I wanted to share the Joder Family Statement with you concerning the family ranch that was purchased by Open Space.

I too grow weary, as Linda Andes-George stated in today’s Daily Camera Guest Opinion, and in my opinion feel that the management of the property, including agreements on what trails go where, to be done in the context of our Trails Study Area (TSA) process.

If at all possible, I would like to see the TSA process done a bit quicker then previously stated, so we all may enjoy this beautiful new addition to our Open Space lands, this includes bears, bobcats, birds and then of course all us other users.

Below is the Joder Family Statement:

First, we need to say at the outset that we, the four Joder family members, are much like a microcosm of the Boulder community — we each have different outdoor activities we enjoy, we have somewhat different ideas about land use in general, and we also have slightly differing opinions on what should eventually be done with the city’s new acquisition. Therefore, the following points are somewhat general and may be slightly contradictory.

When we sold the property, we knowingly put our trust into the Open Space process for determining land use and we believe that, once the process is completed and all voices are heard, the right balance will have been struck.

Here are the main points upon which we have come together:

1) Whatever the use, we feel strongly that the impact on the biodiversity of the land be respected as much as possible. At one time or another, for example, we have seen on our ranch deer, elk, turkey, bobcat, coyote, mountain lion (once, with cubs!), golden eagle, and even bear. Care must be given within the plan so that both humans and wildlife can co-exist with minimal impact to one another.

2) Hiking, mountain biking, general outdoor appreciation — and especially equine activities — have always been part of the Joder family and Joder Ranch tradition and we would like to see those activities continue on this new Open Space property, but with careful consideration to the first point.

3) We understand that one of the principle reasons for the purchase of this property was as a trail link for hikers, horses, runners, and cyclists transiting from Boulder to Heil Ranch and beyond. We support that objective but, again, with proper due diligence in balancing the needs of user groups with the needs of the native wildlife.

4) We are happy that our former ranch is now in the public domain and will eventually be enjoyed by many generations to come. It is our belief that a balance can be struck between all the various human users and the wild critters if everyone works together. To that end, we feel that the city of Boulder OSMP should complete an appropriate planning process, with the required public input, to avoid potential long-term negative impact to the land.

Thank you,
The Joder family

Voice your opinion. Please send your comments to me on this blog, or attend the meeting tonight, January 14th at 6PM.

Linda P