Logo Department Name Agency Organization Organization Address Information. Boulder, CO Agriculture

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1 Logo Department Name Agency Organization Organization Address Information United States Forest Boulder Ranger District 2140 Yarmouth Avenue Department of Service Boulder, CO Agriculture Fax: File Code: 2300 Date: October 27, 2017 Colorado State Parks State Trails Program S. Hwy 85 Littleton, Colorado Dear State Trails Review Committee: I am pleased to support and authorize the Boulder Mountain Bike Alliance (BMA) trail grant application which includes important trail work in the Magnolia Trails area on the Boulder Ranger District of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland. The Magnolia area of the Boulder Ranger District contains a large network of non-motorized system and social trails. Over the past several decades, this system has experienced a substantial increase in recreation use, including unauthorized trail construction (also known as non-system or social trails). This use has led to resource damage, trail damage and unmanaged recreation use in the project area. As a result, the trail system has become unsustainable with environmental impacts increasing every year. In December of 2016, I signed the Magnolia Non-Motorized Trails Environmental Analysis (EA). The purpose of which is to create a sustainable and manageable non-motorized trail system within the Magnolia area. The desired condition is to have a well-functioning trail system that the recreating public uses and enjoys and that minimizes impacts to other resources in the area. Since the signing of the EA in December we have engaged partners and stakeholders on several occasions, including Colorado Parks and Wildlife, to allow for input while drafting our priorities for implementation. The grant proposal that BMA is requesting is in alignment with those priorities. I recognize that continuing this collaboration will be critical in the implementation and monitoring of this project as we move forward. Thank you for supporting the Boulder Ranger District and our partners. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at , sgclark@fs.fed.us or Matt Henry Recreation Program Manager at , Matthewhenry@fs.fed.us Sincerely, SYLVIA BIERMAN District Ranger Caring for the Land and Serving People Printed on Recycled Paper

2 GRANT SUBMISSION CHECK LIST MANDATORY: Signed letter of support from Governing Body Exhibit A Application Exhibit B Budget (Unprotected Excel CPW form) Environmental Forms Maps/Photographs/Graphics (5 page max, pdf, letter sized pages) Letters of Support (maximum of 5). No letters from clubs or groups specifically working on the project Project can be completed within 2.5 years from receiving grant Required MATCH funding is secured, including CASH match funds GOCO/RTP Meets two Trails Strategic Plan goals and objectives Strategic Plan CPW District Wildlife Manager has been contacted and informed of project (New Construction and Maintenance re-routes only). Note that ALL projects will be reviewed by CPW for wildlife impacts. Project area is owned by public land agency or has easement that designates the area to be open to public outdoor recreation for at least 25 years. Formal Environmental Assessment (EA) or NEPA has been completed with final approval for the project area (federal lands only). ADDITIONAL PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS: Project is part of the Colorado the Beautiful Initiative, Colorado Front Range Trail or other long distance, multiple jurisdiction trail system Youth Corps or youth organization will be used on the project (name of organization) Volunteers will be utilized on the project (name organization) 23

3 NON-MOTORIZED CONSTRUCTION/MAINTENANCE APPLICATION Applicant or Organization Name: Mailing Address: PO Box 4954, Boulder, CO Applicant Lead Contact Name: Steve Watts Title: Executive Director Telephone: Is this the primary contact for this grant: YES NO OFFICIAL USE ONLY DUNS # (IF REQUIRED): PROJECT MANAGER (this person will have day-today responsibility for the project) Name: Steve Watts Mailing Address: PO Box 4954, Boulder, CO Telephone: stevew@bouldermountainbike.org PRIMARY PARTNER INFORMATION (IF APPLICABLE) Name: USFS Boulder Ranger District Mailing Address: 2140 Yarmouth Avenue, Boulder, CO Partner Contact Name: Sylvia Clark Title: District Ranger Is this the primary contact Telephone: sgclark@fs.fed.us for this grant: YES NO ABOUT THE PROJECT Project Title: Magnolia Trail System Zone 1 Total Project Cost: $ Grant Request: $ $246,932 Required Match: $ $74,080 Actual Match: $178,162 $425,094 Project Description: Please write a 1-2 description of your project and the expected accomplishments. Be sure to include Who, What, When, and Where.) This is your scope of work. (This section is not the place to talk about the project background, the benefits, the funding, or anything other than the actual work to be accomplished. Please address th information in question #1 of the Selection Criteria.) WHO? WHAT? WHERE?. DEFINITIONS?

4 The Magnolia Trail System has been a high priority for both the (BMA) and the USFS Boulder Ranger District (FS BRD) for years. BMA has a long-standing and strong partnership and a formal MOU with the FS BRD. Utilizing a CPW Trail Planning Grant, BMA teamed with professional consultants to produce the West Magnolia Trail System Master Plan (June 2014). This plan set the stage and was referenced in the USFS Magnolia Non-Motorized Trail Environmental Assessment (final decision signed ). The purpose of Magnolia Trails Project is to create a sustainable and manageable nonmotorized trail system within the 6000-acre management area. The trail system is entirely within on the Boulder Ranger District of the Roosevelt National Forest yet spans Boulder and Gilpin Counties, Colorado. The EA progressively notes that some trails in the system may be optimized for a given visitor experience (Hiking, Equestrians, Mountain Bikes, Nordic, etc), even if most trails allow multiuse. Mountain cyclists are be the largest visitor group at WestMag (some estimates up to 90%) and some trails are already MTB-optimized. Even as a mountain bike organization, BMA supports and understands the USFS effort to meet a range of needs and is committed to assisting with this broad vision, not just MTB-centric opportunities. Actions identified in EA include keeping miles of existing trail, converting miles of social trail to system trail, converting 4.11 miles of road to system trail, building 8.94 miles of new trail, obliterating miles of non-system trail, and obliterating 1.75 miles of system trails. FS BRD has taken a zoned approach to project completion with 4-5 zones in the next ~10 years. The desired condition is to have a well-functioning trail system that the recreating public uses and enjoys and that minimizes impacts to other resources in the area. The proposed project includes the following Zone 1 deliverables: 5-6 miles of trail construction/re-construction 2-3 miles of trail maintenance 2-3 miles of route closure and reclamation Zone 1 of the Magnolia Trail System is the most accessible portion of the system containing formal trailheads and access points from the local high school and within walkable proximity from Nederland. 4

5 LAND' OWNERSHIP 1. Provide the name/s of the property owners: r Other: I USER INFORMA non (Please check all that apply) Iv Hiking C Motorcycling Ii? --- Equestrian ~walking Four-Wheeling I Motor Boating 2. The trail corridor is controlled by! ai' Fee Simple r LeasenEasement r Ucense I" Right-of-Way P - r Running All-Terrain Vehicle Paddling I" - Skateboarding Snowmobiling LAccessible Access r In-Line Skatin, -- ai' Snowshoeing [ Iv.-- Biking ai' X-Country Skiing r - Other Other, - 'LTRAIL SURFACE,.. ~ C Asphalt - r-- Concrete I Other fi7 Natural...- Crusher Fines PROJECT~LOCATI( N JFor multiillenroiect sites attach a seoarate fist.} Nearest Town or City: Nederland, County: Boulder Latitude & Longitude Coordinates: 23/1 Sf73 State Senate District #: 18 State Representative District #: 13 Acreage of new trailhead Miles of trail grooming Miles of new trail construction 5-6 Miles of trail being planned Miles of trail maintenance 2-3 Miles of trail reroute Miles of trail reconstruction Miles of inter-connecting trail Miles of trail to be signed 8-10 Other Miles of trail restoration 2-3 Other Applicant Autho1rized Signature: ~;ptffj Date: ;. /7 r /:>.<- r r- (From Applicant Organization) --~~~--~~~~----~~~------~ I ", /"-'"(~~,~ i /'!~, P. Land Agency Authorized Signature: /r'd-,', {.. C-< A (. _ (From project Iocatio~land agency, if different from appfiarnt) v f.- l") l Ii', Date: \ ~f~ f ~~\ ; } {, I -- " j

6 TIMELINE Provide a timeline estimate using the following form. Remember that the project is to be completed within two and a half years of the award date. Any proposed changes, including extensions or modifications in the project timeline, must be requested in writing and approved in advance by the State Trails Program. West Magnolia Zone 1: Implementataion Time Line Winter 2018 Spring 2018 Summer 2018 Fall 2018 Winter 2019 Spring 2019 Summer 2019 Fall 2019 Winter 2020 Grant Award Notification Grant Contract Signed Trail Layout and Review Collaboration with CPW wildlife staff, and stakeholders Construction Docs + Bid Packet(s) Pre Bid Walk-thru, Contractor selection Construction: Contractor(s) Construction: Youth Corps Volunteer Project(s) Install/Update Signage Seasonal hold as weather conditions dictate Existing + completed trails open to public Apply + enfornce new regulations Annual reporting and grant accounting Close Out Grant 6

7 1. SCOPE (15 Points) This project implements the first of Zone of work toward the approximately 45-mile Magnolia Trail system identified in the USFS Magnolia Non-Motorized Trail Environmental Assessment (December 2016). Zone 1 serves as the front country interface to the trail system, hosts two Trailheads, three Access Points and is within walkable/bikeable proximity from Nederland and the Middle/High School. This scope will accomplish the following goals: improve navigation for visitor enjoyment and safety; increase trail sustainability and decrease maintenance costs; connect loop opportunities and mitigate social trail proliferation; social trail removal eliminates private property trespassing; and encourage trail stewardship via youth corps + volunteer engagement. In total, Zone 1 includes: 5-6 miles of trail construction/ reconstruction, 2-3 miles of trail maintenance, and 2-3 miles of route closure and reclamation. Project Details (corresponds to sub-area numbers on Project Scope map, page 19): Area 1: Build New 23 Connector Trail, close social trail. New 23 will connect the Peak-to-Peak Trailhead to the trail system at existing Reroot Trail (927.1); this replaces an existing social trail that leads to trespass on private property. Area 2+3+8: Trailhead Connectivity and Reduce Intersections. Build missing-link connectors trails from the main West Magnolia Trailhead to system trails (north to a and east to ReRoot and Hobbit). Consolidate four intersections into one at ReRoot+Hobbit trails. Reroute/improve existing unsustainable Observatory trail (926.1f) for better connectivity and sustainability. Close and reclaim redundant routes and non-system trails created due to missing links. Area 4: Build New 4 trail. From a trail-visitor perspective, New 4 is the most significant new opportunity in Zone 1. It is a key connection to providing a missing mid-distance intermediate-difficulty loop opportunities and restores a portion of In-the-Trees experience lost after fuel reduction work. Area 5+6: Maintain Hobbit Trails (927.1a). Perform deferred maintenance, harden tread and build minor realignments to repair Hobbit trails (erosion hastened by loss of tree canopy after fuel reduction) and remedy dog-leg intersections. Close and reclaim redundant routes and non-system trails. Repair and relocated kiosk. Area 7: Build mid-system Missing Link ( 42, New 3): New trail will connect the primary beginner/ intermediate loop from Hobbit 2 to Observatory Trail. Solves navigation and safety problems by providing egress for: inclement weather, injuries or when visitors overcommit. Provides a missing connection currently illustrated by non-system trail proliferation. Close and Reclaim non-system routes. Area 9: Horse/Hiker Focused Trail Loop: Repair and realign sections of Clear Cut and 925.1b. Build New 10 and several short missing links to complete a two-lobed hiker/horse-centric loop accessible from town, both trailheads and nearby equestrian stables. These trails reduce user conflict by creating loops optimized for hikers/equestrians & providing an alternative to uphill use on an adjacent MTBoptimized trail segment. Signage + Maps: Finalize cohesive signage plan for trail system and Implement for Zone 1. Maintain/ repair five existing kiosks (Tier 1) and update maps at each stage of project completion; Purchase & install intersection signs (Tier 2); and Purchase & install Reassurance Markers (Tier 3) at road crossings. 7

8 2. (SCOPE) Access/Trail Connections (5 points) Zone 1 trail projects will provide connection to downtown Nederland, link to the Nederland Middle/ High School, and are primary entry points to the entire trail system. These core loops will support an equestrian outfitter, student athletes, and novice mountain bikers. Specifically in this phase, existing loops and trails will be optimized for both a longer loop opportunity that mountain bikers seek, and a shorter loop that is optimized for hikers coming from town and equestrians starting at a local outfitter. Additionally, this project seeks to remove redundant connectivity, improve signage, and remove social trails so users are more easily able to follow the trail system without leaving trail. The entirety of this project expands miles of system trails and 4.11 miles of road to miles of system trail with 9 miles of new trail construction, miles of social trail adoption, 4.11 miles of road to trail conversion, and 30 miles of social trail obliteration. The result is almost doubling the legal trail on the ground while reducing total trail (by closing illegal trails) to lessen wildlife impacts while improving the recreational user experience. Zone 1 of the Magnolia Trail System is the gateway to a much larger network of existing trails as well as the proposed future trails. Regional Trail Connections: From Zone 1, visitors can explore beyond the core system toward all four points of compass. To the south, social trails slated to be adopted into the system provide access to Rollinsville. To the east, the existing Dot Trails / East Mag host a mixture of system and non-system trails traversing USFS and Boulder County land. The Boulder Ranger District has partnered with Boulder County to provide sustainable connector trails from NFS lands onto County trail systems. The County s Reynolds s Ranch Open Space, located in the central and eastern portions of the project area (East Magnolia zone) provides offers unique opportunity to collaboratively forge and manage a sustainable interagency trail system where use is already occurring. To the West, the Conservation Fund facilitated the Toll Conservation Easement on 5000 acres of private land bordering the western edge of the project area. This conservation easement also includes a trail easement granted to Boulder County that would provide regional connectivity to the USFS s Jenny Creek Trail. The Jenny Creek Trail connects to trails that, no a narrow sliver of non-wilderness public land, provide the only regional mountain bike-legal access across the Continental Divide. Opportunity exists, with only a few still missing links, for a trail connecting from Erie on the plains to Winter Park in the Fraser Valley. Such a regional trail would pass through Zone 1 in particular. 8

9 3. NEED (20 Points) This project is within the Arapahoe/Roosevelt National Forests, one of three Urban National Forest Management units in the State of Colorado hosting millions annually. The Magnolia Trail System has been identified as one of the most popular mountain bike destinations by FS BRD with opportunities for endless loops in the hills south of Nederland. Its easy access from downtown Nederland and the RTD bus route makes it a close, high-country destination for Front Range trail users. Unlike many high country trails, most of the core loops have only 215 of elevation gain, increasing its accessibility to a broader demographic of trail users. A 2013 survey (697 respondents) identified trail user patterns. Respondents claimed to use the trail system a few times per month at the following rates: 13.6% hike; 8.4% run; 33.6% mountain bike; 1.1% ride horses; 4% snowshoe; 7.2% nordic ski; 3.7% camp;.9% hunt; and 2.6% motorized. We project that user patterns match these percentages; however, we seek to do ongoing monitoring with trail counters as we transform the trail system to collect better data to maximize the FS BRD s ability to adaptively manage users. Most trail users access the Magnolia Trail System in Nederland, CO, a town of 1445 residents located along the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway and at the top of Boulder Canyon. Through a visioning and planning process, Nederland drafted the following statement: In 2020, Nederland is a town recognized for its trails, natural areas, and unwavering commitment to the environment. Implementation of this trail system will further the attainment of this community priority. Nederland also has a long-standing reputation of unhealthy behaviors. A Healthy Kids Colorado 2014 report identified the unhealthy choices made by Nederland youth: 55% of students tried marijuana before the age of 13 (compared to 35% in all of Boulder Valley School District, BVSD); 11% attempted suicide in the last 12 months (4% in BVSD); and 25% smoked a cigarette in the last 30 days (7% BVSD). The Magnolia Trails are literally right in the backyard of Nederland Middle/High School. This connection has the potential to increase the number of children (and their families) using the trails for exercise and nature immersion during school and out of school. On-site assessment of designed trails in the core of the Magnolia Trail system revealed that 56% of the studied trails were in Good to Fair condition and 44% were in Poor condition. Also, the fuels reduction project altered the landscape in the Magnolia Trail System and directly damaged many trails. The sustainability of many trail segments was further challenged by increased water and wind forced associated with the reduced canopy from fuel reduction and by the lack of anchors that keep users on tread. Trails that may have been maintainable in dense forest may now suffer accelerated erosion. This area also contains a large network of non-motorized system and social trails. Over the past several decades, this trail system has experienced a substantial increase in recreation use and unauthorized trail construction to meet these needs. Additionally, connectivity gaps in the core of the trail system have led to user-created trails trespassing on private land. Implementation of Zone 1 will allow the USFS to implement their plans to prohibit off-trail use in the Zone 1 area. Without the improved navigation in this project s scope, USFS cannot enforce off-trail restrictions, so is hard to stop the continued proliferation of social trails and off trail use and will possibly result in trail users reopening social trails that have already been closed/reclaimed. Additionally, the current trail network of social trails lead users directly to private property and promote trespassing. This is a highly anticipated trail system which has had a lengthy planning process. It is critical to properly build sustainable trails before the public wears-in routes while searching for the trails they see on planning maps. 9

10 4. (PLANNING/SUSTAINABILITY) Planning Process (10 points) Through in depth planning and the FS BRD EA Decision process, we have a comprehensive plan for a sustainable and manageable non-motorized trail system within the Magnolia area. For details on the decision and analysis, please see: forestservic.download.akamai.com/11558/www/nepa/95024_fsplt3_ pdf The desired condition is to have a well-functioning trail system that the recreating public uses and enjoys and that minimizes impacts to other resources in the area. This planned trail and trailhead system will minimize impact associated with the creation of social trails and adhoc parking areas; improve sanitation, reduce soil compaction and erosion and sedimentation of sensitive waterways; and minimize impacts to cultural values and sensitive wildlife habitat. The proposed trail improvements were planned and designed employing best practices in sustainable trail design/maintenance, specifically best practices identified in the following USFS publications: Trails Manual (FSM 2353); Trails Management Handbook (FSH ); USDA Forest Service Standard Trail Plans and Specifications webpage; Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook ( MTDC, 2007); Forest Service Standard Specifications for Construction and Maintenance of Trails (EM ); Sign and Poster Guidelines for the Forest Service (EM ); Bridges and Structures (FSM 7722 and FSM 7736); Forest Service Health and Safety Code Handbook (FSH ); and Deschutes National Forest: Mountain Bike Trail Standard. Because design criteria found in the above Forest Service direction for biking trails is limited, additional bicycle standards will also be considered. These may include publications by: by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), the Student Conservation Association (SCA), and the Appalachian Mountain Club. FS BRD, Boulder County Staff, CPW Wildlife staff and stakeholders have had discussions regarding this project. All trail projects that are included in this proposal are not considered contentious from a wildlife perspective. We will be specifically be working with Wildlife staff on New 4 before trail construction to minimize wildlife issues within the approved trail corridor. This construction project will not begin until the second half of the project to allow adequate time for these discussions. Some trails within the EA were identified as concerning for wildlife, and those are purposefully not included within Zone 1 implementation. Additional time is needed to engage Wildlife staff from the 3 land management agencies (USFS, CPW, Boulder County) so that we can find solutions for management. 10

11 5. (PLANNING/SUSTAINABILITY) Operation and Maintenance Plan (10 points) Sustainable Design and Construction: Throughout the planning and execution of this project, BMA and FS BRD are working together to reduce and eliminate deferred maintenance through sustainably designed and constructed trails. New Trail Construction: Trail reroute and retrofitting options were considered prior to considering new trail construction. Of the total miles of trail that will comprise the Magnolia Trail System, only 8.94 will be new trail construction. Maintenance and Operations: As part of the Magnolia Non-Motorized Trail Decision, the FS has identified a process for the maintenance and monitoring of the trails. USFS will be responsible to maintain these trails per Trail Management Objectives (TMO s). Forest Service crews and Forest Service partners, either during routine maintenance or recreational use of the trails, will inspect the condition of the trail system for safety and resource concerns. Inspections will be recorded on Forest Service provided inspection sheets. The triggers for not passing inspection will be: 1) not meeting Forest Service trail standards and trail management objectives; 2) changes in the environmental landscape, 3) social use and user interaction on trails or 4) lynx habitat impacts due to snow compaction by winter forest users. As a long-term partner, BMA will continue to work with the USFS on meeting annual maintenance needs and high priority projects. 11

12 6. (PLANNING/SUSTAINABILITY) Financial Sustainability (10 points) The Magnolia Trails Project is a multi-phased project covering 6000 acres with 4-5 implementation zones that is expected to take up to 10 years to implement. The first phase was the CPW funded planning process which ultimately led to the FS approved Magnolia Trails Project as proposed in this grant proposal. BMA will be engaged with this project until completion. It has been a top priority for BMA for decades, and our constituency is poised to support the project s implementation. We anticipate increased individual, corporate, and foundation support once the public sees progress in the Magnolia Trail System. This project has been in the planning and discussion for years, and we believe that with each tangible trail improvement, financial support will build. Funding through this grant process will be leveraged over the next decade and with each year, we plan to gain a higher percentage of private donations. That said, we do anticipate seeking State Trails Grant Program funding for future stages/zones of this project. Annual Maintenance Load: This project addresses considerable loads of deferred maintenance. Right now, it is a high maintenance load because of unsustainable design which we are minimizing through trail retrofitting or re-routing. We expect that the work done here will last years with standard routine maintenance to be done by the FS BRD and partners. Community Trail Capacity: Zone 1 implementation includes volunteer and youth corps projects. While volunteer and youth corps projects are not always as efficient as hiring a trail contractor, we believe that it is important to build community trail ownership, demonstrate and teach best practice techniques, and ultimately grow the community s go-to resource for ongoing maintenance. We are building the future trails workforce by working with three youth corps programs, Mile High Youth Corps, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps and Teen s Inc. Working with Teen s Inc., Nederland s youth corps, increases the capacity of the Nederland community to support future trail maintenance projects. 12

13 7. (PUBLIC COMMENT) Public notification is mandatory for all projects. Projects without public involvement are not eligible for rating The Forest Service initiated public scoping and requested comments on its proposed action in August An information meeting at the Nederland Community Center was held in August during the comment period. More than 300 comment letters were received, with nearly as many unique comments. Many commenters were interested in having the Forest Service enable trail connectivity to Rollins Pass. In response to requests for connectivity, and with the agreement between the Toll family (private landowners) and Boulder County to establish the Toll Conservation Easement Trail to the south and west of the project area, the Forest Service revised its proposed action by expanding the project area south and west, adding an estimated 1,700 acres. Additionally, this revised proposed action addresses many of the other comments such as: intermixed private lands and private landowner concerns; Nordic and equestrian opportunities; and trail sustainability. Because of these additions, and the length of time since the first scoping, the Forest Service wanted to provide the public another comment period. More than 300 s and postal mail were sent to interested publics. Publishing the legal notice in the Boulder Daily Camera on September 14, 2015 initiated the 30- day comment period. Over 400 letters and s were received. Approximately 800 unique comments were identified, though many of these could be grouped into very similar comments. Public comments received on the proposed action sent to the public in 2015 caused a modification to the proposed action by putting Trail4 back into the proposed action. This trail provides a connection to the community of Nederland from the East Magnolia zone. In addition to gathering public information and comments, the Forest Service reached out to other agencies for their input. A CPW Trails Planning Grant funded a planning effort that included a public open house and a survey of recreational users of the Magnolia Area. More than 20 stakeholder groups and agencies and nearly 700 individuals were contacted. From these efforts the Proposed West Magnolia Trail System Master Plan was developed (ContourLogic, 2014). Using all these sources of comments, the Forest Service developed the issues it addressed in detail for the EA. Some public issues were incorporated into the proposed action and some public issues were determined not to require detailed analysis. On August 25, 2016 a legal notice was published in the Boulder Daily Camera, which initiated a 45-day pre-decisional objection period under 36 CFR 218. Twenty-two objections were received. Of those, four did not have standing to object and were set aside because the objectors had not provided specific written comments during a designated public comment period for this project. One objection was set aside because it did not include sufficient information for the reviewing officer to review. The remaining 17 objections had standing and provided sufficient information for a review. After a lengthy review of the project record, the Reviewing Officer concluded that no changes were needed to the analysis documents. 13

14 8. (ABILITY) Matching Funds and Partnerships (10 points) BMA will provide 100% of the cash match. BMA will leverage State Trail funding with corporate, individual, and foundation funding. BMA has an engaged constituency of members, 1000 individuals and 30 businesses who will support this project upon its official launch. We will also utilize a kickstarter campaign to raise funds and build excitement for Zone 1 of the much anticipated Magnolia Trails Project. This funding model is built upon our past success securing funding for the Valmont Bike Project. Additionally, we believe that this project will be compelling to the REI Co-op, Can d Aid, National Forest Foundation, and National Wildlife Stewardship Alliance grants, and we plan on submitting grant proposals throughout its implementation to these funders. Throughout the planning process and moving forward, USFS and/or BMA have engaged with the following partners and stakeholders. Each of the following groups has played a role in planning and/or will play a role during implementation: Boulder County* Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV)* Rocky Mountain Youth Corps (in-kind contribution secured)* Can d Aid (cash contribution anticipated)* Colorado Mountain Bike Association (COMBA)* Oskar Blues (cash contribution secured) Teen s Inc (in-kind contribution secured) Boulder Area Trails Coalition (BATCO) Boulder County Horse Association Singletrack Mountain Bike Adventures (SMBA) Mile High Youth Corps Parks, Recreation & Open Space Advisory Board (PROSAB, Nederland) Boulder Nordic Club *Letter of support included in proposal package 14

15 9. (ABILITY) Contingency/Ability (5 points) This project is a top priority for BMA, FS BRD, and the regional trails community. If we do not secure this grant, we will seek alternative sources of funding. We will also re-prioritize and scale back scope and adjust our timeline. BMA Capacity BMA has been an active partner with the FS BRD for more than a decade. BMA and FS BRD have a Challenge Cost Share Agreement (CCSA). BMA owns two Canycom BP-602 tracked haulers and has been using them as a work-force multiplier. Through a 2009 grant from Specialized, BMA outfitted a tool trailer for a 50 person workday. BMA volunteers have donated almost 40,000 trailwork hours total since 1991, and in 2017, 337 BMA volunteers donated 1620 trailwork hours to projects throughout Boulder County. BMA has a full-time executive director supported by an active board of directors. State Trails Grant Funded Projects: West Magnolia Trails Plan, $40,000 planning grant Completed in 2014 with a professional trail planner and volunteer involvement. Priority 1 Trail repairs, $44,413 small construction grant Trail repair projects in partnership with the USFS Boulder Ranger District Completed 60% of project in The remaining scope was delayed to summer 2017 to ensure that the outcomes still blended well with the Magnolia Trail Project EA decision (finalized December 2016). We have completed the project work and will be closing out the grant in November/December Other Trail Projects: In 2013, BMA contracted with a professional trail contractor to assist in the construction of the new Erie Trail System. BMA has partnered with WRV on 9 trail projects. As is often the case in collaborative relationships, roles varied by project, yet BMA has provided design, technical project coordination, equipment/tools and volunteer crew leadership. 15

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17 5. Maps State Vicinity Map! Local Vicinity Map Trails Grant Project Area [based upon page 92 of USFS E.A.] 17

18 Rocky Mountain National Park Project Location N EW F NEW A A U V NEW 9 4 A NEW D C A 606.1B 606.1C ial USDA BLM and FS Personnel 5. Maps 73 W 72 W Map Disclaimer: This map is intended to depict physical features as they generally appear/could appear on the ground GIS and Data Information and may not be used to determine title, ownership, legal boundaries, legal jurisdiction, including jurisdiction over roads or trails, or access restrictions that may be in place on either public or private Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 13N land. Obtain permission before entering private lands, and check with appropriate government offices Projection: Transverse Mercator for restrictions that may apply to public lands. Lands, roads, and trails within the boundaries of a Datum: North American 1983 national forest may be subject to restrictions on motor vehicle use. Natural hazards may or may not False Easting: 500, be depicted on the map, and land users should exercise due caution. This map is not suitable for False Northing: navigational use. Central Meridian: Data Disclaimer: Scale Factor: The USDA Forest Service makes no warranty, expressed or implied, including the warranties of Latitude Of Origin: merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, and assumes no legal liability or responsibility for Units: Meter the accuracy, reliability, completeness or utility of these geospatial data, or for the improper or incorrect Date: 8/24/2016 use of these geospatial data. These geospatial data and related maps or graphics are not legal Time: 1:59:03 PM documents and are not intended to be used as such. T he data are dynamic and may change over time. Map Author: A.Odom The user is responsible to verify the limitations of the geospatial data and to use the data accordingly Nederland Workcenter 357.2B Arapaho Roosevelt National Forest 357.2A 34 Estes Park Fort Collins C 606.1D 357.2A 57.2B 357.2A 40 Boulder Ranger District Boulder 853.1E RBRD_606.1E RBRD_6 06.1D C D Denver B D 606.1A TOLL TRAIL 512.1A NEW C TRAIL TOLL B 109.1C A NEW C B 105.1C A 355.1I 105.1B 28.1A 355.1H 105.1A Ga 355.1B I NEW 355.1H NEW E 355.1G D K 355.1H B C NEW D A A B 105.2B A NEW W 927.1A 355.1C 355.1D A S14 NEW 342.1B 355.S D 342.1A F 355.1C S11 NEW E NEW E B 32 NEW NEW W A W N.0 3W A NEW B 853.1C Boulder NEW B ountytrail A 606.1A NEW NEW 32 Front Range Trailhead 1 S 2 S NEW 30 TOLL TRAIL TOLL TRAIL NEW 1 43 NEW 37 NEW 34 N e d e r l a n d H i g h S c h o o l NEW A A 927.1A NEW West Magnolia Trailhead NEW A B 925.1A 925.1B A 119 R e y n o l d ' s R a n c h Proposed Action Trails 606.1C 72 Existing System Trail (may need realignment) Existing County Trail Existing System Trail on Non FS Land New Trail Construction Trail - Convert to System Trail Decommission and Obliterate Identified Trail to be Obliterated Proposed Toll Conservation Easement Trail Groomed Winter Non-Motorized Trail Magnolia Trails Proposed Action Alternative B Roosevelt National Forest - Boulder Ranger District Proposed Action Roads Existing System Road (may need realignment) Existing System Road on Non FS Land State Highway 1:10,000 1 in = 833 feet S oc 12 Convert to System Trail and Realign Administrative Use Only Decommission and Obliterate E.0 Connectivity Boulder County Trail TBD Other Symbols Proposed Gate Land and Ownership Project Area National Forest System Lands Boulder County Open Space Conservation Easement 2 S 1 S NOTE: All trail alignments are approximate and may vary slightly from location depicted on map Miles Private/Non-Forest Land 73 W 72 W 18

19 5. Maps C:\gis_projects\contour_logic\WestMag\mxd\west_mag_grant_map.mxd Revised: By: lmccandless Magnolia Trails Project: Zone 1 Map Lookout «7 ¹½!B «3 Observatory New 3 To Nederland!B Observatory Hobbit 1 «8 «9 Aspen Alley «8!B «2 Clear Cut «5 Hobbit 1 Hobbit 1 New 10 «4 30 Whoop-Di New 4 Aspen Alley ReRoot FS-925.1B New 23 «1!B Hobbit 2 Hobbit 3 «6!B To School Bus Trail Notes Coordinate System: NAD UTM Zone 13N Revised: By: lmccandless Legend Camp Site ¹½ Nederland High School/Middle School!B Trailhead/Access Point Build/Rebuild Trail Close/Reclaim Route Maintain Trail Existing System Trail County Road/Hwy Other Road Figure No. Title 1.0 West Magnolia Zone 1 Scope Client/Project USFS West Magnolia Trails Nederland, CO ,440 Feet 1:13,691 (at original document size of 8.5x11) ( $ $ 19

20 6. Photos Magnolia Trail System Current Conditions Trail Widening and Rutting Trail rutting Signage in need of repair West Magnolia After Fuel Reduction Observatory Trail: Widening and Erosion 27 20

21 6. Photos BMA Capacity and Past Performance BMA Capacity and Past Performance 7. Photographs BMA Hauler BMA Tool Trailer Priority 1 Trails Repair in Boulder Ranger District - State Trails Grant Sourdough Trail Project (completed 2015) Magnolia Trail System: Aspen Alley and Whoop-Di Trails (completed 2017) Rocky Mountain Youth Corps helping BMA rebuild 120 bridge on Sourdough Trail 2015 Sugar Mag Trail Trail: stone-pitched Buchanan (completedarmoring 2015) by BMA volunteer crew leader 2013 SMBA youth building ReRoot Trail with leadership by BMA volunteers. Successful RestoraIon of old trail ajer reroute. Sugar Mag Trail (partnership w/ WRV) 28 21

22 7. Letters of Support 1. Boulder County 2. Wildlands Restoration Volunteers 3. Rocky Mountain Youth Corps 4. Can d Aid 5. Colorado Mountain Bike Association (COMBA) 22

23 Board of County Commissioners October 27, 2017 Colorado Parks and Wildlife - Trails Program South Highway 85 Littleton, CO Dear Committee Members: Boulder County is happy to provide this letter of endorsement for the Boulder Mountainbike Alliance Partners grant proposal for the Magnolia Non-Motorized Trails Project-Phase 1. The County has been a supporter of the U.S. Forest Service s public process for the Magnolia Trails Project. The agency s plan brings active management of recreation and wildlife habitat resources to a large area of Forest Service land within Boulder County. We know that the lands of western Boulder County are connected, regardless of land management agency jurisdiction, and we need to continue to work together to make sure we are sustainably managing all uses of these public lands so that these landscapes can continue to benefit current users as well as future generations. Similarly, Boulder County appreciates our ongoing partnership with the Boulder Mountainbike Alliance, which has provided much-needed volunteer support to a number of County projects and brings substantial recreation and trail experience to the implementation of Phase 1 of the Magnolia Trails Project. The scope of work in this initial implementation grant will make for a better recreation experience close to the Town of Nederland while closing redundant social trails and simplifying trail connections to lessen the impact of recreation on the land. In addition, Phase 1 will link the trail system directly to the Town of Nederland, providing an important economic and recreation resource for the area. Beyond direct, immediate benefits of this trail work, this scope also helps achieve future regional connectivity goals. This unique and valuable trail system destination supports safe and sustainable connectivity to Nederland, Eldora, and other population centers in neighboring counties, as well as to county lands such as Reynolds Ranch and the future Toll Trail, which Boulder County Parks and Open Space is currently designing as a regional trail connector across the conservation easement on the land recently purchased from the Toll family. Additionally, we believe that the positive partnerships fostered through the Phase 1 effort will enable project partners to work together to find solutions and adaptive management strategies to protect wildlife habitat, including migratory corridors, that are present in the greater project area as future implementation projects come to fruition. Cindy Domenico County Commissioner Deb Gardner County Commissioner Elise Jones County Commissioner Boulder County Courthouse 1325 Pearl Street Boulder, Colorado Tel: Fax: Mailing Address: P.O. Box 471 Boulder, Colorado commissioners@bouldercounty.org

24 Healing the Land Building Community October 26, 2017 Colorado Parks and Wildlife State Trails Program S. Hwy 85 Littleton, CO Re: Trail Grant Opportunity To Whom It May Concern: I am writing in support of the State Trails proposal being submitted by Boulder Mountainbike Alliance (BMA) to conduct work in the West Magnolia area southwest of Nederland. With the NEPA process complete, there is an enormous backlog of trail work needed in that area. This grant will just start that work. Wildlands Restoration Volunteers (WRV) is a non-profit organization based on Boulder and Fort Collins, which engages thousands of volunteers in the stewardship and restoration of public and protected lands across Colorado. Since inception in 1999 we have engaged over 40,000 volunteers in over 1000 projects, including over 200 trail projects. We would be happy to collaborate on some specific projects within the scope of this proposal if our services are needed. WRV has collaborated with BMA on many previous projects, including several in the West Magnolia area. BMA has excellent internal capacity and expertise to undertake complex trail projects and produce very high quality results. I believe that BMA is very deserving of the State Trails Grants Program, and encourage you to award them a grant to complete this important work. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Ed Self Executive Director Sterling Circle Suite 201. Boulder, CO info@wlrv.org

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26 October 17, 2017 Colorado Parks and Wildlife - Trails Program South Highway 85 Littleton, CO Dear Committee Members: The outdoor recreation economy is vital to the livelihoods and quality of life in the front range of Colorado. The recreation economy is dependent on public lands available to provide high quality recreation experiences. From habitat protection to developed resorts, these resources all contribute to our collective quality of life. I strongly support the Partners grants proposal for the Magnolia Non-Motorized Trails Project-Phase 1. This will be the first of several phases to develop the area into a 44+ mile multi-use, multimodal, and varied trail experience much like the Buffalo Creek area in Jefferson County. This project will trigger a decade long trail project that will rival many of the destination mountain biking trail systems in the Rocky Mountains. Most importantly, this trail system is within an easy bike, drive, or bus ride for Front Range trail enthusiasts. The Magnolia project perfectly complements Governor Hickenlooper s commitment to make Colorado the best state for biking in the country. The four year plan and $100 million budget will allow Colorado to add bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, better understand and market the cycling industry and support awareness and education efforts to promote safety. The Magnolia Trail System plan would add better riding and hiking opportunities that allows a user to create the experience for their own particular needs whether that s a quick hike after work or an all-day mountain biking adventure into the backcountry. My office/organization has and will continue to work closely with the Forest Service on public lands issues within Colorado. Our past cooperation has been grounded upon making public lands accessible to all user groups and I encourage the Forest Service to engage with all stakeholders to approve a final plan. I fully support this project and look forward to the approved action and beginning the process for developing this project. This trail system will provide an additional recreation resource to local, regional and national residents to recreate within the Boulder Ranger District, which will help drive additional tourism to the region, which supports local businesses. Sincerely, Diana Ralston, Executive Director CAN d Aid Foundation Pike Road Longmont, ColoRADo 80501

27 October 26, 2017 Colorado Parks and Wildlife - Trails Program South Highway 85 Littleton, CO Dear Committee Members: I am writing to you today to express my organization s support for the development of Magnolia Non-Motorized Trails Project-Phase 1 being planned by the Boulder Mountain Bike Alliance. This project presents an excellent opportunity to create planned, sustainable trails where an unplanned network of social trails has grown without oversight. This is all too common in our area and the Magnolia project will provide a real-world example of the benefits a properly constructed and signed trail system can offer to trail users, land managers, and the health of the forest itself. The population growth in the Denver and Boulder areas, combined with the runaway demand for trails, creates a substantial need for well-planned and well-built trails to support the additional traffic and offer options to spread the trail users out across the system. We see the enhancements to the Magnolia trails as a substantial step in the right direction towards a greatly improved trail user experience in the Front Range. COMBA currently volunteers in Jefferson County, Clear Creek County, Douglas County, and the Pike National Forest providing assistance in trail creation and maintenance. We are adopters of Segment 1 of the Colorado Trail and also work in the cities of Lakewood, Denver and Golden, as well as other trails in the Front Range area. We currently have 1,300 members and serve an estimated 10,000 mountain bikers in the area. On behalf of the Board of Directors of COMBA, I encourage you to look favorably on this application and to see this project as an important and advantageous addition to the central Front Range trail systems. Sincerely, Gary Moore, Executive Director Colorado Mountain Bike Association