Comprehensive Plan: Environmental Resources Element

About the Program

Category: County Resiliency (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

The Environmental Resource Element (ERE) of the Boulder County Comprehensive Plan is the bedrock for land use in the county. For over 30 years it has served as a guide for preserving and protecting valuable natural resources including plant and animal species of concern, wildlife habitat, natural landmarks and more. The ERE had last been updated in 1995 and was due for a major update of both the text and maps. The first part of this process was reviewing and revising the policy statements. The second, more comprehensive part was updating all the critical resources valued by the citizens of Boulder County. This involved a county team effort and entailed collaboration with over 50 experts in our community. The final product is the most comprehensive set of critical natural resources maps found in Boulder County. The maps make it easier to determine where appropriate development should go, where sensitive resources should be protected, and where future open space should be pursued. It also fosters more interest and better understanding of the unique ecosystems found in Boulder County. This plan will improve natural resource protection and land use decision making throughout Boulder County and can serve as a model for other counties.