Author Archive

Switzerland trail running race, Sept. 22

From: “Chris Finn” <cfinn@nullgoldhillinn.com>
Date: August 12, 2019 at 10:58:14 PM MDT
To: “Tony Vrba” <tonyvrba@nullgmail.com>
Subject: FW: switzerland trail running race

From: Maya MacHamer <fourmilewatershed@nullgmail.com>

Subject: Switzerland trail running race

Hello,

The Fourmile Watershed Coalition and Fire District are working with InMotion Running Store and Joe Grant from Gold Hill to plan a running race on Sept 22, 2019.  The race will be a 5K, 1/2 Marathon and 50K (and possibly a kids race).  The 5K is around Dixon Rd in Gold Hill.  1/2 Marathon is Gold Hill to Sunset and 50K is Gold Hill to North Switz, down to Sunset, up Penn Gulch and back to Gold Hill through Sugarloaf and Sunset Switzerland Trail.  Start and finish are at the Gold Hill Inn.  Most participants will be bussed up the mountain. Map attached.

 

We are working with a professional race planner who is an Australian Olympic runner.  He is donating his time (this year) for race planning.  All funds raised will go to a collective “Forest Restoration Fund” to be used for forest health and fire mitigation projects to be determined by the 4 fire districts.

 

We are requesting assistance from the fire districts to provide medical volunteers at strategic locations and aid stations.  We would also like HAMM radio operators where communication is difficult.  More planning and coordination to come.  Just wanted to let you know about the date so that you can start discussing with your volunteers.

Thanks, Maya

Maya MacHamer

Watershed Coalition Coordinator

Fourmile Watershed Coalition

1740 Fourmile Canyon Dr.

Boulder, Co. 80302

(c) 303-817-2261

(o) 303-449-3333

fourmilewatershed.org

Bears are around!

Be Bear Aware

Do Your Part to Keep Bears Wild 

Welcome to Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Living with Bears online resource center. You’ll find lots of information on living, vacationing, and spending time outdoors in bear country. Plus, practical guidelines that will help you do your part to prevent human-bear conflicts, and keep bears wild. 

Today, bears are sharing space with a growing human population. Curious, intelligent, and very resourceful, black bears will explore all possible food sources. If they find food near homes, camp grounds, vehicles, or communities, they’ll come back for more. Bears will work hard to get the calories they need, and can easily damage property, vehicles, and homes. Bears that become aggressive in their pursuit of an easy meal must often be destroyed.

Living with Bears Resources

Annual Customer Appreciation party at Max and Deb’s

Subject: Annual Customer Appreciation party at Max and Deb’s on the Ridge

Hi everyone:

We are once again inviting you to join us for our annual Customer Appreciation potluck party on Sunday, September 1st, in Gold Hill, Colorado at 8400’ in the Colorado rockies at the cabin on the ridge.  It’s always a fun time.  The party starts at 2 pm and goes until there is no one left!  You and your instruments are most welcome.  We will provide a tent and small stage for anyone who would like to perform.

We provide barbecued country-style ribs, hamburgers/cheeseburgers, beer, some spirits and mixers and corn on the cob.  We ask our guests to provide a side dish and bring your smiles.  Hopefully, the weather will cooperate but in years past, some of the best parties have been on the cool and wet side when we move inside the cabin by the fireplace.

Be prepared for lots of sun, possible showers, cool temperatures when the sun goes down and wear comfortable shoes.

Max and I appreciate your business supporting both Yeager Excavating and Gifts of Nature and we look forward to seeing you. 

Please park out on the driveway and allow room by the cabin or those that need some assistance walking.

Enjoy…..Debra Yeager, Gifts of Nature, deb@nullmountainvisions.net

                Max Yeager, Yeager Excavating

Free wildfire hazard assessments – ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT to sign up

Gold Hill Fire Protection District Neighbors get Free First Wildfire Partner’s Assessment

ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT – Gold Hill Fire Protection District residents in Gold Hill, Rowena, and western Boulder County: We invite you to schedule a FREE assessment ($100 value) (if you have not previously received an assessment) with Wildfire Partners! Wildfire Partners will have Wildfire Mitigation Specialists in Gold Hill, Rowena, western Boulder County (in Gold Hill Fire Protection District) and the surrounding area between August 1st and 15th. You will receive a customized report that outlines actions to improve your home’s and property’s defensible space. To date, 52 of your neighbors have joined the program, the goal is that 100% of the community receives an assessment and that we support each other in improving our community’s defensible spaces. Our safety is dependent on each other! Grants are available to help with the subsequent cost of the wildfire mitigation actions in the reports. Wildfire mitigation and building modifications provide significant value to you, and benefit your neighbors, your community, the ecosystem, and your volunteer firefighters who ask you to get involved and take action before wildfires occur. Thank you to all who have improved their defensible space already! Talk to your neighbors and invite them to participate. Apply now at www.WildfirePartners.org. Enter GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING in the coupon box when you apply. Other financial assistance for mitigation is available. Assessment questions contact: info@nullwildfirepartners.org.

Tony Vrba

tonyvrba@nullgmail.com

Music at the Store

Don’t forget Live Music at the General Store Saturday!

Local favorite Shanna in a Dress returns to give us an intimate acoustic set from 5-7 pm. We will be hosting on the back patio, weather permitting!
This witty wordsmith can make audiences cry and laugh in the same song and says what we’re all thinking but are too scared to say. If Ingrid Michaelson, Taylor Swift, and Phoebe from Friends could somehow create a lovechild… it still wouldn’t fully describe Shanna in Dress. Check her out here:

https://www.youtube.com/shannainadress

 

GHTM Agenda for 8-12-19 Town Meeting

 

Gold Hill Town Meeting  – agenda

Monday, 7:00 p.m. August 12th, 2019 Community Center  

Review of Previous Minutes

Treasurer’s Report

  1. Town Council Elections
  2. GH School
  3. Climate/Sustainability Update
  4. Renewable and Clean Energy Grant
  5. Wildfire Partner Days for GHFPD/GHTM community
  6. Gold Rush
  7. Museum update – Calendars
  8. Mining – From Dick Cole – Hi everyone–forwarded here is the letter sent on 8/3 by MLRB  to Colorado Milling Company. Lots of information contained in letter—includes findings of fact-a sort of history of past few years and a finding that a violation has occurred. MLRB issued an order to CMC to cease and desist any mining activity, a fine of $7200 and a bond increase of $21000. Seems like final resolution of the proposed permit amendment may happen by end of September, we’ll see.

    Thanks, Dick

https://dnrweblink.state.co.us/drms/0/doc/1284349/Page1.aspx?searchid=c042ec8e-30af-4d53-b537-64660188904a

 

Upcoming Meetings/Events

Next Gold Hill Town Meeting – October 14th

Other:

IMA

CSA

Forestry report

Cemetery committee

SafeLink/NeighborLink/AirLink

Weed Management

Historical Zoning

Forest MGT/CWPP

Fire Department

Cemetery 

 

 

Mountain Peak Life Newsletter

 

 

LAST CALL

Join Us for Sunday BRUNCH
August 11, 2019
11 am Social, 11:30 am Meal Served

RSVP by 5 pm
Friday, August 9, 2019 

All ages of adults are welcome at all events, attended mostly by folks over age 50. 
RSVP 303-258-0799 or on Meetup or by email at mounatinpeaklife.nas@nullgmail.comNederland Community Center
$9 any age adult/ > 60 = $5 suggested contribution
Vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free
accommodated on advance request.
 
 
Menu
 
 Bacon, Egg, & Vegetable FrittataPancakes Holiday Gritts

Mixed Berries Fruit Salad

Coffee and Tea 

Please visit us at:
MountainPeakLife.org
 
And “Like” our new Facebook page:
Mountain Peak Life

 
Facebook
Website
© Mountain Peak Life & Nederland Area Seniors 2019 
Nederland Area Seniors is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization.Our mailing address is:
Nederland Area Seniors | PO Box 188 | Nederland, CO 80466 | 303-258-0799Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

 

 

Update on the Meadow

Here is a summary of the status of the reseeding effort in the Town Meadow from Rick Geesaman

From: SeedSprayers <brian@nullseedsprayers.com>
Date: August 6, 2019 at 6:59:29 AM MDT
To: RICK GEESAMAN <rcgeesaman@nullmsn.com>
Subject: Re: Saturday

Rick,

Good to get up and see the area.

As we discussed while walking the disturbed area, the newly seeded areas are coming up pretty well overall. I see very little soil erosion and the hydraulic mulch is still present in most areas, especially the steeper hillside sections.  This layer should persist through a second winter here as it slowly biodegrades, but is still providing soil & seed protection as advertised.

As far as the grasses growing, I see great planting success overall, with the exception of a few thin spots. I did bring some extra seed for these thin spots and hopefully this kickstarts these areas.
Overall, we can see the planted rows of grasses that have germinated and are growing. They are slower and smaller than everything else around because it is growing from seed and because of the extended wet and chilly spring we had. We did discuss the tall blue grass species, and it is doing its job well. This is a single season sterile cover crop and should not come back next year with everything else.

Overall, the area looks good and should work on filling in here better this fall as the grasses go to seed and into the next year or two.

Thanks,
Brian
SeedSprayers Hydroseeding LLC.
(303)900-8208
Brian@nullseedsprayers.com

Closures of CO 119 on Monday

From: “Boulder County Information” <bouldercounty@nullpublic.govdelivery.com>
Date: August 2, 2019 at 3:11:08 PM CDT
Subject: Boulder Canyon/CO 119 CLOSED 10 a.m. to Midnight on Monday
Reply-To: bouldercounty@nullpublic.govdelivery.com

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CDOT Blasting to Require Extended Closures of CO 119 on Monday

I wanted to ensure that everyone is aware of the following from CDOT regarding Monday’s upcoming extended closure:

Colorado Department of Transportation, in partnership with Zak Dirt, is extending the closure of Colorado Highway 119 Boulder Canyon on Monday, Aug. 5, in order to deal with several large boulders expected to fall in the regular blast. 
 
The closure, from Arapahoe Avenue to Fourmile Canyon Road, is now scheduled from 10 a.m. to midnight, but if the work is completed earlier, the road will be opened earlier. 
 
After analyzing the nature of the canyon rock and the blast removal plan for Monday, CDOT determined that a large quantity of large boulders will come down when the removal takes place. These rocks are anticipated to be so large that they will likely require a second blast on the ground so that they can be removed from the highway. 
 
During this closure, motorists will be required to use the alternate routes of CO 72 or Lefthand Canyon Drive. Local resident access will be maintained between Fourmile Canyon Road and Nederland. Crews will work as quickly as they can, and if the work is completed before midnight, the highway will reopen early. 
 
Due to the unpredictable nature of blasting operations, it is difficult to predict how the rock will react to the blasts. CDOT engineers and geotechnical experts are continuously monitoring and adjusting the plans in order to minimize public impact, but will always utilize a full closure to maintain public safety. 
 
On Tuesday, Aug. 6, full closures for blasting will return to the regularly scheduled 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
 
To date, approximately 20,000 cubic yards of material has been removed from the canyon walls to make room for a more flood resilient canyon corridor. It’s all part of CDOT’s Whole System – Whole Safety initiative.
 
CDOT and the entire project team want to thank the surrounding communities for their patience throughout this project. As a reminder, motorists should always check the website, sign up text alerts and call the hotline before they travel the canyon to stay informed on current conditions. 


This email was sent to tonyvrba@nullgmail.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Boulder County Colorado · 1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302  

Fuels mitigation

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
and Pawnee National Grassland

Boulder Ranger District
Boulder, Colorado

Contact: Tammy Williams, 970-295-6693

Find this news online: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/arp/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD646378
or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @usfsarp

Fuels Mitigation Work Near Gross Reservoir Designated Camping Area Begins Aug. 5.

BOULDER, Colo. (July 31, 2019) Fuels reduction work will begin on Aug. 5 in the Gross Reservoir Designated Camping Area on the Boulder Ranger District. Dispersed camping at the area will be affected through Aug. 16. During this time, dispersed camping opportunities will be limited and may need to be temporarily re-located as fuels reduction crews work in and around campsites. Signs have been posted at the campsites to notify visitors of about the project. 

This work is part of the 453-acre Forsythe II Phase 1 task order designed to create forest conditions that are more resilient to the effects of disturbances. This part of the project covers the area between Nederland and Gross Reservoir. Implementation of this work will start on Friday, Aug. 2 near Gross Dam and is expected to be completed by end of September 2019.  Daily operations will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Fuels mitigation work being completed includes:

o    thinning mixed conifer and restoring aspen and the north side of Magnolia Road;

o    thinning regeneration east of Big Springs Road;

o    thinning mixed conifer on the east end of Lazy Z Road;

o    piling downed fuels, thinning mixed conifer and restoring meadow features west and south of Gross Reservoir; and,

o    restoring aspen in a small unit east of Kelly Dahl Campground.

For a full list of Boulder Ranger District Fuels Projects, visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/brdfuels

 
Tammy J. Williams, M.S
Forest Public Affairs Program Manager
Forest Service

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
and Pawnee National Grassland

p: 970-295-6693
tammy.j.williams@nullusda.gov
2150 Center Avenue, Building E
Fort Collins, CO 80521
www.fs.usda.gov/arp
Caring for the land and serving people

 

 

This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.

Fourmile Canyon Flood Recovery Project Update

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Fourmile Canyon Flood Recovery Project Update 
3-Week Look Ahead for July 31

Here is the three-week look ahead schedule for lower Fourmile Canyon between CO 119 and Salina Junction. The main difference between last week’s and this week’s is that Lawrence Construction will begin installing concrete culverts under the road. This work is similar to what was seen in the lower portion of the road. They’ll install one half of the pipe and keep a lane open for travel, then install the other. 

Delays are not to exceed 15-minutes between Salina Junction and Logan Mill Road. No work will take place in the lower section below Poorman. Tentative plans for restoring the creek in that section are being made for August.

Daytime, weekday cycling restrictions remain in effect. 

Let me know if you have questions or concerns.

Have a good day.

Sincerely,

Andrew Barth
Boulder County Transportation
303-441-1032
abarth@nullbouldercounty.org 


This email was sent to gretchend@nullmac.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Boulder County Colorado · 1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302  

Music at the Store

Live Music 
Escaping Pavement this Saturday!

See you this Saturday from 5-7pm for returning band Escaping Pavement.
Have a listen:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZToyzXGVNA
This trio is out of Detroit and will be stopping in to serenade us with their americana/bluegrass tunes! Dress in layers, if it’s lovely we’ll get to enjoy music on the back patio. Full bar/food service!

Plus mark your calendars for:
Saturday Aug 10th ~ Shanna in a Dress
Saturday Aug 17th~ Collin Robison
Saturday Aug 31st~ Foxfeather Duo

If you have any favorites you want to be sure to see, let us know! 

 

Free Slash Pick-up

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A newsletter of Left Hand Watershed Center

Forwarded by PamSherman

Currents

A newsletter of Left Hand Watershed Center
Summer is here! We’ve settled into the swing of summer, which is a busy time here at the Watershed Center. We’ve been working with contractors and volunteers to complete necessary weed control activities, and we are wrapping up our Community Science plan and Catch the Hatch project. We’re also gearing up to start a major river restoration & construction project in Lefthand Canyon, as well as collect data to better inform how well our projects are meeting goals. We’re also planning for our first inauguralWatershed Days community event. Thanks to a new grant from the Colorado Water Conservation Board, we’re also expanding our work to include Forestry Health projects, and we are working to strengthen partnerships throughout the County and beyond to ensure we are helping achieve greatest collective benefits for our Front Range Watersheds.

I hope you enjoy the news from the watershed!

-Jessie Olson, Executive Director

 

Our Activities

Learn more about the current status of our restoration, stewardship, and watershed science activities. Each month, we select a few projects to highlight.

Community Science Plan

Our Community Science Plan is Finished! Thanks to funding from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, Gates Family Foundation and Colorado Water Conservation Board, we worked with CitSci to develop a community science plan define projects, tools, and guidelines for developing future science-based community projects. Check out the planhere. 

Captain Jack Mine Update

Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment recently shared an update with us. They plan to work toward improving in-tunnel treatment system so that they can eventually remove the temporary on-site water treatment system, if water returns to the quality before the in-tunnel bulkhead was installed. Learn more here

Stewardship

What’s that weed?  In this new series, we will feature a new weed every month.
Details: This B-listed noxious weed is called Teasel. Right now you will find it budding and preparing to flower. Best treatment is to remove before it goes to seed. You can weed whip or dig out the roots. If the plant is flowering or gone to seed, clip the heads and bag them for disposal. Learn more here.

 

We Caught the Hatch!
We kicked off our first year of our Catch the Hatch project this summer!
Tracking Mayfly Emergence For Science
We caught the hatch! We kicked off our first year of Catch the Hatch project, tracking adult mayfly emergence in three watersheds in the St. Vrain Basin (Boulder, Left Hand, and St. Vrain). The first year was deemed a success as volunteers were able to record the emergence timing of Pale Morning Dun (PMD) mayflies.

Mayflies are important indicators of watershed health. Their life stages are both aquatic and terrestrial, and are driven by dynamic watershed processes. Climate variability in the Front Range, including changes in annual snow pack and seasonal temperatures and precipitation, may impact the phenology of aquatic insects.

While mayflies are critical to our watersheds, science does not do a great job at measuring adult mayfly emergence. Most mayflies are measured in their larval phase because they are easier to sample. Yet adult emergence is critical for reproduction and as a food source for trout. As a community that knows and loves our bugs, we help science better understand our mayflies into the future. The Catch the Hatch community science project aims to track emergence timing of PMD mayflies from year to year in relationship to creek flows and temperature. 

What did we learn this year?

  1. PMDs were observed at all three sites. PMD samples were collected only from Boulder and N. St. Vrain sites.
  2. PMDs were first observed at Left Hand Creek on June 21st. The majority of observations came after June 27th.
  3. PMDs were observed throughout the 11 am to sundown timeframe.

What’s next?

  • Gather volunteer feedback on methods and protocols.
  • Cross check accuracy of identification from collected PMD samples.
  • Improve volunteer methods and protocols.
  • Determine sampling timeline and locations for next year!   

Thanks to our 2019 volunteers and partners for a great sampling season!

 

State of the Watershed

Events

Thank you awesome volunteers! 
Interns from Burns & McDonnell joined us this month! Thanks to this awesome company for allowing staff to get out and give back to the community.

Watershed Days
We’re planning our first inaugural Watershed Days community event to celebrate watershed health, science, and community! The event will feature a data collection bio-blitz and hands-on watershed activities. Learn more here and mark your calendar for Saturday, September 28th.  

Conferences: 
Executive Director, Jessie Olson will be presenting at the Sustaining Colorado Watersheds Conference in Avon, CO in October. See conference agenda and morehere.  

We love our schools! If you live in Lyons, Niwot, or Longmont your kids may have an opportunity to work with us this fall. We’re forming new partnerships with local schools to help integrate meaningful watershed heath data collection into school curriculum and after school programs. Local teachers and schools have taken the lead on this initiative and we are excited to develop the partnership this year.
 

visit our website

By the numbers

SNOW PACK: Check out current snow pack data here or here

FLOWS: Current flow data available here

 
SEEKING FORWARD THINKING WATERSHED INVESTORS!  Interested in supporting resilient restoration projects, helping launch our community science program, and/or ensuring critical research and monitoring efforts continue into the future? Click the link below and donate today!
I want to be a watershed investor!
view this email in your browser

Contact us:

Jessica J. Olson
Executive Director
Left Hand Watershed Center
6800 Nimbus Road, Longmont CO 80503 (office)
P.O. Box 1074, Niwot, CO 80544-0210 (mailing)
303.530.4200 (office) | 303.746.7937 (cell)
jolson@nulllwog.org | www.watershed.center

 

 

Weed Report from Pam Sherman

Here’s a post from CSU’s Colorado Mountain Gardener on Managing Bindweed in garden and field. The only thing I would add is that domestic ruminants (cows, goats, sheep, even some weeder geese) can keep it in check.

Colorado Mountain Gardener

 
Managing bindweed in the garden

Posted: 26 Jul 2019 08:03 AM PDT

by Vicky Barney

Before I found it in my garden, I thought field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis var. linearifoliu) was a rather pretty plant.  It looks like a morning glory (in the Convolvulus family), growing along the ground or as a vine, and producing pretty white or pink flowers.  But unlike Morning glory, it grows extremely quickly, takes over gardens and lawns, returns year after year, and is nearly impossible to eradicate. 

Field bindweed can be distinguished from morning glory by its arrowhead-shaped leaves and its ability to grow in nearly any environment – in yards, along roads, in pastures.  One plant will grow an extensive underground root system that may travel 10 feet deep and contain a 2-3 year food supply.  It will produce up to 300 seeds that stay viable in the soil for 40 years.  And it cannot be dug out easily – the stems are fragile and any root piece left in the soil will produce a new plant.

 
Field Bindweed

Because of the tenacity and invasive nature of this non-native, the Colorado Noxious Weed Act has identified field bindweed as a “List C” species, which means local government may require it be contained, eradicated, or suppressed.  It may never be completely eradicated in our gardens, but it can be contained and suppressed if we are consistent with healthy gardening practices.

Vigilance – Look for bindweed when weeding or after introducing new soil or new plants into your yard. (My bindweed arrived in the soil of a nursery-grown shrub.) Young seedlings can be removed if roots are dug several inches below the soil.   Established plants should be cut or pulled at the surface as soon as possible, stressing the plant and slowing its growth.

Mulch – Bindweed grows best in the sunshine.  Mulching regularly will discourage growth.

Healthy Soil – Improving the nutrient balance of your soil will discourage most weeds.  A soil test will determine the necessary steps to soil health specific to your yard. (https://webdoc.agsci.colostate.edu/soiltestinglab/soilsample_horticulture.pdf)

For large dry land infestations of field bindweed, a biological control is available.  CSU’s Plant Talk 1493 has more details on using the bindweed mite. (https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/insects-diseases/1493-bindweed-mites/)

CSU’s Plant Talk: Controlling Bindweed (https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/weeds-cultural-problems/2104-controlling-bindweed/) includes a discussion of using herbicides.  Like the controls listed above, this method requires several years of vigilance.  It also requires careful application to minimize damage to surrounding life.  It is not an option for those of us cultivating wildlife-friendly yards.

Perseverance and healthy gardening practices will discourage nuisance weeds like field bindweed.  Fortunately, these same routines will keep our gardens flourishing.

Vicky Barney gardens for wildlife and is a member of the Master Gardener Class of 2011.

 

GHTM Newsletter

GOLD HILL TOWN MEETING NEWSLETTER

Minutes of the June 10th, 2019, Town Meeting

 Next Town Meeting will be Monday, August 12, 2019, 7:00 p.m. at the Community Center

 ELECTIONS!  Who would like to step up and help?

 The meeting was called to order by Chair Tony Vrba.  Twenty-two people attended: Bear Carlson, Poppy Copeland, Elisabeth Caspari, Marcus Moench, Rick Sheingold, Chair Tony Vrba, John and Cherry Sand, Karen Simmons, Val Crist, Mary Ryan, Virginia Schultz, Pam Sherman, Rick Sinner, Chris Dikolf,  Emma Salmon,
Treasurer Martha Knapp, Jim Sidell, Vice Chair Marielle Sidell, and Secretary Gretchen Diefenderfer.  Also Ted Plank, the Maintenance Division Manager of the County Road Department and Jeff  Maxwell, the new Director of the County Transportation Department attended.

 The regular agenda was deferred so that Ted Plank and Jeff Maxwell could answer questions about our roads and road maintenance strategies.  Tony introduced them, thanked them for coming, and said that we are particularly happy with the Climb. She added that those over 60 can call VIA (303-447-2848) and get rides to doctors’ appointments, etc. after they get to Boulder. Val added that it’s advisable to call well ahead to set up a ride with VIA as they’re very busy.

Tony then called attention to our concern about the grey road base and it’s deteriorating condition with all the moisture this spring.  Ted explained that they are not happy either, of course, and they are removing it and resurfacing the roads with the regular product as quickly as they can.  They are working on a lot of roads in the county.  There is too much clay in the grey road base.  They plan to blend it with the other base material, around 1:5.  They will also be doing dust control, which is behind because of weather delays and now everyone needs it.  It turns out there are only 2 dust control companies in Boulder County and it is much more expensive for the County crews to do it themselves.

Jim Sidell asked if they will address drainage issues, especially along the shelf road and Ted acknowledged that the guardrail area is a problem.  They try to grade every week to 10 days and inspect a couple of times a week.  Gretchen said that there is also a spring near the east end of the upper shelf road that contributes to the drainage problems.  She emphasized that we appreciate all the work the road crews put in and that we know our roads present difficult challenges, so thank you!

Ted replied that they have remarkable people that make him look good.  Martha added that they are always polite and move over to allow us to pass.  Rick Sheingold asked which side should we drive on, when there is a berm in the middle because they are grading.  Ted said to follow the grader on your side and the will move over as soon as they can.

Tony said that there were a lot of concerns with the mud and access for emergency vehicles plus we’ve had increased traffic because of closures on other roads.  Ted acknowledged that this was “special mud this year” and they are working to get new surface down and will do extra dust control.  Rick Sinner asked about dust control on Main Street and Ted said they are trying to get back on their normal schedule and will have it done by the 4thof July.  Tony added that they have had to schedule around the rain.  Ted replied that, unfortunately, gravel roads are dusty and it has been a difficult year.  John Sand told him that we appreciate it.

Mary Ryan asked if there is anything bad in the grey stuff, but Ted said that it is just high clay road base – no added chemicals.

With that, our regular meeting commenced.

Minutes of the April 8thTown Meeting were approved as published.

Treasurer’s Report – Martha reports: At the previous regular Town Meeting in APRIL 2019 our bank balance was $12,310.56. Currently, our total cash assets are $12,604.26.

Revenue: Pint glass sales of $96 and Cemetery fund donation of $250 totaling $346.

Expenses: Annual fee for bank safety deposit box $52.30.

Current fund totals:           General Fund $689.71; Cemetery $5,739.85; Safe Link (combined funds for SafeSite, AirLink, NeighborLink projects) $2,847.75; Community Planning/Fundraising $1000; Forest Management $0 (zero;) Community Relief $2,326.95.

                                                                                                                                             

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Gold Hill Resilient –Virginia reports that at their last meeting they discussed solar – possibilities and new laws.  Some reimbursement programs are ending, so get in touch with Boulder County Energy Smart if you have solar plans.  Exel Energy is now allowing battery backup, which is a big step. 

            The Resiliency group now has 3 shares of a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture – a Colorado local produce organization) for 8 people.

SafeLink/NeighborLink/AirLink – Marielle reports that the Community Picnic has been put off until next year –everyone is too busy!

Climate/Sustainability Update – Virginia reports that they are stressing that everyone should get their wildfire mitigation assessments done with Wildfire Partners.  Ten were done two years ago and 20 last year, but they want to do the entire community since we all affect each other.  Val added that follow up involves doing the mitigation work and there is some funding available for people who cannot do the work themselves or afford it.   There is a list of mitigation providers, but the assessment has to be done first.   John volunteered that they had it done, it’s very educational, and he highly recommends it.  Everyone would learn a lot.  There is a meeting with the BOCC for tomorrow and they are trying to get everybody their assessments for free.

             Tony reports that energy savings is an important area for sustainability and the IMA has asked the Energy Smart folks to be more mountain friendly as many of the regulations are more oriented to people on the plains.  They are looking into water supply and testing our water safety – it seems to be costly.  Rick thinks there is a lab in Gunbarrel and will find out information on them.

Museum Update – John reports that there is a new exhibit on Tellurium, which was discovered in the Red Cloud in 1872.  Ed Raines will be giving a talk at the Museum Community Outreach event on July 12 at 7 preceded by a cocktail party at 5.  We are upgrading with a composting toilet and a Tuff Shed. Gretchen added that 2020 Calendars will be out by the 4thof July.

IMA Update – Pam reports that there is a land-use subcommittee and they are pooling their voices to have a stronger voice together. From OEM (Office of Emergency Management Flood Presentation at MACS meeting 6/3/19 – Lower than usual chance of wildfire next 90 days.  Probably won’t see fuels becoming dry and brittle.  A high snowpack does not automatically mean flooding on the plains.  Floods can happen in a time of drought (d/t rainfall) as well as I wet years.  Floods are common in Colorado.  They happen every year. We don’t know what will happen during monsoon season in terms of flooding, which could be roughly mid-July through mid-September. Rock or mudslides could be of concern in the mountains.  Think of the three S’s: slope (steep), soil (composition-granite), saturation.  When granite soils get saturated on steep slopes, slides can happen.

The IMA is participating in mountain-wide asset mapping at Ned Fire on 6/26 at 1 pm, led by staff from the CU Natural Hazards Center.  Firefighters and town planners, etc., are encouraged to attend if you can. Need to register.

AirLink has an every Tuesday night gabfest, which is spreading throughout the County, mainly thanks to Mark and Dina Elder.

Weed Management – Pam reports that there are some great videos that can identify some invasive weeds that are coming up now or soon.  There are so many!  Just go to YouTube and Google Cheatgrass, Leafy Spurge, Canada Thistle, Oxeye Daisy, Spotted Knapweed, Common Mullein, Field Bindweed, or others you have picked out from their profile photos on the Noxious Weed Species list at the Colorado Weed Association: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/agconservation/noxious-weed-species

            People like to mow or dig, depending on the plant. Replant with non-invasive, native species found at Low Water Native Plants for Colorado Gardens Mountains 7500’ and Above.  https://conps.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Native-Plant-Guide-Mountains.pdf

Also,there is a good Boulder County website on noxious weeds – https://www.bouldercounty.org/property-and-land/land-use/noxious-weeds/identification-of-noxious-weeds/  helps identify they and how to treat them.

Forestry Report-Virginia reports that there is a county group getting together and sharing information.  The CU Natural Hazard Center is doing asset mapping.  Caroline Ashley is looking into funding for her mitigation work.  Maya from the Fourmile Watershed is working with her and the State Forest Service – a good resource.  Contact Virginia for contact information.  Virginia encourages everyone to encourage their neighbors to participate in the Wildfire Partners Assessments and mitigation.

Tony added that Colorado State Forest Service is trying to take care of the slash piles and doesn’t intend to leave them.

Karen Simmons came across dying trees on the south side of her property and is concerned that the grey clay road stuff is bad for them.  Pam noted that there are catchment basins used in some places to deal with run off and Gretchen added that the road people have been ditching seriously as they are working on the roads, which should help.  Tony said that there is an input form on the County Transportation website – let them know your concerns.

Tony added that the Meadow is ours and do we need to mow it for wildfire mitigation?  Virginia suggested goats.  Gretchen will get copies of the deed to the Meadow to the board members.

Wildfire Partner Days – Virginia asked if it would be ok to use the town logo on the postcards being sent out to notify the community about the assessment programs, etc.  Rick moved to use the logo, Bear seconded and the motion passed unanimously.

Town Clean Up – The best available date for the clean up for the Inn and the County is June 29th  and Bear graciously agreed to move the Bocce Tournament (usually the Saturday before the 4thof July) to Sunday, the 30th.  And, yes!  We do need volunteers

Historic Zoning – Bear reported that Joyce Robinson’s project is progressing.  Also Greg Buis would like to add on to his house on Pine Street and will have plans soon.

Cemetery – Chellee Courtney has a really interesting new book out about the history of the Gold Hill Cemetery, Digging Up the Dirt, and it’s for sale at the Museum.

Mining – Gretchen reports that there hasn’t been much obvious activity, they did get an extension on their permit process, which should up soon. 

GHFPD – Rick Sheingold stressed that if there is an emergency, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1.

Upcoming Events

 Town Clean-Up- June 29th

Bocce Tournament – June 30th

GHFPD 4thof July Pancake Breakfast and Parade

 

Respectfully Submitted, Gretchen Diefenderfer, Secretary

 

           

Fourmile Farmers Market today!

Hi neighbors, just a reminder that the next farmers market is Sunday from 1-3pm at the Poorman fire station. Vendors are welcome to get there around 12:30 to set up.

 
As always, you can find more information on the website: www.fourmilefarmersmarket.com,  or please also feel free to contact me directly with any questions.
 
Last time, we had herbs, produce, bread, pies, honey from local bees, handmade soaps, live plants, pottery, handcrafted teas and tinctures, and lots of other lovely crafts. Hope to see you there!
Molly Seeling
mollyseeling@nullgmail.com

Fourmile Canyon Flood Recovery Project – Three-week look ahead for July 24, 2019

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Fourmile Canyon Flood Recovery Project – Three-week look ahead for July 24, 2019

You may have seen that Lawrence Construction is expanding the lower of the two signalized work zones in the north section. They are doing this in order to start building the sixth of seven retaining walls. The expanded work zone now will include a driveway, so there will be three traffic signals in use. The driveway signal will only be triggered when a resident on the property approaches the signal at the end of the driveway. The timing for the two on-road signals will need to be lengthened to accommodate for the longer work zone. Exact timing is being determined today, but the total of the two zones will remain under the 15-minute limit.

Here is the three-week look ahead schedule Lawrence provided today:

Mapleton Avenue in the City of Boulder – Construction starts Monday – Detours required

I know many people have been using Poorman Road and Sunshine Canyon Drive/Mapleton Avenue  when Boulder Canyon Drive/CO 119 is closed for blasting. Starting at 8 a.m. next Monday, July 29, the City of Boulder will close Mapleton Avenue between 5th and 7th streets The closure will be in place 24-hours a day, seven days a week until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9. Cars and bikes will be detoured on 4th and 8th streets. For more information, contact Brian German with the City of Boulder at 303-441-4918.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. Let me know if you have questions, comments, or concerns. 

Have a good day.

Sincerely,

Andrew Barth
Communications
Boulder County Transportation
abarth@nullbouldercounty.org
303-441-1032


This email was sent to gretchend@nullmac.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Boulder County Colorado · 1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302  

Music at the Store

Live Music 
FoxFeather Duo Tonight, Saturday, the 20th, at The Pub!
We are looking forward to seeing you this evening for a special performance by members of FoxFeather. These women are a rare force of bold personalities and strong voices — a perfect duo for an evening on the back patio at the Pub. Join us for great food, drinks, and live music, 5-7 pm. No cover. 
Check them out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-KNPCjdUEM
 
Plus mark your calendars for:
Saturday Aug 3rd ~ Emily Burns of Escaping Pavement
Saturday Aug 10th ~ Shanna in a Dress
Saturday Aug 17th ~ Colin Robison
 

Historical Zoning plans

Plans have been submitted to Gold Hill Historic Zoning for renovations to 1101 Pine St., the Buis residence. They are proposing adding dormers on both sides of the roof, as well as enlarging and reconfiguring the front entry.

If you would like to review the plans and provide public input to Historic Zoning, the plans will be available for two weeks at the Gold Hill Store. There will be a meeting at 1:00 PM on Friday, July 26, 2019, at the Gold Hill Store for a final approval vote. Anyone is welcome to attend and provide input. If you have comments, but cannot attend this meeting, you may also email Bear Carlson at Lawrence.carlson@nullcolorado.edu.

Fourmile Canyon Flood Recovery Project

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Fourmile Canyon Flood Recovery Project Update with Three-Week Look Ahead

Here’s the schedule for the next three weeks in Fourmile Canyon. Remember “N” refers to work in the north section above Logan Mill and “S” refers to work in the lower section below Poorman.

All work is weather dependent and the schedule is subject to changes based on crew and equipment availability. 

Construction continues on four retaining walls in the two zones controlled by signals/flaggers in the north section. Tomorrow, they plan to start drilling for caissons that will form the wall closest to Salina Junction, which means we’ll soon be one wall closer to being done.  

Work on the stone application in the south section should be done by the end of the month. Logistics for removal of the old asphalt and application of new material are being worked on now. I’ll provide more information on that significant undertaking as soon as details are ironed out. 

The contractor has asked that we remind people to not use their construction dumpsters for personal/residential refuse. They have been finding food in trash bins not protected for bears, which could lead to bigger problems for everyone.  

As always, please obey all flaggers and traffic signals.

Thank you for your help and your time. 

Have a good day.

Sincerely,

Andrew Barth
Communications
Boulder County Transportation
303-441-1032
abarth@nullbouldercounty.org 


This email was sent to gretchend@nullmac.com using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Boulder County Colorado · 1325 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302  

Memorial service for Laura Kavalek

Jeff Fishbaugh, a former friend, companion, and true of love of over 11+ years to Laura Kavalek cordially invites the greater Gold Hill Community to:

A memorial service for Laura Kavalek. I will be having a memorial for Laura July 21st, 2 pm @ the Gold Hill Cemetery. Thereafter, around 3 pm, you are of course invited for pie and refreshments.

The pie and refreshments piece with be potluck style. If possible, and as a tribute to Laura’s dedication to good diet — try to make sure it is vegan / gluten free. I hope we can all share our great memories of her.

Since I am flying solo and doing the whole shebang, and Gold Hill is not ideal for lots of parking — please carpool if you can. The obvious spots for parking around the cemetery — in front of Gold Hill town meadow on the side opposite the actual meadow. Parking closer to my house for the pie and refreshments can be had by parking across the street facing west towards the mountains. Please do not park at the fire dept or any space designated for firefighters

I appreciate your attendance. It’s been a very long road and I sincerely thank you and your family for being part of Laura’s life and very supportive of her these many many years. I really hope you all are able to make it.

*Unfortunately Hans, Laura’s son residing in San Francisco with his father, has become very insincere. He has canceled coming or providing me any ashes to place at the cemetery at the last minute. I encourage you all if he by chance shows up, to embrace Laura’s son in nothing but love and support. He too has not always had the basics in terms of parental support.

Jeff

email.fish@nullgmail.com

Mobil Mammogram Van Coming to Ned

A mobile mammogram van is coming to Ned. This is open to ALL MOUNTAIN women, so they have sent us a flyer, which is below and attached. Thanks,  Pam   pamsher123@nullgmail.com

Town Clean Up report

Report on the Town Clean Up, June 29, 2019

The Clean up went quite well!  Lots of great people showed up to help:  Bobby Vrba (who stayed until the very end!), Val Crist, Kris Gibson, John and Cherry Sand, Pam Leland, Toni Shaller, Chad  Miltonberger, Bear and Poppy, as well as assorted others  who stepped in off and on and helped each other.  Max was a huge help mashing down the trash with his machine so that we had room for everything.  A fine cooperative, community affair!  And we did collect enough money to pay for the trash dumpster, which was more expensive than last year so I was concerned.  Thank you all for everything!  If I forgot anyone, I apologize – please know you were appreciated.

The County people were great to work with, also.  They took electronics (although there weren’t a lot), appliances, some household hazardous waste (antifreeze, car batteries, latex paint), tires, mixed rigid plastics and Styrofoam, and mattresses.  They were also really helpful with everything else, whenever we needed a helping hand.

The dumpster for metal was probably only half full and the one for wood was very sparse until the last when Michelle and Whitey brought a bunch of slash.

The repurposing/free stuff was good and people were pretty reliable about taking back items that no one took.

It does feel as though we may have cleared out the majority of our junk over the years and could consider holding this event every other year.  What do you think?  Any ideas or suggestions?

Again, many thanks to everyone who participated and contributed!

Gretchen, Clean Up Oganizer

 

 

 

 

Emergency Preparedness Info

Preparedness Info from Pam Sherman pamsher123@nullgmail.com

Food and Water in an Emergency pamphlet (for an event that lasts up to two weeks):

https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/PDF_s/Preparedness___Disaster_Recovery/Disaster_Preparedness/Food_Safety/Food_and_Water-English.revised_7-09.pdf

Government website on preparedness:   https://www.ready.gov/

 Boulder County Office of Emergency Management:     https://www.boulderoem.com/

Visit the Boulder Office of Emergency Management website for the most accurate and up-to-date information in an event: https://www.boulderoem.com/emergency-status/