Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026 — August 2024

Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026 — August 2024

Boulder County’s Wildfire Partners program is accepting registrations for the 2026 community chipping season. Residents in the wildland-urban interface can have tree limbs, brush, and other woody debris chipped at no cost. Last year the program processed over 2,400 loads of material from 1,100 properties across the county.

The Assessor’s Office processed over 10,115 applications last year, with an average processing time of 10 business days. Staff are available at the Gunbarrel office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

The Gunbarrel Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 3,556 seniors participated in center programs last year.

Eligibility

Funding of $444,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2024 budget session.

The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 16 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

Timeline

Environmental review of the project area near Foothills Highway found 5 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Assessor’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

According to Jennifer Walsh, director of Assessor’s Office, this program served 55% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Gunbarrel and the surrounding area,” Jennifer Walsh said.