City of Sterling Adult 4-on-4 Sand Volleyball League Registration Underway

The Department of Parks, Library and Recreation is currently accepting team registrations for a “NEW” Adult “4 on 4” Sand Volleyball Program.  An eight (8) game season will begin June 4th and end July 27th, 2014. Games are played on Wednesday and Friday evenings.  Tournaments are no longer conducted in City Recreational Programs.

ENTRY FEE:  $50.00 PER TEAM.  Make checks payable to the City of Sterling and MUST BE PAID IN FULL BEFORE A TEAM IS CONSIDERED ENTERED INTO A LEAGUE.

DUE DATE:   WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2014.  

REGISTRATION PROCEDURES:  2 ways to register!  

1. To register using a registration form: Forms are available at the Recreation Center, The registration fee must accompany the registration form.
2. To register on-line: Go to www.teamsideline.com/sterling. Simply make a Login Name & Password & follow the steps online to sign up! Please remember, you have NOT fully completed the online registration until the Recreation Division receives your payment. IF YOUR PAYMENT ARRIVES PAST THE CLOSING DATE OF MAY 21, YOU WILL NOT GET IN!

       

DIVISIONS:  Wednesday - “Women’s Open”        Friday - “Co-Rec. Open”

PLAYING LOCATION:  All volleyball matches will be played at Prairie Park, across from the       Recreation Center, on Wednesday and Friday evenings.

Leagues are filled on a first come, first serve basis for the first 6 - 8 teams for each division.

Flames and Games at North Sterling State Park July 27

***Press Release***

Join North Sterling State Park staff and special guest speakers Brian Kailey and Megan Jedlicka from CSU Extension for a fun evening full of kid's games and activities around a campfire!  From learning how to navigate through nature using a compass and GPS to enhancing your fishing skills; don't miss out on these great outdoor adventures!  Kids of all ages along with any parent or guardian are welcome to join.  Park passes are required per vehicle; however, there is no need to sign up or any extra costs to participate.  The event will be held Saturday, July 27 starting at 6pm at Inlet Grove Amphitheater (south entrance of the park).

For any questions on details or directions call North Sterling State Park at 970-522-3657.

City of Sterling Offers Reminder for Area Park Activities

The following are some of the park rules residents may not be aware of for City of Sterling Parks:

• Park Hours are 4:30am-11pm

Prohibited:

• Use or possession of alcoholic beverages
• Open fires, except in designated grills
• Animals running at large (all pets must be on leash)...owners must clean up after their animals
• Littering
• Firearms or archery, except by permit
• Horseback riding
• Motor vehicles off designated roadways
• Commercial activity, except by permit
• Dumping of residential trash in park dumpsters
• Skate boards, rollerblades, or bicycles on tennis courts, basketball courts, pavilions
• Stakes or posts driven into the ground
• Bouncy houses, or other temporary shade structures are not allowed
• Throwing rocks or other items into the streams/damming up streams

Please call the Sterling Department of Parks, Library, and Recreation at 522-9700 if you have questions concerning other park use.

Hunter Safety Class Starting Feb 16 in Sterling

A Hunter Safety Class for ages 9 and up will be held February 16 and March 2 starting at 1pm both days at NJC's Beede Hamil Hall.  The class will also consist of home study and internet classes.  You must attend all classes to receive a hunters safety certificate. Attendees are asked to NOT bring firearms or ammunition to the class.  For more information contact Spencer at 521-0973 or 580-3413.

Boat Ramps Closing for the Season at State Parks in Colorado

***Press Release***

DENVER – The boat ramps at state parks in Colorado have started to close for the season. The boat ramps will reopen in the spring when the ice thaws.

The State Parks where the boat ramps have closed:

• Barr Lake State Park

• Crawford State Park

• Eleven Mile State Park

• Harvey Gap State Park

• Jackson Lake State Park

• Lathrop State Park

• North Sterling State Park

• Mancos State Park

• Pearl Lake State Park

• Rifle Gap State Park

• Ridgway State Park

• San Luis State Park

• Spinney Mountain State Park

• Stagecoach State Park

• Steamboat Lake State Park

• Vega State Park

At Chatfield State Park, the South Boat Ramp closed on Oct. 31 and the North Boat Ramp will remain open through November, when Chatfield closes to all boating on Dec.1. The aquatic nuisance species inspection station at the North Boat Ramp will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day through Nov. 1. Chatfield will reopen to boating on March 1, if ice conditions permit.  

The boat ramps at Boyd Lake, Navajo and Trinidad Lake State Parks will close at the end of the day on Nov. 30. However, anyone wishing to launch at Navajo from Dec. 1, 2012 through Feb. 28, 2013 can contact the Navajo State Park office, 970-883-2208 to schedule an appointment for a boating inspection prior to launching.

For additional closures and information about hand launched vessels and ice fishing, please visit the individual park websites at http://cpw.state.co.us.

All Colorado State Parks will remain open for other outdoor recreation activities throughout the winter. Please check the respective Colorado State Park web pages at http://cpw.state.co.us

Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, more than 300 state wildlife areas, all of Colorado's wildlife, and a variety of outdoor recreation. For more information, please visit http://cpw.state.co.us

Rules for City of Sterling Multi-Use Paths

***Press Release***

Sterling's multi-use trails-especially in Columbine Park, are getting busier all the time.  Our trails are open to walkers, joggers, skaters, and bicyclists of all ages and abilities.  In order to accommodate this wide range of users, we must all observe a few simple rules:

Ride-Skate-Walk On The Right

Ride, skate, or walk with the flow of traffic, as far to the right side of the trail as practical.

Ride-Skate-Walk Single File

Don't block the trail.  Groups should be in single file when other trail users are present and should never use more than one-half of the trial to allow for flow of traffic.

Control Your Speed!

Obey speed regulations.  Slow down and use caution when approaching or overtaking other trail users.  The trail is not a racetrack!

Who Yields The Trail?

Before passing another trail user, be courteous and make your approach known well in advance.  A friendly greeting "hello, passing on your left" works best

Ride-Skate-Walk Single File

• Bicyclists and skaters yield to walkers
• Bicyclists yield to skaters
• Faster users yield to slower users

Remember:

• Respect all other users
• Always rider or skate within your abilities
• Always wear proper safety equipment

To report abuse, please call 522-3512 or 522-9700

Calling All Chefs: Jackson Lake State Park Hosts Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off

ORCHARD, Colo. – Jackson Lake State Park’s Second Annual Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, Sept. 8, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Men, women, and youngsters who want to have fun, enjoy good food, and share their enthusiasm for chili and Dutch oven cooking are invited to enter the contest and enjoy the lake’s recreational opportunities.

                      Cook-off categories include: Main Dish (meat), Side Dish (vegetable), Breads, Desserts, Wild Game/Fish, Chili and Youth Chefs - any dish prepared by a chef under 16 years old. There will also be a Cowboy Coffee competition. The Cowboy Coffee will be a “People’s Choice Award,” judging will start in the morning and end around 11 a.m. The winners of each event will be announced after all judging is complete. The judges will select the top three contestants in all categories and prizes will be awarded. Spectators will be able to taste all dishes after the judging is complete.

                        All vehicles entering the park must display an annual pass or purchase a $7 daily pass. 

                        Entries for the Cook-Off must be received by Sept. 7. To obtain registration forms and more information, visit www.parks.state.co.us/parks/jacksonlake, call Jackson Lake State Park at 970-645-2551 or emaildarby.shanks@state.co.us.

                       Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado's wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado's state parks, please see: http://parks.state.co.us. To learn more about Colorado's wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

North Sterling State Park Remains Open for Boating

STERLING, Colo. – While the drought has forced many reservoirs to close to boating, North Sterling State Park remains open to boating. The lake has been dropping and the Elks Boat Ramp is closed, said Park Manager David Piper, but the South Boat Ramp is still open and has about twenty feet of water on it, ensuring the lake will stay open to boating for a while.

              “The fishing at North Sterling is the best that the park has offered in eight years,” said Piper. “With good fishing and water levels high enough to boat, now is a good time to get out and enjoy the reservoir before the summer is over.”

                     Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado’s wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado’s state parks, please see: http://parks.state.co.us. To learn more about Colorado’s wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

Jackson Lake State Park Closed for Boating Due to Low Water

ORCHARD, Colo. – Jackson Lake State Park Manager Brad Jackson said Friday that the lake is now closed to boating because the water level in the lake has dropped below the bottom of the boat ramp. The lake will begin to fill again on Nov. 1 and will be full in the spring.  The lake will open to boating in the spring as soon as the ice has thawed and hazards are removed.

                    The park will remain open all year for camping, wildlife viewing, riding on the OHV track and many other activities.  The annual chili and Dutch oven cook-off will still take place on Sept. 8. To register for the cook-off, please contact Darby Shanks at 970-645-2551.  Hunting ducks from boats this fall will also not be possible because of the inability to launch a boat on the water.

                     Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado’s wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado’s state parks, please see: http://www.parks.state.co.us.  To learn more about Colorado’s wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Celebrates Colorado Day with Free Admission to All Colorado State Parks

DENVER – Colorado Parks and Wildlife will celebrate Colorado Day, Monday, Aug. 6, by offering free entrance at all 42 state parks. Colorado Day was created by the state legislature to mark the anniversary of statehood, granted in 1876 by President Ulysses S. Grant. Free entrance at the state parks is an annual Colorado Day tradition. 

                     “Each Colorado Day, we invite everyone to get outdoors at the state parks, enjoy the natural beauty of these places and experience all the recreational activities that the parks have to offer,” said Rick Cables, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Director. “This annual free day gives people who have never visited a state park the chance to experience the great activities in state parks. Colorado Day is also our annual ‘thank-you’ to all our visitors for their support.”

                     Entrance fees are waived for the day but all other fees, including camping and reservations will remain in effect on Aug. 6.

                    The state parks, scattered throughout Colorado, showcase the state's diverse landscapes, including the prairies of the eastern plains at North Sterling State Park, the alpine beauty of the mountains at State Forest State Park near Walden and the unique geological landscapes at Castlewood Canyon State Park. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy Colorado's rivers at James M. Robb-Colorado River State Park near Grand Junction and the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Salida. And, there’s plenty of outdoor fun at the reservoirs at Trinidad Lake State Park, Pearl Lake State Park near Steamboat Springs, Lathrop State Park near Walsenburg and Navajo State Park near Durango.

                      There are a huge variety of recreational opportunities at all Colorado state parks. Float your boat or kayak, raft a river and jet-ski. View diverse wildlife and a multitude of bird species. Catch fish, hike, explore by geocaching, ride some of the best OHV trails in the state or go horseback riding. Teach your children to fish, camp or learn about nature. Climb a challenging rock face, fly a kite or ride your bike.

                    Come play all day, enjoy a picnic and stay for the sunset. This Colorado Day, be sure to get out to a state park for a fun-filled day that the whole family can enjoy.

                       Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado's wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado's state parks, please see: http://parks.state.co.us. To learn more about Colorado's wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

North Sterling State Park Hosts Triathlon

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***

STERLING, Colo. - North Sterling State Park will host the HITS Triathlon Series on July 28 and July 29.  Water levels in the reservoir remain good for swimming, fishing and boating. The HITS Open, a nationwide series of swimming, biking and running races held at sites across the country, is designed for everyone from individuals attempting their first triathlon to aspiring professional athletes.

                     There will be several heats held over the two-day period. Each heat will begin with the swim and then transition into the bicycling followed by the running.  David Piper, North Sterling State Park’s Manager, said all three stages for each of the events will be held in the park and centered at the swim beach pavilion. The swim beach area will be busy both days, with athletes, vendors, and food service staff. The public is welcome to watch or enjoy the swim beach area when the triathlon athletes aren’t swimming. During the swim portion of each heat, the area will be closed to swimming to allow athletes to compete without interference.

                     North Sterling State Park offers fast, rolling courses for the biking and running. The Open, Sprint and Olympic run courses will take place on hard packed trails, while the Half and Full athletes will continue onto safe, rural country roads dotted with farms. The swim will take place in the waters of North Sterling Reservoir and feature gorgeous views and plenty of room for mass starts.

                     Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado’s wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado’s state parks, please see: http://www.parks.state.co.us.  To learn more about Colorado’s wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us

Colorado Marine Law Enforcement Officers Gear Up For 2012 Operation Dry Water

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***

DENVER – Recreational boating fatalities last year jumped to their highest levels since 1998 and boating under the influence (BUI) was the leading contributing factor, according to the U.S. Coast Guard’s report, 2011 Recreational Boating Statistics. The report comes just weeks before Colorado marine law enforcement officers participate in the Operation Dry Water 2012, an annual nationwide campaign focused on enforcement of BUI laws and educating all boaters to the risks of operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Officers will be out in force Friday, June 22 through Sunday, June 24 looking for boaters whose blood alcohol content exceeds the state limit of .08. Operation Dry Water will include increased and focused patrols, checkpoints, as well as boater education. Impaired boaters can expect penalties to be severe. In Colorado, the consequences for BUI include fines, jail time, court-ordered volunteer service, impoundment of the boat, mandatory boating safety education and even loss of boating privileges.

“We intend to arrest intoxicated boaters and to reach out to as many people as possible about the hazards of boating under the influence,” says Kris Wahlers, Colorado’s spokesman for the event.

BUI continues to be a major problem in the United States. Boat operators or even passengers with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit run a significantly increased risk of being involved in a fatal boating accident. Alcohol was a contributing factor in just 6 percent of boating accidents overall, but figured in 16 percent of boating fatalities in the United States last year. When impaired by alcohol, boating accidents are more probable and more deadly for both passengers and boat operators, many of whom capsize their vessel or simply fall overboard. 

Operation Dry Water, a multi-agency education and enforcement initiative launched by the National Association of Safe Boating Law Administrators in 2009 in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, puts thousands of local, state and federal marine law enforcement officers on the water nationwide prior to the Fourth of July holiday to give BUI enforcement high visibility during the peak boating season.

"There will be arrests this weekend, and some boaters will face the consequences of boating under the influence," says Wahlers. "Boating is a safe and enjoyable pastime when people stay alert and follow the rules. We want boaters to understand the added risks associated with BUI and to avoid drinking and boating.”  

Operation Dry Water 2012 is a joint program of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information, visit www.operationdrywater.org.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado's wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado's state parks, please see: http://parks.state.co.us. To learn more about Colorado's wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us.

HITS Triathlon Series announces move to Sterling, Colorado for upcoming July event

***Press Release***

SAUGERTIES, NY (June 13, 2012) – HITS Triathlon Series announced today that the July 28-29 event originally planned for Fort Collins will now be held 94 miles east in Sterling, Colorado. The decision came as result of a combination of factors, including the recent devastation from wildfires burning in the area, which covers large portions of the bike route planned for the Half and Full distance races.

“We’ve been working with community officials and leaders for some time trying to finalize the routes for the bike and run, which is typically a process that takes some finessing no matter where the event is held,” said Mark Wilson, Race Director for HITS Triathlon Series. “Throughout the process we’ve had great cooperation from officials and local supporters in the community; however, it recently became clear that an alternate location would be best.”

The event will now be held at North Sterling State Park in Sterling, which is 110 miles northeast of Denver and a relatively similar driving distance for athletes coming from the Denver airport. The park features a large, spacious reservoir on the high plains with ample camping offered year-round. For the Sprint and Olympic races on Saturday, the bike route leaves the park on County Road 33 with the Sprint athletes turning around 6.2 miles out on County Road 39, while Olympic athletes will turn around on County Road 30, 12.4 miles out and return to the park. On Sunday, Half and Full distance athletes will travel to State Route 14 where they will enjoy 28 miles of rolling hills before returning back to the park for the finish or a second loop.

“This is going to be a fast course with rolling hills, where athletes will be able to gain momentum from hill to hill and will be able to see for miles on both the bike and the run,” added Wilson. “The run will take place completely inside the park on Saturday, while on Sunday athletes in the Half and Full will continue out to County Road 27.”

Updated course maps are being finalized now and will be available on the HITS Triathlon Series website as soon as possible.

“Right now our thoughts are first and foremost with the community of Fort Collins and the surrounding areas who are battling these devastating fires,” said Tom Struzzieri, HITS President and CEO. “It’s clear the community will be dealing with the affects of this current situation for some time. I’m pleased that we were able to go down the road a bit to find the closest location that could work for our needs and create the least amount of impact for registered athletes. We believe this course is a great alternative for both registered athletes and to help attract new registrants. We are excited to come to Colorado with our series and are looking forward to having our best Sunday races yet.”

HITS is working with local hotels to arrange for lodging partners and will have more information on community resources available in Sterling as soon as possible. For more information, please visit HitsTriathlonSeries.com or email info@hitstriathlonseries.com.

About HITS, Inc.
HITS, Inc. is a special events management company primarily focused on producing endurance sports events and hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS is dedicated to creating high-quality events in desirable destinations with unmatched, professional operations. For more information about the HITS Triathlon Series, please visit www.HitsTriathlonSeries.com.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife Issues Fire Warning

DENVER – Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced Wednesday that county fire bans and restrictions will be strictly enforced in state parks and wildlife areas because the fire danger is extremely high across the state. All fires, including those in pits and grills, have been banned in 14 counties due to dry conditions and the risk of wildfires. Fire restrictions are in place in many other counties. The agency reminds all park visitors and sportsmen that county bans and restrictions apply to the state parks and wildlife areas in those counties.

                     “Colorado Parks and Wildlife will enforce the county fire bans and other restrictions. We urge visitors to parks and wildlife area take every precaution possible to prevent new fires from starting,” said Rick Cables, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Director.

                      Counties with fire bans that impact state parks:

·       Adams County: Barr Lake State Park

·       Arapahoe County: Cherry Creek State Park

·       Boulder County: Eldorado Canyon State Park

·       Clear Creek County

·       Douglas County: Castlewood Canyon and Roxborough State Parks

·       Elbert County

·       Gilpin County: Golden Gate Canyon State Park

·       Grand County

·       Hinsdale County

·       Jackson County: State Forest State Park

·       Jefferson County: Chatfield and Staunton State Parks

·       Phillips County

·       Pitkin County

·       Washington County

                      The most recent county-by-county information on fire bans and restrictions is available at: the Colorado Division of Emergency Management website at: http://www.coemergency.com/p/fire-ban-info.html

                      Colorado Parks and Wildlife also manages more than 300 state wildlife areas. Many are open to recreational activities. Visitors to wildlife areas are encouraged to be aware of county restrictions and property specific regulations, which are available from local parks and wildlife offices.            

                     “When you are heading out to go camping, fishing or any recreational activity, please check with the state park, forest or land management agency where you are going for current fire conditions,” said Gary Thorson, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Assistant Director for Information and Education. “Because of the hot and dry weather, any fire or ignition source can create the risk of wildlife.”

                      Thorson said that visitors to the state parks and wildlife areas without fire bans and restrictions must follow the regulations for campfires:

·       Do not leave fires unattended or allow them to burn outside the fire ring.

·       Be sure to extinguish all fires completely. Check for embers and repeatedly douse fires with water.

·       Put out cigarettes and dispose of safely.

·       Please check with the state parks’ website, www.parks.state.co.us, for fire information at the specific park you plan to visit.

·       For fire information at state wildlife areas, please visit http://wildlife.state.co.us

                         Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado's wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado's state parks, please see: http://www.parks.state.co.us. To learn more about Colorado's wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us

North Sterling State Park’s Memorial Day Weekend Events

***Press Release***

STERLING, Colo. – This Memorial Day weekend, join the staff at North Sterling State Park for two days of fun and exciting nature programs for children and adults alike! 

                        Saturday’s events begin with the first meeting of the weekly summer Junior Ranger Program, which begins at noon on Saturday at the Cottonwood Cove Swim Beach Pavilion with Wildlife Wonders: Prairie Wildlife. You’ll learn all about the animals that call our park “Home,” the tracks they create, and places they live, including snakes, deer, frogs, foxes and many more. Then you’ll have the chance to make animal tracks with stencils and play with sidewalk chalk, making tracks and trails for your friends to follow.

                        Saturday afternoon continues with a second Wildlife Wonders: Tree Dwellers program at 4 p.m. at the Cottonwood Cove Swim Beach Pavilion, with games about animal tracks, making your own nest and squirrel tag. The day concludes with our family-friendly Saturday Night Campfire Program, also at the amphitheater.

                        Sunday holds more fun opportunities to get out and explore the park. At noon, meet at the Amphitheater in Inlet Grove Campground for Wildlife Wonders: Eagles, where you can learn all about our resident bald eagle family and other birds that live on and around the lake, and show off your creative side making your own binoculars. Then, join park staff at 7 p.m. for a one-hour Nature Walk on top of Sunset Point, where you’ll explore the local wildlife, hear interesting facts about the park, and learn just why we named it Sunset Point. Don’t forget to bring your walking stick, bug spray, binoculars, plenty of water and a camera.

                       Memorial Day Weekend Activity Schedule:

·         Saturday, May 25 – Noon:  Wildlife Wonders: Prairie Wildlife at the Cottonwood Cove Swim Beach Pavilion

·         Saturday, May 26 – 4 p.m.:  Wildlife Wonders: Tree Dwellers at Cottonwood Cove Swim  Beach Pavilion

·         Saturday, May 26 – 7 p.m.:  Saturday Night Campfire Program at the Amphitheater

·         Sunday, May 27 – Noon:  Wildlife Wonders: Eagles at the Amphitheater

·         Sunday, May 27 – 7 p.m.:  Nature Walk on Sunset Point

                        Looking for other fun activities at North Sterling?  Visit their web page at www.parks.state.co.us/parks/NorthSterling for more detailed information, ideas, and printable activities and trail maps! Take a look at the FREE equipment you can borrow at the Visitor Center, check the Calendar for upcoming events, get the most current update on our resident bald eagles, and more. Looking for a nature program tailored to your classroom, home-school group, youth group or other community organization? Call or email the park for more information about scheduling one today!

                         Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado’s wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs. To learn more about Colorado’s state parks, please see: http://parks.state.co.us.  To learn more about Colorado’s wildlife programs, please see: http://wildlife.state.co.us

USDA: New Partnership Projects to Improve 16,500 Acres of Wetlands in 12 States, Colorado Included

***NRCS Press Release***


WASHINGTON, April 24, 2012 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced funding for 13 partnership agreements for high-priority wetland restoration and conservation work in 12 states. The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and a network of partners have nearly $15 million in financial and technical assistance available for these projects in 2012 and will enter into long-term agreements to deliver additional assistance over the next four years.


Selected for their significant contributions toward wetlands restoration, enhancement or protection, the projects will improve water quality, prevent flooding and enhance wildlife habitat on more than 16,500 acres of wetlands. Participating states are Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Texas. 


The benefits of these new partnership agreements include increased opportunities to participate in the Wetlands Reserve Program, which offers easements and contracts to restore wetlands. In addition, the selected projects also offer accelerated and improved wetland restoration, monitoring or management assistance from NRCS and its partners. Participants retain ownership and access to the land, and in some locations may be able to generate income from grazing or recreation approved by NRCS. 


Landowners may apply at their local NRCS office (find your nearest NRCS service center at http://go.usa.gov/m2Y) or by contacting the proposal partner listed below.


Learn more about WREP at http://go.usa.gov/m24 and find out about other NRCS programs and initiatives at http://go.usa.gov/m22.


Next month, the NRCS celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Wetlands Reserve Program. More than 11,000 of America’s private landowners have voluntarily enrolled over 2.3 million acres into the WRP.

State	Project Title	Proposal Partner	2012 Partnership Funding Level
Colorado	Lower South Platte	Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory	$34,241
Georgia	Arabia Bay	Georgia Forestry Commission	$2,077,500
Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota	Missouri River Flood Recovery	The Nature Conservancy	$2,920,036
Iowa	Southern Prairie Pothole Wetland Initiative	Iowa Department of Natural Resources	$1,038,000
Maryland	Nassawango/Dividing Creek	The Nature Conservancy	$500,000
Nebraska	Working Lands Approach to Restoration – Rainwater Basin	Nebraska Association of Resource Districts	$538,503
Nebraska	Integrated Monitoring and Management – Rainwater Basin 1	Nebraska Game and Parks Commission	$40,000
New Hampshire	Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire	Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire	$1,258,733
North Carolina	Coastal Federation Proposal	North Carolina Coastal Federation	$50,000
Pennsylvania	Monitoring Bog Turtle	Mid-Atlantic Center for Herpetology and Conservation	$40,000
Pennsylvania	Ohio River Watershed Initiative	The Trust for Tomorrow	$80,000
South Dakota	East Dakota Water Development District	East Dakota Water Development District	$2,239,200
Texas	Gulf Coast Conservation Initiative	Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program	$4,000,000
Total			$14,816,213

                                                                                 #
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C.  20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202-720-6382 (TDD).

Jackson Lake State Park Opens to Boating March 17

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


ORCHARD, Colo. – Jackson Lake State Park will open to boating on Saturday, March 17, at 8 a.m. The reservoir is free of ice and the lake is full. To prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS), including zebra and quagga mussels, all trailered vessels and all vessels with gas powered motors must be inspected prior to launch and must launch and load at the boat ramps.

Boaters are asked to take the necessary precautions before launching their vessel. Boats should be checked before leaving home for all safety equipment, that the motor is running properly, the boat has fuel and that there is no standing water inside the boat. This will allow for a faster inspection and a safer and more relaxing day on the water.

The inspection hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Jackson Lake State Park Visitor Center and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the inspection station. Beginning May 1, the hours will be 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. All vessels need to be inspected or follow the pre-inspection process before launching.

The fishing has been good for trout from the dam, inlet and the west shore. Anglers can expect that there will not be a wiper run in the inlet canal this year. The lake was filled in February and will not be taking in any more water. The fishing should continue to improve as the water temperature rises. For more information, please call the park office at (970) 645-2551.

Jackson Lake is participating in the effort to curb the spread of aquatic nuisance species, including zebra and quagga mussels, in the state’s reservoirs and waterways. All vessels entering and leaving Jackson Lake will be inspected for ANS. If ANS are detected on any of the watercraft, decontamination is required. To speed up the inspection process, boaters are encouraged to clean, drain and dry their vessel, including removing the plug to drain the water, prior to entering the park and as soon as the watercraft has left the water. For more information about the state’s aquatic nuisance species program, visit www.parks.state.co.us/Boating.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Colorado State Parks Group Honors Local Hero with Life Saving Award

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


ORCHARD, CO. – The Colorado State Parks Employee Protective Association (CSPEPA) will present Jon Jones, a local resident and long time farmer, with the Life Saving Award on Oct. 19 for saving a woman’s life on April 4, 2011.

Jones was tending to his farming duties and checking fences when he saw a car in an irrigation ditch near Morgan County Roads 4 and Y.5. The vehicle was not visible from the roadway and was partially submerged in the water, upside down. Jones called 911 and began searching the wreckage for any passengers.

One female passenger was trapped inside. Several agencies responded to the incident including Colorado State Parks, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, the Wiggins Fire Department, the Colorado State Patrol, the Morgan County Ambulance, and Air Life Colorado.
While rescue efforts were being made to extricate the victim from the vehicle, Jones left for his farm, about a mile away, and returned with a front loading tractor and a large chain. Jones was able to lift the vehicle from the water and allow EMS personnel access into the passenger compartment. The accident had occurred 15 hours prior to Jones locating the vehicle. Due to his sharp eye and quick actions, the woman’s life was saved.

Jones will receive his award on Wednesday, Oct. 19, during a regional meeting of park managers at the Jackson Lake State Park Visitor Center.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Jackson Lake State Park is Calling All Chefs for a Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


ORCHARD, Colo. – Jackson Lake State Park’s inaugural Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Men, women, and youngsters who want to have fun, enjoy good food, and share their enthusiasm for chili and Dutch oven cooking are invited to enter the contest and enjoy the lake’s recreational opportunities.

Cook-off categories include: Main Dish (meat), Side Dish (vegetable), Breads, Desserts, Wild Game/Fish, Chili and Youth Chefs (any dish prepared by a chef under 16 years old.) There will also be a Cowboy Coffee category to participate in. The Cowboy Coffee will be a “People’s Choice Award,” and judging will start in the morning and end around 11 a.m.

The winners will be announced after all judging is complete. The judges will select the top three contestants in all categories and prizes will be awarded. Spectators will be able to taste all dishes after the judging is complete.

The event is free, but all vehicles entering the park must display an annual pass or purchase a $7 daily pass.

Entries for the Cook-off must be received by Sept. 7. To obtain registration forms and more information, visit www.parks.state.co.us/parks/jacksonlake, call the Jackson Lake State Park at (970) 645-2551 or email darby.shanks@state.co.us.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Colorado State Parks Celebrate Colorado Day with Free Admission

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


DENVER - Colorado State Parks will celebrate Colorado Day, Monday, Aug. 1 by offering free entrance at all 42 state parks. Colorado Day was created by the state legislature to mark the anniversary of statehood, granted in 1876 by President Ulysses S. Grant. Free entrance at the state parks is an annual Colorado Day tradition.

“We’re inviting Coloradans to get outdoors at the state parks, enjoy the natural beauty of these places and experience all the recreational activities that the parks have to offer,” said Rick Cables, Colorado Parks and Wildlife Director. “Colorado Day is our annual ‘thank-you’ to all our visitors for their support. The free day also gives people who have never visited a state park the chance to experience the great activities in state parks.”

All other fees, including camping and reservations, will remain in effect on Aug. 1.

The state parks, scattered throughout Colorado, showcase the state's diverse landscapes, including the prairies of the eastern plains at John Martin Reservoir State Park, the alpine beauty of the mountains at Sylvan Lake State Park near Eagle and the unique geological landscapes at Roxborough State Park. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy Colorado's rivers at James M. Robb-Colorado River State Park near Grand Junction, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area in Salida and Yampa River State Park near Craig. And, there’s plenty of outdoor fun at the reservoirs at Trinidad Lake State Park, North Sterling State Park, Lathrop State Park near Walsenburg and Navajo State Park near Durango.

Chatfield State Park and Cherry Creek State Park are the most popular state parks, but Colorado Days is a chance to sample the trails at Lory State Park near Fort Collins and the beauty at Rifle Falls State Park and Paonia State Park.

There are a huge variety of recreational opportunities at all Colorado State Parks. Float your boat or kayak, raft a river and jet-ski. View diverse wildlife and a multitude of bird species. Catch fish, hike, explore by geocaching, ride some of the best OHV trails in the state or go horseback riding. Teach your children to fish, camp or learn about nature. Climb a challenging rock face, fly a kite or ride your bike.

Come play all day, enjoy a picnic and stay for the sunset. This Colorado Day, be sure to get out to a state park for a fun-filled day that the whole family can enjoy.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.