Species Conservation and Recovery Plans

Species Conservation and Recovery Plans

Conservation and recovery plans ensure that naturally occurring ecosystems and their native species populations continue to exist and flourish in Boulder County. These plans are intended to help private landowners and land managers make balanced management decisions for species of special concern.

Conservation Plans

Background

The Boulder County Comprehensive Plan (BCCP) was first drafted in 1978 and has undergone several updates since. It contains several separate elements outlining bigger picture goals. The BCCP is very progressive and all-encompassing in its scope, and its main philosophies are:

  • Growth channeled to municipalities
  • Agricultural lands protection
  • Preservation of environmental resources

Starting in 2011, County Open Space and Community Planning and Permitting staff were tasked with updating the Environmental Resources Element (ERE) of the BCCP. This was a big undertaking and involved significant professional and public input. The goals, policies, and maps of the ERE were updated and final adoption occurred in 2014.

During the extensive public update process, the inclusion of specifically focused language outlining the county’s commitment to steward protection of ecosystems occurred. The final language states “Acknowledging our responsibility to ensure that naturally occurring ecosystems and their native species populations continue to exist and flourish in Boulder County, the county will develop conservation and recovery plans for priority Species of Special Concern.”

Staff continue to develop these Species Conservation and Recovery Plans (SCRP). These plans are intended for private landowners, the public, and internal staff, working toward balanced management decisions.

Contact Us

Parks & Open Space

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday-Friday

Office Location

5201 St. Vrain Road
Longmont, CO 80503
Map and Directions

Office Hours
8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Monday-Thursday
Friday by phone, email, or appointment only.
The office is closed to the public Dec. 23-Jan. 1.

Parks are open sunrise to sunset