A new recreation coalition has been formed, called the Pagosa Area Recreation Coalition (PARC), spanning Archuleta, Mineral and Hinsdale counties.
During a regular meeting held by the Combined Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (which includes Archuleta County and the Town of Pagosa Springs) held on Sept. 5, board member Larry Lynch provided an update on the newly formed PARC.
Lynch explained that the U.S. Forest Service “has been interested in looking at the recreational aspects within the district,” after plans for a bike trail system at Jackson Mountain fell through last summer.
“The district ranger has expressed a desire to possibly look at some new recreational developments within the district,” Lynch said.
Lynch explained the PARC will have representation from all three counties, the Forest Service, local tribes and multiple other organizations, including the Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association and the San Juan Headwaters Forest Health Partnership.
“The idea is there’s going to be some public meetings coming up over the winter,” Lynch said, explaining that people will be able to bring up ideas, thoughts and suggestions for improvements.
He explained that projects can include things like construction or improving trailheads, new trails, trail connectors and restrooms.
“Any of those types of improvements,” Lynch added, noting projects can include existing town and county trails and parks.
“We’ve modeled it after Chaffee County,” Lynch said.
He explained that Chaffee County “went through this process a couple years ago and a really successful run at it,” generating over 90 improvement projects and bringing in “quite a bit of money.”
Lynch explained that the PARC may not be on the same size or scale of Chaffee County, but it is intended to be “something to bring the community together and see where it goes” while identifying needs and wants throughout the district.
Lynch added the group will focus on conservation and wildlife protection, as well.
He also explained that a task force of 30 to 40 people will be organized to meet regularly with PARC’s leadership group.
Lynch noted that Pagosa Springs Project Manager David Hilborn, Recreation Supervisor Amanda Gadomski and Archuleta County Attorney Todd Weaver have been appointed to the leadership group.
Hinsdale County Commissioner Kristie Borchers was also recently appointed to the leadership group.
“Everybody’s gonna have a say,” Lynch said.
He indicated that the group will likely start holding meetings this November.
clayton@pagosasun.com
