Louisville Community Briefing: Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026

Louisville Community Briefing: Wildfire Partners Opens Free Countywide Community Chipping Program for 2026

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.

Environmental review of the project area near Baseline Road found 5 sensitive species and 4 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Clerk & Recorder worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

The project includes improvements along Baseline Road between Boulder and the intersection with Left Hand Canyon Drive. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2026 with completion expected within 15 months.

Community Impact

Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,219 affordable housing units since its inception, with 129 additional units in the development pipeline.

Funding of $103,000 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.

Eligibility

Safety data from the Boulder area shows 15 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 6% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Baseline Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.