Colorado Springs: Fishers Canyon Open Space Master and Management Plan approved

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~ Colorado Springs, CO - The Colorado Springs Parks Advisory Board has officially given the green light to the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Master and Management Plan for Fishers Canyon Open Space. This 343-acre area, located in the southwestern corner of the city, west of the Broadmoor Bluffs and Spires neighborhoods, is set to become a significant addition to the city's natural spaces.

The open space is bordered by Pike National Forest to the west, Broadmoor Hotel holdings to the north, and Cheyenne Mountain State Park and the Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station to the south. With its unique location and diverse landscape, Fishers Canyon Open Space offers a valuable opportunity for outdoor recreation while also ensuring the preservation and conservation of its resources and wildlife habitats.

"We would like to thank the entire community for their involvement in the planning process for Fishers Canyon Open Space," said Britt Haley, Director of PRCS. "This master plan will provide numerous benefits to our community, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation while also ensuring the preservation and conservation of its valuable resources and wildlife habitats. We are committed to protecting this unique landscape, allowing future generations to enjoy its beauty and ecological significance."

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The newly approved plan proposes a new trail system comprising approximately 9-10 miles of enhancements in a "wilderness-like" setting designed for a variety of users. This includes hikers, bikers, equestrian riders, as well as designated zones for bouldering and rock climbing. The plan also includes a fully accessible hiking-only trail loop with ADA-compliant trailhead parking.

Community engagement was a cornerstone of the 20-month planning process. More than 2,600 community residents participated through multiple avenues including surveys, community meetings, neighborhood site tours, youth engagement focus groups, and an open house showcasing the draft plan. PRCS is dedicated to ensuring that the voices of the community are heard and incorporated into the management of this exceptional open space.

One of the key highlights of the plan is its connection to the Chamberlain Trail. This envisioned 26-mile master-planned trail aims to connect multiple open spaces along the city's western edge, including Blodgett Open Space, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, Bear Creek Regional Park, Stratton Open Space, North Cheyenne Cañon Park, and Fishers Canyon Open Space.

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The Master and Management Plan also places a strong emphasis on conservation. It designates 227 acres - or 66% of the open space - specifically for wildlife and habitat protection. During the planning process, comprehensive studies highlighted the presence of raptor nesting sites, indicating that certain site closures or management actions may be required in the future to protect these vital habitats.

Fishers Canyon Open Space was acquired in two phases - in November 2021 and March 2022 - through a collaborative effort with PRCS partners at The Conservation Fund. The acquisition was funded by TOPS sales tax amounting to $2.95 million and a $1.25 million grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

For those interested in learning more about Fishers Canyon Open Space and viewing the Master and Management Plan, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/FishersCanyon. With this new addition to Colorado Springs' natural spaces, residents can look forward to enjoying outdoor recreation while also preserving and protecting valuable resources for generations to come.

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