Project : Proposed Equestrian Campsite

Grandfathered SRP holder has requested development and installation of a 15 unit campsite to accommodate equestrian users

SRP holder has political connections & NCA managers have identified a need for equestrian facilities.

View of Proposed Project from KOP

Proposed Location – pros(Within the Red Rocks NCA & Class II VRM)

Existing area of disturbance with existing trail system.

Provides an equestrian facility within the NCA

Provides opportunity increased revenue to the local economy

Proposed Location- cons

Visible from major scenic overlook/vista (KOP)

May not meet VRM Class II objectives No natural features -topographic or

vegetative to use for screening Large vehicles/ trailers= bold disconnect Landform and line may be affected

Proposed Location without Mitigation

Proposed Location- Mitigation

Curve access road alignment to follow the natural land form & lines Natural color on road surface and any new facilities Curvilinear alignment on campsite road and individual campsite

locations Re-contour the project area to provide visual variety in form & line in

an attempt to blend with natural surroundings Orient campsites so that parked vehicles/ trailers have minimal

surface area facing the state scenic byway Disturbed vegetation would be saved and transplanted around new

campsite New facilities would be minimal in size and constructed of native

materials and/or painted with appropriate colors Location of structures would be placed in an irregular fashion so as to

emulate the natural landscape Installation of informational kiosk at parking area – map of trail system

Proposed Location with Mitigation

Our Proposed Alternative Location

Located northeast of the existing access road, behind existing coral and bluff

May not be as visible from major scenic overlook/vista (KOP) May meet VRM Class II objectives

topographic & vegetative natural features - screening Large vehicles/ trailers= less visible from scenic byway

and KOP Less disruption to landform and line

Larger project area, more vegetation, more diversity Would satisfy proposal submitted by SRP holder Increased distance from KOP= less likely to attract the visitors

attention

Well-Designed Alternative Location

Conclusion

We recommend the alternative location for development & installation of an equestrian campground facility

Utilization of native materials and appropriate colors would greatly improve potential visual contrast between the campground and surroundings

If the proposed location is selected by NCA managers we recommend the SRP holder provide the financing for the following:

- contract assistance towards completion of surveys - Section 7 consultation- RMP plan amendment