Title
A Briefing Regarding the Upcoming Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth/Western Spruce Budworm Treatment in North Cheyenne Cañon and Blodgett Peak Open Space
Presenter:
Jay Hein, City Forester - Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department
Body
Summary:
The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has developed a treatment plan for the Douglas-fir tussock moth and western spruce budworm epidemic. The presentation will discuss treatment objectives, define the treatment area, discuss the cross-boundary partnership that has developed as a result of this outbreak, explain the treatment methodology being used, and describe the approximate treatment timeline.
Previous Council Action:
During the 2016 budget process City Council approved $180,245 to go toward the management and treatment of the Douglas-fir tussock moth and western budworm infestation.
Background:
The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has conducted a comprehensive public process. The Department has presented information to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the TOPS Working Committee as well as conducted several media interviews. A city-wide open house was held on April 13th with a media tour of the treatment area scheduled for a date to be determined during the month of May.
The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has created a website specifically to address questions and concerns about the project. The website includes draft maps, frequently asked questions, letters of support, and information about the chemical that will be applied to treat for tussock moth and western spruce budworm.
The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department is prepared to treat 805.2 acres within North Cheyenne Cañon and Blodgett Peak Open Space.
This item supports the City’s strategic goal relating to building community and collaborative relationships by facilitating intergovernmental cooperation and regionalization to support efforts that provide efficiencies and improve services.
Financial Implications:
The Forestry Division within the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has funding within its budget to cover the costs associated with this project. No additional expenses outside of the contract are expected with this project.
Board/Commission Recommendation:
Staff presented the tussock moth treatment proposal to the TOPS Working Committee on September 2, 2015 and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on September 10, 2015 as an information item. Public comment was taken during the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting. Staff also responded to public comment on this matter at the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting on January 14, 2016.
Stakeholder Process:
There has been an extensive public process which began on September 2, 2015 at the onset of the project, when staff sought input from key stakeholders including:
City of Colorado Springs Office of Emergency Management
El Paso County
Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU)
Colorado State Forest Service
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Civil Air Patrol
The Broadmoor Hotel
Friends of Cheyenne Cañon
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Palmer Land Trust
U.S. Forest Service
Since this initial gathering, there has been a total of thirteen meetings, conference calls and/or property tours to date. Additional meetings will occur at regular intervals from April through the treatment date. Stakeholders will meet next on May 2 and conference calls will occur bi-weekly.
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
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Summary of Ordinance Language
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