents attachment to
this application.
18
Attachments
• Resolution
• Map
• Work Budget
• Timeline
• Letters of Support
Pueblo County Board of County Commissioners
Pueblo Zoological Society
Pueblo Conservancy District
University of Southern Colorado
Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo
• Planning Documents
19
RESOLUTION NO. 8530
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF PUEBLO TO
SUBMIT A PLANNING GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE
PUEBLO ARKANSAS RIVER AND FOUNTAIN CREEK
PROJECT TO THE STATE BOARD OF OUTDOORS
COLORADO TRUST FUND, AND AUTHORIZING THE
PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL TO EXECUTE SAME
WHEREAS, the City of Pueblo supports the Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain
Creek Project and planning grant applications to the State Board of Outdoors Colorado
Trust Fund; and
WHEREAS, the proposed projects have been identified as pilot projects in the City's
Pueblo Natural Resources and Environmental Education Strategic Plan•, and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PUEBLO, COLORADO, that:
SECTION 1
The President of the City Council is hereby authorized to execute and deliver the
planning grant application for the Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project on
behalf of the City of Pueblo, a Municipal Corporation, to the State Board of Outdoors
Colorado Trust Fund, and the City Clerk shall affix the seal of the City thereto and attest
same.
SECTION 2
The grant application is requesting $45,000 from LOCO, with the City of Pueblo
obligating up to $20,000 as cash match from the City's 1999 budget towards the total
project cost.
SECTION 3
A copy of the grant applications are on file at the City of Pueblo's Department of
Planning and Development.
INTRODUCED: September 28, 1998
BY: Corinne Koehler
COUNCIL PERSON
APPROVED: -
PRESIDENT OF CITY COUNCIL
ATTESTED BY:
TY CLERK
ARKANSAS RIVER AND FOUNTAIN CREEK
APRIL 1998
PUEBLO WEST rf • •° c r
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LEGEND: �11v1r0�1.wCr��'n� E��czi - toN GJ •�� SI�S
1. PUEBLO WEST TRAIL LINK
2. ACQUISITION OF THE REMAINING PRIVATE PARCELS OF LAND IN AND
AROUND THE HONOR FARM
3. IMPROVEMENTS AT THE GREENWAY AND NATURE CENTER AND CREATE A
PHYSICAL LINK TO THE CHAIN OF LAKES (ACROSS THE ARKANSAS RIVER)
4. ACQUIRE AND ENHANCE VALCO'S "CHAIN OF LAKES"
5. CREATE STREAM HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE AQUATIC
ENVIRONMENTS IN THE ARKANSAS RIVER FROM PUEBLO DAM
DOWNSTREAM TO THE FOUNTAIN CREEK CONFLUENCE
6. REPLACE THE EXISTING DROP STRUCTURES IN THE ARKANSAS RIVER
WITH BOAT CHUTES
T. ACQUIRE LANDS ADJACENT TO OLIVE MARSH FOR USE AS BUFFERS AND
CREATE ADDITIONAL WETLANDS
8. CREATE A TRAIL LINK TO THE PUEBLO ZOO AND ENHANCE THE EXHIBITS
BY FOCUSING ON LOCAL AND INDIGENOUS WILDLIFE
9. REHABILITATE AND ENHANCE THE ARKANSAS RIVER AND FOUNTAIN
CREEK TRAIL SYSTEM
10. DEVELOP A WILDHORSE CREEK INTERPRETATIVE AREA
11. CREATE A DIRECTIONAL AND INTERPRETIVE SIGNAGE SYSTEM FOR
NATURAL RESOURCE AND RECREATION SITES
12. IMPROVE ACCESS INTO RUNYON LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
13. CREATE WILDLIFE HABITAT IMPROVEMENTS ALONG THOMAS PHELPS
CREEK
14. CREATE WETLANDS IN THE FOUNTAIN CREEK LEVEE AREA
15. CREATE A FOUNTAIN CREEK REGIONAL PARK
16. DEVELOP A TRAIL CONNECTING THE ST. CHARLES MESA AREA ALONG THE
ARKANSAS AND ST. CHARLES RIVERS
PUEBLO ARKANSAS RIVER AND FOUNTAIN CREEK PROJECT
PLANNING GRANT
SEPTEMBER 1998
"DETAILED WORK BUDGET"
SOURCE OF FUNDS
DATE
GOCO
APPLICANT
PARTNER
TOTAL
SECURED
REQUEST
MATCH
MATCH
CASH
1 \99 -4 \99
$45,000
$15,000
$5,000
$65,000
IN -KIND
1. PUEBLO CITY (design &
$1,500
$1,500
mapping)
2. PUEBLO COUNTY
$1,500
$1,500
(mapping & engineering)
3. UNIV. OF SOUTHERN
$3,000
$3,000
COLORADO (surveying
& mapping)
4. PUEBLO ZOOLOGICAL
$4,000
$4,000
SOCIETY (design,
surveying, & engineering)
5. PUEBLO GREENWAY &
$2,000
$2,000
NATURE CENTER
(mapping & tech.
Expertise)
TOTAL SOURCES OF
FUNDS
$45,000
$16,500
$15,500
$77,000
USES OF FUNDS
DATE
GOCO
APPLICANT
PARTNER
TOTAL
USED
FUNDS
FUNDS
FUNDS
PROJECT COORDINATOR
3/99- 12/99
$45,000
$5,000
$3,000
$53,000
IN -KIND SERVICES
2/99- 12/99
$1,500
$10,000
$11,500
TELEPHONE / FAX
$500
$500
PRINTING,
4/99 - 12 \99
$8,500
$2,000
$10,500
REPRODUCTION,
COMPUTER PLOTS
TRAVEL
4 \99- 12 \99
$500
$1,500
TOTAL USES OF FUNDS
$45,000
$16,500
$15,500
$77,000
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KATHY FARLEY
CHAIRPERSON 1997
DR. RICHARD A. MARTINEZ
CHAIRPERSON 1998
JOHN L. KLOMP
CHAIRPERSON 1999
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
September 22, 1998
Mr. Will Shaffroth, Executive Director
State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
303 East 17th Ave., Suite #810
Denver, CO 80203
Dear Mr. Shaffroth:
CHRIS C. MUNOZ
COUNTY CLERK & RECORDER
TERRY HART
COUNTY ATI ORNEY
AIMEE TIHONOVICH
01111_CTOR. OFFICE OP BUDGET
Pueblo County has been an active participant providing both cash and in -kind assistance
for the development of the Pueblo Natural Resources & Environmental Education
Strategic Plan completed by the Pueblo Natural Resources & Environmental Education
Council (PNREEC). The County is one of thirty agencies and local organizations who
have been actively involved in the development of the strategic plan, which identifies
several potential pilot projects for this region.
The PNREEC committee members have identified the pilot projects within the Strategic
Plan that are along the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek as important projects to focus
on implementing during the next 2 -3 years. The County Commissioners recognizes a
critical need to have a project coordinator to work with the organizations to integrate the
pilot projects along the river corridors into a comprehensive environmental
education/ recreation plan. Therefore, we are support the City of Pueblo's planning grant
proposal for the Pueblo Arkansas River & Fountain Creek Project to the Great Outdoors
Colorado Trust Fund.
The Board of County Commissioners is willing to consider providing a cash match, in
addition to the funds being provided by the City of Pueblo, for the planning grant project.
Additionally, the County has committed to provide the following in -kind assistance:
1. Mapping services from the County GIS and Planning Department to assist the project
coordinator.
2. General project engineering assistance for the St. Charles Mesa Trail Connection to
determine pilot project costs and feasibility.
3. Technical review of potential land acquisition costs by the County Planning
Department.
PUEBLO COUNTY COURTHOUSE
215 W. 10TH ST., PUEBLO, CO 81003 -2992
(719) 583 -6000
FAX (719) 583 -6549
�.� ji I� r'
SEP 2 9 199
- _ _ k ro � nrc.r rni
Mr. Will Shaffroth, Executive Director
State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
Page 2 of 2
We encourage the Great Outdoors Colorado Board to consider approving funds for the
City of Pueblo and the many partners to continue the strategic planning effort along
Pueblo's two major waterways.
Sincerely,
X. wz
Dr. Richard A. Martinez
Chairman
f OL. Klomp VKath Farley
cc: John Simmer, Public Works Director
Kim Headley, Director, Planning & Development
Steven Meier, Senior Planner, City of Pueblo Planning Department
SH /sh
E
.-IJUENWAUALLAU11ii
Pueblo Zoological Society
3455 Nuckolls Avenue
Pueblo, CO 81005 -1234
JUY. M` Phone: (719) 561 -1452
PUEBLO Fax: (719) 561 -8686
zoo
Mr. Will Shafroth, Executive Director
State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
303 East 17th Ave., Suite #810
Denver, CO 80203
September 23, 1998
Dear Mr. Shafroth:
As an original member of the Pueblo Natural Resources & Environmental Education Council
( PNREEC), The Pueblo Zoologial Society wishes to support the City of Pueblo's planning grant
proposal for the Pueblo Arkansas River & Fountain Creek Projects. Because of the scope of the
projects, we feel it is necessary to have someone coordinate the efforts on behalf of PNREEC.
This person would work with the PNREEC partners to plan pilot projects, so identified by the
Pueblo Natural Resources & Environmental Education Strategic Plan, that could be implemented
within two to three years.
In the event of your favorable response to this proposal, as its in -kind contribution to this project,
the Zoological Society would provide design, survey, and engineering studies for the North
American river otter exhibit here at the Zoo, valued at $4,000. Construction of Colorado native
animal exhibits at the Zoo, has identified as a key project priority. These studies would be
preliminary to the construction of the exhibit, which would include extensive educational graphics
relating to the natural history of this important Colorado native. In addition, we would commit
$1,500 of staff time to help in this effort.
Sincerely,
9 Jonnene McFarland
Executive Director
SEP 2 41998
AMEIICAN Zoo Am AQUAMM ASSOCIATION
THE PUEBLO CONSERVANCY DISTRICT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS I 11 EAST FIFTH STREET MAILING ADDRESS:
P. KELLY P. O. BOX 234
K. FARLEY 544 -6823 PUEBLO. COLO. 81002
G. SANDSTROM PUEBLO, COLORADO
September 22, 1998
Mr. Will Shaffroth, Executive Director
State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
303 East 17th Ave., Suite #810
Denver, CO 80203
Dear Mr. Shaffroth:
The Pueblo Conservancy District is the owner of a large portion of the property that has
been utilized for Pueblo's unique river trails system. The District has a long - standing
record of supporting Pueblo's trails and ecological areas along our major waterways.
The establishment of the trails, one of the earliest urban trail systems in Colorado, was a
cooperative effort involving both local and state agencies.
As the need to preserve and enhance our waterway environment began receiving local
attention, the Conservancy District participated in the development of the Pueblo Natural
Resources & Environmental Education Strategic Plan. We are one of thirty agencies and
local organizations who have been actively involved in the development of the Pueblo
Natural Resources & Environmental Education Committee's strategic plan, which
identifies several potential pilot projects for this region.
Several of the pilot projects identified in the strategic plan will be located on property
owned by the Conservancy District. These projects will need to be planned in a manner
that allows continued partnerships with Lake Pueblo State Park, the Colorado Division of
Wildlife, the Army Corp of Engineers, as well as other local agencies.
In order to assist the efforts underway, we support the City of Pueblo's planning grant
proposal for the Pueblo Arkansas River & Fountain Creek Project to the Great Outdoors
Colorado Trust Fund.
We recognize the need to have a coordinator to assist the local, state and federal agencies
to further develop the proposed pilot projects for this area including plans for
interpretation, recreation, environmental education, and the implementation of a
stewardship plan for the project improvements.
We encourage the Great Outdoors Colorado Board to consider approving funds for the
City of Pueblo and the many partners to continue the strategic planning effort along
Pueblo's two major waterways.
Sincerely, !:
Gus Sandstrom
Chairman
cc: Pueblo County Board of County Commissioners
Ray Koester, Engineer, Pueblo Conservancy District
Steven Meier, Senior Planner, City of Pueblo Planning Department
U/CUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN COLORADO
2200 Bonforte Boulevard Pueblo, Colorado 81001 - 4901
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS 719 549 - 2340
DEAN OF THE COLLEGE FAX. 719 549 - 2732
September 24, 1998
Mr. Will Shaffroth
State Board of the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
303 East 17` Avenue Suite 810
Denver, CO 80203
Dear Mr. Shaffroth:
The College of Science and Mathematics at the University of Southern Colorado has
been an active participant in assisting with the development of the Pueblo Natural Resources and
Environmental Education Strategic Plan and continue to support the mission of the Pueblo
Natural Resources and Environmental Education Council. We are one of the thirty agencies and
local organizations who have contributed significant support in the form of funding and staff
time to the process of creating the strategic plan which identifies several potential projects for
this region of the State.
We are cognizant of the City of Pueblo's planning grant proposal for the Pueblo Arkansas
River and Fountain Creek Project being submitted to the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund
for consideration for funding and wish to add our commitment to support the Project through
allocating staff time and fiscal resources. The University of Southern Colorado and the College
of Science and Mathematics are aware of the value and need to coordinate the pilot projects
proposed for our region of the State which includes interpretation, recreation, environmental
education, and the implementation of a stewardship plan for the Project improvements.
To the end of the assuring project integrity, coordination and success, we believe it is
essential to have a Project Coordinator whose primary responsibility will be that of facilitating
communication and collaboration among the projects selected for implementation and for
providing the leadership and management necessary to meet the objectives of the Project on
time. The College of Science and Mathematics commits to provide staff time valued at $2,000 to
$3,000 to assist in the completion of the Project.
As Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics, I urge you to consider approving the
funds requested for the City of Pueblo and the numerous partners to continue the strategic
planning effort along Pueblo's two major waterways.
Respectfully,
{{
J
Jack A. Seilheimer, Ph.D.
`4rofessor of Biology
Dean, College of Science and Mathematics
xc: Steven Meier, Senior Planner, City of Pueblo Planning Department SFQ .f X94
/mjm
CHEMISTRY BIOLOGY HUMAN PERFORMANCE AND LEISURE STUDIES MATHEMATICS
NURSING PHYSICS / PHYSICAL SCIENCE PUEBLO GREENWAY AND NATURE-CENTER
GREENWAY&
September 22, 1998
of Pueblo The Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund Board
5200 Nature Center Road 303 East 17th Street, Suite 810
Pueblo, CO 81003 Denver, CO 80203
Office:
(719) 549 -2414
FAX:
(719) 549 -2547
E -mail:
gnc@uscolo.edu
Web Address:
http://www.uscolo.edu/gnc
Dear Board Members:
The Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo has been actively involved in the
development of the Pueblo National Resource and Environmental Education
Strategic Plan and supports the mission of the Pueblo National Resource and
Environmental Education Council ( PNREEC). We are one of thirty agencies and
local organizations who have been actively involved in the development of the
strategic plan, which identifies several potential pilot projects for this region.
We support the City of Pueblo's planning grant proposal for the Pueblo Arkansas
River and Fountain Creek Project to the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund.
The Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo recognizes the need to coordinate the
proposed pilot project for this area including plans for interpretation, recreation,
environmental education, and the implementation of a stewardship plan for the
project improvements. The Greenway and Nature Center is an important regional
education, recreation, and conservation center that is located in this project area.
To this end, we feel it is critical to have a project coordinator whose key role will
be to work with the PNREEC partners in the following ways:
1) To evaluate and coordinate the pilot projects identified within the PNREEC
'< 1 • program and determine which projects best meet the objectives of GOCO
and the PNREEC strategic plan, have achievable funding goals, and
realistically could be completed within the next 2 -3 years.
2)
Work with the PNREEC partners to develop an integrated implementation
plan that formalizes projects, establishes detailed project budgets that
integrate funding to more fully secure pilot partnerships.
A .
3)
Complete pilot project schedules based on timing of funding and
{'
coordination of projects that create a logical progression of implementation.
The Greenway &
Nature Center of Pueblo
is a member supported
nonprofit facility
of the University of
Southern Colorado.
Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund Board, page 2
The Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo commits to provide in -kind services
in the form of technical expertise, continued involvement with the Technical
Advisory Committee of the PNREEC Council and general administrative
assistance. We estimate this assistance is valued at least $2,000.
We encourage the Great Outdoors Colorado Trust Fund Board to consider
approving funds for the City of Pueblo and the many partners to continue the
strategic planning effort along Pueblo's two major waterways. We strongly
support this project and feel that this proposed plan will greatly benefit the
community, region, and state.
Sincerely,
i
`1
Timothy B Sandsmark
Director
c. Steven Meier, Senior Planner, City of Pueblo Planning Department
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PUEBLO NATURAL RESOURCES AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
Presented By The Beasjson Sim ,1; West Into Consia Beam
DS V
i DESIGN STUDIOS WEST, INC.
Section
A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Pueblo Strategic Natural Resources and Environmental Education Plan was
managed by the following Technical Advisory Committee (TAC):
• Steven Meier, Senior Planner; Parks,
N Tim Sandsmark, Director - The
Trails, and Open Space - City of
Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo
Pueblo, Department of Planning and
0 Rich Dudley - Lake Pueblo State Park
Development
N Al Trujillo - Colorado Division of
• Jim Munch, Director - City of Pueblo,
Wildlife
Department of Planning and
0 Steve Lucero - Colorado Division of
Development
Wildlife
• Marty Rahl - Pueblo School District No.
N Jena Ehrenhart - USDA Forest Service
70
0 Tony Langoni - Citizen
• Cindy Elm -Sinn - Pueblo School District
0 Betsy and Reeves Brown - Landowner
No. 60
of the 3R Ranch
• Roy Wiley - Pueblo County GIS Services
0 Utilicorp Energy Delivery - WestPlains
• Marti Osborn - Pueblo Zoological
USDA Forest Service
Society
•
• Jonenne McFarland - Pueblo Zoological
a Southern Colorado Runners
Society
Bureau of Land Management
Project Manager:
■ Steven Meier, Senior Planner, Parks, Trails,
and Open Space - City of Pueblo,
Department of Planning & Development
Thanks to the following entities and organizations for their financial commitment
in the development of this planning document:
•
State Board of Great Outdoors
N Valco, Inc.
Colorado Trust Fund
a CF &I
•
The City of Pueblo
0 Thatcher Foundation
•
Pueblo County
• Pueblo Zoo
•
Pueblo School District No. 60
0 Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo
•
Pueblo School District No. 70
0 Teaching Environment Naturally
•
Colorado Division of Wildlife
(T.E.N.)
•
Colorado State Parks
0 Utilicorp Energy Delivery - WestPlains
•
USDA Forest Service
Energy
•
University of Southern Colorado
a Southern Colorado Runners
•
Bureau of Land Management
0 Pueblo Area Council of Governments
•
Board of Water Works
(PACOG)
•
Pueblo Conservancy District
PUEBLO NATURAL RESOURCES & ENVIRONINtEhTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
31
Section
A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S
Thanks to the following entities for their in -kind services in preparing this
planning document:
• The City of Pueblo's Department of Planning and Development for mapping data and
general administration
• The Pueblo County's Finance Department for the financial administration
• The Pueblo County's GIS Services for mapping data
• The Colorado Division of Wildlife for mapping and wildlife habitat data
PARTNERS
This plan was based upon valuable information and data gathered from various
representative from the following agencies and organizations:
• City Council of Pueblo
0
Valco Inc.
• City of Pueblo - Planning and
X
Public Service Company
Development
a
Utilicorp Energy Delivery/WestPlains
• Pueblo County Commissioners
Energy
• Pueblo County - Planning and
0
CF &I Corporation
Development
0
University of Southern Colorado
• Board of Water Works
Colorado Division of Wildlife
• Pueblo Conservancy District
T.E.N. Committee
• Pueblo School District No. 60
■
Lake Pueblo State Park
• Haaff Elementary School
x
CSU Cooperative Extension
• Pueblo School District No. 70
■
Colorado Southeast Water
• Pueblo County - GIS Center
Conservancy District
• Friends of The River Trail
K
U.S. Forest Service
• 2010 Commission - Environment
0
Bureau of Land Management
• HARP Commission
0
Corps of Engineers - Southern
• Southern Colorado Runners
Colorado Regulatory Office
• Pueblo Zoological Society
0
Natural Resource Conservation Service
• Greenway & Nature Center of Pueblo
0
Girl Scouts Columbine Council
• Arkansas Valley Audubon
M
Boy Scouts
• Pueblo Chamber of Commerce
M
Audubon Society
• Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway
■
George Williams
• COPAA - Colorado Outdoor
■
Tony Langoni
Performing Arts Association
PUEBLO NATURAL RESOURCES & ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
Section
I N T R O D U C T I O N
Introduction
The Pueblo Natural Resources and
Environmental Education Strategic Plan is a
guidebook for citizens and organizations
involved in protecting and enhancing Pueblo's
natural resources, and educating both the
young and old about the importance of the
natural world. The diversity of the natural
resources in the County is of great interest to
the area's citizens, natural scientists, and
educators as a living, learning laboratory for all
to experience and enjoy. The Plan is the result
of collaborative work undertaken by the Pueblo
Natural Resources and Environmental Education
Council ( PNREEC), the City of Pueblo, Pueblo
County, and more than 25 agencies that work
with the natural environment.
This Plan provides an overview of the locations,
organizations, and programs that provide
environmental education in the Pueblo region.
Additionally, it serves to identify ways in which
natural resource awareness and environmental
education in the Pueblo region may be
enhanced through partnerships and
cooperation. Partnerships that will result from
this plan are important to expanding the ability
of member organizations to provide quality
environmental education programs. The Plan
identifies means by which members can share
resources and coordinate efforts.
Additionally, this Plan responds to, and builds
on, previous planning efforts conducted in
Pueblo County including the following.
• Pueblo Regional Comprehensive
Development Plan, 1980.
• Communities ofPueblo County
Strategic Plan, November 1994.
Preliminary Alaster Plan, prepared for
the Pueblo Conservancy District,
August 1994.
• Pueblo Integrated Resource
Management and Conservation Plan,
April 1996.
Pueblo Natural Resources
Environmental Education
Council
The development and preparation of this plan
was initiated by the Pueblo Natural Resources
Environmental Education Council ( PNREEC).
The Council was created as a coalition of
groups, agencies, and organizations. The stated
mission of the PNREEC is the following.
"To create and enhancepartnersbips and
public opportunities within Pueblo County
for awareness, appreciation, and
environmental educational experiences in
the use and stewardship of our natural
resources and open -apace heritage. "
Each of the member organizations is involved
in educating people about the natural resources
of the Pueblo region. The focus of education
efforts is to help people learn about and
appreciate the unique resources of the area,
and understand the need to protect these
resources. It is the common belief of this group
that only through education can we preserve,
protect, and truly appreciate our natural
resources. A complete list of PNREEC members
can be found in Appendix A.
The PNREEC was established in January 1995,
when more than 75 organizations and citizens
joined together to discuss ways they could
improve environmental education throughout
Pueblo County. The Council's first task was to
prepare this Plan. As a measure of the
importance of the group and this plan, the
PNREEC was recognized by state -wide
Environmental Education umbrella organization
for its efforts. In March 1996, the Pueblo
Natural Resource and Environmental Education
PUEBLO NATURAL RESOURCES & ENVLRONMEN ,-& EDUCATION STRATEGIC PL1N
I.I
Section
1 N T R O D U C T 1 0 N
Council received the "Citizen- Community
Partnership Award" from the Colorado Alliance
for Environmental Education. The Colorado
Alliance for Environmental Education presents
awards that recognize the dedication required
by environmental partnerships to accomplish
their work.
Geographical Context
Pueblo County is located on the Front Range of
the Rocky Mountains, approximately 100 miles
south of Denver (Figures 1 -3). The area has a
diverse landscape and environment. Elevations
range from the peak of Greenhorn Mountain in
the west, at over 12,300 feet, to the eastern
edge of the County at approximately 4,000 feet.
Within that elevation range are multiple small
environments, each with interesting, diverse,
and fragile components.
The Pueblo region can be characterized as
having four main physiographic areas: the
mountains, foothills, plains, and the water
courses and eater bodies which run through
them (Figure 4). Additionally, there are
environmental education sites, such as the
Pueblo Zoo and the Greenway and Nature
Center, which offer learning opportunities that
cross many of the physiographic boundaries.
Plan Organization
The Plan is organized into four sections, which
form the body of the report, plus the
appendices. Section One, Introduction,
provides background information about the
PNREEC, the purpose of the Plan, and a
summary of the planning process. Section Two,
Pueblo's Natural Resources, lists and describes
the many sites and features significant within
the Pueblo region, some of which may play an
important role in expanding environmental
education. Section Three, Environmental
Education in Pueblo County, contains
descriptions of the environmental education
programs in the Pueblo region; it emphasizes
strengths and weaknesses, with suggestions for
improvements. Additionally, it identifies
additional, helpful resources for anyone
involved in environmental education. Section
Four, Strategic Plan of Action, charts a course
for implementing the objectives of this Plan.
This section recommends specific Pilot Projects
in environmental education, and presents an
ongoing process to fulfill the mission of the
PNREEC. Finally, it provides suggestions for
maintaining and updating the Plan document.
The Plan document has been designed to be
used in its entirety, but some individual
portions may also be used outside the
document without a loss of understanding.
The Plan document is structured around the
four, broad physiographic areas identified
within the Pueblo region: Mountains, Foothills,
Plains, and Water Features (both Water Courses
and Water Bodies). These physiographic areas
form the basis for environmental education as
described in the Plan. Within each of the
physiographic areas, the sites have been
grouped into "environmental education units."
These units are a method of cataloging natural
resource and environmental education
opportunities in the Pueblo region.
Each of the Environmental Education Units
focus on three major themes. The themes are:
• uniqueness and similarity of the
physiographic areas including all the
natural elements (i.e. climate, geology,
physiography, soils, vegetation,
wildlife, etc.);
the ecologic systems of each area, their
interactions, and their influence on
each other and the natural, cultural,
and historic development of the
region; and
• the Arkansas River, its natural and
man -made systems, and its influences
on Pueblo County.
PUEBLO N AT U R AL R & E NVIRONMENT AL E D U C A TION STRATT.GIC PLAN
1.2
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Section
I N T R O D U C T I O N
` D
Purpose of the Strategic Plan
This Plan is to serve as a resource and
guidebook for the organizations and individuals
involved in natural resources and environmental
education in the Pueblo community. It is a
single source where natural resources and
environmental education sites and programs in
the Pueblo region are described, and users of
the Plan may find helpful information on
curriculum planning, funding, partnerships, and
teaching aids.
Goals of the Strategic Planning project were
identified as:
• identify the significant natural resource
areas which have value or potential for
Education and Recreation in Pueblo
County, and focus on "resource area
themes," such as, the mountains,
foothills, plains, and river
environments;
• identify existing environmental
education programs in the region, and
define where facilities and experiences
are needed to educate people about
the area's natural resources in the four
theme areas (mountains, foothills,
prairie, and water);
• within the "resource area themes,"
analyze the existing recreation facilities
which enable people to understand
and experience the environment; and
• related to the resource area themes,
generate ideas and pilot programs
which help promote the conservation
of our natural resources; outline ideas
which define what is needed to help
improve and advance environmental
education related to the natural
resources; and define what is needed
to sensitively improve the recreational
experience in the region's natural
resource areas.
The PNREEC established a set of objectives
through interviews with various agencies and
organizations that provide or have an interest in
the area's natural resources and environmental
education. In no particular order, the most
frequently stated objectives were the following:
• create greater awareness of the
importance of natural resources and
agriculture;
• expand public opportunities through
the identification of significant natural
resource sites;
• incorporate historic resources into
environmental education;
• conserve natural and agricultural
resources and promote their
sustainable use;
• inventory and identify recreation and
natural resource sites and
opportunities;
• invoke long range direction in
planning and resource protection;
• incorporate environmental education
into school curriculum and improve
educational experiences;
• create and enhance partnerships in
developing environmental education
opportunities and natural resource
sites;
• generate pilot projects, programs, and
renovation projects, and
enhance regional understanding of
wildlife and other natural systems;
• provide environmental education
opportunities; and
• identify unique and significant open
space resources.
The information, policy recommendations, and
pilot projects contained in this plan are in
response to the stated intent, purpose, and
objectives of the Pueblo Natural Resource
Environmental Education Council.
PUEBLO NATUR.iL RESOURCES & ENNIRONNIEN IAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
1 -7
C
Se�ctl�on
P U E B L O' S N A T U R A L
Plains
The plains or prairie theme is defined as those
lands lying below 5,600 feet. The plains rise
gently from an elevation of about 4,000 feet in
the easterly portion of the County along the
Arkansas River to 5,600 feet where they meet
the foothills nearly 50 miles to the west. The
plains theme encompasses most of central and
eastern Pueblo County. The plains are
characterized in their native state by flat to
rolling short grass prairie devoid of trees,
except along watercourses.
Plains Strengths
• Wildlife Habitat
• Numerous Sites
• Visual Opportunities
• Agricultural Opportunities
• Open Space
• Historic
Plains Weaknesses /Threats
• Public lack of understanding of prairie
Eco- System
• Fragility of the Eco- System
Plains Theme Sites
Plains theme sites recommended for
environmental education, and /or recreational
sites include:
• Butler Ranch*
• COPAA (Colorado Outdoor
Performing Arts Association)
• Doyle School and Settlement
• Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway*
• Greenway and Nature Center*
• HAAFF Earthship (proposed)
• Historic Goodnight Ranch /Barn
• Honor Farm
• Hudson LLC Ranch*
• Hunter Education Building
• Lake Pueblo State Park
• Liberty Point Park
• Pike's Stockade
R E S O U R C E S
• Pueblo Chemical Depot (PCD)
• Pueblo City Parks
• Pueblo State Wildlife Area
• Pueblo Zoo
• Runyon Lake State Wildlife Area
• St. Charles Mesa Agricultural area
• Transportation Technology Center
(TTC)
* site located in more than one
theme area
P UEBLO NAT R ESOURCES & E NVIRONMENTAL E DUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
2 -33
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
PLAINS THEME
GREENWAY AND NATURE CENTER OF
PUEBLO
Pbj Location: 5200 Nature Center Road (off 11` Street)
Mission: The Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo (GNC) serves the region by providing
quality educational, recreational, and conservation programs related primarily to the
environment, natural, and cultural history.
Physical Description: The GNC is located on approximately 75 acres of land leased from the
City of Pueblo and the State of Colorado. This land is a blend of aquatic, riparian, and
semi -arid, short -grass prairie environments. The GNC is the primary access point for the
21 -mile Greenway River Trail System, which adjoins 16 more miles of trails at Lake
Pueblo State Park. There are a number of educational and recreational facilities located
at the GNC.
Owner and/or Managing Agency: The GNC is managed by the University of Southern
Colorado under a lease arrangement with the old Greenway and Nature Center of
Pueblo, Inc. The lease provides to USC the facilities and assets of the Nature Center and
responsibility to operate the GNC. Under the arrangement, USC did not assume any
debts or liabilities of the GNC Inc. In exchange for the lease, USC provides the GNC
Inc. with monthly lease payments (in actuality, these lease payments are being used by
the GNC Inc. Board to repay loans made to the Nature Center in late 1992 that was part
of a financial bailout plan. When the loans are paid the eventual plan is to merge the
two organizations under USC management)
Access (public or private): Open to the public 365 days per year sunrise to sunset. The
GNC riverfront area is 100% ADA accessible. The office, gift shop, interpretive center,
and Raptor Center are open Tuesday - Sunday (hours vary by season).
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
• Recreation
•
Biking
•
Roller Blading
•
Hiking
•
Eating at Cafe del Rio
•
Picnicking
•
Fishing
•
Nature Study
•
Birdwatching
•
Recreational Learning
•
View Raptors at Raptor Center
PUEBLO NATURAL RESO &c ENVIRONMENTAL E DUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
2 -38
SQ.
PUEBLO'S N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E S
• Tubing
• Rafting
• Horseback Riding
• General Relaxing
• Special events, such as "Bluegrass on the River Festival," summer dances, rolling
river raft race, Halloween spook trails, cleaning the rivers day, Earth Day activities,
and other events.
• Natural Resources
♦ Raptor Center rehab program, trying to preserve aquatic, riparian and short -grass
prairie areas.
• Environmental Education
• Greenway and Nature Center programs served 14,300 people in 1996.
• School Programs. all school programs are correlated with the Colorado Model
Content Standards. For the 1996 -1997 school year they are as follows:
— Arkansas River Life (grades K -6`
— Jurassic Giants (grades K -4 `
— The Ecology of Plants of the Nature Center (grades 3rd -8th)
— Nature Discovery Walk (grades K -4`
— Bats to the Rescue (grades K- adult)
— The Wiley Coyote (grades K -8`
— Critters and creatures of Colorado (grades K -8`
— Birds of Prey (grades K- adult)
— Owls of Colorado (grades K- adult)
— Bird of Prey Pellet Dissection (grades 3rd -8rh)
— Raptor Identification (grades 3r -8`
— Star Watch (grades 6` adult)
— Self- Guiding Activities (grades 1" -6` Aquatic Discovery Kit and Eco -games kit
Many of these programs are conducted on and off -site
— Weekend programs. Programs on a wide variety of subjects are presented to the
general public almost every n throughout the year (subject matter and
programs vary from month to month and year to year).
— EcoCamp program: Twelve half -day, full -day, overnight, and traveling camps are
offered throughout the summer for kids from ages 4 to high school. About 25%
less privileged kids attend on scholarships each summer.
— After - school Junior Naturalist program: Offered primarily to 4` -6` grades on a
variety of subjects.
— `Beyond Fishing "program: Intensive eight month fishing program for at -risk
teens.
— Teaching Environmental Science (T.E.N.) program: the GNC is a participant in
this program and offers our site for activities.
PUEBLO NATupu REsoURCEs & ENNIRONSIENrAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLICN
2 -39
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Section
.
P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
Potential Uses
Recreation: Same as above under existing uses.
Natural Resources. Same as above; however, we are trying to manage these resources more
effectively through planning. We currently have a Master's Thesis project with a graduate
student completing an integrated ecological assessment of the GNC. We are also applying
for funding to complete a strategic plan for the GNC, which will help us plan for existing
and future uses of the GNC, land acquisition, such as the VALCO ponds south of us, VALCO
lands to the west of us, and Private land to the north and west of us (or utilization through
leases with other public agencies). Additionally, protecting fragile areas, planning for and
managing recreation use (planning for recreation use zones or developing a mini -ROS -
Recreation Opportunity Spectrum orientation for the GNC) are potential projects. Also,
managing use through management monitoring techniques such as LAC- Limits of Acceptable
Change or others that may now exist are methods being investigated by the GNC.
Environmental Education: Future program ideas include the following:
• developing an Elderhostel program (a service learning program has been developed
with Pueblo Community College that will be offered in September, 1997)
• pre - school programs
• more middle and high school programs
• further development of Junior Naturalist programs that have progressed through the
ranks
• Environmental Education programs with cultural emphasis (we may bring back the
Native American encampment program)
• prehistoric hunter/ gatherer program
• more geologic history (with rock Canyon and bluffs, fossils, etc.)
• programs with a sustainability theme focus (land -use, agriculture, alternative energy
forms and building methods, composting, xeriscaping, etc.)
• further development of the "Beyond Fishing" program
• completion of "EarthTalks" environmental speakers bureau program that will provide
a menu of program speakers and topics to area schools, service clubs, and
organizations, etc.
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
A current Master Plan is not in place.
Planning Needs
A grant application was made for a GOCO planning grant. We are also in dire need of
doing some public surveying to help determine the public's needs and desires for what the
GNC should be to them.
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Section
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• USC
• Schools Districts 60 and 70
• CDOW
• State Parks
• VALCO
• Friends of the River Trail
• Arkansas Valley Audubon Society
• Pueblo County
• City of Pueblo
• Pueblo Zoo (currently have a joint composting project called ( "Natures Wild Doo ")
• Pueblo Board of Water Works
• Greater Arkansas River Nature Association
• El Pueblo Museum
• Pueblo County Historical Society
• GNC Members
• U.S. Forest Service
• BLM
• Members of the PNREEC Council
User Groups:
• General Public from city, county, region, state, country and world
• School age children from throughout southeastern Colorado
• Hikers
• Bikers
• Walkers
• Fishermen
• Picnickers
• Nature Lovers
• Rafters
• Tubers
• Horseback Riders
• Audiences attracted by specific special events
Grant Support Partners:
• See above under developing partners, also grant sources like GOCO, private
foundations, private individuals, and businesses.
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• In general, staff and funding. More specifically: regarding the acquisition of the VALCO
property, the biggest obstacle here is funds to pay for water augmentation rights in the
pond across from GNC. There appears to be willingness on VALCO's part to transfer
ownership of this pond and land to a public entity when they are through mining.
)
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
Their also appears to be willingness to transfer land that they are mining to the west of
the GNC to a public entity, too. However, they won't be through mining for another 10
to 15 years. Access to the pond area would also need to be worked out; that could be a
bridge across the Arkansas River from the GNC, or a trail or road access from the south
side of the river. In addition, if the ponds and other land to the south and west of the
GNC were to be put in the public trust, there are many details to be planned for, such as
who will manage, how land will be used, trails and facilities needed, protection of the
resource, who will pay for this management, etc.
)
i
• Regarding acquisition of private lands to the north and west of the GNC, this would
need to be done with the cooperation of Lake Pueblo State Park and the landowner,
who must be willing to sell, and then funds have to. be secured to buy the land. There
is also one landowner (Greg Adams) that operates a "Native American Cultural Center"
on about 60 acres of the land between the GNC and the State Park. He appears to be
there to stay and we don't really have much information on the place and whether this
will offer some potential partnership possibilities or potential conflicts.
• Planning efforts and future program development obstacles are staff time and expertise
and funding. We do not lack ideas, but rather, time and money to carry them out and
research the needs of the public.
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
PLAINS THEME
PUEBLO ZOO
Physical Location: City Park, corner of Goodnight and Pueblo Blvd., 3455 Nuckolls Ave.
Mission: Pueblo Zoo seeks to make an impact on present and future generations by
exhibiting and interpreting varied aspects of the living world in an enjoyable setting, by
participation in the conservation of animal species, and by encouraging related research.
Physical Description: The Zoo covers an area of 25 acres. The Zoo exhibits 310 animals of
119 species. Of those, approximately 20 percent are local species. Among its assets it
has the only zoo interactive discovery room in the state; a small mammal building; a
herpetarium; a rainforest; a penguin exhibit with underwater viewing; a Colorado
wetlands area; interpretive signage on all exhibits; and graphics interpreting a variety of
biological concepts, as well as the culture of indigenous peoples. A variety of gardens
and planting areas include butterfly, perennial, and native gardens, as well as
replications of animal habitats. The Zoo Historic District is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places.
Owner and/or Managing Agency: The Zoo is owned by the City of Pueblo and managed
under contract by the Pueblo Zoological Society.
Access (public orprivate): Public, from west via Pueblo Blvd. and from east via Goodnight
Blvd. It is open to the public 362 days /year.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
• Regularly scheduled programs utilized by school classes:
• Grades Pre K - K - "Close Encounters of the Animal Kind" (live animals)
• Grades 1 - 2 - "Animal Coats and Colors" (camouflage, etc.)
• Grades 2 - 3 - "Animal Babies"
• Grades 3 - 5 - "Animal Signs and Sounds" (biological indications of animal presence)
• Grades 3 - 4- "Zoo Outreach" (Docents go to schools with programs on reptiles,
birds, and mammals, then children come to the Zoo for a guided tour).
• Grade 2 through adult - "Colorado Animals" (slides and hands -on biofacts)
• Grade 4 through adult - "While There's Still Time" (endangered species) and
"Knights of Nature" (Anthropoids)
• Adult programs and classes on ecology and landscape design using primarily native
plants.
• Grade 2 and up - "Penguin World"
• Grade 2 and up - "Green Cathedral" (Tropical rainforest)
• Grade 2 and up - "Knights of Nature" (Insects and their relatives)
• Teacher education class each summer for graduate credit. Most recent class was
"Biodiversity, Endangered Species, and Zoos"
• TEN Program (Teaching Environmental Science Naturally)
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P U E B L O' S N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E S
• Zoo staff and docents give animal presentations throughout the summer and fall on
grounds.
• Summer day camps and weekend classes during winter.
• Classes use both native and exotic animals and biofacts, with the exception of the
"Colorado Animals" program which utilizes only native species.
• Gardens and animal habitats contain interpretive elements.
• The zoo's staff is frequently consulted as a resource for the identification of various
animal species, from anthropoids to mammals.
)
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Potential Uses:
• Add more local species to Zoo exhibits including the following:
• A River Otter Exhibit, with a pool for underwater viewing, terrestrial habitat, and an
animal holding area.
• An overlook at the Bison -Elk Exhibit to include a visitor viewing area, new
walkways, appropriate prairie landscaping, and the addition of wild turkeys to the
exhibit area.
• A Colorado Prairie Bird Exhibit and Waterfowl holding building will be the second
phase in the renovation and development of a complex featuring Colorado birds.
Construction of a holding building will provide winter quarters for white pelicans
and sandhill cranes, a "nursery" area for native waterfowl, and a breeding/exhibit
facility for endangered prairie chickens.
• An exhibit identifying and interpreting all species of Reptiles and Amphibians found
in Pueblo County.
• Construction of a teepee village overlooking bison /elk exhibit with program and graphic
interpretation of Native Americans' utilization of the bison, as well as their connections
with other local plant and animal species, i.e., importance to the prairie ecosystem.
• Further development of Colorado Wetlands area and interpretive programs.
• Addition of exhibits on Pueblo County/Colorado species including Pueblo County
Reptiles and Amphibians, native plants, nocturnal prairie species, etc., and development
of programs related to Colorado endangered species.
• Expansion of existing prairie area to include shelter /habitat for prairie birds such as
prairie chickens or grouse.
• Installation of a xeriscape /native demonstration garden (planning underway funded by a
grant from the American Association of Zoo Horticulturists).
• Addition of Colorado species to the collection, which will require modification and /or
construction of exhibits.
• Adaptive re- use /renovation of Zoo Historic District.
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
"The Pueblo Zoo Master Plan." Staff and planning committee members are working with an
architect to develop a master plan for the Zoo's Historic District.
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• City of Pueblo
• Pueblo County
• Pueblo Zoological Society
• Colorado Division of Wildlife
User Groups:
• Pre -K through 16 school classes from Southern Colorado and Northern N.M.
• General public, e.g., families, seniors, tourists
Grant Support PartnerN:
•
School Districts
•
Colorado Division of Wildlife
•
TEN
•
USC
•
City of Pueblo
•
Pueblo County
•
Nature Center
•
Audubon Society
Note: Current partnerships include: (1) a project with The Greenway and Nature Center in
which the Zoo sends its animal wastes to the Center grounds for composting, and Juniper Valley
Industries (Colorado Correctional Facilities) provides the equipment and labor for composting,
bagging, and sales; (2) working cooperatively with members of the "TEN" project in helping in
the development of education classes for in- service teachers; and (3) working cooperatively
with both school districts.
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• Financial support for operations is probably the biggest limiting factor
• Escalating costs of new exhibit construction and renovation certainly is also very
restrictive.
• Many antiquated facilities with a high cost of renovation
• Increased competition for contributed /granted funds.
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See�t'ion
P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
Water Courses and
Water Bodies
The watercourse theme occurs along the banks
and floodplains of rivers, streams, creeks, and
other water bodies including lakes and
reservoirs. In the plains lowlands, the water
courses are typically the only natural areas with
trees. The lowland water courses join the
mountain rater courses and their associated
plant communities at the base of the foothills.
Since streams and rivers run at all altitudes, they
form continuous links that cut across
mountains, foothills, and prairie. Water courses
are therefore important dynamic areas that act
as migration corridors that link mountain to
foothill and foothill to plains.
Water Strenths
• Diversity of Plant and Animal usage
• Abundance
• Water Quality
• Life sustaining
• Critical riparian habitat
• Wetland
Water Weaknesses /Threats
• Attraction to development
• Riparian habitat degredation and loss
• Minimum in- stream flow
• Water Shed Management beyond
Pueblo's boundaries
• Ground Water Contamination
• Minimal Stream flow
• Wetland Destruction
Water Theme Sites
Watercourse theme sites recommended for
environmental education, and /or recreational
sites include the following.
Upper Courses and Bodies
• Lake Isabel Recreation Area*
• Saint Charles River, Canyon, and
Tributaries*
Lower Courses and Bodies
• . Arkansas River
• Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Trail
System
• Conduit (TEN) Trail at Pueblo State
Wildlife Area
• Fountain Creek and Trails
• Greenhorn Creek*
• Greenway & Nature Center*
• Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of
Pueblo (HARP)
• Huerfano Lake
• Huerfano River and Canyon*
• Lake Pueblo
• Lake Pueblo Dam
• Minnequa Lake
• Olive Marsh - Arkansas River
• Pueblo Fish Hatchery
• Pueblo State Wildlife Area*
• Rock Canyon
• Runyon Lake State Wildlife Area*
• Saint Charles Lakes 2 & 3 (CFI
Reservoirs)
• Saint Charles River*
• Salt Creek
• Thomas Phelps Creek - Runyon Trail
Linkage
• Urban Arkansaa Drainage
• VALCO's "Chain of Lakes"
• Wildhorse Creek
* site located in more than one theme
area
• Graneros Creek and Gorge*
• Greenhorn Creek*
• Lake Beckwith State Wildlife Area*
)
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PUEBLO'S NATURAL RESOURCES
WATER THEME
ARKANSAS RIVER
Physical Location: The Arkansas River runs from nest to east across the center of Pueblo
County and the City.
Mission: None
Physical Description: The Arkansas River is a major drainage basin in Southern Colorado
and nest of the Mississippi River. In the late 1980's, the Colorado State Parks and the
Bureau of Land Management developed the Arkansas River Recreation Management Plan
for approximately 150 miles of the River, from Leadville to Lake Pueblo. The
headwaters begins in a high mountain valley surrounded by snow - capped peaks of the
Collegiate Range and runs through Browns Canyon, the Arkansas River Canyon, the
Royal Gorge, and then onto the plains before entering Lake Pueblo. The landscape is
rugged as the River flows between narrow canyons and open parks. The course of the
River parallels State Highways 50 and 24. In Pueblo County, the River runs gently along
a serpentine course dropping only 15 vertical feet per mile and is lined by cottonwood
and willow stands of vegetation.
Owner and/or Managing Agency. The Arkansas River Recreation Park is owned and
managed by BLM, the State Parks, National Forest, and privately owned lands.
Access (public orprivate): Access for the public is via road crossings and around Lake
Pueblo. Through the City the trail runs along the River, providing a great means of
access.
Existing Uses
Some private, consisting of agriculture related activities. The public areas see a variety of
uses including the following.
• White water boating activities
• Picnicking
• Fishing
• Sightseeing
• Camping
• Hiking
Potential Uses
To further develop the Environmental Education opportunities along the corridor.
Is there a Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
The Arkansas River Recreation Management Plan and Environmental Analysis.
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
Planning Needs
Develop an acquisition plan for the privately owned lands.
Partnerships
Developing Partner:
• City of Pueblo
• Pueblo County
• Corps of Engineers
• Natural Resource Conservation Service
• Division of Wildlife
• Colorado State Parks
• School District 60 and 70
• Friends of the River Trail
• Other interested groups
User Groups.
Same as the developing Partners.
Grant Support Partner.
Same as the developing Partners.
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
Acquiring private lands and funds.
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WATER THEME
ARKANSAS
CREEK TR2
P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
RIVER AND
LIL SYSTEM
FOUNTAIN
Physical Location: The Fountain Creek Trail runs north and south from Jerry Murphy Road
north of State Highway 47 to the Arkansas River, where it connects to the Arkansas River
Trail system. The Arkansas River Trail runs east and west from the Fountain Creek and
Arkansas River confluence west to Pueblo Lake State Park. From here it connects with
the trail system at the state park. A spur route goes from the Arkansas River Trail just
east of Pueblo Boulevard and runs several miles along the north side of the Arkansas
and up Wildhorse Creek.
Mission: No formal mission, but trails are multi -use recreation trails serving walkers,
bicyclists, runners, roller - bladers, fishermen, horseback riders, and others.
Physical Description: Trails meander through riparian areas along Fountain and Wildhorse
Creeks and the Arkansas River in areas that range from heavily urbanized and disturbed
to less disturbed natural areas. State Park portions of trails traverse short grass prairie
areas along the reservoir and the riparian areas along the Arkansas River.
Owner and/or Managing Agency: Most of the land that the trails cross is owned by the City,
State or the Pueblo Conservancy District. The trail system in the state park is owned and
managed by the State Park. The remaining portions are managed and maintained by the
City of Pueblo Parks and Recreation Department under the guidance of the Friends of
the River Trail organization (an organization of user groups, interested citizens, non-
profit organizations like the Greenway and Nature Center and City and County
government). This group oversees the expenditure of $35,000 to $40,000 of annual
maintenance funds and assists in writing grants for new and replacement trail projects.
The Pueblo Police and Sheriffs Departments do some seasonal bike patrolling and the
Greenway and Nature Center has a volunteer Trail Ranger program that routinely patrols
the trail.
Access (public or private): Open year round. The most popular access point is at the
Greenway and Nature Center where parking, restroom, water, picnic, food, and other
services are available.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
• Recreation
• Biking
• Rollerblading
• Hiking
• Fishing
• Nature study
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
• Birdwatching
• Horseback Riding
• Access to river and creeks
• Environmental Education:
The following organizations use the trail to access areas for Environmental Education
• Some District 60 and 70 schools
• The Greenway and Nature Center
• State Parks
• CDOW
• Specific: Standard conservation and management programs in cooperation with the
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) exist with numerous landowners along
the river course. Any other cooperative planning efforts, such as wildlife conservation,
development, etc., are not known of at this time. Water management is in conjunction
with the State Water Engineer and with several private ditch companies including the
Huerfano, Welton, and Dotson. The Cucharas reservoir controls water releases to some
degree.
Potential Uses
• Recreation: same as above in existing uses
• Environmental Education: same as above in existing uses, but could be expanded
• Watchable Wildlife
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
Planning Needs
Partnerships
Developing Partners
• University of Southern Colorado
• School Districts 60 and 70
• CDOW
• State Parks
• VALCO
• Friends of the River Trail (which includes the Greenway and Nature Center, Arkansas
Valley Audubon Society, Southern Colorado Runners, Pueblo County, City of Pueblo
Planning and Parks and Recreation Department, Pueblo senior Walkers, El Pueblo
Mountain Club, Pueblo Family YMCA)
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PUEBLO'S N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E S
User Groups:
• General public from city, county, region, state, country, and World
• School age children from throughout the area
• hikers
• bikers
• walkers
• fishermen
• picnickers
• nature lovers
• rafters
• tubers
• horseback riders
• etc.
Grant Support Partner:
• Same as above developing partners
• GOCO
• Private Foundations
• Private Individuals
• Businesses
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• In general, funding. Many portions of the trail are heavily damaged or destroyed and in
need of replacement. To replace with multi -use trail material (concrete and
accompanying crusher fine) will costs in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. There
are also new sections of trail that need to be constructed as identified in the Pueblo
County Trails Master Plan, which will cost in the millions of dollars. Some of these
projects include extending the trail east along the Arkansas River and St. Charles River,
extending the Fountain Creek Trail to the University of Southern Colorado, extending
the Arkansas River Trail to Pueblo West, and new trail links in and to the Historic
Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo.
• Another barrier or challenge is trail user safety and general trail aesthetics along certain
portions of the trail.
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P U E B L O ' S N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E S
WATER THEME
FOUNTAIN CREEK
Ph}sical Location: Fountain Creek is approximately 45 miles long, extending from near
Pikes Peak in the Rampart Range west of Colorado Springs, to the Arkansas River in the
City of Pueblo
Mission: None
i
Ph} -sisal Description: The Fountain Creek carries run -off from a drainage area of 927 square
miles. The headwaters are fed from glacial snow -packs and springs of the alpine west
slope canyons of Pikes Peak. The eco- system of the creek is made up of aspens, spruce,
and pine existing in and along the narrow canyon walls near the start of the creek. The
transition to foothills takes place near Colorado Springs. This area consists of gently
sloping mesas with pine, pinon, cedar, and oak vegetation covering the area. South of
Colorado Springs, the creek slows down and becomes wide and shallow. The
vegetation is sparse and typically semi -arid high plains, predominantly sage brush,
cactus, willows, cottonwoods, and native grasses.
Owner and /or Managing Agency: The Fountain Creek is owned by several different owners:
City of Pueblo owns the portion within the City limits. The Corps of Engineers, U.S.
Army, Albuquerque, New Mexico District manages the flooding in the watershed. The
Natural Resource Conservation Service also works with the landowners to assist in
managing the soils and erosion along the creek.
Access (public orprivate): Access is only available when a road either crosses the Creek or
parallels it. There are approximately five miles of bicycle /pedestrian trails along the east
side of Fountain Creek within the City limits of Pueblo.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
Primarily private and agriculture related uses. The area within the City limit of Pueblo
currently has many uses consisting of recreation uses on the trail (bicycling, pedestrian,
roller blade, jogging, etc.) to educational uses such as nature walks, riparian and wetland
studies, elementary classroom activities /studies, etc.
Potential Uses:
To further develop the environmental education opportunities and improve the trail system
along the Fountain Creek corridor.
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
Yes, trail system only.
P UEBLO NA TURAL RESOURCES R ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
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PUEBLO ' S NATURAL RESOURCE S
Planning Needs
Needs to develop a Master Plan of the Environmental Education opportunities along the
creek and coordinate similar interest and activities to prevent duplicating programs, also
make others aware of what the opportunities are in the creeks corridor.
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• City of Pueblo
• Pueblo County
• Corps of Engineers
• Natural Resource Conservation Service
• School districts No's. 60 and 70
• University of Southern Colorado
• Friends of the River Trails organization
• Other Interest Groups
User Groups:
• Same as the Developing Partners
Grant Support Partner.-
• Same as Developing Partners
• Division of Wildlife
• Nature Center
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• Vandalism and developing costs.
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
WATER THEME
OLIVE MARSH - ARKANSAS RIVER
Physical Location: North side of the Arkansas River floodplain, east of Pueblo Blvd. and
across the River from City Park
Mission: None
Physical Description: Olive Marsh is a flood plain riparian wetland characterized w /Russian
Olive trees.
Owner and /or Managing Agency: Owned by the City of Pueblo; managed by the City and
the Division of Wildlife with a portion leased for private grazing.
Access (public orprivate): Private with some limited public access.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
• Recreation trails
Potential Uses:
• Wetland ecological systems & wildlife
• Exotic vegetation influence on natural systems
• Watchable Wildlife
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses? Give title: None
Planning Needs
• Olive Marsh clean -up (see Zoo needs)
• Low Impact (see Zoo needs)
• Purchase /Lease property
• Provide linkage w /City Park /Zoo
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• City Park
• Pueblo Zoo
• CDOW
• Audobon Society
• Greenway and Nature Center of Pueblo
• School District 60 and 70
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
User Groups
• Public
• Private Lease
Grant Support Partner.
• GOCO
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• Costs for minor improvements
• Private ownership of land around the marsh
• Threatened development on the edge, of the marsh
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
WATER THEME
ST. CHARLES RIVER
Physical Location: The St. Charles River is approximately 50 miles long, originating near San
Isabel, on the northeast face of Greenhorn Peak in the Wet Mountain range. The
confluence with the Arkansas River is approximately eight miles east of Pueblo
Mission: None
Physical Description: The St. Charles River drainage basin area is 482 square miles. The
headwaters begin at an elevation of approximately 12,000 feet, and the mouth is at an
elevation of 4,545 feet at the confluence with the Arkansas River. In the foothills portion
of the River, the canyons are steep and severe, creating many unique rock formations.
One particular formation is known as the "Natural Arch." The upper watershed
vegetation consist of mixed conifers, such as pines, firs, and spruces, and typical
mountain grasses. The lower watershed vegetation consist of short grass prairie grasses,
and rabbit brush, with cottonwood, willow, and tamarisk trees growing along the stream
banks.
Owner and/or Managing Agency: The St. Charles River is owned and managed by several
different organizations including the Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Forest Service, and
private landowners. The Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army, Albuquerque, New Mexico
District manages the flooding in the watershed. The Natural Resource Conservation
Service also works with landowners to assist in managing the soils and erosion along the
River.
Access (public or private): In the upper portion of the River the access is through the
National Forest at San Isabel Lake. In the lower portion, access is only available when a
road either crosses the Creek or parallels it.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
Primarily private and agriculture related uses. The only public uses occur around San Isabel
Lake and consist of hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping.
Potential Uses
To further develop the environmental education opportunities along the corridor and
develop a trail system in the St. Charles Mesa area, which will serve a significant population
of the County.
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
P UEBLO NA TURAL RESOURCES & ENNIRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLILN
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PUEBLO'S N ATURA L RESOURCE'S
Planning Needs
A Master Plan of the Environmental Education opportunities along the River and
coordination of similar interests and activities to prevent duplication of programs; also, make
others aware of what opportunities exist along the corridor.
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• Pueblo County
• Corps of Engineers
• Natural Resource Conservation Service
• School Districts No's. 60 and 70
• University of Southern Colorado
• Friends of the River Trails organization
• Other Interest Groups
User Groups:
• Same as the Developing Partners
Grant Support Partner
• Same as Developing Partners
• Division of Wildlife
• Nature Center
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• Development costs and acquiring private lands.
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P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
WATER THEME
URBAN ARKANSAS RIVER /DRAINAGEWAY
Physical Location: Urban River /Channel between Wildhorse Creek confluence and Fountain
Creek confluence.
Minion: None
Physical Description: Concrete channel characterized w /graffiti /wall art with little to no
native vegetation.
Owner and /or Managing Agency: Pueblo Conservancy District
Access (public orprivate): Public
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
• Recreation Trail
Potential Uses
• River ecological systems interaction and urban river corridor use and resource amenities.
• Linkage to El Pueblo Museum & cultural ties in neighborhoods
• Cultural & Ecological resource value focus on confluence of Arkansas River & Fountain
Creek
• River changes and water quality over time (i.e., re- location, pollution, uses)
• Interactive recreation in and adjacent to river.
• Environmental interpretation of Arkansas River - where it starts - where it ends and how
it changes over time.
• Cultural interpretation of why Pueblo was situated by Arkansas River and along its
course through Fountain Creek and how it is used as a resource.
• Watchable Wildlife
)
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
Preliminary Master Plan for the Pueblo Conservancy District
Planning Needs
• Gain Class 1 water quality permits through the City for in -water use of river
• Stress non - motorized, in -water use (canoe, kayak, and fishing)
• Provide boat rentals with in -put and take -out points
• Stress in -water Environmental Education programs
• Runyon Lake, Fountain Creek /Arkansas River confluence restoration, cultural & natural
resource interpretation facilities improvement
PUEBL NATU R ESOURCES & ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC P LAIN
2.94
S lion
P U E B L O' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
• Consider removing /redesigning some or all of river levee walls and drop structures
• Provide more attractive access into /out of Arkansas River Trail
• Sign well for key access points (i.e., El Pueblo Museum, downtown) and make part of
an overall Environmental Education sign system
• Improve trail facilities and maintenance
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• City of Pueblo
• Nature Center
• HARP
• State Parks
• Friends of the River Trail
User Groups:
• Public
Grant Support Partner-
Obstacles/Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• River Channel /Trail needs rehabilitation and management
PUEBLO NATURAL. RESOURCES $ ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAN
2 -95
j
Section
P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
WATER THEME
VALCO "CHAIN OF LAKES"
Ph) Location: North of Highway 96 approximately one mile down river from Lake
Pueblo and the Dam.
Mission: Gravel mining
Physical Description: The VALCO property is south of the Arkansas River in the flood plain
and has direct linkage to a railway spur. Each "gravel pit" comprises the "chain of
lakes ".
Owner and/or Managing Agency. VALCO
Access (public orprivate): Strictly private.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
• None
Potential Uses
• River /wetlands ecological system
• Wetland restoration /reclamation
• Cultural interpretation of gravel mining process & environmental effects
• Angler Recreation
• Watchable Wildlife
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
No Master Plan
Planning Needs
• Develop a master plan with the Nature Center and Honor Farm
• Negotiate lease, purchase, or access
• Restoration plan
• (see Nature Center needs)
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• Greenway Nature Center
• CDOW
PUEBLO N ATURAL RESOURCES & ENMTRONMENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLOY
2 -96
Sec t on
iJ
PUEBLO ' S NATURAL RESOURCES
User Groups:
• Same as Nature Center
Grant Support Partner..
• City or State
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• The VALCO property is still functioning as a mining operation.
PUEBLO NATURAL RESOURC & ENVIRONMENT.kL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PL1%N
2 -97
Section
L
P U E B L O ' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
WATER THEME
WILDHORSE CREEK
Physical Location: Wildhorse Creek is approximately 17 miles long, originating in the
northwest portion of Pueblo County near Fort Carson Military Reservation. It's
confluence with the Arkansas River is just up stream from the Arkansas River levee in
the City of Pueblo, near 4` Street Bridge.
Mission: None
Physical Description: The Wildhorse drainage basin area is 83 square miles. The
headwaters begin at an approximate elevation of 6,000 feet, and the mouth is at an
elevation of 4,700 feet. The upper watershed vegetation consists of pinon pines, one -
seed juniper, and tall prairie grasses. The lower watershed vegetation consists of short
grass prairie grasses, sage and rabbit brushes, and cottonwood, willow, and tamarisk
trees growing along the stream banks.
Owner and/or Managing Agency :• The Wildhorse Creek is owned by several different
owners. In the City of Pueblo, the City owns a portion of the creek just above it's
confluence with the Arkansas River. The Pueblo Conservancy District owns the area
around the confluence. The Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army, Albuquerque, New Mexico
District manages the flooding in the watershed. The Natural Resource Conservation
Service also works with the landowners to assist in managing the soils and erosion along
the Creek.
Access (public or private): The only access is via 18` and 11` Streets in the City of Pueblo
and the River Trail System.
Existing Uses (EE /Rec /NR)
Primarily private and agriculture related uses (range land). The only public uses occur in
the City is at the Wildhorse neighborhood park, consisting of typical park activities and a
trail system connecting with the Arkansas River trail system. There is a fisherman access,
parking lot, restroom and a large natural area existing in the adjacent area around the
confluence.
Potential Uses
• To further develop the environmental education opportunities along the corridor and
develop a nature trail system in the confluence area.
• Watchable Wildlife
PUEBLO NATURAL RESOURCES & ENRIRONMENMALL EDUCATION STRAT P LAL.N
2 -98
Section ti
4.
P U E B L 0' S NATURAL R E S O U R C E S
1
Master Plan/Document which identifies these uses?
A preliminary master plan has been done by the Pueblo Conservancy District for the
confluence area. The City of Pueblo Parks Department has a Master Plan for the Wildhorse
neighborhood park.
Planning Needs
Needs to develop a Master Plan of the Environmental Education opportunities along the
River and coordinate similar interest and activities to prevent duplicating programs; also,
make others aware of what the opportunities are along the corridor.
Partnerships
Developing Partners:
• City of Pueblo
• Pueblo County
• Corps of Engineers
• Natural Resource Conservation Service
• School District's 60 and 70
• university of Southern Colorado
• Friends of the River Trails organization
• Other interested groups
User Groups.
• Same as the Developing Partners
Grant Support Partner:
• Same as Developing Partners
• Division of Wildlife
• Nature Center
Obstacles /Barriers (ex. cost, access, facilities, etc.)
• Development costs and acquiring private lands.
PUEBLO NATURAL. RESOURCES & EMIRONVENTAL EDUCATION STRATEGIC PLAIN
2.99
:4
r '�`
�x•..r.
y
:4
Pueblo Integrated
Resource
Management and
Conservation Plan
April 1996
"River Corridors and their
Environs"
PARTNERS:
City Council of Pueblo
City of Pueblo - Planning and Development
Pueblo County Commissioner
Pueblo County - Planning and Development
Board of Water Works
Pueblo Conservancy District
Pueblo School District No. 60
Haaff Elementary School
Pueblo School District No. 70
Pueblo County - GIS Center
Friends of The River Trail 2010 Commission - Environment
HARP Commission
Rich Barrows, Southern Colorado Runners
Pueblo Zoological Society
Pueblo Greenway & Nature Center
Arkansas Valley Audubon
Pueblo Chamber of Commerce
Frontier Pathways Scenic Byway
COPAA -Colo. Outdoor Performing Arts Assoc.
Valco Inc.
Public Service Company
Utilcorp Energy Delivery/WestPlains Energy
CF&I Corporation
University of Southern Colorado
Division of Wildlife
T.E.N Committee
Lake Pueblo State Park
CSU Cooperative Extension
Colorado SE Water Conservancy Dist.
U.S. Forest Service
Bureau of Land Management
Corps of Engineers -S. Colo. Regulatory Office
Natural Resource Conservation Service
Girl Scouts Columbine Council
Boy Scouts
Audubon Society
IIJT Environmental
George Williams
Tony Langoni
This document was written by the City of Pueblo's
Department of Planning and Development with funding
assistance from the Great Outdoors Colorado and the
Pueblo Area of Council of Governments
i
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9
9
0
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L14
I. INTRODUCTION
I.1 THE THREE RIVER CORRIDORS OF PUEBLO
Rivers are the lifeblood of the southwestern United States and
the development and management of these rivers have been a
focus of attention for more that a century. The river corridors
in Pueblo County have always shaped its future; whether
supporting the first settlement, destroying a city through
flooding, or providing recreation for thousands.
In 1994 the Pueblo City and County staffs completed a
preliminary inventory which identified the stakeholders on three
river corridors. The findings noted the duplication of planning
efforts which were counter - productive to the overall
management and conservation goals of the region. As a result of
this study, the City and County of Pueblo partnered with GO
COLORADO to develop a County -wide plan which would
integrate the concerns of all stakeholders.
In the following pages, the attitudes surrounding the
management of Pueblo's river corridors will come as no surprise
to anyone who enjoys the outdoor climate and beauty of
Colorado. All of us want to preserve the corridor's beauty;
however each of us wants the freedom to enjoy it in our
preferred way. Are we in danger of losing this freedom? No,
not if we take preventative measures. In fact, what has thus far
been a determinant in preserving our river corridors is that
people choose to experience them in a wide variety of ways, thus
minimizing the impact of our presence in any one spot. Pueblo
County as well as the State is experiencing high growth and with
that comes more demands on limited natural resources. The
sooner we act to coordinate plans to protect the river corridors,
the less damage we will have to repair. The less repair work
required, the more freedom we have to enjoy the outdoors.
I.2 PURPOSE
The purpose of this plan is to develop an integrated resource
management and conservation plan for the Arkansas River, the
Fountain Creek, the St. Charles River Basin, and their environs.
This plan will accomplish its purpose by identifying the users of
the river corridors, user conflicts in the river corridors, problems
or issues in the river corridors and building a consensus process
that outlines the values of the corridor users.
Why plan for an integrated resource management? According
to the USGS National Water -Use Information Program, "The
transition is well under way to an era of 'integrated
water- resource management' that balances traditional
supply - mangement options with progressive
demand - management options. The governors of the western
states have issued a policy statement calling for sharply enhanced
efficiency in water use, and the President signed into law the
Energy Policy bill which calls for government agencies to take
the lead in water - use - efficiency measures. Water- resources
managers and hydrologists need comprehensive, unbiased, and
reliable water -use data to assess the impacts of
demand - management strategies and to balance the competition
between traditional uses and new recreational and environmental
uses." (USGS Water -Use Fact Sheet,
http://h2o.er.usgs.gov/public/Watuse/Wufactsheet.html#HDR2)
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan 1
J
I
I
_J
a
I
I
It is not the purpose of this plan to develop specific strategies for
addressing the issues, nor is it to form an action agenda. Such
information is currently being put together for a larger regional
plan entitled "The Strategic Natural Resource and Environmental
Education Plan ". This document will serve as an important
resource to that larger plan. At the same time, it will draw a
comprehensive picture of the many masters that must be served
by a single water source; the first tool of discussion that will lead
to user cooperation.
I.3 METHODOLOGY OF PROJECT
The usefulness of this plan was made possible by the
multi - jurisdictional planning approach used to develop it. Once
the stakeholders were identified and notified of this plan's
development, all of the persons contacted were genouraous in
providing good and current information.
The project began with the collection of the most current
available data such as flows, land ownership in the river
corridors, water quality, water rights, and the history of the
corridors. Next, the major stakeholders, both private and public,
were identified and interviewed. The interviews were
conducted on March 7 and March 12 1996. In addition to the
interviews, all participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire
regarding usage of the river corridors.
A comprehensive list was compiled of all user conflicts and/or
barriers which prohibited stakeholders from fulfilling their
conservation objectives. This list led to the development of
corridor issues. Issues in this report are defined as those tasks
or problems that must be addressed now if the common
objectives/goals/values for the river basin corridor are to be
reached. The last step was to begin identifying values in the
river corridors.
This report contains five chapters. Chapter One serves as an
introduction to the project. Chapter Two describes the river
corridors as a system. The rivers are shown as evolutionary both
in history and in physical qualities. Chapter Three describes
each public project, both proposed and existing, that relies on
the water and its habitat . Chapter Four presents the issues or
problems facing each of the projects listed in Chapter Three.
Matrices are used to identify user conflicts between projects
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan 2
I.4 CONTENTS OF THIS REPORT
and occurrence of issues or problems. Chapter Five lists the
Values or standards that the stakeholders have identified as being
critical to the conservation of the corridor
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan 3
STREAM CLASSIFICATION
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan
River Corridors and their Environs
5/
s0
Pueblo 1
County line � I - -- -
o rr.
- T I
—
N
9
L '
distance in miles T _
0 I 2 3
+. - --
J. Moore City of Pueblo P &D 4196
EET
Stream Classifications: III= aquatic life cold - I use protected aquatic life warm - I use protected
recreation - I aquatic life warm - 2 recreation - 2 aquatic life warm - 2
water supply recreation - 2 water supply recreation - 2
agriculture agriculture agriculture water supply
agriculture
Exhibit 4
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan 11
RIVER CORRIDOR PROJECTS
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan
River Corridors and their Environs'
25 Trail Link to El Paso County (p)
a Rock Canyon Recreation Area 50 t
Reservoir Road Fishing Access + 9 ' i
Pueblo West Trail Link i � Founta n Creek Regional Park
Pueblo
Count line t°
Y
' Honor Farm* 4 o i ?' y f
Liberty Point Park( s --- - : I
? Fish Habitat Im roveinents , - --- '' 1995 Trail Re placement Proj
Red Marsh ~ P r.. P I
p ?i �� ctive Os re Wild Horse Cr. Bridge i ;
A P y
N ,, Are ' Burkhart Bridge - WA- — ' (�;Earthship Environmental Center
,Pueblo Wildlife Refuge Wild Horse
�YrA (Olive Marsh) --T ; Park
9
(,reenway
& - Nature I r i s0
Grp E f 7
Center— � � I ` !' ? - �ThomasPhel Creek Wildlife Area
HARP :,Thomas Phelps Creek Trai i . t
- - i c� Runyon Fields �k Ne
e
_o n ' Lake
ake 1 Mesa Trail Link
t City Park and Zoo-
Pueblo Consvy. Dist. Park _ 1 -
f r , ! Fish Habitat Improvement - - Fountain Lake Crossover County Park
^i'r % ,/` i Pearl Street Trailhead
N 9 id
�i I { i i . Fountain Creek Bridge -
_ _r il Access A Union Ave. Trail Access ;
A COPAA,i / Main Street rar kans — f - ` -
State Fish Hatchery �: c Runyon State Wildlife ea (leased) t S ? c
44 Run on Brid e
distance in miles t g `
0 1 2 3 Watchable Wildlife Area E Mo t Street Tra
Highway 96 Fishing Access ..... T 5 U rya ilhead
F,.
State Paris Picnic Area '
.� t
� Chain of Lakes -- -- - - - --
_ v�
J. Moore s City of Neblo NJ) 4196 Goodnight Barn '
Project Legend:
existing river trail system
proposed trail
existing project or r r ` I ii e '
proposed project or
Exhibit 5
Integrated Resource Management and Conservation Plan 18
,M T E c
�,h1VIRONMENT.AL - SCIENCE
L I
J%hL\l A T U R 'A L
1
PUEB
PUEBLO SCHOOL DISTRCI ;0. w
DOLMDO
SCHOOLDISTRICT Nok
NNW
c:; )
STA"W,d
Groenway &
Matur* Center
o4 Pueblo
PUEBLO
ZO
it
PREFACE
THE COLORADO DIVISION OF PARKS AND OUTDOOR RECRERTION, THE
DIVISION OF WILDLIFE, PUEBLO SCHOOL DISTRICTS 70 AND 60, THE
PUEBLO ZOO, THE UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE, THE BUREAU OF
LAND MANAGEMENT, AND THE GREENWAY AND NATURE CENTER OF
PUEBLO HAVE COME TOGETHER TO DEUELOP A LOCAL OUTDOOR
ENUIRONMENTAL SCIENCE CLRSSROOM PROGRAM. THIS PROGRAM IS
USER FRIENDLY AND ENRBLES TEACHERS TO OFFER HANDS -ON, FIRST-
HAND EXPERIENCES TO STUDENTS: OUR GOAL IS TO CREATE
EXPERIENCES WHICH WILL EXPOSE STUDENTS TO THEIR ENUIRONMENT
AND TO SCIENCE IN A MEANINGFUL MANNER.
THIS PACKET WAS DEUELOPED RS AN INTERDISCIPLINARY,
SUPPLEMENTARY, ENUIRONMENTRL SCIENCE EDUCATION PROGRAM.
OUR OBJECTIVES FOR THIS PROGRAM INCLUDE:
* EXPOSING STUDENTS TO THE NATURE AND KNOWLEDGE OF
SCIENCE IN ORDER TO PROMOTE A SENSE OF HISTORY AND
IMPORTANCE OF SCIENCE IN THEIR LIVES.
* EXPOSING STUDENTS TO EXPERIENCES THAT WILL
PERPETUATE THEIR NRTURRL CURIOSITY RND INTERST IN
SCIENCE.
* PROVIDING STUDENTS EXPERIENCES IN SCIENTIFIC
PROBLEM SOLVING (I.E. QUESTIONING, COLLECTING DRTR,
RNRLYZING DRTR, AND EHPAINING RESULTS).
* HELPING STUDENTS RECOGNIZE THE INTERACTIONS OF
SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY.
AFTER MANY HOURS OF SERRCHING FOR THE RIGHT MATERIALS, WE RRE
HAPPY TO PRESENT THIS NOTEBOOK FOR PROJECT T.E.N. WE HOPE YOU
ENJOY USING THIS PACKET RS MUCH AS WE ENJOYED WRITING IT.
JOHN BEARDSLEY - BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
LEAH QUESENBERRY - BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
RICH DUDLEY - COLORADO PARKS
ERIC HARPER - DIVISION OF WILDLIFE
STEVE LUCERO - DIVISION OF WILDLIFE
AL TRUJILLO - DIVISION OF WILDLIFE
DONNA BOTTINI - DISTRIC 70
CANDY MUSSO - DISTRICT 70
MARTY RAHL - DISTRICT 70
BARBARA LEONARD - DISTRICT 60
MATT KEEFAUUER - GREENWAY AND NATURE CENTER
MARTY OSBORNE - PUEBLO ZOO
JENA EHRENHRRT - U.S. FOREST SERVICE
LERUE EUERYTHING RS YOU FOUND IT,
TAKE ONLY YOUR MEMORIES!
ROCK CANYON
AT
LAKE PUEBLO STATE PARK
�ROOCK CANYON
AT
LAKE F`'UE =LOO STATE PARK
INTRODUCTION
Lake Pueblo State Park, one of Colorado's most popular parks, lies in an area of contrast. The
high plains around the reservoir appear to stretch endlessly eastward, while the Greenhorn,
Sangre de Cristo and Pikes Peak mountains ranges form a scenic alpine backdrop to the south,
west and north. Buttes and limestone cliffs adorn much of the land comprising the park, and
attest to the power of the Arkansas River which carved this scenic landscape.
Complex geologic formations and a unique representation of both riparian and transitional
ecosystems can be found in the Rock Canyon area located east of the dam. This richly diverse
setting is readily identified by the bluffs to the north and the river to the south. While offering
ample learning opportunities for students of nature, Rock Canyon also illustrates the impact
man has on the surrounding environment and how individual communities and ecosystems have
adapted to human presence.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
This teaching aid is intended to serve as a vehicle for environmental education. Direction for
this educational process is twofold: 1) expose and familiarize teachers with the learning
opportunities available at specific areas or "outdoor classrooms "; 2) instill in children, at an
early age, a set of environmental values and ethics, while at the same time developing a sense of
wonder and curiosity about nature and science.
Utilization of this packet will allow teachers to maximize opportunities for learning while on
site at Rock Canyon. Incorporated here are activities proven to be of great educational benefit
which children will find challenging, fun and interesting all at once. Detailed information is
also included for the teachers benefit and will allow additional flexibility in devising their own
activities.
LAKE PUEBLO DAM
W
ARKANSAS RIVER
THE A�KAfVSAS RIVER &DAM
QT
LAKE PUE : LO STATE PARK
INTRODUCTION
Lake Pueblo State Park, one of Colorado's most popular parks, lies in as area of contrast. The
high plains around the reservoir appear to stretch endlessly eastward, while the Greenhorn,
Sangre de Cristo and Pikes Peak mountain ranges form a scenic alpine backdrop to the south,
west, and north. Buttes and limestone cliffs adorn much of the land comprising the park , and
attest to the power of the Arkansas River which carved this scenic landscape.
A large earthen dam and concrete spillway have tamed the effects of the mighty Arkansas River
which historically has been responsible for killer floods on Colorado's southeastern
plains. While serving primarily as storage for agricultural water used downstream, the dam
and resulting reservoir have created a recreational mecca as well as forever altering the
dynamics of the river itself and the surrounding terrain.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
This teaching aid as intended to serve as a vehicle for environmental education. Direction for
this educational process is twofold: 1) expose and familiarize teachers with the learning
opportunities available at specific areas or "outdoor classrooms "; 2) instill in children, at an
early age, a set of environmental values and ethics, while at the same time developing a sense of
wonder and curiosity about nature and science.
Utilization of this packet will allow teachers to maximize opportunities for learning while on
site at the Pueblo Dam. Incorporated here are proven to be of great educational benefit which
children will find challenging, fun and interesting all at once. Detailed information is also
included for the teachers benefit and will allow additional flexibility in devising their own
activities.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Located at Lake Pueblo State Park approximately six miles west of the city, the dam itself is the
focal point of the area and can be reached from Highway 96 by taking the Service Road to
Juniper Road and following it north to the spillway. The south side of the spillway can be
reached by turning left just prior to the entrance station below the dam. The north side of the
spillway can be reached by continuing north on Juniper Road, crossing the Arkansas River until
just north of the entrance to Rock Canyon where a left turn will gain access to the area. Tours
through the dam must be arranged in advance with the Bureau of Reclamation at 561 -8361.
PUEBLO RIVER TRAIL SYSTEM
GENERAL INFORMATION
The City of Pueblo has constructed, since 1975, a 17-mile
long River Trail System located primarily within the floodplain
of two river courses--the Fountain Creek and the Arkansas
River' This Trail System is located between the University of
Southern Colorado on the north and the Pueblo Reservoir State
Recreation area on the west'
The 6-mile long Fountain Creek segment serves both
recreational riders and commuters' It has seven street accesses
to the downtown, USC and Pueblo Mall employment areas.
Recreation areas served include Trail Head Park, Runyon Lake and
two picnic areas'
The connecting Arkansas River segment is more secluded, has
fewer street accesses and is primarily a recreation corridor'
It has direct access to City Park, the Greenway and Nature
Center, Runyon Lake and the Pueblo State Recreation area.
The Pueblo Conservancy District, which owns the trail
segment between the Boettcher Bridge and Wildhorse Creek, has
initiated a community planning network of which the trail system
is a part. This network was designed to bring the Conservancy
District together with the City, County, State and private
agencies into common discussions on how to develop and use
cooperative recreational resources and amenities of the
community. The development of this cooperative trail system and
associated recreational amenities is the result of this
networking'
Construction
Older Segments .''''''''''2^ to 4^ Asphalt--6' to B' wide'
New Segments'''''''''''--4^ Concrete--B' wide'
Trail Seqment Review
11) USC to the Pueblo Mail and State Highwov 47.
Lenoth: 1'3 miles to just south of State Highway 47 and
0.8 miles to the Pueblo Mall (Combined 2.1 Miles).
FuILdiIigL: Colorado Department of Highways, 19B4'
interest: Points of The trail is attached to the State
Highway 47 Bridge over Fountain Creek' There is direct
access to the University Park residential and commercial
or Co.
Areas: Problem Shared drainage tunnel under Jerry Murphy
Road' All trail access points are not signed- There are
no destination signs'
Pueblc River Trail System
Page Two
(2) '
1 5 Mil
F1Z rli Q: State Trails Grant and the new segment
constructed by a housing developer'
: Access to H School'
p��t����: All of the acce�s point igned' Access
to Glenmore and Hunter Streets are not ramped' There are
no (3estination signs The older asphal� trail is in need
o me repair-
(3) U.B' Hiohway 50B to W. 4th Street.
L tfI Llthv 1'3 Miles'
�j��l: State Trails Gr�nt and 1989 Army Corps of
Engineers' 50/50 Matching Trails and Recreation Grant
as�ociate� with the Fountain Creek Flood Control Project'
: The City has constructed a new trail
and picnic areas from East 15th Street Lo E=st 4th Street
and the restroom facilities at Trailhead Park'
: Erosion control and drainage on trail under
U'S' Highway 50B and on the tr�il adjacent to w�rehouses'
There are no destination Signs or trail acce�s sign�'
(4) West 4th Street to Confluence Bridqe.
Lk- [ILlt I I : 1-7 Miles'
F Lt! I I P. he Fountain Creek Flood Control Project-19B9
(A�sociated TraiIs and Recreation element 50/50 Matching
Grant).
: The picnic areas near Confluence
8ridge (parking and a,ccess provided)' The Confluence
Bridge over the Fount�in Creek (designed to with=tand a
500-year flood> which cost $250,000 of which the Gates
Foundat�on gave �30,000 to the Greenway and Nature Center
for its construction'
: Access points to the trz- il system are not
signeG ' No destina�ion signs' Weed control and
maintenance will �e necessary on this traiI section'
Pueblo River Trail System
Page Three
<5)
L�I. 0 ddin�: 1 mile on south side of Ruyon Lake plus 0.75
miles on north side of Runyon Lake (Combined 1.75 Mile�).
F1- i P, in o: The Greenway and Nature Center.
"Put-Your-Foot-Down Funds" and shing is Fun" Grants' A
Boettcher Founi tion Gr-tnt to th� Greenway �nd N�ture
Center t� build he Boettcher Bridge over the Arkan�as
R�ver.
: There are fishing piers and fisFling
acce�� all along Runyon Lake and Fountain La e. A trail
monument i� l�cated next to the Boettcher Bridge' A
proposed boat chute is located under the bridge' There is
access to and parkif for motor vehicles' Restroom
faciliti�s are provided, and there �re trash container�
placed around Runyon Lake.
ProbIem Areas: Weed con ound Runyon Lake
and Fountain L
underpas�, and
Fountain Lake
fishing area e
on this trail
Dra�nage is
is a lack
Access poi
sing' Ther
t'
eeded
tra�h
signs
are no
n the railroad
cont aft iner� at
to the L l and
destination signs
(6) '
Lj�L�th: 16 MiIes-
Fjj.��: State Trails 8rant; Feder�I ^Fishing is Fun^
Grants'
: Pueblo Conservancy District'
: Flood
Cantilevered tr�il segment
�egment near W 4th Stre
West 4th Street Bridge'
con�rol levees and murals,
over the river- Boardwalk
t Bridge' New trail acCess near
F�]o L l Fp, si: Condition of and drainage on the original
asphalt trail' M�intenance, drainage, longevity, riding
comfort on the Boardwalk'
L�[� T_ Ff� 2'3 Miles'
F\�ldj��: Colora�o St�te Trails GranLs'
Pueblo River Trail System
Page Four
:
Dutch Clark Stadium.
the Arkansas River'
Park'
Access from Bcho 0
Proximity to City wildIife area on
Fishing access and access to City
Drainage on and condition of the 15-ye�r old
asphalt trail. Access points are not signed to the trail
sy�tem Burk rdt Crossing Bridge is not connected by
trail L. o the trail to City Park. There are no destination
signs'
(B)
Street'
Fi�Idj�L�: CETA Manpower Grant'
:
Pueblo'
area' Railroad
the floodpla, In.
Pueblo ConservAncy Di�trict and t�e City of
��t: Access from the
underpass' Seclu�ed
Location �f Wildhors
We�t side neighborhood
nature of the trail in
Park'
points are not signed' Poor condition of
this 15-year old trail' There are no destination sign
leading users to City Park the Bre�nw�y an� Nature Center
and to Wildhors,e Creek'
L t--L 1 1 : 1 Mile'
���l: CoIorado Trails Grants'
: There is access to and parking at the
Burkhardt Crossing Bridge and access from City Park' The
Greenway and Nature Center, the most highly used are.=i on
the �ystem, has picnic reas, a new restaurant and a
fishing pier that was funded b Federal "Fishing
Gr t Pueblo Boulevard'
Poor condition of this older asphalt �ection'
No trail access signs anywhere leading users to the
sy�tem' No destination �iqns leadinq users to the Greenwav
and Nature Center, Pueblo Reservoir and City
the Park'
i
Pueblo River Tr�l System
Page Five
(10> ^
L�l���l: 2 Miles'
F ' i F Trails Grants'
: AccesS. onto the Nature Center natural
surface Loc of the propo�ed new Valco, Inc',
graveI mine and the movement of the river and tr�il north
to the foot of �he bluffs'
F r ]0 Lb l s- : Condition of the olde halt the
trail' Absence of any trail access and destination A41 1ns.
Width of the asphalt trail in thi hi h use area'
(11) Pueblo State Recreation Area.
L�l�Il�: En tire �ystem--16'5 miles'
Points of Interest: Arkansas Point Trail which
rnan a m��e,
F _ t7-- erpreT ye gns ano oencnes' �
lead� to bIuffs that overlook the south side of the park'
The Rock Canyon area trails include fishing acce�s, a
strength and conditioning course, restroom facilities and
picnic areas' Th� Dam traiI includes wa ti Lit s,
picnic �reas, and reStroom facilities, and connects Rock
C�nyon, South na and the
campgrouno.
:
Asph lt 4" to B" thick--6' to 8' in width.
p1�d�l���i: Ero�ion controJ and drain�ge on the �rail'
There are no destination, mileage or trail �ccess signs'
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
APPENDIX B
PERIODIC PROGRESS REPORT
Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project
Project 9136 Page 8
W1
GREAT OUTDOORS
COLORADO
Request for Grant Disbursement
Contact Name and Phone Number:
Contract Number:
Project Title:
GOCO Grant Award: $ Dollar Amount Requested: S
Please briefly describe the reason you are requestin; a disbursement:
Please include a brief project description:
Please complete and attach the following:
Project Funds and Expenditures
a. LOCO project funds disbursed to date
b. GOCO project funds expended to date
e. Cash matchdna funds collected to date
d. In -hind match provided to date
e. ` any funding conditions placed oar
S
S
S
S
i this ?rant? Yes o
If;yes, please describe the condirioiis and how;you hm f 1filied r .is r�. ^uirernent:
_. Submit the followin; Financial Documentation:
_' Ene I o e a copy' o1 the - -p pro % "ed bud?et reflecting pr0iected `'s. aC _ia! °xpens es to - whiC11 the
tollov'vin ce .lI_..ut:on =1St Je auued and sl'ne d: '? A it documen aiion SLLbnlltted in tills
1'er.Or reIZPCtS On!v tliOSe lte nS .`' 1'.0 C011IOrm t0 the prO,eCt deSCrlCi_C The 'Jrolecl
reCelVed aii apr ICabLe per ^its ailCf 1S SUDStanrla complete at t .ls ti__ e budi7et si:ouled
also rer'lect the matching and in -rind resources detailed iI. the p:eiect = t=!'cation.
�t ach. invoices or p=hase orcers ior all cash expenditures
:D Enclose cancelled checks or a certified accounting statement that tie directly to the invoices
or purchase orders.
• Label each invoice to a matching proof of payment and expense category on the budget
• Please include only project related expenses in your report. If necessary, break -out project
expenses from non - project expenses when an invoice or payment incorporates both
❑ For in -kind matching funds. attach an invoice or letter from a vendor stating what their
service would normally cost
o For volunteer labor. attach a list of the number of volunteer hours spent Or each component
alone with an hourly rate and total. Include documentation to support all account costs
including time cards and payroll sheets.
❑ Include documentation to support sponsor - owned equipment costs to include use vouchers
and cost summary sheets. Use vouchers and cost summary sheets must be clearly annotated
to indicate hours or mileage rates, and costs related to the project. Colorado State Highwav
Department or locally developed rates may be used.
3. Submit a Copy of the Approved Work plan
a. If your project's work plan has changed since the approval of your grant, please submit a
revised work plan which reflects any changes to date and includes a more detailed
estimation of the events necessary for the completion of the project (subject to approval
by GOCO).
b. Please list the changes, numbering them in descending order of importance, and discuss
the reasons for the departures from the original work plan. How do the changes to the
work plan effect your project's budget?
4. Estimate the Percentage of the Overall Project that has been Completed to Date
a. If your project is not on schedule, please discuss the reasons �,vhy and reeuest a new
expected completion date (subject to approval by GOCO).
Evaluate the Success of your Project at this time
a. How has the implementation of your project differed from your origi ~al expectations?
Have you met with any unexpected difficulties? Discuss any significant changes
that you have not mentioned thus far.
Please provide any additional comments you may have here:
'hank voa. Please include this document along
with the additional inforynation rerjztested.
Great Outdoors Colorado Planning and Capacity Building Grant Agreement
APPENDIX C
PROJECT EXPENDITURE DOCUMENTATION
Pueblo Arkansas River and Fountain Creek Project
Project 9136 Page 9
Final Report
Contact Name and Number:
Contract/Grant Number:
Project Title:
Amount of Final Payment Requested: $
Project Cost
GOCO Grant Award
$
Cash
$
In -Kind labor /materials)
$
Total Project Cost
$
(Attached documentation should support this number and reflect all funds spent to complete the project)
Were any funding conditions placed on this grant? Yes No
If yes, please describe the conditions in an attachment and how you have fulfilled this
requirement...
Financial Documentation (see attached example)
• Enclose a copy of the approved budget reflecting projected vs. actual expenses to
which the following certification must be added and signed: "All documentation
submitted in this report reflects only those items which conform to the project
description. The project received all applicable permits and is substantially complete
at this time ". The budget should also reflect the matching and in -kind resources
detailed in the project application.
• Attach invoices or purchase orders for all cash expenditures
❑ Enclose cancelled checks or a certified accounting statement that tie directly to the
invoices or purchase orders.
• For in -kind matching funds, attach an invoice or letter from a vendor stating what
their service would normally cost
• For volunteer labor, attach a list of the number of volunteer hours spent on each
component along with an hourly rate and total. Include documentation to support all
account costs including time cards and payroll sheets.
• Include documentation to support sponsor -owned equipment costs to include use
vouchers and cost summary sheets. Use vouchers and cost summary sheets must be
clearly annotated to indicate hours or mileage rates, and costs related to the project.
Colorado State Highway Department or locally developed rates may be used.
In addition, please:
• Label each invoice to a matching proof of payment and expense category on the
budget
• Include only project related expenses in your report. If necessary, break -out project
expenses from non - project expenses when an invoice or payment incorporates both
❑ Provide a picture or slide of the project
❑ Provide evidence of signage acknowledging GOCO grant (include picture or
explanation of when signage will be complete)
Kom
GREAT OUTDOORS
COLORADO
GREAT OUTDOORS
COLORADO
Final Report/Page 2: Planning /Capacity
(Disregard if you did not receive a Planning /Capacity Grant)
Contact Name: _
Project Title: _
Contract Number:
Work Plan
I. Project Objectives/Tasks
A. Submit copies of the final approved budget and timeline for the project.
B. Please list the project objectives and/or the tasks to be accomplished from
your application, including the status of each. If an objective was added,
omitted or changed from the original application, please explain. Please note
that budget information should correlate to the project objectives and tasks
listed here.
C. Estimate the percentage of the overall project that has been completed to date
D. If you are aware of specific funding conditions that were placed on your grant,
please list them and describe how they have been met.
H. Products/End Results
A. Please list final products resulting from your project and attach a copy of
each. For example, final products might include:
(1) a parks and recreation plan;
(2) a strategic plan for land trust; or
(3) prioritization criteria for open space acquisitions.
B. If one of the products includes a new or modified plan:
(1) Has the plan been adopted by a local government, land trust board or any
other appropriate organization?
(2) If so, when will implementation begin? If not, please explain.
(3) Please describe the funding sources available to implement the plan.
III. Project Impact
A. Please describe how the planning or capacity building project has helped to
advance parks and recreation, open space, and/or trails preservation and
enhancement in your community.
B. Were there any unanticipated benefits of the project? Challenges? Please
describe.
Thank you. Please include this document
along with the additional information requested.