Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons Near Sunshine Canyon

Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons Near Sunshine Canyon

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.

The project includes improvements along Nelson Road between Nederland and the intersection with Flagstaff Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 with completion expected within 7 months.

The Mud Lake open space property encompasses 1,775 acres and features 14 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

Background

Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Sheriff’s Office, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

Water quality monitoring at 8 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Sheriff’s Office publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.