SAN LUIS VALLEY TRAILS AND RECREATION PLAN JULY 2014
SLVGO SAN LUIS VALLEY TRAILS AND RECREATION PLAN Prduced by the San Luis Valley Great Outdr Calitin SLVGO Calitin members include: Jasn Andersn Marty Asplin Bnnie Asplin Rick Basagitia Suzanne Beauchaine Tess Benedule Michael Blendn Charltee Bbicki Jake Caldwell Katherine Danfrth Mick Daniel Claytn Davey Ri de la Vista Ben Dn Rachel Dyle Heather Duttn May Enquist Kathy Faz Brenda Felmlee Christina Gallegs Gerge Hayfield Michael Hayes Ryan Jhns Jdy Karr-Silaski Pete Magee Jeremy Martinez Brink Messick Erin Minks Dave Mntgmery Adam Mre Sean Nnan Jeff Owsley Crystal Pwell Andrew Rice Heather Salaz Saguache Cunty Twn f Del Nrte Twn f Del Nrte CPW USFWS ScSEED USFWS Sen. Bennet ffice Lr Fundatin Twn f Crestne Adams State University BLM RiGHT Cstilla Cunty Alamsa Cunty RG Headwaters Restratin Twn f Saguache NPS/GRSA Rep. Sctt Tiptn ffice Sangre de Crist Nat. Heritage Twn f Suth Frk Crestne Charter Schl Clrad Muntain Club SCC-Ls Valley SLV GIS City f Mnte Vista VOC Sen. Udall ffice SLV Ecsystem Cuncil CSFS BLM SLV SBDC USFS City f Alamsa BLM Karla Shriver Greg Spangler Greg Terrell Dn Thmpsn Paul Tigan Anika Velasquez Michael Wisdm Randy Wright Ri Grande Cunty Mnte Vista City Cuncil Twn f Saguache SLV Ecsystem Cuncil BLM Mnte Vista Kids Cnnectin SLV COG Alamsa EDC
TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1 - PLANNING FOR THE SAN LUIS VALLEY'S GREAT OUTDOORS... 7 CHAPTER 2 - OUTDOOR RECREATION PATTERNS AND NEEDS IN THE SLV... 13 CHAPTER 3 - CHALLENGES AND BENEFITS OF OUTDOOR RECREATION...23 CHAPTER 4 - SLVGO PRIORITY INITIATIVES...35 CHAPTER 5 - OUTDOOR RECREATION TOOL KITS...47 A- CREATING RECREATION DESTINATIONS...49 B- BUILDING ACTIVE, HEALTHY COMMUNITIES...55 C- ENHANCING TRAIL SYSTEMS...61 D-REALIZING TRAIL CONNECTIONS...77 E-CONNECTING YOUTH WITH THE OUTDOORS...84 F- BALANCING RECREATION AND CONSERVATION...91 G-PROMOTING RECREATION...94 H-HOSTING RECREATION EVENTS...101 I-FUNDING AND SUSTAINING RECREATION & SLVGO..................... 107 CHAPTER 6 - RESOURCES... 119 CHAPTER 7 - APPENDIX: PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY...121
CHAPTER 1 PLANNING FOR THE SAN LUIS VALLEY'S GREAT OUTDOORS Ple Muntain (curtesy f Heather Salaz)
SLVGO The purpse f this master plan is t lay the fundatin fr imprving the San Luis Valley s utdr recreatin pprtunities and fr enhancing prmtins f the regin s varied recreatinal resurces ver the curse f the next ten years. With this master plan, the San Luis Valley Great Outdrs Calitin (SLVGO Calitin) ffers the Valley s cunties and cmmunities a set f tls and strategies fr enhancing the quality f life fr residents thrugh utdr recreatin while als enticing mre turism. This master plan is designed t serve as a rad map that the SLVGO Calitin, its partners and SLV residents can use t build increased awareness f the regin s recreatin resurces and facilitate greater explratin and enjyment f the SLV s utdrs. 8 Thrughut the planning effrt, utdr recreatin has been defined bradly in rder t explre a wide variety f ways that San Luis Valley (SLV) cmmunities and rganizatins can facilitate play, exercise, cmmunity wellness, and the explratin and enjyment f the SLV s great utdrs. Fr the purpses f this master planning effrt, utdr recreatin includes in-twn recreatin (e.g., skate parks, ball fields, fairgrunds, playgrunds, multiuse recreatin cmplexes), backcuntry travel and recreatin (e.g., trails, camping, muntain climbing, bating), stewardship prjects (e.g., trail building, invasive weed remval, prtecting and cnserving critical sites), utdr events and cmmunity gatherings (e.g., Mnte Vista Crane Festival), heritage travel (e.g. visits t histric sites, agriturism), as well as recreatin prgramming and activities (e.g., camps, guided turs, clinics). Elements f the Master Plan The master plan is brken int 4 main sectins. In additin t this intrductin that intrduces the SLVGO Calitin and utlines the purpse f the plan, the master plan includes the fllwing elements: I. SLV Recreatin Needs. This sectin describes the master planning prcess and, in particular, summarizes what SLVGO Calitin heard frm SLV residents during its extensive cmmunity utreach. Recreatin needs are identified and prvide the basis fr the SLVGO Calitin s pririty initiatives and tl kits. II. The Challenges and Benefits f Cnnecting Mre Peple t the Outdrs. This sectin acknwledges the munting challenges we face as a sciety in inspiring healthy lifestyles and cnnecting yuth with the utdrs. Additinally, this sectin summarizes health and ecnmic benefits f utdr recreatin, increased physical activity and cnnecting residents with the utdrs are summarized. III. SLVGO Calitin s Pririty Initiatives. The SLVGO Calitin's set f 6 pririty initiatives are utlined in this sectin f the master plan. Cllectively, the initiatives represent an ambitius effrt t imprve recreatin facilities, expand recreatin experiences acrss the SLV, and increase the prmtin f the regin's recreatin pprtunities. Each initiative is defined by a measurable bjective, which will aid the SLVGO Calitin in evaluating its prgress. The initiatives address year-rund recreatin and include an effrt t encurage mre utdr recreatin in the winter. Each initiative includes a listing f ptential prjects.
IV. Outdr Recreatin Tl Kits. Addressing 9 different tpics, the recreatin tl kits prvide strategies fr implementing the pririty initiatives and recreatin prjects. Each tl kit includes a set f best practices as well as case studies. The tl kits are designed t be stand alne tls that can aid the SLVGO Calitin, SLV cmmunities, and rganizatins in expanding recreatin pprtunities, creating cnvenient access t the utdrs and increasing awareness and prmtin f the SLV s recreatin resurces. PLANNING FOR SLV Additinally, the master plan includes a list f resurces (e.g., reprts, websites, and rganizatins) that prvide infrmatin regarding utdr recreatin and tls fr encuraging mre physical activity, access t the utdrs, and recreatin. Cmmunicatin Media Althugh nt cntained within the master plan dcument, the planning prcess als invlved the develpment f cmmunicatin media intended t spread the wrd abut the SLVGO initiative, raise awareness f the SLV s recreatin pprtunities, and begin the prcess f building a rbust culture f recreatin in the SLV. The cmmunicatin media include: A website dedicated t the SLV s recreatin resurces: www.slvg.cm A grwing scial presence n Facebk (www. facebk.cm/slvgo) and Instagram (http:// instagram.cm/slvg) A digital newsletter and database f SLV recreatin enthusiasts An SLVGO lg A series f SLVGO prmtinal graphics It is als imprtant t nte, that this master plan is intended t act as a living dcument ne that SLV cmmunities will hpefully cntribute t and refine ver the next ten years. Fr example, the SLVGO Calitin expects t see the plan s list f ptential prjects grw as new partners and mre cmmunities get invlved in the develpment and prmtin f utdr recreatin. A grup hike (curtesy f Silver Thread Outdr Recreatin Club) The Master Plan s Target Audience(s) As mentined abve, this master plan is intended as a tl t serve SLV cmmunities and their partners in bsting recreatin pprtunities and increasing access t the utdrs. Therefre, the primary audience fr this master plan is SLV residents and the verarching gal f the recreatin planning effrt is t imprve the quality f life fr SLV residents thrugh enhanced recreatin pprtunities and experiences. The secndary audience fr the prmtinal strategies utlined in this master plan are nnresidents and recreatin-riented turists. In additin t targeting SLV residents, recreatin prmtins, marketing and utreach shuld be designed and distributed t als pique the interest f nn-residents. Future prmtinal media shuld target travelers passing thrugh the SLV n their way t anther destinatin and ptential visitrs living utside the regin (e.g., Clrad s Frnt Range cmmunities, Albuquerque). East f the SLV, Clrad s Frnt Range is teaming with utdr enthusiasts, many f 9
SLVGO whm migrated t Clrad because f its recreatin resurces and crave mre recreatin ptins and, in particular, less crwded trails and mre slitary utdr experiences. Accrding t visitr tracking cnducted at Great Sand Dunes Natinal Park and the Alamsa Cnventin and Visitrs Bureau, the states f rigin fr travel t the San Luis Valley are typically Clrad, New Mexic, Texas, Oklahma, Kansas and Califrnia. As the Sangre de Crist NHA, Clrad Welcme Center, Great Sand Dunes Natinal Park and Preserve and ther attractins and turism grups refine their visitatin mnitring and tracking, SLVGO Calitin and its turism partners can use this custmer research t implement mre targeted prmtins t prven receptive markets. Fr mre specifics n ideas and strategies fr engaging bth resident and nn-resident audiences please refer t the Prmtin Tl Kit. Intrducing the SLVGO Calitin The San Luis Valley Great Outdrs (SLVGO) is a reginal, cperative initiative t create a lng-term plan fr increasing physical activity and access t trails and recreatin in the San Luis Valley. This initiative, spearheaded by the SLVGO Calitin, is a partnership between cunties, municipalities, interested rganizatins and federal, state and lcal land management agencies. Effrts t hlistically apprach trail and recreatin develpment in the SLV began in 1996 with the develpment f the Great San Luis Valley Trails and Recreatin Master Plan. Building n the 1996 Master Plan and inspired by the America s Great Outdrs (AGO) initiative launched by President Obama in 2010, SLVGO brings partners frm all reaches f the SLV tgether in rder t develp a framewrk fr imprving, sustaining and prmting utdr recreatin pprtunities. In April 2010, President Obama launched the AGO initiative t address the threat f a diminished Adventure prgrams training expeditin (curtesy f Adams State Adventure Prgrams) 10
cnnectin between peple and the utdrs that ur increasingly urbanized and plugged-in sciety has spawned. In February 2011, the Administratin released an actin plan fr this initiative, America s Great Outdrs: A Prmise t Future Generatins. Implementatin f the plan is nw cnnecting American t the utdrs with jbs, educatin, recreatin and service and is prtecting and restring the cuntry s treasured lands and waters. Secretary f the Interir at the time, Ken Salazar, and thers recgnized the San Luis Valley as a pririty area fr AGO prjects. The SLVGO Calitin intends t fulfill the prvisins f the AGO actin plan as it relates t utdr recreatin and trail develpment by expanding access t the SLV s utdrs. Gals and Objectives f the SLVGO Calitin The SLVGO Calitin prvides a frum where thse interested in r wrking in recreatin, cnservatin, and public health cnvene t share infrmatin and ideas abut utdr recreatin thrughut the SLV. Tgether members f the calitin endeavr t accmplish the fllwing: "As highlighted in the America s Great Outdrs visin, recreatin prvides ne f the easiest and mst natural ways t cnnect with the utdrs. America s lands and waters ffer a multitude f utdr recreatin activities that enhance health and wellness, encurage appreciatin fr natural and cultural resurces, and present enjyable pprtunities t cnnect with family and friends." - America the Great Outdrs: A Prmise t Future Generatins PLANNING FOR SLV Prmte and imprve recreatin and trail develpment in the San Luis Valley and in Clrad. It shall lk fr ways t maintain a sustainable infrastructure system, and means t manage and perate such a system. Enhance the vluntary exchange f infrmatin in rder t identify and address stakehlder cncerns in a practive manner. Participate in the use and n-ging refinement f Valley recreatin and trail needs t fulfill the America s Great Outdrs Initiative as it relates t these purpses. Prvide educatin and public utreach cncerning recreatin and trail tpics. Prmte the prtectin, cnservatin, and wise use recreatin and trail develpment fr sciecnmic sustainability, viability, and the benefit f the assciated natural envirnment. Ensure that safe, adequate access t trails and recreatinal areas exist within the SLV fr the benefit f residents and visitrs alike. Prmte existing recreatinal pprtunities thrugh mapping and marketing tls. Encurage and develp lcal yuth prgrams fr enhanced physical health fr educatin regarding recreatin related career pprtunities and t help make the better life-lng stewards f the land. Crdinate the revisin f the 1996 SLV Master Plan that recgnizes new recreatinal trends, land wnership and management, and the accmplishments f the 1996 plan. The calitin will allw the SLV t ptimize existing recreatinal pprtunities and t identify and help implement new recreatinal pririties. Prvide recmmendatins t a variety f entities invlved in trails and recreatin prjects. 11
SLVGO With leadership frm Ri Grande Cunty Cmmissiner, Karla Shriver, the SLVGO Calitin is made up f representatives frm all six San Luis Valley cunties, Natinal Park Service (NPS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), USDA Frest Service (FS), Bureau f Land Management (BLM), Clrad Parks and Wildlife (CPW), Sangre de Crist Natinal Heritage Area (SdCNHA), Adams State University, cmmunity gvernments, as well as, turism, cnservatin and recreatin rganizatins. The SLVGO Calitin perates as a grup f vlunteers under the umbrella f the San Luis Valley Cuncil f Gvernments. (See the title page fr the list f SLVGO Calitin members invlved in the master planning effrt). SLVGO Calitin is an inclusive grup that recgnizes its impact will nly be increased with mre members. The Calitin welcmes the invlvement f mre partners and hpes t cntinue t build its gegraphic and industry sectr reach. Stne quarry trail building (curtesy f Marty Asplin) 12
CHAPTER 2 OUTDOOR RECREATION PATTERNS AND NEEDS IN THE SLV Baca Natinal Wildlife Refuge (curtesy f Rt Huse Studi)
SLVGO During the summer and Fall 2013, the SLVGO Calitin cnducted valley-wide public utreach in rder t explain its San Luis Valley Trails and Recreatin Master Plan prject (Master Plan) and t slicit cmmunity input. Thrugh utreach, the SLVGO Calitin identified un-met recreatin needs, uncvered ptential recreatin prjects, and inquired abut barriers t recreatin within the SLV. Thrugh the extensive and inclusive public engagement prcess, the SLVGO Calitin cllected ideas fr imprving access t the utdrs, expanding recreatin pprtunities, and increasing awareness and prmtin f all there is t d and see in the SLV. The SLVGO Calitin hsted five public pen huses in Alamsa, Del Nrte, Creede, Saguache, and Crestne. Additinally, the SLVGO Calitin cllected input at the La Jara Farmers Market, tured Cstilla Cunty, and attended a number f meetings with twn bards, turism grups, and stakehlders. At the nset f the prject utreach effrt, the SLVGO Calitin updated its website with Master Plan infrmatin and set up scial media tls including a Facebk page, Instagram accunt, and an e-newsletter in rder t spread the wrd abut the prject and ffer ther avenues fr cllecting input. Lcal press cverage was als helpful is spreading the wrd abut the Master Plan and its utreach tls. Finally, the SLVGO Calitin utilized a digital survey t cllect additinal input. Between August 5th and Octber 15th, 2013, Rt Huse Studi administered a 25-questin survey via Survey Mnkey n behalf f the SLVGO Calitin. Like the ther utreach effrts, the survey was designed t gain understanding abut where and hw recreatin pprtunities and experiences can be imprved in the SLV. The 10-15 minute survey was marketed t stakehlder grups, residents and visitrs thrugh SLVGO s newsletter, Facebk page, website and ther graphics. The survey was started by 425 respndents and fully cmpleted by 347. Findings generated frm the survey and cllected frm ther public and stakehlder engagement effrts have been used by the SLVGO Calitin t infrm develpment f this master plan. Specifically, the 6 pririty initiatives and assciated pririty prjects utlined in Chapter 4 were identified thrugh the varius utreach methds. This sectin summarizes these findings. Fr a mre detailed and full summary f the survey findings and specific list f ideas cllected thrugh the utreach prcess please refer t the Public Engagement Summary in the Appendix. Shriver Wright State Wildlife Area (curtesy f Ri de la Vista) 14
Cmmnly Expressed Un-met Outdr Recreatin Needs A number f cmmn themes emerged frm the analysis f the cmmunity input cllected thrugh meetings, pen huses and the survey. These were ideas, needs, r cncerns that were expressed by multiple grups r individuals and that surfaced repeatedly during the utreach effrt. The reader will see that these cmmn themes frmed the fundatin f the SLVGO Calitin s pririty initiatives and inspired the develpment f several f the tls in the plan s Outdr Recreatin Tl Kits. Thrugh cmmunity utreach, the SLVGO Calitin heard that there is a need fr: Better infrmatin (e.g. maps, guides, signs) and mre prmtinal media/tls t raise awareness f existing recreatinal pprtunities. Mre cnnectivity amng cmmunities and linkages between existing trail systems, twns and recreatin areas. Mre trails and a variety f trail experiences. Mre recreatinal activities and prgrams geared twards SLV yuth. A wide range f recreatinal experiences acrss the SLV that cater t a brad base f residents and visitrs. PATTERNS & NEEDS Hw satisfied are yu with the fllwing: Available recreatinal pprtunities in the San Luis Valley The types and lengths f trails in the San Luis Valley The maintenance f recreatin facilities The level f supprt facilities like restrms, parking, and signs at recreatin sites. The fees yu pay t use recreatin facilities 15
SLVGO Frequency and Type f Recreatin Participatin The first set f survey questins were designed t help the SLVGO Calitin understand recreatin usage cmpsitin and patterns. 95% f survey participants indicated that they had recreated in the SLV in the past 12 mnths. Participants were als asked hw ften they participated in recreatin and where their preferred recreatin lcatins are in the SLV. The majrity f respndents indicated that they recreate at least 2-3 times a mnth, with 43.8% recreating nce a week r mre. The vast majrity, 70% f respndents, prefer t recreate in remte areas n public lands and nly 7.3% preferred In Twn recreatin lcatins. The survey presented a list f the fllwing 44 recreatinal activities and asked respndents t check all f the activities that they engage in. All f the 44 prpsed activities were checked by at least 12 respndents, hwever, the tp five recreatinal activities were camping (62% f respndents), hiking/climbing muntains (61%), walking (56%), picnicking (37%) and hunting (28%). 16
Mst ppular recreatin activities As indicated in the chart belw, peple engage in a fairly wide variety f recreatin including winter and summer uses and mtrized and nnmtrized uses. The recreatinal activities that peple participate in mst frequently included hiking/ muntain climbing, camping, ATV travel and ff-rad mtrcycling. Other recreatin activities The survey prvided the pprtunity fr respndents t write in any additinal activities they engage in within the San Luis Valley. At the pen huses, participants were als encuraged t explain what types f recreatin they enjy in the SLV. Sme f these uses that were reprted in the ther respnse categry and/r frm discussins with the public and stakehlders included: Rde & Equestrian skills Flat fishing Tubing Star gazing/astrnmy Outdr phtgraph Team sprts Cllecting/harvesting (e.g. sheds, piñn, fruit) Gardening Dance Archelgy Spiritual retreats Als, survey findings revealed that recreatinal use is cmbined with the fllwing types f ther activities: Qutes frm the Survey Even as a near-by resident and frequent visitr t the SLV, I have truble finding access pint t the incredible public lands resurces that I knw are available Wuld like mre educatinal pprtunities t teach peple new sprts and mre grup activities t encurage new participants. I ve been lking fr a new muntain biking destinatin. It d need 3-4 days wrth f gd riding, camping, and amenities like restaurants, cffee shps, and brew pubs. Mre trails. There are quite a few shrt sectins f single-track hiking and biking trails, it wuld be great t cnnect sme fr mre chesin and lnger trail sectins. PATTERNS & NEEDS Agriturism: 23.6% Lcal Arts: 30.4% Cncerts/ Festivals: 41.4% Scenic Drives: 68.8% Shpping: 34% Eating Out: 74.3% Visiting Histric Sites: 67% Muntains and recreatin are great, but it s the peple wh make r break recreatinal enterprises. We need t give visitrs a reasn t cme back and a sense f belnging when they re here. This is an educatinal prcess f which all San Luis Valley residents shuld be apprised, if turism is t grw and thrive here. 17
SLVGO Wheel chair accessible bike/walking paths Outdr music event venue Live music and dancing prgramming Dg specific areas Cycling (Paved, Designated, Rad Rutes, Trails) Par glf curse Educatinal utings and instructinal prgrams (e.g., archaelgy, flra and fauna, gardening, kayaking) Mre Ri Grande flw and recreatin (e.g. fishing, bating, riverside trails) Ice skating facilities Yuth prgramming (camps and utings) Outdr vlleyball Demand fr mre recreatin pprtunities Amng the 44 prpsed activities, respndents were then asked t select what activities they d like t have mre pprtunities fr in the SLV. Survey respndents expressed a significant desire fr mre mtrized recreatin pprtunities including snwmbiling, 4 wheel driving, ATV travel and Offrad mtrcycling. Substantial demand was als expressed fr nn-mtrized uses such as muntain biking, hiking, fishing and camping. Bth swimming (indr facilities) and crss-cuntry skiing (grmed Nrdic trails) were brught up in the cntext f residents expressing a need fr winter recreatinal pprtunities. Barriers t Recreatin The digital survey cntained a set f questins designed t identify the bstacles that may be preventing bth SLV residents and visitrs frm taking advantage f the area s recreatinal resurces. The answers t this set f questins revealed that there is a shrtage f infrmatin abut what is available and that there is a need t raise the visibility and awareness f SLV recreatinal resurces. Fr example, ver half f the respndents Thrugh the survey and at the pen huses, peple were again given the pprtunity t suggest any ther recreatinal pprtunities beynd thse listed that they wuld like t see mre f in the SLV. Additinal prpsed activities included: Rde arena/facilities Team sprts (e.g. sccer, ftball) 18
indicated that they d nt use r infrequently use parks, public lands, trails and/r ther recreatinal amenities in the SLV because they either Dn t knw what s available (34%) r they Dn t knw where they are (32%). As a fllw up t the barrier survey questins, respndents were asked the pen-ended questin, What wuld prvide yu with incentives t recreate utside mre ften in the SLV. This line f questining was als used t engage participants at the public pen huses. Ideas generated frm this questin are summarized belw. Raising the visibility f what s available in terms f recreatin facilities, areas and prgrams wuld prmpt mre recreatin. Ideas fr creating mre awareness f SLV s recreatinal resurces included: Mre infrmatin n trails including level f expertise required, mileage, trail head lcatins. Maps shwing where recreatin pprtunities are available. A website r anther nline prtal explaining where and what is available in terms f recreatin facilities, prgrams and events. Infrmatin n winter recreatin pprtunities acrss the SLV. Better guides t SLV areas, lands, parks, destinatins. Turs. Mre utreach/publicity/advertising f recreatin pprtunities. Turism materials featuring recreatin pprtunities. Sprt-specific maps (hiking and camping destinatins, ATV rutes, muntain biking, equestrian). trails such as mileage, trail markers (e.g. cairns, directin signs), and difficulty. Yu are Here stickers n maps. Wayfinding signs in twn and alng rads that direct travelers t recreatin destinatins and clear rad signs at access pints. Make access mre cnvenient and enhance recreatin pprtunities by increasing cnnectivity. Ideas related t enhanced cnnectivity included: Cnnect trails frm twn. Ensure there are recreatin facilities such as parks and paths within walking distance frm twns. Cnnect twns and recreatin areas using the Ri Grande. Paved/shaded/ff-rad/safe rutes fr kids. Link existing trail netwrks with ne anther. Ability t ride ATVs int twns (Saguache, Del Nrte, Suth Frk). Link recreatin areas (e.g. Bnanza t Saguache; La Garita t Carner Pass). Cnsider using railrad crridrs, canals/ditches and Utility right f ways as links between recreatin areas and t imprve cnnectins between cmmunities. PATTERNS & NEEDS Imprved signage s that peple can find recreatin destinatins and feel mre cmfrtable while they are ut n the trail. Ideas related t sign imprvements included: Give trails names, nt just numbers. Names are mre memrable. Mre infrmatin at trailheads and alng 19
SLVGO Utilizing the Ri Grande crridr as a link thrugh vluntary, incentive-based agreements with private landwners. Offering mre recreatin prgramming wuld attract mre peple and help spread the wrd abut what s available thrughut the SLV. Ptential prgramming ideas ffered included: Grup activities. Weekend uting clubs. Guided hikes and/ur turs. Instructinal recreatin activities. Recreatin-riented events. Equestrian skill building. Mre camping areas and mre infrmatin n existing camping pprtunities. Ideas related t camping included: Offer a range f camping experiences frm intwn, full-service camping t primitive, backcuntry camping. Organized camping utings. Offer mre camping clser t twn and/r in twn. Build and/r cnnect mre miles f single-track trails. Varius user grups including mtrized and nn-mtrized users asked fr mre trails and specifically mre, single-track trails. Link existing trails and created lped trail systems t ffer mre miles f single-track and mre varied trail experiences. Mre single-track trail pen t mtrcycle use. Mre single-track trail fr trail running, hiking, and muntain biking. Create lng, destinatin wrthy trails that allw fr a full day f travel. Mre amenities in twns t accmmdate recreatinal users and turism as well as a culture f hspitality. Cffee shps Breweries Equipment rentals A variety f types f camping Offer classes t lcal businesses n hspitality and ensure business wners and lcals are infrmed abut Valley recreatinal resurces s that they can share them with visitrs. Share ideas fr entrepreneurial ventures fr better catering t turists. 20
Satisfactin with Recreatin Services and Infrmatin Surces In the survey, respndents were asked t rank their satisfactin with recreatin, trail services and facilities, as well as with infrmatin services and surces f infrmatin. As evidenced by the blue lines in the bar chart belw, respndents were verwhelmingly smewhat satisfied with available recreatin pprtunities, the types and lengths f trails, maintenance f recreatin facilities, level f supprt facilities, and fees. Hwever, respndents expressed less satisfactin with infrmatin surces n recreatin pprtunities in the SLV. In rder t understand hw lcals and visitrs plan their recreatin trips and share their experiences, the survey included a number f questins abut infrmatin surces. Given satisfactin with land management agencies, visitr/infrmatin centers and sprting gd shps as surces f infrmatin n recreatin facilities, it will be imprtant fr SLVGO t keep these infrmatin utlets updated with the mst current fferings and pprtunities. While wrd f muth is a trusted and reliable trip planning resurce, the survey findings indicate that ther infrmatin surces such as reginal websites, scial media and guidebks can be develped and/r enhanced. PATTERNS & NEEDS I guess I smetimes just dn t knw quite where t g. Maybe a map n yur website wuld be a way t get mre flks ut and abut qute frm the survey 21
SLVGO Funding Since the SLVGO endeavrs t build a financially sustainable and scalable system f Valley-wide recreatin pprtunities, the survey included questins designed t gauge respndent s views n ptential funding mechanisms. Of the ptential funding ptins presented, Pay t Play Fees (e.g. fishing and hunting licenses, entrance fees) received the mst supprt (44%). The least favrable ptin was A prperty tax increase dedicated t recreatin maintenance and prmtin (18%) and a quarter f the respndents said they D nt supprt increases in taxes t pay fr and maintain a Valley-wide recreatin system (25%). The fllwing were identified as the tp three pririties fr SLVGO t fund: Designing and building new trails Maintaining existing recreatin facilities and trails Designing and building mre in-twn recreatin facilities (e.g., skate parks, rec centers, bike paths). Supprt fr this type f spending by the SLVGO was als eched at the public pen huses and in discussins with stakehlders Which f the fllwing funding ptins wuld yu supprt t expand and maintain recreatinal pprtunties in the San Luis Valley? (Check all that apply) Establishment f a Valley-wide Recreatin District and a recreatin system fee (charged mnthly n yur utility bill) Pay t play fee (e.g. fishing r hunting license) Trailhead Fees A sales tax increase dedicated t San Luis Valley recreatin prmtin, maintenance and imprvements. A prperty tax increase dedicated t recreatin prmtin, maintenance and imprvements. I dn t supprt increases in fees r taxes t pay fr and maintain a Valley-wide recreatin system I may supprt an increase in fees r taxes t pay fr a brader Valley-wide Cultural and Scientific District that supprts recreatin and turism infrastructure in additin t ther Valley initiatives. 22
CHAPTER 3 CHALLENGES AND BENEFITS OF OUTDOOR RECREATION Ri Grande (curtesy f Rt Huse Studi)
SLVGO The SLVGO Calitin has jined a natinwide effrt t reinvigrate utdr recreatin and instill a lve f the great utdrs. The utdr experience is n lnger an integral part f many American s existence. Increasingly busy schedules, seductive technlgy, and changing cultural nrms are keeping mre and mre Americans inside and leading t an unhealthier sciety. Thirty years ag, mst Americans led lives that kept them active and at a healthy weight, but times have changed. Tday we tend t drive rather than walk r bike; eat fast fd and snack regularly; and spend free time with TVs, digital gadgets, vide games, cmputers, and the Internet rather than the utdrs. We are busier than ever and ur diets reflect that with frequent fast fd visits and fewer hme-cked meals. The statistics related t the inactivity f Americans and the besity epidemic are staggering with abut ne-third f adults and 17% f children weighing in as bese 1. Outdr Recreatin amng Yuth is n the Decline This scietal prblem is cmpunded by the fact that utdr recreatin amng yuth is n the decline acrss the cuntry. Fr the past three years, The Outdr Fundatin has cnducted a natinwide survey t examine yuth participatin in utdr recreatin. In 2009, The Outdr Fundatin cnducted a natinwide survey f ver 41,000 individuals between the ages f 6 and 25 2. In their Special Reprt n Yuth, The Next Generatin f Outdr Champins, The Outdr Fundatin utlines a number f key findings, including the fllwing: 59% f 6- t 24 year-lds participated in utdr recreatin (defined as having taken part in ne r mre f 40 utdr activities at least nce during 2008). Yuth participants made up 34% f all utdr recreatin participants. Participatin in utdr recreatin was highest amng 6- t 12-year-lds at 64%, declined t 61% fr 13- t 17-year-lds, and declined further t 54% fr 18- t 24-year-lds. Yuth participatin in utdr recreatin declined since 2006 in all age grups and amng bth bys and girls. The rate f decline was greatest amng 6- t 12-year-ld girls (77% in 2006 versus 58% in 2008). Mre males participated in utdr recreatin than females (56% versus 44%). Mre Caucasians participated in utdr recreatin than ther ethnic ppulatins (79% versus 7.4% fr African Americans). Running, bicycling, and freshwater fishing were the mst ppular utdr activities amng yuth. Parents, friends, and family were the strngest influences in getting yunger children t participate in utdr recreatin. 46% f yuth reprted that lack f time and interest kept them frm participating in utdr activities mre ften. Yuth with nearby walking and biking rutes participated in mre utdr recreatin (21% mre fr walking rutes and 25% mre fr biking rutes). These natinal trends in cmbinatin with findings frm SLVGO Calitin's public utreach effrts have infrmed develpment f the Tl Kit sectin (Chapter 5) f this master plan which ffers strategies fr imprving access t the utdrs and enhancing recreatin pprtunities and experiences. In the United States tday, physical inactivity and unhealthy diet are secnd nly t tbacc use as the main causes f premature death 3. While this scietal prblem is grave, it is surmuntable. A grwing bdy f research indicates that easy-t-reach parks, recreatin prgramming, activated utdr spaces, and access t healthy fds can have an extrardinary psitive impact n cmmunity health. The SLVGO Calitin is dedicated t inspiring and re-invigrating a lve f the utdrs and advcates that recreatin in the SLV shuld be fun, safe, healthy, and accessible t all. 24 1 Center fr Disease Cntrl and Preventin, http://www.cdc.gv/ nccdphp/dnpa/abutus/index.html 2 http://www.utdrfundatin.rg/pdf/researchyuth.pdf 3 Active Design Guidelines Prmting Physical Activity and Health in Design. http://www.nyc.gv/html/ddc/html/design/active_design.shtml.
The Benefits f Outdr Recreatin The SLVGO Calitin intends t help cmmunities acrss the SLV grw and leverage their utdr recreatin pprtunities in rder t bst the wellness f SLV residents while als attracting recreatin-riented turism. This master plan lays the grundwrk fr realizing the multiple benefits f utdr recreatin by giving residents infrmatin abut existing recreatin pprtunities and identifying ptential prjects that culd increase access t the utdrs and grw the number f recreatin facilities and prgrams, thereby helping SLV residents f all ages becme mre physically active and healthier. In this sectin, the benefits f utdr recreatin, encuraging mre physical activity, and cnnecting yuth with nature are summarized. Mre Outdr Recreatin and Physical Activity Make fr Healthier SLV Cmmunities Given declines in physical activity and time spent utdrs, it is imperative that grups like SLVGO Calitin and lcal cmmunities play an active rle in inspiring and facilitating the adptin f lifestyles that make rm fr physical activity and utdr recreatin. The health benefits f physical activity and utdr recreatin are numerus. Fr example, peple wh are physically active tend t live lnger and have lwer risk fr heart disease, strke, type 2 diabetes, depressin, and sme cancers. Physical activity can als help with weight cntrl, and may imprve academic achievement in students. The Center fr Disease Cntrl and Preventin's (CDC) Divisin f Nutritin, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO) is wrking t implement plicy and envirnmental strategies t make healthy eating and active living accessible and affrdable fr everyne. One f the DNPAO s pririties is t increase activity levels by prmting safe and cnvenient ptins fr physical activity. This pririty is directly in line with the SLVGO Calitin s bjective t ensure that safe, adequate access t trails and recreatinal areas exist within the SLV fr the benefit f residents and visitrs alike. Accrding t the CDC, regular physical activity is ne f the mst imprtant things yu can d fr yur health and the benefits f utdr recreatin and increased physical activity include: Weight Cntrl: Getting t and staying at a healthy weight requires bth regular physical activity and a healthy eating plan. Strng scientific evidence shws that physical activity can help individuals maintain their weight ver time. Reduced Risk f Cardivascular Disease: Heart disease and strke are tw f the leading causes f death in the United States. Hwever, getting at least 150 minutes a week (2 hurs and 30 minutes) f mderate-intensity aerbic activity reduces the risk fr these diseases. Regular physical activity can als lwer bld pressure and imprve chlesterl levels. Reduced Risk fr Type 2 Diabetes: Research shws that lwer rates f type 2 diabetes are seen with 120 t 150 minutes (2 hurs t 2 hurs and 30 minutes) a week f at least mderate-intensity aerbic activity. And the risk lwers with mre physical activity. Fr thse with type 2 diabetes, regular physical activity helps cntrl bld glucse levels. Reduced Risk f Sme Cancers: Research shws that risk fr bth cln and breast cancer is reduced by physical activity. Additinally, nging research suggests that the risk f endmetrial and lung cancer may als be lwer amng thse wh get regular physical activity. Strengthens Bnes and Muscles: Research shws that ding aerbic, muscle-strengthening and bne-strengthening physical activity f at least a mderately-intense level can slw the lss f bne density that cmes with age. Regular physical activity helps with arthritis and ther cnditins affecting the jints. Physical activity als helps build strng, healthy muscles. Aerbic and musclestrengthening activities can help imprve yur ability t d everyday activities frm climbing stairs, t grcery shpping t tting the kids arund. Imprved Mental Health and Md: Regular physical activity (3-5 times per week) has been prven t reduce risks f depressin and help with sleep prblems. Additinally this degree f activity can help keep thinking, learning and judgement skills sharp as ne ages. CHALLENGES & BENEFITS 25
SLVGO A NATIONWIDE CHALLENGE TO RE-INSTILL HEALTHY LIFESTYLES Recmmended Dse f Physical Activity "The Center fr Disease Cntrl recmmends that adults need 150 minutes f mderate aerbic activity a week; children need even mre at least ne hur f physical activity each day. Less than half f adults and children, hwever, meet thse baseline requirements." - Urban Land Institute's Ten Principles fr Building Healthy Places Obesity by the numbers "Over the past three decades, childhd besity rates in America have tripled, and tday, nearly ne in three children in America are verweight r bese. The numbers are even higher in African American and Hispanic cmmunities, where nearly 40% f the children are verweight r bese. If we dn't slve this prblem, ne third f all children brn in 2000 r later will suffer frm diabetes at sme pint in their lives. Many thers will face chrnic besity-related health prblems like heart disease, high bld pressure, cancer, and asthma." - Let's Mve Plugged In & Sedentary "Eight t 18-year ld adlescents spend an average f 7.5 hurs a day using entertainment media, including, TV, cmputers, vide games, cell phnes and mvies, and nly ne-third f high schl students get the recmmended levels f physical activity." - Let's Mve Mst Healthy Healthy Less Healthy Least Healthy 26 Clrad Cunty s Ranked By Health The fllwing map ranks hw healthy cunties are within the state f Clrad. The healthiest cunty in the state is ranked #1 and the least healthy cunties are delineated by the darkest shade f green. The ranks are based n tw types f measures: hw lng peple live and hw healthy peple feel while alive. Of the 59 ranked cunties, the San Luis Valley cunties ranked as fllws: Alamsa-43, Cnejs-52, Cstilla-56, Ri Grande-50, Saguache-51. Mineral Cunty and 4 ther CO cunties were nt ranked). The map and additinal infrmatin n cunty health can be fund at: http:// www.cuntyhealthrankings.rg/app/clrad/2013/rankings/utcmes/verall/by-rank
What keeps yuth wh dn t participate in utdr activities indrs? ages 6-12 All Males Females 1. I'm nt interested. 39% 35% 43% 2. My parents dn't take me n utdr 17% 16% 18% activities. 3. I have t much schlwrk. 16% 10% 21% 4. I dn't have the time. 15% 11% 18% 5. I wuld rather spend free time watching TV 15% 16% 14% r mvies, surfing the internet r playing vide games. 6. I'd rather spend time with my friends. 11% 5% 15% 7. I dn't want t spend mney n gear r 11% 16% 6% equipment. 8. I dn't knw hw t get started, what t d r where t g. 10% 14% 7% ages 13-17 All Males Females 1. I'm nt interested. 54% 59% 50% 2. I have t much schlwrk. 29% 24% 33% 3. I wuld rather spend free time watching TV 27% 36% 20% r mvies, surfing the internet r playing vide games. 4. I'd rather spend time with my friends. 26% 21% 30% 5. I dn't have the time. 25% 21% 29% CHALLENGES & BENEFITS ages 18-24 All Males Females 1. I dn't have the time. 47% 41% 51% 2. I'm nt interested. 46% 51% 42% 3. I dn't want t spend mney n gear r 23% 18% 26% equipment. 4. I wuld rather spend free time watching TV 20% 23% 17% r mvies, surfing the internet r playing vide games. 5. I have t much schlwrk. 19% 18% 21% 6. I dn't like bugs r dirt. 13% 7% 18% 22 Graphic reprduced frm the The Outdr Fundatin's Special Reprt n Yuth, The Next Generatin f Outdr Champins (2010). http://www.utdrfundatin.rg/pdf/researchyuth.pdf 27
SLVGO 28 Increase yur chances f living lnger: Only a few lifestyle chices have as large an impact n yur health as physical activity. Peple wh are physically active fr abut 7 hurs a week have a 40 percent lwer risk f dying early than thse wh are active fr less than 30 minutes a week. Yu dn't have t d high amunts f activity r vigrus-intensity activity t reduce yur risk f premature death. Yu can put yurself at lwer risk f dying early by ding at least 150 minutes a week f mderate-intensity aerbic activity. Imprved Children and Adlescent Health: Accrding t the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines fr Americans, strng evidence exists that children and adlescents benefit frm physical activity thrugh imprved cardirespiratry and muscular fitness, bne health, cardivascular and metablic health bimarkers, and favrable bdy cmpsitin. In additin, mderate evidence exists that physical activity reduces symptms f depressin. The Benefits f Getting Outdrs Natinally, there is an increased fcus n getting ur kids unplugged and getting families utside and mre active. Public health advcates, legislatrs and nn-prfits cncerned abut rising besity rates amng ur schl age children are advancing this get utdrs mvement thrugh the develpment f prgrams and pprtunities fr kids and their families t get utside and explre the natural wrld. Over the last decade, the develpment f naturehuman health research has becme increasingly diverse and rigrus. The research demnstrates that green envirnments the utdrs, natural spaces are essential t human health. Munting research establishes hw human s health and wellbeing are imprved thrugh cntact with nature and immersin in the utdrs. In a 2010, the Natinal Recreatin and Parks Assciatin funded a research synthesis and verview f what scientists have discvered abut the relatinship between nature and human health. The reprt's authr, Dr. Frances Ming Ku, summarized the reprts finding belw: greater access t green views and green envirnments yields better cgnitive functining; mre practive, mre effective patterns f life functining; mre self-discipline and mre impulse cntrl; greater mental health verall; and greater resilience in respnse t stressful life events. Less access t nature is linked t exacerbated attentin deficit/hyperactivity disrder symptms, mre sadness and higher rates f clinical depressin. Peple with less access t nature are mre prne t stress and anxiety, as reflected nt nly individuals selfreprt but als measures f pulse rate, bld pressure, and stress-related patterns f nervus system and endcrine system anxiety, as well as physician-diagnsed anxiety disrders. 4 4 Ku, F. E., 2010. Parks and Other Green Envirnments: Essential Cmpnents f a Healthy Human Habitat. This reprt is available nline at: http://www.nrpa.rg/ "Rarely d the scientific findings n any questin align s clearly. While fr scientists the search fr greater understanding f hw and why and when cntact with nature impacts health cntinues, fr sciety as a whle the findings are clear. Parks and ther green envirnments are an essential cmpnent f a healthy human habitat. While street trees, parks, and public green spaces are ften regarded as mere amenities ways t beautify ur cmmunities and make life a little mre pleasant, the science tells us that they play a central rle in human health and healthy human functining. Much like eating greens prvides essential nutrients, s des seeing and being arund green. T prmte a healthier, kinder, smarter, mre effective, mre resilient, mre vital ppulace, cmmunities shuld be designed t prvide every individual with regular, diverse surces f 'Vitamin G.' " - Dr. Ku, Parks and Other Green Envirnments
It is imprtant t nte that all the studies cmpiled in Ku s reprt factr in the rle that incme might play in an apparent link between access t nature and physical health utcmes. While it is true that wealthier individuals and families tend t have bth greater access t nature and better physical health utcmes, the cmparisns in Ku s reprt reveal that peple f the same sci-ecnmic status wh have greater access t nature have better physical health utcmes (Ku, 2010). Additinal health and wellness benefits tied t human s getting utdrs and cnnecting with nature include the fllwing: When we cmpare peple with mre versus less ready access t parks and ther green envirnments, we find that they exhibit differences in wellbeing and functining in each f the three trademark dmains: scial, psychlgical, and physical health (Ku, 2010). Prximity t natural places has a direct, psitive effect n physical and mental health, as well as stress reductin. Studies have shwn that children, in particular, have higher rates f physical activity the clser they live t parks and green space and reprt lwer levels f stress and adversity (ULI 2013, Ten Principles, 24). The psitive impacts f cnnecting with nature n human health extend beynd scial and psychlgical health utcmes t include physical health utcmes. Spending time in parks and greener envirnments has been demnstrated t enhance recvery frm surgery, enable and supprt higher levels f physical activity, imprve immune system functining, help diabetics achieve healthier bld glucse levels, and imprve functinal health status and independent living skills amng lder adults (Ku, 2010). By cntrast, envirnments that dn t ffer cnnectins with nature, that are less green are assciated with greater rates f childhd besity; higher rates f 15 ut f 24 categries f physician-diagnsed diseases, including cardivascular diseases; and higher rates f mrtality in yunger and lder adults (Ku, 2010). Inspiring Future Cnservatin Leaders and Supprt f ur Natural Landscapes and Public Lands Accrding t a 2004 study by The Outdr Fundatin, Explring the Active Lifestyle, 90 percent f adult participants in utdr recreatin were intrduced t utdr activities between ages 5 and 18. Therefre if SLVGO Calitin is t fster a culture f utdr recreatin and ensure future generatins realize the benefits f cnnecting with the utdrs, it is imperative t start by inspiring tday s yuth t get utdrs and enjy the San Luis Valley s public lands. Recnnecting yuth with the utdrs has gained natinal attentin as a mvement that is critical t the health f future generatins and the health f ur natural landscapes. In the San Luis Valley and acrss the cuntry, children are desperate fr the physical, mental and scial benefits f a healthy, active utdr lifestyle, and ur natural landscapes need the supprt and prtectin f individuals with a strng cnnectin t the utdrs. 5 Expsing children t nature is a crucial step t getting yuth t care abut envirnmental issues, t supprt public lands, and t prmte utdr recreatin. In 2011, The Nature Cnservancy (TNC) cmmissined a natinwide pll f American children t understand children s cnnectin with nature. Survey questins explred children s current cnnectin with nature, envirnmental attitudes, and bstacles and pprtunities t cnnect with nature. The survey reprt highlights many interesting findings, a few f which include: Children spend a lt f time engaged in electrnic media. Fr example, 88% f children reprted using a cmputer almst every day, while nly 11% f children reprted visiting a lcal park r natural area almst every day. Children reprted that feelings f discmfrt (bugs, heat, etc.), lack f transprtatin t natural areas, and lack f natural areas near hme were the tp 3 reasns why they did nt spend mre time in nature. CHALLENGES & BENEFITS 5 The Nature Cnservancy. (2011). Cnnecting America's yuth t nature. This reprt is available nline at: http://www.nature.rg/ newsfeatures/kids-in-nature/kids-in-nature-pll.xml. 29
SLVGO Obese children prefer indr activities mre than children wh are nt bese and are less likely t have had a meaningful experience in nature. Children mst ften experience nature with friends (79%), fllwed by parents (46%) and brthers and sisters (44%). Children living in the West are mst likely t prefer spending time utdrs, while children living in the Nrtheast are mst likely t prefer spending time indrs. Children with persnal, psitive experiences with nature were twice as likely t view themselves as strng envirnmentalists and were significantly mre likely t express cncern abut water issues, air pllutin, climate change and the verall cnditin f the envirnment. 86% f children said that it is cl t d things that prtect the envirnment. Based n the survey results, researchers highlight a number f strategies t enhance children s cnnectin t nature, including prviding pprtunities at schl that engage children with nature, getting friends and parents t encurage children t spend mre time utside, and ensuring that activities are fun and easy. The Cnnecting Yuth With the Outdrs tl kit in Chapter 5 ffers additinal suggestins fr engaging yuth in utdr recreatin. Ecnmic Benefits With this master planning effrt, SLVGO Calitin hpes t inspire cmmunities t pen the SLV s cllective dr t the ecnmic pwer f becming an utdr recreatin destinatin. By supprting the develpment f desirable multiuse trail systems thrughut the SLV and prmting existing recreatin pprtunities, the SLVGO Calitin intends t attract mre recreatin-based turists, spark the creatin f new businesses, cultivate new jbs, grw wages, bst prperty values, and increase tax revenues. Put simply, utdr recreatin strengthens lcal ecnmies. Cities and twns acrss the United The beauty f the San Luis Valley draws turists and recreatinalists t the regin (curtesy f Rt Huse Studi) 30
States and especially the western states are tapping int the business f utdr recreatin as they recgnize that utdr recreatin and pen spaces are key ingredients t healthy cmmunities, cntribute t a high quality f life, and attract and sustain businesses, turism and families. Outdr recreatin and assciated recreatin-based turism have the ptential t blster lcal ecnmies in the SLV. With this plan, the SLVGO Calitin prvides strategies fr prmting the SLV as a recreatin destinatin and enticing turists t spend dllars in the regin in pursuit f utdr recreatin pprtunities. Lcal ecnmies can benefit frm spending assciated with utdr recreatin in multiple frms including the purchase f gear and vehicles as well as dllars spent n trips, travel and recreatin fees. Gear purchases include anything fr utdr recreatin, such as utdr apparel and ftwear, skis, tents, rifles, fishing ples, binculars r climbing rpes. Vehicle purchases include vehicles and accessries used nly fr utdr recreatin, such as bats, trailers, RVs, snwmbiles and ff-highway vehicles. Trip and travel-related expenses include ldging, restaurants, grceries, gasline, rental cars, campgrunds as well as suvenir shpping. When SLV residents and turists recreate utside during day utings and vernight trips within the 6-cunty regin, their spending supprts lcal enterprises, land management agencies, and recreatin prviders by paying fr utfitters and guides, lift tickets and ski lessns, entrance fees, licenses and much mre. amng bth residents and nn-residents and this frm f utdr recreatin brings substantial ecnmic cntributins. A 2013 reprt frm the Trails Preservatin Alliance, entitled the Ecnmic Cntributins f Off-Highway Vehicle Use in Clrad summarized bth the grwth f the industry and its ecnmic cntributins. Findings frm the reprt that demnstrate the ptential ecnmic benefits f supprting mtrized recreatin in the SLV include: OHV registratins increased by 131 percent between 2000 and 2012. The bulk f grwth ccurred between 2000 and 2007 and was fairly cnstant between 2007 and 2012. Snwmbile registratins were fairly cnstant between 2000 and 2009 and decreased slightly between 2008 and 2012. Between 2008-2012, nn-resident OHV permits grew by mre than 34% During the 2012-13 seasn, it was estimated that mtrized recreatinal enthusiasts spent mre than $602 millin while taking trips using their mtrized vehicle fr recreatinal purpses. On a husehld basis, residents spent n average $109 t $137 per day trip and $441 t $679 per vernight trip. Nn-residential husehlds spent n average $131 t $197 per day trip and $926 t $1,660 per vernight trip. Mre than 90 percent f these expenditures ccurred during the summer OHV recreatinal seasn. CHALLENGES & BENEFITS These multiple types f recreatin spending supprt small business wners, help create jbs and generate tax revenue fr cmmunities. Mtrized Recreatin It is als imprtant t recgnize that the SLV s vast terrain lends itself t mtrized recreatin (e.g., snwmbiling and ff-rad travel n mtrcycles, ATVs, jeeps) that can further cntribute t lcal ecnmies. The sprt and industry f mtrized recreatin is increasing in ppularity in Clrad 31
SLVGO ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF OUTDOOR RECREATION Outdr Recreatin: A Steadily Grwing Natinal Ecnmic Sectr The American utdr recreatin ecnmy prvides 6.1 millin jbs, spurs $646 billin in spending, and brings $39.9 billin in Federal tax revenue and $39.7 billin in state and lcal tax revenue. "In shrt, utdr recreatin is a grwing and diverse ecnmic super sectr that is a vital crnerstne f successful cmmunities that cannt be ignred. Mst imprtantly, utdr recreatin is n lnger a nice t have, it is nw a must have as leaders acrss the cuntry recgnize the undeniable ecnmic, scial and health benefits f utdr recreatin." Outdr Industry Assciatin, Outdr Recreatin Ecnmy Reprt (2012) adventuring int the great Outdrs fuels the ecnmy Outdr recreatin Prduct sales $120.7 billin APPAreL, ftwear, equipment, vehicles, AccessrIes, services Trips and Travelrelated spending $524.8 billin fd/drink, transprtatin, entertainment/activities, LdgIng, suvenirs/gifts/misc. + = $646 billin direct sales fr every dllar spent n gear And vehicles, An estimated fur dllars In spending n trips And travel results. Graphic reprduced frm the Outdr Industry Assciatin's Outdr Recreatin Ecnmy Reprt (2012) http://utdrindustry.rg/images/researchfiles/oia_outdrrececnmyreprt2012.pdf?167 32
In Clrad OUTDOOR RECREATION GENERATES $13.2 BILLION in cnsumer spending 125K direct Clrad jbs $4.2 BILLION in wages and salaries $994 MILLION in state and lcal tax revenue - Outdr Industry Assciatin, Take it Outside fr Clrad Jbs and a Strng Ecnmy (2012) Big Business in the Western States. Outdr recreatin spending in Western states equaled $255.6 billin nearly 40% f the natinal ttal. This includes purchases f utdr gear and vehicles as well as travel expenditures when enjying the great Western utdrs. Outdr recreatin spending equals jbs in the West 2.3 millin jbs in the regin in 2011. - Western Gvernrs Assciatin, A Snapsht f The Ecnmic Impact f Outdr Recreatin (2012) an Overlked ecnmic giant Annual Cnsumer Spending, in Billins CHALLENGES & BENEFITS PharmaceuTIcals $331 motor vehicles and ParTs $340 OUTDOOR RECREATION $646 financial services and Insurance $780 OuTPaTIenT health care $767 gasoline and OTher fuels $354 household utilities $309 0 $100 $200 $300 $400 $500 $600 $700 $800 Graphic reprduced frm the Outdr Industry Assciatin's Outdr Recreatin Ecnmy Reprt (2012) http://utdrindustry.rg/images/researchfiles/oia_ OutdrRecEcnmyReprt2012.pdf?167 Date surce: Bureau f Ecnmic Analysis, Persnal Cnsumptin Expenditures by Type f Prduct, based n available 2010 data. 33
SLVGO 34 Outdr recreatin pprtunities vary widely in the San Luis Valley frm enjying wildlife alng the riparian crridr, t turing histric sites, t hitting Mnte Vista's skate park (curtesy f Rt Huse Studi).
CHAPTER 4 SLVGO COALITION'S PRIORITY INITIATIVES Trail verlking the SLV at Penitente Canyn (curtesy f Rt Huse Studi)
SLVGO SLVGO Pririty Initiatives The SLVGO Calitin has develped a set f pririty initiatives in direct respnse t the un-met recreatin needs and residents desires t imprve recreatin experiences and pprtunities in the SLV that were identified thrugh the prject s utreach effrts. Cllectively, the initiatives represent an ambitius effrt t imprve recreatin facilities, expand utdr experiences acrss the SLV, and t increase the prmtin f the regin s recreatin pprtunities. These initiatives will be the fcus f the SLVGO Calitin and its partners ver the next ten years. Each initiative includes a number f ptential prjects. This list f ptential prjects was cmpiled frm ideas suggested by Calitin members and raised during cmmunity utreach. The list f ptential prjects will cntinue t grw as mre cmmunities learn abut the SLVGO s initiatives and identify their prjects. Over the next ten years, the SLVGO Calitin strives t achieve the fllwing 6 initiatives: 1. Imprve cmmunity wellness thrugh enhanced in-twn recreatin facilities. Cnvenient access t utdr recreatin within SLV cmmunities, dwntwns, neighbrhds, parks, and adjacent public lands will encurage mre physical activity and cntribute t the health f SLV residents. SLVGO Calitin will wrk with partners t create mre recreatin pprtunities and facilities within and in clse prximity t twns. In sme cases achieving this initiative will require the cnstructin f new facilities, hwever, in many cmmunities this initiative may simply entail raising awareness f and the enhancing the appeal f existing recreatin facilities. Excellent examples f existing r planned in-twn recreatin facilities that enrich a cmmunity by prviding cnvenient and fun access t utdr fun include the trail system n Lkut Muntain that tie int Del Nrte and the utdr fitness and exercise park lcated in the curtyard f the Cstilla Cunty s Health and Services building n Main Street in San Luis. Objective: By 2025, the SLVGO Calitin and its partners will supprt each f the 18 San Luis Valley cmmunities in develping r upgrading their in-twn recreatin facilities t ensure they are welcming, prmted and cnveniently accessible t nearby residents. Ptential Prjects Vista Grande Recreatin Area (Saguache) Ski Hi Recreatin Cmplex (Mnte Vista) Cnnecting the SLV's three Natinal Wildlife Refuges with nearby twns (Alamsa, Mnte Vista, Crestne) In-twn path cnnectins (Creede) Devil s Playgrund Site Rehabilitatin and Park Develpment (Alamsa) La Jara BMX Track Park Rit Sec Park facility upgrades and trail system expansin (e.g., infrmatinal and interpretive signs, restrms, picnic tables, campsites, fishing access) Center Twn Park (Center) Byd & Mllie Brwn Memrial Park (Suth Frk) Valley Wide In-Twn Recreatin Imprvements Bike lanes, sidewalks and multi-use paths t prvide safe rutes thrughut twns and facilitate biking and walking. Fitness parks/exercise statins incrprated int existing trail systems, parks, and/r schl yards (e.g. Plstn Elementary, Alamsa). Nrdic skiing n glf curses. Outdr perfrmance venues (e.g., cvered stage at Cle Park) Recreatin equipment rentals (e.g., bikes, climbing gear, fishing ple) Flexible pen spaces and/r ball fields Increase awareness f what s ut there Lcal utdr recreatin / exercise campaigns 36
149 149 114 50 Creek 17 112 15 15 371 368 370 136 17 17 150 142 159 San Luis Valley Imprve Cmmunity Wellness with In-Twn Recreatin Enhancements Bnanza Saguache Creek Saguache Saguache Creek 1 Saguache Saguache Creek Public Land BLM Clrad NPS USFS 4 285 Saguache Creek Mffat Crestne 3 USFWS Creede Ri Grande River Ri Grande River 8 Ri Grande River 7 Suth Frk Del Nrte 112 Center 112 Hper 160 Msca Ri Grande River Legend Cumbres & Tltec Scenic Railrad Gld Medal Fishing Ri Grande Natural Area Sangre de Crist Natinal Heritage Area 160 Cnejs River Cnejs River Mnte Vista MAP 1 Cnejs R i ver 2 Cnejs River Rme 285 Cnejs Antnit 9 La Jara Manassa Alamsa Sanfrd 5 3 Ri Grande River Cnejs River Trinchera Creek Blanca Trinchera Creek San Luis 6 Culebra Creek 160 PRIORITY INITIATIVES 0 5 10 20 30 40 50 Miles The fllwing ptential prjects wuld encurage mre utdr recreatin and activity in cmmunities acrss the San Luis Valley: 1 Vista Grande Recreatin Area (Saguache) 2 Ski Hi Cmplex Recreatin Facility Imprvements 3 Cnnecting Natinal Wildlife Refuges with Twns (Alamsa, Mnte Vista, Crestne) 4 Creede trail cnnectins 5 Devil s Playgrund Site Rehabilitain / Park Develpment 6 Rit Sec Park Upgrades / Trail System Expansin 7 Byd & Millie Brwn Memrial Park (Suth Frk) 8 Center Twn Park (Center) 9 La Jara BMX Track 37
SLVGO Wrk with partners like the SdCNHA, Old Spanish Trail and lcal histrical grups t build and prmte walking turs designed arund explring and learning abut cmmunity s histry. Other ptential in-twn recreatin facilities: indr glf range, par curse, disc glf curse, tennis curts, pickleball curts, dg park, cmmunity garden, sand vlleyball curts, zipline, cmmunity pls, Off-rad mtrcycle cmplex (fr all ages, mtcrss track, crss cuntry track). Indr Recreatin Imprvements While the fcus f this planning effrt was n utdr recreatin, a desire was expressed fr enhancing and expanding indr recreatin in certain cmmunities. These suggested imprvements included the fllwing: Recreatin/Cmmunity Centers (in Saguache, Suth Frk, Antnit r La Jara, and/r Del Nrte) Public pls, nn-ht spring swimming facilities, year-rund pl (in Del Nrte r Mnte Vista) 2. Cnnect, expand, and enhance trail systems thrughut the Valley. During utreach, many vices expressed interest in seeing mre trails develped in the San Luis Valley. Varius user grups including mtrized and nn-mtrized users asked fr mre trails and specifically mre, singletrack trails. In respnse t these desires, the SLVGO Calitin is cmmitted t supprting trail prjects annually and t wrking with partners t create varied trail experiences ranging frm singletrack t paved multi-use paths. Additinally, SLVGO Calitin will wrk with its partners t increase trail cnnectivity between trail systems, recreatin destinatins, heritage sites, and cmmunities. Objective: Over the 10-year life f the plan, SLVGO will supprt the building and/r imprvement f 100 r mre miles f trails. Ptential Prjects Cntinue t imprve and expand BLM trail systems: Lime Kiln, Zapata Falls, Penitente Canyn, Bishp Rck, Greenie Muntain, Vista Grande, Prnghrn. Expand trail system at Shriver-Wright SWA A designated rad cycling lp rute cnnecting S. Clrad and N. New Mexic (Antnit-Tres Piedras-Tas-San Luis- Antnit). Trail link cnnecting Creede and Suth Frk. (The Railrad crridr is nw private, but maybe there s an pprtunity fr a private/public partnership.) Wrk with the Baca POA t frmalize the subdivisin s trail system and ptentially cnvert the Baca s scial trail web int designated, sustainable trails. Prvide trails cnnectins that link USFS, BLM, dwntwn Crestne, Baca subdivisin and Baca NWR. Safe, well-marked bike lanes between twns and in twns (e.g., Acequia Drive in Mnte Vista). Extend the Rit Sec Park Trail System and cnnect the Greenbelt Trail t Rit Sec Park and build a trail frm Rit Sec Park t Batenburg Meadws. Build and/r expand trail systems in Cstilla Cunty s greenbelts including Sangre de Crist, Ri Grande, Buffal Hill, and Trinchera Creek Greenbelts. Build a bike cnnectin (e.g., designated bike lane, separated multi-use path) frm Highway 17 t the Great Sand Dunes Natinal Park alng Lane 6 Nrth. Other Ptential Trail Imprvements Identify recreatin destinatin and/r trail hubs where users can link int a rbust trail system and/ r find a variety f trail and recreatin experiences. A designated bstacle curse trail fr runners. Purpse-built muntain bike trails. 38
149 149 114 50 Creek 17 112 15 15 371 368 370 136 17 17 150 142 159 San Luis Valley Imprve Trail Cnnectins Bnanza 4 Public Land Saguache Creek Saguache Saguache Creek 1 Saguache Saguache Creek BLM Clrad NPS 4 1 285 Saguache Creek Mffat 8 Crestne 5 USFS USFWS Creede Ri Grande River Ri Grande River Ri Grande River 4 112 Center 112 Hper Suth Frk 160 Del Nrte 1 2 Ri Grande River Msca 9 1 Mnte Vista Legend Cumbres & Tltec Scenic Railrad Gld Medal Fishing Ri Grande Natural Area Sangre de Crist Natinal Heritage Area 160 Cnejs River Cnejs River 1 1 Cnejs R i ver 8 Cnejs River La Jara Sanfrd Rme Manassa 285 Cnejs Antnit Alamsa Ri Grande River 8 Cnejs River Trinchera Creek Blanca Trinchera Creek San Luis 7 6 Culebra Creek 160 PRIORITY INITIATIVES 3 0 5 10 20 30 40 50 Miles The fllwing ptential trails prjects help grw the SLV s trail systems, imprve access t the utdrs, and cnnect trail systems with ne anther and with cmmunities and heritage sites. 1 2 3 4 Imprve and expand BLM trail systems (e.g., Lime Kiln, Zapata Falls, Penitente Canyn, Bishp Rck, Greenie Muntain, Vista Grande, Prnghrn) Expand trail system at Shriver-Wright SWA Designate a rad cycling lp rute cnnecting S. CO and N. NM (Antnit-Tres Piedras-Tas-San Luis-Antnit) Marked OHV trails and designated rutes fr mtrcycle, ATVs, and ther vehicles that link existing recreatin areas (e.g., Bnanza t Saguache; Carner Pass; links frm Suth Frk, nrth and suth f 160). 5 6 7 8 9 Prvide trails cnnectins that link Frest Service, BLM, Crestne, Baca NWR and Baca subdivisin trails. Cnnect the Greenbelt Trail t Rit Sec Park and build a trail frm Rit Sec Park t Batenburg Meadws. Build new trails in Cstilla Cunty s greenbelts Expand trail systems in the 3 SLV Natinal Wildlife Refuges Build a bike trail alng Lane 6 Nrth frm Highway 17 t Great Sands Natinal Park 39
SLVGO Build and/r mark trails that cnnect t histric and cultural sites (e.g., Summitville mining site, Bachelr lp mining sites, Ute Ulay mining site, La Garita church, Statins f the Crss). Ptential Trail Imprvements fr Mtrized Travel Marked Off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails and designated rutes fr mtrcycle, ATVs, and ther vehicles that link existing recreatin areas (e.g., Bnanza t Saguache; La Garita t Carner Pass; links frm Suth Frk, nrth and suth f 160). Create additinal ff-rad rutes, pen t OHV vehicles that cnnect twns with ne anther and with utlying public lands (e.g., cnnect Creede- Del Nrte-Suth Frk). Utilize state and cunty rads t cnnect cmmunities and t prvide access fr OHV travel t histric destinatins such as mining sites. Mre singletrack mtrized trails including lng (+/- 100 mile) singletrack rutes pen t mtrcycles. 3. Grw mre recreatin prgrams and activities specifically tailred t SLV yuth. In respnse t SLV residents desire fr mre recreatinal pprtunities and facilities tailred t yuth, the SLVGO Calitin endeavrs t supprt mre yuth-riented prgramming and recreatinal activities acrss the 6-cunty regin. SLVGO will als help encurage the develpment f recreatin facilities that are appealing t the SLV's yunger residents and where families can enjy the utdrs and cnnect with nature. Objective: Supprt the develpment f 5-10 yuth-riented prgrams, facilities and/r activities ver the next 10 years. Ptential Prjects BMX Track (La Jara) Equestrian instructin and skill develpment (Ski Hi Recreatin Cmplex) Elements Camp (Crestne) Ri Grande Greenbelt Park (future park develpment with ptential fr camping facilities, a day use picnic area, fishing and bating access, and trails). Vista Grande Park (Saguache) Valley-Wide Imprvements Instructinal prgramming/ recreatin lessns Recreatin mentr prgram Mre sprts leagues Mre rganized utdr prgramming fr yuth and activities fr children and families (e.g., camps, field trips. Create new and extend existing Safe Rutes t Schl Walking Paths (e.g., extend path frm Frt Garland t Blanca). Envirnmental educatin prgramming within the San Luis Valley NWR Cmplex. Outdr educatin prgramming at parks within cnvenient distances frm lcal schl districts and nn-prfit rganizatins. 40
4. Expand water-based recreatin. SLVGO is cmmitted t increasing awareness f pprtunities fr water-based recreatin in the SLV. As part f this effrt, SLVGO will wrk with partners t increase access t public lands alng the Ri Grande crridr and t prmte recreatin thrughut the larger Ri Grande watershed. Objective: Over the next ten years, wrk with partners t add 2-3 additinal public access pints alng the Ri Grande and develp cmmunicatins media that bst visibility f existing water-based recreatin pprtunities thrughut the Ri Grande watershed including its ther rivers, creeks, and reservirs. Ptential Prjects Cmmunity Specific Imprvements Ri Grande Greenbelt (e.g., park ptential, camping, picnic) (Cstilla Cunty) Del Nrte bat put-in (Del Nrte) Bat livery at Alamsa's City Park (e.g., canes, SUP, kayaks). Recreatinal facility upgrades and infrmatin and sign imprvements at Cstilla Cunty reservirs including Smith, Stabilizatin, Sanchez and Muntain Hme Reservirs. Valley-Wide Imprvements Water Recreatin Map (featuring rivers, ht springs, reservirs, waterfalls). Kayak curse r white water play features fr kayakers and ther baters. Great prmtin f fishing pprtunities in the SLV Ri Grande Map (interp/histry plus access pints and recreatin pprtunities). Utilizing the Ri Grande crridr as a link t cnnect recreatin sites thrugh vluntary, incentive-based agreements with private landwners and partnerships with public land management agencies. PRIORITY INITIATIVES Cttnwd bsque alng the Ri Grande (curtesy f Ri de la Vista) 41
149 149 114 50 17 112 15 15 371 368 370 136 17 17 150 142 159 SLVGO San Luis Valley Expand Water Recreatin Bnanza Public Land Saguache Creek Saguache Creek Saguache Saguache Creek BLM Saguache Creek Saguache Creek Clrad NPS USFS Mffat Crestne USFWS 285 Creede Ri Grande River Legend Ri Grande River 160 Ri Grande River Cumbres & Tltec Scenic Railrad Gld Medal Fishing Ri Grande Natural Area 5 Sangre de Crist Natinal Heritage Area Suth Frk 160 Del Nrte 112 Center 112 Mnte Vista MAP 3 (#4) Cnejs River 6 Cnejs River 2 Cnejs R i ver 7 Ri Grande River Cnejs River La Jara Sanfrd Rme Manassa 285 Cnejs Antnit Alamsa Hper Msca 3 Ri Grande River Cnejs River 1 Trinchera Creek Blanca Trinchera Creek San Luis Culebra Creek 4 160 0 5 10 20 30 40 50 Miles The fllwing ptential prjects will raise awareness f pprtunities fr water-based recreatin in the SLV and encurage mre utdr recreatin thrughut the Ri Grande watershed. 1 2 3 4 Ri Grande Greenbelt Imprvements (camping, picnic, put-in, trails) Del Nrte Bat Put-In Bat Livery in Alamsa s City Park Recreatinal facility upgrades and infrmatin and sign imprvements at Cstilla Cunty reservirs including Smith, Stabilizatin, Sanchez and Muntain Hme Reservirs 5 6 7 Ri Grande Interpretive and Recreatin Map (featuring the Ri s histry, access pints, and recreatin pprtuntiies) SLV Water Recreatin Map (shwcasing rivers/creeks fr fishing, ht springs, reservirs, waterfalls, and bating puti-ins/take-uts) Utilizing the Ri Grande crridr as a link t cnnect recreatin sites thrugh vluntary, incentive-based agreements with private landwners and partnerships with public land management agencies. 42
5. Expand pprtunities fr winter recreatin. SLVGO Calitin recgnizes the imprtance f facilitating year-rund utdr recreatin. As a result, the calitin will supprt develpment f mre utdr, winter recreatin pprtunities and facilities acrss the SLV. Objective: Expand pprtunities fr utdr winter recreatin by supprting develpment f new and/ r imprved facilities r winter recreatin prgramming in at least fur cmmunities r recreatin sites ver the next ten years. Ptential Prjects Additinal grmed snwmbile trails (Creede, Mineral Cunty). Ski bus t Wlf Creek (with stps in Alamsa, Mnte Vista and Suth Frk). Mre marked/maintained Nrdic ski trails (e.g., near Del Nrte, Mnte Vista and alng the river at Cle Park in Alamsa, and n glf curses). Facilitate and prmte winter recreatinal use n the Ri Grande in twn (e.g. crss cuntry, ice skating, snw biking). Ice climbing (Creede area) Valley-Wide Imprvements Outdr ice skating pprtunities. Backcuntry hut system (in the San Juans). Maps, lists, and ther infrmatin abut winter recreatin pprtunities acrss the SLV. PRIORITY INITIATIVES Snwmbiling Elwd Pass (curtesy f Heather Salaz) 43
149 149 114 50 17 112 15 15 371 368 370 136 17 17 150 142 159 San Luis Valley Winter Recreatin Bnanza Public Land Saguache Creek Saguache Creek Saguache Saguache Creek BLM Saguache Creek Saguache Creek Clrad NPS 5 USFS Mffat Crestne USFWS 285 1 3 Creede Ri Grande River 6 Ri Grande River Ri Grande River 112 Center 112 Hper Suth Frk 160 4 Del Nrte 3 Msca Ri Grande River 160 1 2 5 Mnte Vista 3 Alamsa 3 Ri Grande River Blanca 160 Trinchera Creek Cnejs River Trinchera Creek Cnejs River Cnejs River Legend La Jara Sanfrd Cumbres & Tltec Scenic Railrad San Luis Gld Medal Fishing Ri Grande Natural Area Sangre de Crist Natinal Heritage Area 5 Cnejs R i ver Cnejs River Rme Manassa 285 Cnejs Antnit Culebra Creek 0 5 10 20 30 40 50 Miles The fllwing ptential prjects will encurage mre winter utdr recreatin in the San Luis Valley. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Additinal grmed snwmbile trails (Mineral Cunty) Ski bus t Wlf Creek (with stps in Alamsa, Mnte Vista and Suth Frk) Mre marked/maintained Nrdic ski trails (e.g., Creede, Del Nrte, Mnte Vista and alng the river at Cle Park in Alamsa). Existing glf curses als lend themselves t winter uses including nrdic skiing, snwsheing and hiking. Facilitate and prmte winter recreatinal use n the Ri Grande in and inbetween twn (e.g. crss cuntry, ice skating, snw biking) Backcuntry hut systems in the San Juans and La Garita Muntains Ice climbing in the Creede area 44
6. Prmte the SLV s recreatin pprtunities and increase infrmatin sharing abut what there is t see and d in the SLV. The SLVGO Calitin endeavrs t raise brader awareness amng resident f utdr recreatin pprtunities in the SLV. Thrugh ramped up marketing and utreach effrts in cllabratin with its turism partners, the SLVGO Calitin als intends t recruit mre recreatinalists t travel t the SLV and take advantage f its public lands, trails and recreatin experiences. Objective: Within the next 3 years develp media that prmtes utdr recreatin in SLV and wrk with partners t develp a campaign prmting the varied recreatin experiences that the SLV ffers. Ptential Prjects Supprt Ri Grande Watershed Emergency Actin Crdinatin Team's (RWEACT) pst-fire prmtins and rebuilding turism (Mineral and Ri Grande Cunties). Maps and mre designated/signed rutes t accmmdate large number f winter and summer mtrized, ff-rad users (Mineral Cunty). Valley-Wide Imprvements Media explaining where and what is available in terms f recreatin facilities, prgrams and events (e.g., recreatin map, website, brchures, guides). Turism materials and the cllabrative prmtin f the San Luis Valley as a reginal recreatin destinatin in rder t increase the turism pie. Wrk t get the SLV n the Frnt Range resident's radar as a weekend, lng-weekend destinatin. Better prmtin f the three Natinal Wildlife Refuges and Clrad Parks and Wildlife's (CPW) state wildlife areas and the pprtunities fr wildlife-dependent recreatin that these destinatins prvide. Imprved prmtin f winter use (e.g., Creede and Wlf Creek pass fr snwmbiling). Mre interpretatin and rientatin infrmatin t explain the Valley s heritage and t rient residents and visitrs t its assets.. Partnerships Will Be Essential t Implementatin f the Initiatives It is imprtant t qualify that the SLVGO Calitin alne des nt have the rganizatinal bandwidth t implement these six pririty initiatives alne. With this master planning effrt, the SLVGO Calitin has taken the first step in identify what needs t be dne. The abve-mentined pririty initiatives will require the supprt, cllabratin and cmmitment f a wide variety f partners. The invlvement f partners frm all levels f gvernment, schls, health care prfessinals, faith-based and cmmunity-based rganizatins, utdr clubs, turism prviders, as well as private sectr cmpanies will be needed t build mre recreatin facilities, inspire a valley-wide culture f recreatin, and encurage many mre peple t enjy the SLV s great utdrs. While the pririty initiatives spell ut what the SLVGO Calitin and its partners, the tl kits in the next chapter ffer suggestins and strategies fr hw t achieve the initiatives. The tl kits presented in the next sectin f the master plan, ffer mre direct guidance and inspiratin fr implementing the pririty initiatives and enhancing utdr recreatin in the SLV. These tl kits are intended fr the SLVGO Calitin s existing partners and all thers interested in taking a rle in imprving access t the utdrs and pprtunities fr recreatin. PRIORITY INITIATIVES 45
SLVGO WHAT HOW INITIATIVES TOOL KITS IMPROVE COMMUNITY WELLNESS ENHANCE TRAIL SYSTEMS BUILD RECREATION FOR YOUTH EXPAND WATER RECREATION EXPAND WINTER RECREATION INCREASED RECREATION PROMOTION SHAPING RECREATION DESTINATIONS BUILDING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES DEVELOPING TRAIL SYSTEMS REALIZING TRAIL CONNECTIONS CONNECTING YOUTH & THE OUTDOORS BALANCING RECREATION & CONSERVATION PROMOTING RECREATION HOSTING RECREATION EVENTS FUNDING & SUSTAINING RECREATION 46
CHAPTER 6 RESOURCES Beaver Pnds at Battenburg Meadws (curtesy f Ben Dn)
SLVGO Children & Nature Netwrk, 2012. Children & Nature Wrldwide: An Explratin f Children s Experiences f the Outdrs and Nature with Assciated Risks and Benefits http://www.childrenandnature.rg/dwnlads/ceccnnwrldwideresearch.pdf Ku, F. E., 2010. Parks and Other Green Envirnments: Essential Cmpnents f a Healthy Human Habitat. This reprt is available nline at: http://www.nrpa.rg/ Let s Mve. http://www.letsmve.gv/ Live Well Clrad, 2013, Guide t Integrating Healthy Eating and Active Living int Clrad s Rural and Small Twn Cmmunities). Natural Learning Initiative. Natural Play & Learning Area Guidelines Prject http://naturalearning.rg/sites/ default/files/natural%20play%20prspectus%20v7.pdf Outdr Industry Assciatin, 2012. Outdr Recreatin Ecnmy Reprt http://utdrindustry.rg/images/researchfiles/oia_outdrrececnmyreprt2012.pdf?167 Outdr Industry Assciatin, 2012. The Outdr Recreatin Ecnmy, Take it Outside fr Clrad Jbs and a Strng Ecnmy. http://utdrindustry.rg/images/re_reprts/co-clrad-utdrrecreatinecnmy-ia.pdf Peple fr Bikes. http://www.peplefrbikes.rg PlayCre, Inc. and Natural Learning Initiative, 2009. Creating & Retrfitting Play Envirnments: Best Practice Guidelines. http://www.naturegrunds.rg/guidelines.html Pretty, J., Angus, C., Bain, M., Bartn, J., Gladwell, V., Hine, R., et al. (2009). Nature, childhd, health and life pathways: University f Essex. This reprt is available nline at: http://www.hphpcentral.cm/research/ nature-childhd-health-and-life-pathways Rails-t-Trails Cnservancy, 2013. America s Rails-with-Trails: A Resurce fr Planners, Agencies and Advcates n Trails Alng Active Railrad Crridrs. www.railsttrails.rg. Rideut, V. J., Fehr, U. G., & Rberts, D. F. (2010). Generatin M2: Media in the lives f 8- t 18-year-lds. Kaiser Family Fundatin. This reprt is available nline at: http://www.kff.rg/entmedia/entmedia030905pkg.cfm Safe Rutes t Schl Natinal Partnership. Fire Up Yur Feet. fireupyurfeet.rg Smart Grwth America. Natinal Cmplete Streets Calitin. http://www.smartgrwthamerica.rg/cmpletestreets/a-t-z The Nature Cnservancy, 2011. Cnnecting America's yuth t nature. This reprt is available nline at: http://www.nature.rg/newsfeatures/kids-in-nature/kids-in-nature-pll.xml The Nature Cnservancy, Nature Rcks, www.nature.rg/naturercks The Outdr Fundatin, 2010. Special Reprt n Yuth, The Next Generatin f Outdr Champins. http://www.utdrfundatin.rg/pdf/researchyuth.pdf Urban Land Institute, 2013 Ten Principles fr Building Healthy Place. http://uli.rg/reprt/ten-principles-frbuilding-healthy-places/ 120
CHAPTER 7 APPENDIX Public Engagement Summary Great Sand Dunes Natinal Park (curtesy f Sangre de Crist Natinal Heritage Area) 121
SLV Trails and Recreatin Master Plan Public Engagement Summary Nv 2013 San Luis Valley SLV GO! Great Outdrs 122
Public Engagement Overview During the summer and Fall 2013, San Luis Valley Great Outdrs Calitin (SLVGO) cnducted valley-wide public utreach in rder t explain its San Luis Valley Trails and Recreatin Master Plan prject (Master Plan) and t slicit cmmunity input. Thrugh the extensive and inclusive public engagement prcess, SLVGO cllected ideas fr imprving access t the utdrs, expanding recreatin pprtunities, and increasing awareness and prmtin f all there is t d and see in the San Luis Valley. Fr the purpse f the Master Plan, "RECREATION" has been defined very bradly and encmpasses everything frm in-twn recreatin (e.g., sprts fields, skate parks, bike paths, glf curses) t mre remte, backcuntry recreatin facilities (e.g., trails, campgrunds) as well as cmmunity events and recreatin prgrams, classes and activities. SLVGO hsted five public pen huses in Alamsa, Del Nrte, Creede, Saguache, and Crestne. Additinally, SLVGO cllected input at the La Jara Farmers Market, tured Cstilla Cunty and attended a number f meetings with twn bards, turism grups and stakehlders. At the nset f the prject utreach effrt, SLVGO updated its website with Master Plan infrmatin and set up scial media tls including a Facebk page, Instagram accunt and an e-newsletter in rder t spread the wrd abut the prject and ffer ther avenues fr cllecting input. Lcal press cverage was als helpful is spreading the wrd abut the Master Plan and its utreach tls. Finally, SLVGO utilized a digital survey t cllect additinal input. Between August 5 th and Octber 15 th, 2013, Rt Huse Studi administered a 25-questin survey via Survey Mnkey n behalf f the SLVGO. Like the ther utreach effrts, the survey was designed t gain understanding abut where and hw recreatin pprtunities and experiences can be imprved in the San Luis Valley (SLV). The 10-15 minute survey was marketed t stakehlder grups, residents and visitrs thrugh SLVGO s newsletter, Facebk page, website and ther graphics. The survey was started by 425 respndents and fully cmpleted by 347. Findings generated frm the survey and cllected frm ther public and stakehlder engagement effrts will help infrm develpment f the San Luis Valley Trails and Recreatin Master Plan. Specifically, the Master Plan will ffer up implementatin strategies fr achieving ideas and ptential prjects identified thrugh the varius utreach methds. This reprt summarizes the survey findings as well as ideas and input gleaned frm the pen huses and ther discussins with the public, stakehlders and SLVGO partners. Cmmn Themes frm the Survey and Outreach A number f cmmn themes emerged frm the analysis f the survey results and the input cllected thrugh meetings and pen huses. These were ideas, needs, r cncerns that were expressed by multiple grups r individuals and that surfaced repeatedly during the utreach effrt. The SLV Recreatin and Trails Master Plan will include implementatin strategies t address each f these cmmn themes. There s a need fr better infrmatin (e.g. maps, guides, signs) and mre prmtinal media/tls t raise awareness f existing recreatinal pprtunities. There s a desire fr mre cnnectivity amng cmmunities and linkages between existing trail systems, twns and recreatin areas. Mre trails and a variety f trail experiences was a cmmnly expressed desire. Cncern was viced fr the lack f recreatinal activities and prgrams geared twards SLV yuth. Prvide a wide range f recreatinal experiences acrss the Valley that caters t a brad base f residents and visitrs. 1 APPENDIX 123
Survey Demgraphics As mentined abve, 425 respndents tk the SLVGO digital survey. The majrity f the respndents (77%) were SLV residents with 24% f respndents residing is elsewhere in Clrad. Additinally, 4% f respndents were frm ut f state. The age and gender breakdwn f survey respndents is represented in the fllwing charts. Summary f Age Range Gender f Respndents 35-44: 17.3% 45-54: 23.9% Male: 63.4% 25-34: 12.4% 55-64: 28.2% Female: 36.6% 18-24: 2.9% 65+: 15.3% SLV Residents vs. Other (Only 328 respnses t this questin) SLV Residents: (253) - 77% Other CO Residents: (79) - 24% Out f State: (14) - 4% Out f State Respnses: (3) Texas (1) Pennsylvania (2) Califrnia (2) Kansas (1) Mntana (1) New Mexic (1) Minnesta (1) Maryland (2) Massachusetts 2 124
Frequency and Type f Recreatin Participatin The first set f survey questins were designed t help SLVGO understand recreatin usage cmpsitin and patterns. 95% f survey participants indicated that they had recreated in the SLV in the past 12 mnths. Participants were als asked hw ften they participated in recreatin and where their preferred recreatin lcatins are in the SLV. The majrity f respndents indicated that they recreate at least 2-3 times a mnth, with 43.8% recreating nce a week r mre. The vast majrity, 70% f respndents, prefer t recreatin in remte areas n public lands and nly 7.3% preferred In Twn recreatin lcatins. Hw ften d yu participate in recreatin in the San Luis Valley? (Chse ne) What is yur preferred lcatin t recreate in the SLV? (Chse ne) 2-3 times/ mnth: 22.3% Once a week r mre: 43.8% 1 time/ mnth: 12.3% Less than ne time/mnth: 21.6% Other: 4.3% In Twn: 7.3% Just Outside Twn: 18% Remte Areas n Public Lands (Natinal Frest, State Wildlife Area, Recreatin Area): 70.5% The survey presented a list f the fllwing 44 recreatinal activities and asked respndents t check all f the activities that they engage in. Recreatin Activities 4-Wheel Driving/Jeeps Off Rad Mtrcycling Backpacking Camping Crss-Cuntry Skiing Envirnmental Educatin/Naturalist Prgramming Fishing Glf Hiking/Climbing Muntains Hckey/Ice Skating Ht Springs Ice Climbing Muntain Biking Rafting Resrt Skiing Rad Running Rller blading, in-line skating Skate Park Snwsheing Tennis Trail Running Wildlife Observatin/Birding All-Terrain Vehicle Travel Backcuntry Skiing Bike Park/BMX Riding Cmpetitive Trail Events Disc Glf Exercise Classes Gecaching Gym Wrkuts Hiking/Packing with hrses, mules, llamas r stck Hrseback Riding Hunting Mtrized Bating Picnicking Rafting/Kayaking/SUP Rad Biking Rck Climbing/Muntaineering Shting/Target Practice Snwmbiling Swimming Trail Building Prjects Walking Yga 3 APPENDIX 125
Wildlife Observatin: 32 All f the 44 prpsed activities were checked by at least 12 respndents, hwever, the tp five recreatinal activities were camping (62% f respndents), hiking/climbing muntains (61%), walking (56%), picnicking (37%) and hunting (28%). Mst ppular recreatin activities As indicated in the chart belw, peple engage in a fairly wide variety f recreatin including winter and summer uses and mtrized and nn-mtrized uses. The recreatinal activities that peple participate in mst frequently included hiking/muntain climbing, camping, ATV travel and ff-rad mtrcycling. Which activities d yu participate mst frequently in in a given year? (Tp 10 respnses shwn belw) Walking: 84 Muntain Biking: 61 4-Wheel Driving: 74 ATV Travel: 73 Hunting: 42 Off-Rading Mtrcycling:76 Hiking/Climbing Muntains: 148 Fishing: 81 Camping: 92 Other recreatin activities The survey prvided the pprtunity fr respndents t write in any additinal activities they engage in within the San Luis Valley. At the pen huses, participants were als encuraged t explain what types f recreatin they enjy in the SLV. Sme f these uses that were reprted in the ther respnse categry and/r frm discussins with the public and stakehlders included: Rde & Equestrian skills Cllecting/harvesting (e.g. sheds, pinin, Flat fishing fruit) Tubing Gardening Star gazing/astrnmy Dance Outdr phtgraph Archelgy Team sprts Spiritual retreats 4 126
Als, survey findings revealed that recreatinal use is cmbined with the fllwing types f ther activities: Agriturism: 23.6% Cncerts/ Festivals: 41.4% Eating Out: 74.3% Lcal Arts: 30.4% Shpping: 34% Scenic Drives: 68.8% Visiting Histric Sites: 67% Demand fr mre recreatin pprtunities Amng the 44 prpsed activities, respndents were then asked t select what activities they d like t have mre pprtunities fr in the SLV. Survey respndents expressed a significant desire fr mre mtrized recreatin pprtunities including snwmbiling, 4 wheel driving, ATV travel and Off-rad mtrcycling. Substantial demand was als expressed fr nn-mtrized uses such as muntain biking, hiking, fishing and camping. Bth swimming (indr facilities) and crss-cuntry skiing (grmed Nrdic trails) were brught up in the cntext f residents expressing a need fr winter recreatinal pprtunities. What activities wuld yu like t have mre pprtunities fr? (Tp 10 respnses shwn belw) Snwmbiling: 30 Muntain Biking: 59 Swimming: 24 4-Wheel Driving: 52 ATV Travel: 43 Hiking/Climbing Muntains: 56 Fishing: 50 Camping: 37 Crss-Cuntry Skiing: 24 Off-Rading Mtrcycling:75 5 APPENDIX 127
Thrugh the survey and at the pen huses, peple were again given the pprtunity t suggest any ther recreatinal pprtunities beynd thse listed that they wuld like t see mre f in the SLV. Additinal prpsed activities included: Rde arena/facilities Par glf curse Team sprts (e.g. sccer, ftball) Educatinal utings and instructinal prgrams (e.g., archaelgy, flra and fauna, gardening, kayaking) Wheel chair accessible bike/walking paths Mre Ri Grande flw and recreatin (e.g. fishing, bating, riverside trails) Outdr music event venue Ice skating facilities Live music and dancing prgramming Yuth prgramming (camps and utings) Dg specific areas Outdr vlleyball Cycling (Paved, Designated, Rad Rutes, Trails) Barriers t Recreatin The digital survey cntained a set f questins designed t identify the bstacles that may be preventing bth SLV residents and visitrs frm taking advantage f the area s recreatinal resurces. The answers t this set f questins revealed that there is a dearth f infrmatin abut what is available and that there is a need t raise the visibility and awareness f SLV recreatinal resurces. Fr example, ver half f the respndents indicated that they d nt use r infrequently use parks, public lands, trails and/r ther recreatinal amenities in the SLV because they either Dn t knw what s available (34%) r they Dn t knw where they are (32%). If yu d nt use r infrequently use parks, public lands, trails, and/r ther recreatinal amenities in the SLV, what are yur reasns? (Tp 6 respnses shwn belw) T Far Away/ Lack f facilities clse t hme: 47 Dn t Knw What s Available: 65 Prly Mainteined: 20 N time Available: 49 Dn t knw where they are: 62 N ne t g with: 23 6 128
As a fllw up t the barrier survey questins, respndents were asked the pen-ended questin, What wuld prvide yu with incentives t recreate utside mre ften in the SLV. This line f questining was als used t engage participants at the public pen huses. Ideas generated frm this questin are summarized belw: Raising the visibility f what s available in terms f recreatin facilities, areas and prgrams wuld prmpt mre recreatin. Ideas fr creating mre awareness f SLV s recreatinal resurces included: Mre infrmatin n trails including level f expertise required, mileage, trail head lcatins. Maps shwing where recreatin pprtunities are available. A website r anther nline prtal explaining where and what is available in terms f recreatin facilities, prgrams and events. Better guides t SLV areas, lands, parks, destinatins. Turs. Mre utreach/publicity/advertising f recreatin pprtunities. Turism materials featuring recreatin pprtunities. Sprt-specific maps (hiking and camping destinatins, ATV rutes, muntain biking, equestrian). I guess I smetimes just dn t knw quite where t g. Maybe a map n yur website wuld be a way t get mre flks ut and abut qute frm the survey Imprve signage s that peple can find recreatin destinatins and feel mre cmfrtable while they are ut n the trail. Ideas related t sign imprvements included: Give trails names, nt just numbers. Names are mre memrable. Mre infrmatin at trailheads and alng trails such as mileage, trail markers (e.g. cairns, directin signs), and difficulty. Yu are Here stickers n maps. Wayfinding signs in twn and alng rads that direct travelers t recreatin destinatins and clear rad signs at access pints. Even as a near-by resident and frequent visitr t the SLV, I have truble finding access pint t the incredible public lands resurces that I knw are available qute frm the survey Make access mre cnvenient and enhance recreatin pprtunities by increasing cnnectivity. Ideas related t enhanced cnnectivity included: Cnnect trails frm twn. Ensure there are recreatin facilities such as parks and paths within walking distance frm twns. Cnnect twns and recreatin areas using the Ri Grande. Paved/shaded/ff-rad/safe rutes fr kids. Link existing trail netwrks with ne anther. Ability t ride ATVs int twns (Saguache, Del Nrte, Suth Frk). Link recreatin areas (e.g. Bnanza t Saguache; La Garita t Carner Pass). Cnsider using railrad crridrs, canals/ditches and Utility right f ways as links between recreatin areas and t imprve cnnectins between cmmunities. Wuld lve t be able t ride frm Mnarch Pass t Del Nrte. qute frm the survey 7 APPENDIX 129
Offering mre recreatin prgramming wuld attract mre peple and help spread the wrd abut what s available thrughut the SLV. Ptential prgramming ideas ffered included: Grup activities. Weekend uting clubs. Guided hikes and/ur turs. Instructinal recreatin activities. Recreatin-riented events. Equestrian skill building. Wuld like mre educatinal pprtunities t teach peple new sprts and mre grup activities t encurage new participants. qute frm the survey Mre camping areas and mre infrmatin n existing camping pprtunities. Ideas related t camping included: Offer a range f camping experiences frm in-twn, full-service camping t primitive, backcuntry camping. Organized camping utings. Offer mre camping clser t twn and/r in twn. I ve been lking fr a new muntain biking destinatin. It d need 3-4 days wrth f gd riding, camping, and amenities like restaurants, cffee shps, and brew pubs. qute frm the survey Build and/r cnnect mre miles f single-track trails. Varius user grups including mtrized and nn-mtrized users asked fr mre trails and specifically mre, single-track trails. Link existing trails and created lped trail systems t ffer mre miles f single-track and mre varied trail experiences. Mre single-track trail pen t mtrcycle use. Mre single-track trail fr trail running, hiking, and muntain biking. Create lng, destinatin wrthy trails that allw fr a full day f travel. Mre trails. There are quite a few shrt sectins f single-track hiking and biking trails, it wuld be great t cnnect sme fr mre chesin and lnger trail sectins. qute frm the survey Mre amenities in twns t accmmdate recreatinal users and turism as well as a culture f hspitality. Cffee shps Breweries Equipment rentals A variety f types f camping Offer classes t lcal businesses n hspitality and ensure business wners and lcals are infrmed abut Valley recreatinal resurces s that they can share them with visitrs. Share ideas fr entrepreneurial ventures fr better catering t turists. 8 130
Muntains and recreatin are great, but it s the peple wh make r break recreatinal enterprises. We need t give visitrs a reasn t cme back and a sense f belnging when they re here. This is an educatinal prcess f which all San Luis Valley residents shuld be apprised, if turism is t grw and thrive here. qute frm the survey Satisfactin with Recreatin Services and Infrmatin Surces In the survey, respndents were asked t rank their satisfactin with recreatin, trail services and facilities, as well as with infrmatin services and surces f infrmatin. As evidenced by the blue lines in the bar chart belw, respndents were verwhelmingly smewhat satisfied with available recreatin pprtunities, the types and lengths f trails, maintenance f recreatin facilities, level f supprt facilities, and fees. Hwever, respndents expressed less satisfactin with infrmatin surces n recreatin pprtunities in the SLV. Hw satisfied are yu with the fllwing: Available recreatinal pprtunities in the San Luis Valley The types and lengths f trails in the San Luis Valley The maintenance f recreatin facilities The level f supprt facilities like restrms, parking, and signs at recreatin sites. The fees yu pay t use recreatin facilities 9 APPENDIX 131
Is there adequate infrmatin addressing the fllwing? Where trails and recreatin pprtunities are lcated Infrmatin n level f difficulty and trail/ recreatin experience Regulatins and rules gverning usage Interpretive infrmatin fr histric sites,nature trails, and ther heritage In rder t understand hw lcals and visitrs plan their recreatin trips and share their experiences, the survey included a number f questins abut infrmatin surces. Given satisfactin with land management agencies, visitr/infrmatin centers and sprting gd shps as surces f infrmatin n recreatin facilities, it will be imprtant fr SLVGO t keep these infrmatin utlets updated with the mst current fferings and pprtunities. While wrd f muth is a trusted and reliable trip planning resurce, the survey findings indicate that ther infrmatin surces such as reginal websites, scial media and guidebks can be develped and/r enhanced. Are yu satisfied with the fllwing surces f infrmatin n recreatin facilities and pprtunities in the San Luis Valley? 10 132
When planning a trip r recreatin uting in the SLV, which f the fllwing surces f infrmatin d yu rely n the mst? Maps and/r Brchures: 155 Rad Signs: 21 Infrmatin Centers: 25 Wrd f Muth: 271 Land Management Agencies: 109 Sprting Gd Stres: 36 Lcal SLV clubs r grups: 57 Scial Media: 36 Websites/Travel Blgs: 106 Magazines/ Newspapers:35 What media d yu use t share infrmatin abut yur recreatin experiences in the SLV? (chse all that apply) Emails: 50.6% Blgs: 15% Scial Media: 38.1% Wrd f Muth: 91.8% Nte: Facebk is the primary scial media utlet APPENDIX 11 133
Funding Since the SLVGO endeavrs t build a financially sustainable and scalable system f Valley-wide recreatin pprtunities, the survey included questins designed t gauge respndent s views n ptential funding mechanisms. Of the ptential funding ptins presented, Pay t Play Fees (e.g. fishing and hunting licenses, entrance fees) received the mst supprt (44%). The least favrable ptin was A prperty tax increase ded t recreatin maintenance and prmtin (18%) and a quarter f the respndents said they D nt supprt increases in taxes t pay fr and maintain a Valley-wide recreatin system (25%). Which f the fllwing funding ptins wuld yu supprt t expand and maintain recreatinal pprtunties in the San Luis Valley? (Check all that apply) Establishment f a Valley-wide Recreatin District and a recreatin system fee (charged mnthly n yur utility bill) Pay t play fee (e.g. fishing r hunting license) Trailhead Fees A sales tax increase dedicated t San Luis Valley recreatin prmtin, maintenance and imprvements. A prperty tax increase dedicated t recreatin prmtin, maintenance and imprvements. I dn t supprt increases in fees r taxes t pay fr and maintain a Valley-wide recreatin system I may supprt an increase in fees r taxes t pay fr a brader Valley-wide Cultural and Scientific District that supprts recreatin and turism infrastructure in additin t ther Valley initiatives. 134
The fllwing were identified as the tp three pririties fr SLVGO t fund: Designing and building new trails Maintaining existing recreatin facilities and trails Designing and building mre in-twn recreatin facilities (e.g., skate parks, rec centers, bike p Supprt fr this type f spending by the SLVGO was als eched at the public pen huses and in discussins stakehlders. Which shuld be tp funding pririties fr SLV Great Outdrs? (Tp 6 respnses shwn belw) Develping mre backcuntry recreatin facilities n public lands: 65 Imprved Signage: 60 Designing and Building new trails: 159 Creating and circulating inf n SLV recreatin (maps, brchures, websites : 70 Designing and building mre intwn recreatin facilities (bike paths, rec centers, skate parks, etc): 99 Maintaining existing recreatin facilities/trails: 129 Future Trail/Recreatin Develpment The survey, pen huses and stakehlder engagement has resulted in a number f ideas fr imprving recrea pprtunities in the San Luis Valley, increasing visitr satisfactin with recreatin facilities and expanding the recreatin experience f the SLV fr bth residents and lcals. Ideas gleaned frm the utreach effrt are categrized and summarized belw. Infrmatin, Prmtins & Cmmunicatins Ideas and Tls. Recreatin map fr the SLV Central web page with all activities listed Trail guides APPENDIX 135
Better prmtin f the refuges Infrmatin n safe, family-friendly paved trails (e.g., fr inline skating, kids, families) Equestrian trail infrmatin Bike trail maps. Mbile app fr trail users with inf n trail cnditins, mileage, difficulty as well as cmmunity recreatin-riented events. A searchable trails database Trail maps/recreatin rientatin kisks at entrance pints t the SLV Map f the Ri Grande and recreatin areas/pprtunities alng the river crridr Tear-ff maps f recreatinal resurces in the SLV that can be widely distributed at lcal utlets thrughut the valley. Sangre de Crist NHA is develping prtal signs/kisks and recreatin inf culd ptentially be included at the prtals. Cllectively prmte the San Luis Valley Market the Valley as a regin and a recreatin destinatin in rder t increase the turism pie As a new resident, can t find anything. Need better marked and rated trails with easier ways t find access qute frm the survey I dn t think residents f the San Luis Valley knw where the cl spts are arund here. Maybe a recreatin map f the SLV. It is als pssible we dn t knw what area is accessible versus private qute frm the survey Suggested Trail Imprvements and SLV Trail System Expansin. Mre designated multi-use paths (e.g., paved, in/near-twn, lng distance rute) Mre accessible trails fr users f all abilities including thse in wheel chairs Prmte and interpret the interpretive and histric trails (e.g., nature trails, Old Spanish Trail, Pikes Rute) Mre lped/lnger muntain bike trails Mre trails alng the Ri Grande A designated bstacle curse trail fr runners Dwnhill muntain bike trails (e.g., parallel Lake Cm trail) Cnnect twns via trails/paths (e.g., Suth Frk-Creede alng RR, Alamsa t Suth Frk) Wrk with the railrad and explre ptential Rails-T-Trails prjects. Utilize ditch easements and utility right f ways as trail crridrs Imprved/mre trails signs (with distance markers) Designated rad ride lp between S. Clrad and N. New Mexic Cnnectins between twns (e.g., Creede t Suth Frk trail cnnectin alng the RR) Mre access t challenging trails Purpse-built muntain bike trails Maintained trails clser t hme (vs. in remte areas) Mre trails t heritage sites 14 136
Suggested Enhancements fr Mtrized Recreatinal Use. Mre cnnected mtrized rutes and mre direct access frm twns (e.g., cnnect Creede-Del Nrte-Suth Frk) Mre single-track mtrized trails Cnsider allwing ATVs n unpaved cunty rads (in Ri Grande Cunty and Saguache Cunty) Series f marked 4WD trails fr ATV/mtrcycle riding and driving Imprved marking A mtcrss park/track Opprtunities t g twn-t-twn and/r lped trails Lng (~100 mile) single-track rutes pen t mtrcycles We see a lt f ATVs cming in frm ut f state and ut f cunty t enjy this area and it wuld be helpful if they did nt have t lad their vehicles n a trailer t g anywhere - qute frm the survey Ideas fr Enhancing Existing Recreatin Opprtunities. Make sure there are easy, entry-level recreatin areas fr the varius activities (e.g. muntain biking, rck climbing) Mre trails (e.g., trail netwrk at Alamsa Ranch) Designated rad cycling rutes Mre bat ramps (e.g., alng Ri Grande in Del Nrte) Mre glf (indr glf range, par curse) Anther disc glf curse Mre free camping Mre tennis Designated hrse camps Cntinued develpment f Ski Hi Park Ski Hi Park Recreatin Cmplex Public shting ranges and sprting clays facility Ensure wheelchair access fr mre recreatin pprtunities Mre places t ride bikes withut having t be n the rad with cars Imprved trail maintenance Invlve lcals as vlunteers t help with implementatin when the plan is cmplete Mre bike lane striping in twns t cnnect parks/recreatin areas Safe, well-marked bike lanes between twns and in twns (e.g., Acequia Drive in MV) Ideas fr Enhanced Winter Use. Outdr ice skating pprtunities, Ice Rink (e.g., Hme Lake) Indr shting range Mre snwmbiling trails Ski buses t Wlf Creek APPENDIX 15 137
Mre marked/maintained Nrdic ski trails (e.g., near Del Nrte, Mnte Vista and alng the river at Cle Park) Hut system (in the San Juans) Mre winter recreatinal us n the river in twn (e.g. crss cuntry, ice skating, snw biking) Ideas fr Recreatin Events. The fllwing types f events were recmmended as a tl fr building interest in recreatin, raising awareness f the SLV s recreatin resurces and bringing the cmmunity tgether. Muntain bike race Rad riding rides/events Crss cuntry running race Family fun hikes (vlksmarching) Marathn/Half-marathn Triathln Fishing turnaments Mtcrss races Gecache finding cntests. Festivals Music, Art Festivals (althugh need a better utdr stage) Cnservatin/Nature, histry and/r cultural-based cnferences, wrkshps, presentatins Naturalist and/r histry campfire talks Cmpetitive hrse events (e.g., shws, cmpetitins) Stewardship events (e.g., vlunteer cleanups, trail building) Nature/Recreatin phtgraphy cntests Bring intellectual and utdr enthusiasts int the Valley, and repeat, and repeat. They will cme back n their wn with mre mney and friends as well. - qute frm the survey Ideas fr New r Expanded Recreatinal Prgramming. Mre utdr prgramming fr yuth and activities fr children and families (e.g., camps, field trips) Yuth need smewhere t g, smething t d. Outdr skills/recreatin mentrs fr yuth Explre agriturism pprtunities (ptential partners include Farm Bureau and SLV Lcal Fds Calitin). Prvide a range f experiences. Dance classes (e.g., partner with Ruth Marie Center) Hrse use educatin Integrating art int trails and recreatin sites Interpretive inf at recreatin sites Histrical turs (e.g., Old Spanish Trail, Pike s and Fremnt s Rutes, Sangre de Crist NHA) Mre interpretatin f the Spanish Trail (and ther histric rutes acrss the valley) Valley excursins fr schl kids 16 138
Grup excursins (e.g., hikes, muntain bike rides, ATV rides) Rck climbing classes Designated kid discvery areas valley-wide Hunter safety classes Instructinal prgramming fr the types f recreatin available in the SLV (e.g., Nrdic skiing, climbing, biking, and/r hrseback riding lessns) Mre clubs (e.g., phtgraphy clubs, gardening clubs, utdr skill-building clubs) Expand and imprve the river walk trail alng the Ri Grande (in Alamsa and beynd) Mre things fr children. There is a real issue that kids d nt have things t d - qute frm the survey Prpsed New Recreatin Facilities. Pickleballing (a new frm f mini-tennis) Kayak curse, white water park (MV, Alamsa, Suth Frk) Zip lines Outdr Cncert Venue (e.g., cvered stage at Cle Park) Recreatin/Cmmunity Centers (in Saguache, Suth Frk, Antnit r La Jara, and/r Del Nrte) Public pls, nn-ht spring swimming facilities, year-rund pl (in Del Nrte r MV) Dg park Saguache s Vista Grande prject Hut systems (t prmte bth backcuntry skiing and hiking) Water park (in Alamsa) Glf curse Sand vlleyball curts Del Nrte bat ramp Cmmunity garden Healthy living park (Plstn elementary) Off-rad mtrcycle cmplex (fr all ages, mtcrss track, crss cuntry track). Sand flat and sand racing Perfrming arts center Equipment rentals (e.g., bikes, climbing gear, fishing ple) Cunty-specific ideas While mst f the ideas fr trail and recreatin enhancements had valley-wide applicatin and are incrprated int the lists abve, there were a handful f ideas and prjects suggested that were specific t the cunties. These ideas are captured belw. ALAMOSA COUNTY: Water recreatin frm Carrls Wds t Cle Park Bat livery at City Park (e.g., canes, SUP, kayaks) Establish trail cnnectins frm twn t Alamsa NWR APPENDIX 17 139
Explre ptential use/cnnectins t Devil s playgrund (ptential Trust fr Public Lands partnership COSTILLA COUNTY: Rit Sec Park and Trails (trail expansin and camping/picnic area imprvements) Ri Grande Greenbelt (park ptential, camping, picnic) Trinchera Ranch Greenbelt (trail/park ptential) Trinchera Creek Greenbelt (trail/park ptential) In-twn fitness park in San Luis built in assciatin with the public health department that culd be replicated elsewhere in the Valley Carpenter Ranch (ptential fr agriturism in partnership w/ the Ri Culebra Ag Cp and the Cunty) Trinchera Ranch (private ranch with pssibility f increased cmmercial recreatin pprtunities) CONEJOS COUNTY: A lp rute cnnecting S. Clrad and N. New Mexic (Antnit-Tres Piedras-Tas-San Luis- Antnit) La Jara BMX park is under cnstructin. The grup needs help with building and prmting the park. Need a map f lcal area trails (unsure f what s accessible in the San Juan Hills) Unaware f recreatinal resurces in the cunty and suthern prtin f the Valley Desire fr infrmatin n where a family culd ride bikes tgether MINERAL COUNTY: Need help with pst-fire prmtins and rebuilding turism Need maps and mre designated rutes t accmmdate large number f mtrized, ff-rad users (fr winter and summer use) Make sure ppular Creede recreatin areas like the Bachelr Lp and Phenix Park are n the recreatin maps Trail link cnnecting Creede and Suth Frk. The RR is nw private, but maybe there s an pprtunity fr a private/public partnership. Winter recreatin is really imprtant and Creede wuld like t bst winter use. Creede and Wlf Creek pass are very ppular snwmbile sites. Recgnize and prmte the differences between Creede and ther cmmunities. The Creede area recreatin cmplements ther Valley recreatin pprtunities. Desire fr an ice rink Ptential fr in-twn path alng the ditch SAGUACHE COUNTY: Lts f supprt vcalized fr Saguache s Vista Grande prject (Saguache). Prmte dwntwn Saguache s imprvements as well as La Garita as a destinatin in assciatin with travel t Penitente Canyn r elsewhere Wrk with the Baca POA t frmalize the subdivisin s trail system. Cnsider cnverting the Baca s scial trail web int designated, sustainable trails. Prvide trails cnnectins that link USFS, BLM, dwntwn Crestne, Baca subdivisin and Baca NWR. 18 140
Tap the grwing interest in Vlunteer Stewardship amng visitrs t Crestne The Camin de Crestne is a new recreatin pprtunity that was intrduced in 2013 - a walk cnnecting the spiritual centers. Crestne s Manitu Fundatin is a ptential partner fr recreatinal prgramming and facility develpment RIO GRANDE COUNTY: Mre grmed crss-cuntry trails Link existing trail systems and trails including Lime Kiln, Cntinental Divide Trail, The Clrad Trail, Prnghrn, Elephant Rcks and Penitente Canyn. Prvide t cnnect utlying trails t Del Nrte Prmte Del Nrte as a trail/recreatin destinatin Cntinued develpment and renvatin f Ski Hi Park Develp mre linked rutes fr mtrized use including links frm Suth Frk, nrth and suth f 160. Need a bat ramp in Del Nrte Ideas fr SLVGO Finally, survey respndents and meeting participants were asked hw they envisined SLVGO assisting their cmmunities in the future. As listed in the bar chart belw, the survey respndents were mst keen n SLVGO assisting with prmting and marketing SLV recreatin pprtunities. Other suggested tp pririties fr SLVGO that were expressed in the survey and eched in cmmunity and stakehlder meetings included: rganizing and supprting mre stewardship and trail building prjects, invlving yuth in recreatin, and helping cmmunities expand their recreatin facilities and prgramming. APPENDIX 19 141