Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills

Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills

Boulder County Public Health has issued an air quality advisory for communities in the western foothills due to elevated particulate matter levels from prescribed burns in the Roosevelt National Forest. Residents with respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor activity and keep windows closed until conditions improve.

The Assessor’s Office processed over 7,830 applications last year, with an average processing time of 6 business days. Staff are available at the Lyons office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Environmental review of the project area near Nelson Road found 4 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Assessor’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

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Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 18% of properties in the Lyons area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2301 county employees across 36 departments and offices.

What You Need to Know

Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 286 affordable housing units since its inception, with 61 additional units in the development pipeline.