The City of Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) and Parks and Recreation (BPR) departments are set to tighten the reins on certain city areas next year, and for good reason. Starting in 2025, both departments are swinging into action with several seasonal wildlife closures aimed at protecting a bevy of Boulder's most sensitive animal habitats. According to the City of Boulder, it's all about giving creatures like the peregrine falcons, golden eagles, and a host of others, the peace they need to reproduce and rear their young without human interruption.
For those who frolic among Boulder's scenic expanses, this move might mean tweaking your outdoor itinerary to avoid the closed areas. However, it’s notable that an interactive map is available to keep the public in the know about current seasonal closures. And just for a pinch of clarity, OSMP and BPR staff and volunteers aren't playing around, they will be monitoring these areas like hawks, quite literally in some cases. But not to worry, they'll lift the raptor closures if bird-brained parents decide to nest elsewhere. Those looking to stick to the designated trails will find them open and ready for some footprint action.
Lest you think it's just the birds getting all the attention, Boulder's efforts cover a range of species. We’re talking burrowing owls, which rely on prairie dog burrows for their digs, and bat species like Fringed Myotis and Townsend’s Big-eared bats, which need their space come April 1 through Sept. 1. Grassland ground-nesting birds, think sparrows and larks, also get a seasonal nod from May 1 to July 31 to go about their nasty business without nosy bipeds getting in the way. Additionally, vigilance goes out for a pair of bald eagles, federally shielded by The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, getting some room to spread their wings and raise eaglets from Nov. 1 through July 31.
As for the watery side of things, Boulder isn't turning a blind eye to the plight of aquatic life either. The presence of New Zealand mud snails in areas along South Boulder Creek has prompted additional closures. These pesky mollusks can wreak environmental havoc, so the city’s rangers are taking no chances with these invasive critters. Just a tip, if you tend to wander, better keep it to the beaten path on these public lands. As detailed by the City of Boulder, stepping into closed turf might earn you more than disapproving glances from the feathered locals, it could also net you a fine.
