High Chaparral Open Space
BACKGROUND
In 2016, RMFI began a multi-year stewardship project in partnership with the City of Colorado Springs to complete maintenance and stewardship work at several properties purchased with proceeds from the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) tax. Work at the High Chaparral Open Space commenced in early 2017. The area currently consists of 54 acres of open space designated for recreational trails and wildlife habitat and is located in northeast Colorado Springs amidst an urban environment west of North Powers Boulevard and just south of Stetson Hills Boulevard. High Chaparral Open Space features a ridgeline vegetated by scrub oak patches and mixed prairie grasses which culminates at its crest in the highest point in eastern Colorado Springs. On clear days, the views from the ridge crest include the mountain backdrop of Colorado Springs to the west, Black Forest to the north, and the Spanish Peaks and Wet Mountains to the south.
WORK OBJECTIVES
RMFI's work objectives will largely focus on helping the City of Colorado Springs complete trail maintenance, stabilization of eroded hillsides, and restoration projects within the open space.
PROJECT PARTNERS AND FUNDERS
- City of Colorado Springs