EDARP
Project Review Comments
- File Number
- AL269
- Project Name
- 5415 Old Stage Road - Yakalo Ranch
- Description
- Special Use Permit for the additional principal use of a Recreation Camp
- Parcels
- 7500000275 7500000275
- Applicant
-
Angela Gregg
Angela Gregg ( sturdyfoundations@gmail.com )
(719) 960-6798 Angela Gregg ( sturdyfoundations@gmail.com )
(719) 960-6798 - EA Number
- EA2561
- File Number
- AL269
- Project Manager
- Jen Uhler
- Status
- Active
- Created
- 6/2/2025 10:37:55 AM
View: Project Documents | Submit/View Public Comment
| Agency | Review # | Comment | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
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El Paso County Conservation Dist
5/6/2026 6:26:47 PM |
1 |
The El Paso County Conservation District has reviewed this and we have the following comments: 1) Erosion Controls/Revegetation Plans This area appears to be on a property with steep topography and a major drainage running through the site, so we see a high potential for erosion. We did not see any documents outlining erosion control or revegetation plans during and after construction of the proposed building and parking lot. As such, EPCCD would like to see the following recommendations followed during and after construction: A) Disturbed areas not being built on should be mulched and revegetated within 45 days of disturbance using grass species native or naturalized to El Paso County. B) Disturbed areas should either be mulched after seeding with weed-free hay or straw mulch at approximately 5,000 lbs per acre due to the topography and concerns of runoff erosion; or covered with fine wood chips (approximately 1–2 inches thick) generated from on-site forest mitigation and tree clearing activities associated with the project: or for areas not suitable for revegetation, such as driveways, parking areas (if not paved), or safety areas around buildings, there should have a 1–2 inch layer of crushed rock, road base, or gravel to help prevent exposed soil and runoff erosion concerns. C) Due to the topography and watershed concerns, there should be some form of silt fence around the perimeter of any construction site for buildings, parking areas, and campsites until completed to help prevent loose soil from eroding into the drainage and negatively affecting the watershed. D) For areas being replanted with natural grass, consider using the El Paso County Conservation District’s Native Shotgun Mix (available at EPCCD.org) for reseeding, which is well suited to soils present on this site and is comprised of 100% native and naturalized grass species. 2) Firewise, Fire Risk, and Forest Health -The project site is located in a heavily forested and overgrown area that carries an elevated wildfire risk, particularly given the single road for ingress and egress (which is a safety concern). EPCCD has a strong commitment to forest health and fire safety, so we would like to see the following implemented to assist with these issues: A) Vegetation management consistent with Firewise principles, including clearing trees and brush within approximately 35 feet of any buildings, established campsites, or recreation areas. Trees should also be cleared to approximately 15 feet from the centerline on each side of access roads and driveways, which is critical for safe emergency access and evacuation. B) Thinning forested areas within 35–100 feet beyond the areas listed above (as recommended by Firewise practices) to approximately 40–60 trees per acre, reflecting a healthy Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forest density based on U.S. Forest Service and Colorado State Forest Service guidance. This also supports improved fire resilience, wildlife habitat, and visual quality consistent with the El Paso County Master Plan for this area. C) Trees adjacent to Old Stage Rd within 15 feet of the road edge should be cleared to help ensure safe ingress and egress from the property by improving driver visibility and allowing roadside ditches to properly channel water. This also helps create a natural fuel break and may reduce spread of pests and diseases such as pine beetle and dwarf mistletoe, which are active concerns throughout forested areas of the county. D) During other forestry work, the applicant should have a forestry contractor assess the remaining areas of the property for bark beetle, ips beetle, or dwarf mistletoe infestations and work to remove affected areas within 2 years of the start of the project to support long-term forest health. E) Forestry contractors should be trained to identify nests of protected bird species (such as owls, hawks, and eagles), with avoidance of active nest trees where present. 3) Cultural Resources -EPCCD did not see documentation indicating that a cultural resource survey has been completed for this project. We would like to see one completed, including evaluation for artifacts and culturally modified trees, (sometimes referred to as “Indian Prayer Trees"), as well as a plan to protect or mitigate damage to those resources if identified. If these measures are added to the project plan, then the El Paso County Conservation District will be satisfied with the applicant’s commitment to soil conservation, watershed protection, forest health, and protection of the surrounding community. For any questions, please feel free to contact EPCCD at 719-600-4706 or Will Vogl, Board VP, at Will@EPCCD.org |
5/6/2026 6:26:47 PM | |
|
EPC Code Enforcement
5/6/2026 12:57:32 PM |
1 | No comment | 5/6/2026 12:57:32 PM | |
|
Colorado Springs Fire Department
4/30/2026 4:24:38 PM |
1 | CSFD does not support gating off Old Stage Road being that Old Stage is a public access road. Please remove references to the gates from the plans. | 4/30/2026 4:24:38 PM |