Research on Open Space

Research on Open Space

Research projects and inventories help us monitor management practices, improve resources and park visitor experiences.

Research Permits

A permit is required to conduct research activities or to collect any biological resource elements from open space. After completing the application, a more detailed research proposal may be requested.

Research Permit Application

Drone Permits

If you are interested in using Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), also known as drones, please see the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Policy.

Small Grants Program

Parks & Open Space awards small grants for research and biological inventories on open space lands. These research projects and inventories provide valuable data to monitor management practices, advance our ability to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change, and improve resources and park visitor experiences.

  • Grants are awarded up to $10,000.
  • Preference will be given to proposals that address the priority research topics, but all proposals will be considered.
  • It is strongly encouraged to contact the appropriate staff members to discuss research topics before submitting your proposal.
  • The deadline for proposals has been extended until Friday, Jan. 20, 2023.
  • Research Proposal Requirements & Priority Research Topics

The deadline for proposals was Jan. 20. Late applications are not accepted.

Interagency Research

Did you know that City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks and the City of Longmont Public Works & Natural Resources also fund research? To discuss the possibilities of a shared research project, please visit Interagency Research Proposals.

Research Reports

More than 170 research projects have been completed since 2000. Below you will find final reports from the Small Grants Program as well as other scientific papers, studies and staff reports.

Contact Us

Parks & Open Space

Mac Kobza
303-678-6203