Update: Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons (2025)
Boulder County Parks & Open Space has acquired a 340-acre conservation easement on a working ranch near the town of Lyons. The easement permanently protects critical wildlife habitat along the St. Vrain Creek corridor and preserves agricultural land from future development while keeping the property in private ownership.
Funding of $292,000 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 project includes improvements along Left Hand Canyon Drive between Niwot and the intersection with 75th Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2026 with completion expected within 9 months.
Background
Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 39% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 5,052 responses from residents across the county.
Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 70% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $97,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
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