2024.12.16_Towaoc Master Plan_PrintVersion

Ute Mountain Ute

Parks + Trails Master Plan

December 2024

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Recreation Master Plan Stakeholder Group

Kia Whiteskunk, UMUT Recreation Center Director

Sherrell Lang, Tribal Liaison for this Project

Richard Fulton, KCA Operational Consultant

Bernadette Cuthair, Director of Economic Development and Planning Office

Mark Wing, Student Advisor Coordinator, Moguan Behavioral Health

Rita King, Tribal Director/Coordinator, Diabetes Program Coordinator

Tria Yellowman, Events and Activity Coordinator, Sleeping Ute Diabetes Program

Colleen Cuthair-Root, UMUT-PEAK Project Coordinator, Elder Group

Terry Knight, Spiritual Leader/Tribal Historical and Preservation Officer

Jessica Thurman, Economic Development Coordinator UMUT

Leandrew Begay, Public Works

Rayni Badback, Public Works

Conrad Jacket, Tribal Council Member

Lee Trabaudo, prior Public Works Director

Community Stakeholders

Juanita Plentyholes, Tiwahe Program Director

Olivia Clah, Ute Mountain Ute K-12 Director

Olivia Spencer, Tribal Liaison for the School District

Olivia Lansing, Montezuma Cortez RE-1 School District, Director of Native American Services

Archie House Jr., Executive Director Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Housing Division

Rufina Weeks, Director of the Ute Mountain Elder Care Program

Ute Mountain Ute Tribe

Tribal Council

Elder Council

2024 BEARDANCE Committee

KCA (Kwiyagat Community Academy)

GOCO (Great Outdoors Colorado)

DHM Design

Cammie Willis, Associate, PLA

Allyssa Williams, Senior Designer

Mia MacDonald, Graphic Designer

Stephanie Treacy, Designer

Walker Christensen, Principal, PLA

Amaktoolik Studios

Brian Fagerstrom

Lisa Jelliffe

Related Planning Efforts

HDR - UMUT Community Master Plan Towaoc (2024)

Mike McVaugh, Principal, PE

Andy Gorham

Hannah Watson

Ferguson Pyatt Architects - Kwiyagat Community Academy Schematic Design (2024)

Janna Ferguson

Rob Pyatt

Other Referenced Master Planning Studies

Housing + Open Space Masterplan (2017)

Kwiyagat Community Academy Facility Master Plan (2022)

Growing Ute Futures Education Campus Master Plan (2023)

Community Event at Spring Youth Fair (March 20, 2024)

Grand Entrance at June 1st, 2024 Bear Dance Pow Wow

SECTION ONE INTRODUCTION

DOCUMENT PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND

Purpose

This Towaoc Parks + Trails Master Plan document was funded by Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (UMUT), the Recreation Department, and the Kwiyagat Community Academy (KCA). The primary goal for the master plan as described in the master plan application is to create outdoor opportunities to foster overall health and well-being for Towaoc residents. The Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Department was established in the 1962 with a mission to provide community recreation opportunities for all Towaoc residents; this master plan study serves this goal by identifying outdoor recreation amenities and proposing improvements to play fields, parks, trails, and picnic and intergenerational gathering areas. The vision of a community surrounded by updated and culturally-relevant outdoor recreation opportunities would encourage more tribal members to enjoy the outdoors and increase fitness for all ages.

Background

Towaoc is a town of 1,129 people—95.6% are Native American. The poverty rate is approximately 35%, average age is 22 years old, and diabetes is common among youth and adults. There are currently 350 diabetic community members; this number is expected to grow over the years.

Presently (2024) there are few opportunities to recreate outside in Towaoc. The existing park amenities that are open to the public around town include: the basketball courts and skate park near the Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Center, the softball fields located near the Kwiyagat Community Academy (KCA), a small picnicking area at Veteran’s Park, and ceremonial spaces for Bear Dance and Pow Wows. There are no small pocket parks to serve different neighborhoods for small gatherings or informal play activities. No playground is open and available for public use; the ones at the schools are only available to the KCA during school hours. Therefore, the purpose of this Master Plan is to offer Towaoc a reference point for any future development of parks and trails—a final product that guides the common vision for outdoor recreation priorities, amenities, locations, potential costs, and funding options. The Master Plan was prepared via an extensive public process that included three public meetings, calls with vested community members, a presentation to Tribal Council, a survey for public input, monthly stakeholder meetings to check-in on the project, and discussions with individual community groups –such as the Tribal Elders and Youth Council.

As part of this study, three parks were identified by the project stakeholders for the design team to prepare site specific concept designs for – including a large community park and two smaller pocket parks to serve the north and south residential areas in Towaoc. Trails were also determined to be an important component for inspiring overall use and connectivity of an outdoor recreation system in Towaoc. Some of the existing park and ceremonial spaces were recommended by the project stakeholders to not be included for study in this master plan report. They were deemed either useful in their current condition or too sacred to propose significant changes upon.

Additional text sections explored in this master plan include: Incorporating History and Culture into Design, Maintenance and Safety, Creating Safe Public Spaces/Discouraging Vandalism, Animal Control, Steps for Implementation, Grant and Funding Opportunities, Cost Estimation, Future Recreation Opportunities, Community Survey Results, and Meeting Notes.

“I WANT MY GRANDCHILDREN TO HAVE BETTER DIETS AND HABITS. FOR US TO IMPROVE, WE HAVE TO CHANGE AND IT NEEDS TO BE A COMMUNITY CHANGE,” TOWAOC COMMUNITY MEMBER, 2024.

Kia Whiteskunk, Cammie Willis (DHM), Richard Fulton, and Sherrell Lang visiting a potential Pocket Park North site.

STUDY AREA SITE MAP

Study Area Description

The study area for this project includes both the core town area as well as the north and south community neighborhoods. Some roads on the perimeter of these areas are also included in the study area to expand upon a potential future trails network.

Kwiyagat Community

OTHER MASTER PLANNING STUDIES

This Ute Mountain Ute Parks + Trails Master Plan document referenced several previous master planning studies that were prepared in recent years for Towaoc. These studies include the following list. Some images of these studies are shown to the right.

• Housing + Open Space Master Plan, 2017

• Kwiyagat Community Academy Facility Master Plan, 2022

• Growing Ute Futures Education Campus Master Plan, 2022

• Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Community Master Plan, 2024

• Kwiyagat Community Academy K-5 Schematic Design Construction Documents, 2024

• Class III Cultural Resource Inventory Archaeological Survey, 2024 - see Appendix F of this master plan

Each of these studies featured references to outdoor park space and potential sidewalks or circulation routes that the design team for this project reviewed and used as a reference to guide the framework for the concept maps and plans shown in this report. Some park locations and boundaries for parks and walks varied among the previous works. Nevertheless, the design team took a comprehensive look at these earlier plans and were able to prepare a unified outline for each park and the overall trails system.

The Class III Cultural Resource Inventory Archaeological Survey was completed by Woods Canyon Archaeological Consultants, Inc. and studied the proposed areas being considered for the future park locations described in this UMUT Parks+Trails Master Plan. More information on this survey can be found in Appendix F of this master plan document.

Another study that may influence the recommendations described in this parks and trails master plan is the Long Range Transportation Master Plan. This study is being performed by Wilson and Company for the UMUT and is slated to start up soon. Planning for the addition of more streets near the Rodeo Drive subdivision and other areas within Towaoc is an overall goal of this project effort.

Housing + Open Space Master Plan, 2017 (1)

Kwiyagat Community Academy, 2022

Kwiyagat Community Academy Facility Master Plan, 2022 (2)

Kwiyagat Community Academy K-5 Schematic Design, 2024 Ferguson Pyatt Architects

EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS AND SITE ANALYSIS 1/3

North Pocket Park: North of N. Star Lane

The North Pocket Park is proposed to go somewhere to the north of N. Star Lane to serve residents living in this area—which includes concentrations of both youth and elderly populations. A specific location has not been determined for this park as additional input will need to be provided from Tribal Council in coordination with the UMUT Planning Department. Presently, there are no amenities in the north community for locals to access outdoor community gathering areas. Rather, residents have to drive approximately a half mile to the town core for use of outdoor spaces such as the basketball courts, softball fields, and the skate park. This doesn’t seem like a long distance, but safety concerns with loose dogs and no pedestrian routes make traveling not accessible for people who do not have a vehicle. Reasons that this general area would be good to provide a pocket park space are:

1. It is in close proximity to many residential houses in a centralized location for the north community.

2. Utilities (water and sewer) are already present in this area and available for hookup.

3. It is near the Bear Dance grounds directly to the east.

North Pocket Park General Location and Neighborhood Context

North Star Lane

North Ute Street

Example of existing community pocket park in disrepair located along County Road 201/Ute Trail Road.

FT

Park will go somewhere in these general areas

EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS AND SITE ANALYSIS 2/3

South Pocket Park: South of Stable Road

The South Pocket Park is proposed to be located somewhere to the south of Stable Road to serve residents living in this area. Located near the Rodeo Grounds, this location would provide residents living in this neighborhood within Towaoc a small park playground/gathering space for community events such as picnics or birthday parties. From the design team’s meeting with project stakeholders, this area in Towaoc has many young families with children. A play area would serve this neighborhood well. Many of the parcels in this area have already been allocated for housing. Potential locations for a park could be up on the existing Rodeo Grounds or in the residential housing area if several of the lots could be re-designated as park space. Additional input will need to be provided from Tribal Council in coordination with the UMUT Planning Department to determine a specific location.

In this general area, there is little significant vegetation that would cause concerns for removal. However, there is a major drainage present running north-south through the residential neighborhood that should be avoided in terms of development.

Reasons that this general area would be good to provide a pocket park space are:

1. It is in close proximity to many residential houses in the south community. 2. Utilities (water and sewer) are already present in this area and available for hookup.

3. It is near the Rodeo Grounds—which could become part of a larger park system to the south part of Towaoc.

4. This would provide a park amenity for residents that currently have to drive 1.5 miles to access the town core for use of outdoor spaces such as the basketball courts, softball fields, and the skate park.

If the Planning Department re-designates several of the future housing lots as park space, the pocket park could be located within this future development area.

South Pocket Park General Location and Neighborhood Context

Mike Wash Rd

Rodeo Grounds

This is a potential pocket park location at the Rodeo Grounds.

EXISTING SITE CONDITIONS AND SITE ANALYSIS 3/3

Outdoor Conditions around Towaoc Towaoc does have some centralized outdoor park spaces located near the Kwiyagat Community Academy and the Recreation Center. These include the skate park, basketball courts, and softball fields. However, these are not connected and do not offer outdoor recreation opportunities to people of all ages and physical fitness levels. A community park that offers a greater variety of activities should be located somewhere near the core urban area of Towaoc. Additional input will need to be provided from Tribal Council in coordination with the UMUT Planning Department to determine a specific location for this larger community park. The proposed potential locations for this park based on previous master plan studies have been in close proximity to the KCA. An example of a larger community park including phasing strategies is shown in Section Three of this master plan.

Existing Trails

The only formalized trail/path in Towaoc is the sidewalk that extends from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Headquarters to the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel and Travel Plaza. This sidewalk is approximately 3’-0” wide and is not as frequently used as perhaps more internal paths nearer residential/town core areas would be within Towaoc. A three feet wide trail does not accommodate for more than single track use; people desiring to walk in small groups or pairs are not encouraged with this trail width. Moreover, this existing conditions map exemplifies the need for a trail network that features safe routes for varied user groups in and around Towaoc. A series of loop trails that can offer pedestrian access within and between different neighborhoods that link to the town core area can not only promote fitness, but encourage an increased feeling of safety and eyes-on-the-streets.

In Section Three of this master plan, this more formalized trails network is described in greater detail with an accompanying map to show proposed trail types, routes, and overlook areas. In addition to planning for a trails system, recommendations to improve safety, maintenance, and encouraging use are addressed.

Existing Site Conditions Map Around Towaoc

Rodeo Grounds

Ute Mountain Ute Casino Hotel

Kwiyagat Community Academy (KCA)

Softball Fields

Recreation Center

North Star Ln

Existing 3’-0” concrete walk to connect Towaoc town core to Ute Mountain Casino Hotel and Travel Plaza

Existing walk along Mike Wash Road (Google Earth)

Need to mark crosswalks where walks meet at driveway crossings (Google Earth)

Existing sidewalk behind tribal offices in disrepair (Google Earth)

Sleeping Ute Diabetes Program Existing Walking Routes

THE PLANNING PROCESS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community-Led Design Public Process

Community Events

The public engagement process for the Towaoc Parks + Trails Master Plan project was thorough and extensive. The collective input that was gathered has helped to create the framework required to acquire grant funding, ensuring that plans for Towaoc’s future outdoor recreation spaces are both functional and reflective of local values. The below list encompasses the community outreach that was included in this public process.

• Three community events

• Two surveys (one for adults and one for youths)

• Eight stakeholder group meetings (monthly video calls)

• Ten or more meetings and phone calls with local individuals and groups

• Four or more meetings to coordinate with other master planning efforts

• A project presentation to Tribal Council

The three public engagement events were combined with other community events and had high attendance. The first of these meetings took place during the UMUT Spring Youth Fair, which was held on March 20th, 2024 in front of the Recreation Center. This event focused on gathering feedback and ideas for potential parks and trails from local youths and included idea/concept boards. An interactive activity was also offered where attendees placed stickers on boards to indicate their preferred park amenities and ideal park locations. This helped generate a visual prioritization of features for the design team to include in the development of park concept plans. Additionally, participants engaged in discussions about their aspirations for the community and the role parks can play in enhancing their quality of life. Such insights are instrumental in guiding the development of outdoor recreation opportunities that align with community values and needs.

The second public engagement event took place during the June 1st, 2024 Bear Dance Festival. Draft concept plans for parks and trails were featured at this event for public comment. (These were prepared based off of the insights and desires expressed by participants at the first event.) This event included two booths: one by the post office during the morning parade and one midday through mid-afternoon in front of the Recreation Center. Community outreach featured food, a coloring booth, and a raffle for an Eighth Generation Warrior Wool blanket for participation in filling out a survey on outdoor recreation ideas/wishes. The surveys included both online and paper survey versions for Towaoc adults and youths. The feedback from the surveys was tabulated and helped to refine the parks and trails concept plans and prioritize Towaoc’s outdoor recreation needs.

The third and final community engagement event took place on September 19th, 2024 and was paired with a UMUT and Rural Development 504 Program Workshop. This event took place at the Recreation Center and featured a bounce house, food, and coloring booth. Updated concept plans for parks and trails with associated costs were shown for feedback from community members in attendance. The local youths were the main meeting attendees; however, the design team was also able to visit with other vested community members. The feedback received was used to edit and finalize the concept plans that are included in this master plan document.

THE ELDERS WHO TEACH CULTURE AND LANGUAGE TO THE YOUNG KIDS

Chili Plates and Conversation at the Bear Dance Event Booth

Dot exercise at the youth fair

Resident input at the Bear Dance event day booth

Spring Youth Fair engagement event booth

Towaoc residents filling out surveys at the Towaoc Bear Dance parade booth

NEEDS ASSESSMENT

An Analysis of why Outdoor Recreation is Needed Key Insights for a Vibrant Outdoor Recreation Plan

The feedback from the community engagement process highlighted several key needs that are recommended in the development of this Parks+Trails Master Plan. Residents have expressed strong desires for safe pathways in order to foster active lifestyles and improve public health. Furthermore, safe park spaces were also prioritized. Such parks could provide diverse recreation opportunities for both children and adults—simultaneously encouraging both physical activity and social interaction. Additionally, the community has requested gathering places for events and family celebrations to strengthen social bonds and enhance relationships across generations.

To support these initiatives, residents emphasized the importance of developing funding plans for programs to build and maintain parks, while ensuring they remain accessible to all. Elders also vocalized the need to shape stewardship efforts in order to foster a sense of ownership and pride in shared community spaces. The proposed solutions to enhance the existing outdoor recreation conditions around Towaoc are bulleted below.

• Create safe pathways and trails. Establish a comprehensive pedestrian circulation network to promote active lifestyles and improve public health.

• Provide for varied outdoor recreation amenities that promote healthy activities. Create safe park spaces that provide recreational options for both children and adults and encourage physical activity and social interaction.

• Develop outdoor gathering spaces for a variety of group/event sizes. Build areas for community events and family celebrations to strengthen social bonds and enhance community cohesion.

• Apply for grant-funded programs. Seek funding to build and maintain parks, ensuring they remain accessible, vibrant, and well-resourced.

• Develop a guide and incentive community-led stewardship. Empower residents to take an active role in the care and enhancement of community spaces, while fostering a sense of ownership.

“Take the children to the mountain. Teach them the prayers. Say the words in the right sequence. The spirit will tell the right way. If this is not done, chances to connect to the spirit are lost,” Terry Knight.

“There is a need to weave culture and history into Towaoc’s outdoor spaces. We are mountain people. Our ancestors found strength in hiking and running,”Terry Knight

EXISTING OUTDOOR RECREATION CONDITIONS

PROPOSED SOLUTIONS

Some of Towaoc’s existing sidewalks are in disrepair and create unsafe walking conditions (Google Earth)

Create safe pathways and trails (5)

Many of the existing outdoor amenities are in a state of disrepair or are unavailable for use

Provide for varied outdoor recreation amenities that promote healthy activities (6)

There is a lack in outdoor gathering spaces throughout Towaoc

Develop outdoor gathering spaces for a variety of group/event sizes (7)

SECTION TWO GUIDING PRINCIPLES

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Guiding

Principles: Improving Health, Safety, and Welfare

The guiding principles of this master plan report are based off of the community desires that were communicated during the public process. These expressed desires focus on improving the health, safety, and welfare of the community through the development of a plan to build and maintain outdoor recreation activities in Towaoc. In order to foster these goals, the below list of guiding principles was used in the creation of this Towaoc Parks + Trails Master Plan.

• Consider Feasibility

• Ensure Constructibility

• Promote Safety

• Determine Suitable Grant Funding Opportunities

• Design to be Maintainable

Steps to Achieve Project Goals

The above-listed guiding principles led to the development of project goals. These goals are outlined below and were used as the ultimate project directives to ensure that the concept plans and ideas expressed in this master plan are achieving the intended design principles. The incorporation of these goals into the future outdoor recreation plans for Towaoc will help improve the health, safety, and welfare for Towaoc residents.

• Create Safe Pathways and Trails: Establish a comprehensive trail network to promote active lifestyles and improve public health.

• Build Outdoor Recreation Amenities: Create safe park spaces that provide recreational options for all ages in order to encourage both physical activity and social interaction.

• Develop Outdoor Gathering Places: Develop areas for community events and family celebrations that strengthen social bonds and enhance community cohesion.

• Seek Grant-Funded Programs: Seek funding to build and maintain parks, ensuring they remain accessible, vibrant, and well-resourced.

• Foster Community-Led Stewardship: Empower residents to actively care for and enhance community spaces, fostering a sense of ownership and pride.

• Celebrate the Craft: Ensure the longevity of implemented project work by high quality craftsmanship and the use of long-lasting materials.

• Ensure Regionally Appropriate: Use low-water native plants and locallysourced building materials that are common in the southwest Colorado/ Four Corners areas.

Create Safe Pathways and Trails

Circulation through a parks and trails network is essential for promoting community health and access to recreational spaces. Well-designed networks of walking paths, biking trails, and accessible routes encourage physical activity, improve mobility, and promote mental wellbeing—which is crucial in reducing diabetes. Additionally, interconnected trails enhance accessibility for all community members (including those with disabilities) by incorporating smooth pathways, proper lighting, and clear signage.

Active public spaces also provide natural surveillance, increasing safety as more people use and observe these areas while deterring crime and fostering a secure environment. This combination of physical activity, accessibility, and safety significantly contributes to the community’s overall health, safety, and welfare.

Build Outdoor Recreation Amenities

Outdoor recreation amenities, such as parks, also promote public health and increase ties to nature. Parks, in partnership with trails, create opportunities for people to enjoy and spend time outdoors and can help engender a sense of community. Ensuring that outdoor recreation is accessible to people of all ages and abilities is a fundamental goal of park development. Park amenities shall be based on thorough community input and needs assessments so as to meet local demand and have strong public support. Strategic site selection for these spaces will consider available land, minimizing costs, and maximizing access for residents.

Parks can incorporate natural surveillance principles by designing open, well-lit areas with clear sightlines and considering overall placement. Regular patrols and community watch programs can also be established to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors.

Develop Outdoor Gathering Places

Outdoor gathering spaces in Towaoc are also very important. Currently ceremonial gathering spaces such as the Bear Dance and Pow Wow grounds have high use during annual festivals. However, there are few other outdoor places to gather and connect socially outside of these spaces. It is desired that outdoor gathering areas would provide for a range of sizes and offer different types of activities such as food preparation, storytelling, small family celebrations, larger community events, etc.

Cooper Center for Environmental Learning (10) Naturita Town Park; Naturita, CO (DHM Design)

Victor Washington Park; Victor, CO (DHM Design)

Seek Grant-Funded Programs

Determining grant-funded programs that can help with costs to develop or maintain outdoor recreation amenities is key to developing parks and trails in Towaoc. Section Four of this document lists types of funding sources available for designing/building outdoor recreation as well as potential grants to which the UMUT could apply.

Foster Community-Led Stewardship

Partnerships with local volunteer groups and community organizations can support ongoing upkeep and foster a sense of ownership among residents. Incorporating public involvement from a project’s earliest phases such as planning and design through its construction can promote continued care of outdoor recreation amenities and discourage vandalism. Such efforts would be considered supplemental to ensuring that Towaoc has regular scheduled maintenance staff and hours in place to upkeep parks and trails.

Celebrate the Craft

Detailed planning and collaboration with experienced landscape architects and construction firms will ensure the parks are designed and built efficiently and to high standards. The end goal of developing outdoor spaces is to promote long-lasting amenities that are also easy to maintain. It is important to consider that modular designs and sustainable materials can streamline construction and reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, local artists or craftsworkers can be incorporated into the development of outdoor spaces— from manufacturing custom site furnishings to incorporating murals or sculpture artwork. This is a great way to incorporate UMUT history or cultural elements into park design.

Ensure Regionally Appropriate

Sustainable landscaping practices, such as region-appropriate vegetation and efficient irrigation systems, can be implemented to reduce maintenance needs. Considerations for building materials and colors that are in fitting with the general geographic area are important as well. For example, stucco and wood materials may be more suitable to development in Towaoc than structures with Victorian-style influences.

Student Welder (12)

Playground Monitor (11) , Community Stewardship (9)

Pinon Hills Golf Course, Farmington, New Mexico (13)

SECTION THREE PARK AND TRAIL RECOMMENDATIONS

OVERVIEW AND PRIORITIES

Based off of the public process results, guiding principles, and by analyzing the existing conditions and needs of Towaoc, parks and trails recommendations were developed. These proposed improvements and can be used by the UMUT as a guide for any future development for outdoor recreation within Towaoc. An overview of the parks and trails priorities is described first and then followed by more detailed concept plans. Recommendations for parks and trails priorities are shown separately as each are important to the development of the overall outdoor recreation system. However, their phasing is not directly related to each other.

If the parks and trails improvements shown in this master plan are not developed within the next five to ten years, then it would be good for the UMUT to do a community survey to reassess local priorities and park values for implementation. Some of the amenity improvements recommended could shift or change with this re-evaluation exercise.

Park Priorities

Priority 1 Option A - North Pocket Park

This pocket park would serve the residents living on the northern side of Towaoc and would consist of an approximately one to one and a half acre park space. It would offer both a small play space and community gathering area. More detailed information for this potential pocket park is shown on page 27.

Priority 1 Option B - South Pocket Park

The South Pocket Park option would serve the residents living on the southern side of Towaoc near the Rodeo Grounds and would consist of an approximately one to one and a half acre park space. It would also offer both a small play space and community gathering area. This park could be interchangeable with the North Pocket Park option as both are considered important priorities for development to the public. It will be up to the community and Tribal Council to determine which park should be slated first for funding and construction. More detailed information for this potential pocket park is shown on page 29.

Priority 2 - Community Park

The Community Park is considered to be Parks Priority #2 and is a more large-scale expansive athletic park space. The larger Community Park would feature one baseball/softball field, a large multi-use sports field, a large artificial turf flex space, a larger community playground, an amphitheater and large group community picnic area, pickleball courts and an outdoor recreation work-out equipment station area. More detailed information for this potential pocket park is shown on page 31.

This park is considered a secondary priority to the development of the small residential pocket parks because it is a larger and more expensive park and would encompass roughly 23 acres of space and would need to be situated more on the fringes of Towaoc rather than within neighborhoods. The public process meeting attendees collectively desire that a smaller, more attainable, and more quickly-implemented project be slated for the short-term. Therefore, the two pocket parks are considered the first park priority for implementation.

P1A

P2

P1B

Proposed trails; see trails priority map on next page

Trail and Trail Amenities Priorities

The trail and trail amenities priorities shown on this map comprise of an overall trails network that would partner with the park priorities shown on the previous page to develop a comprehensive outdoor recreation system for Towaoc. These priorities are to be considered independently of the parks priorities as different funding sources would be applicable to each.

Trail Priority #1

Sidewalk Extension through Town (color coded as a yellow line on the map). This is the top trail priority because it is low-hanging fruit. Fixing any damaged and inaccessible sections of the existing sidewalk running along Mike Wash Road and continuing it to the west to the road terminus is a small project and could improve accessibility within the town core.

Trail Priority #2

Regional Trail (color coded as a red line on the map). This would be a 10’-0” wide trail and is another high priority trail improvement since it would create a comprehensive multi-use pedestrian trail loop connecting both the north and south parts of Towaoc as well as the town core. The multi-user wide paved asphalt trail would also offer more opportunities that are not currently available to outdoor recreate in a social setting.

Trail Priority #3

Soft Surface Trails (color coded as purple lines on the map) are the next top priority and would be located adjacent to existing roadways. These would create a comprehensive trail network around the entire Towaoc community in partnership with the Regional Trail (Trail Priority #2).

Trail Amenities Priority #4

Regional Trailhead (color coded as a chartreuse dot on the map) is a top trails amenity priority. This would act as the gateway to the Regional Trail and would consist of a retrofitted shipping container with outdoorfocused signage, restroom facilities, and a covered deck area.

Trail Amenities Priority #5

Trail Storytelling Spaces (color coded as a red dot on the map) is also an important trails amenity priority. These would consist of small crusher fines gathering spaces with sandstone slab seating and potentially shade structures and/or signage.

Trail Amenities Priority #6

Small Trail Overlook Areas (color coded as orange dots on the map) are to be located at key trail intersections/view corridor vistas. These would feature small shade structures, benches, and potentially signage.

Trail Amenities Priority #7

Mountain Bike Skills Loop (color coded as a green dot on the map) is another valuable amenity for Towaoc and could build off the overall parks and trails network. This park would be an approximately one acre loop path with skills features.

Trail Amenities Priority #8

Horseback Trail (thick dashed line on the map) is another amenity that was mentioned frequently in the public process and on surveys for Towaoc residents about parks and trails wishes for the UMUT. This 6 mile loop is shown to the north of Towaoc and could tie in with the overall soft surface trail system adjacent to existing roads.

Trail Amenities Priority #9

Fenced Dog Park (color coded as a yellow dot on the map) represents potential locations for a one acre fenced dog park. This would be a fenced area with easy-to-clean and maintain crusher fines surfacing, site furnishings, agility features, minimal planting, and potentially a water fountain and spigot hook-up for a small dog pool. This amenity would offer the residents of Towaoc the opportunity to recreate with their dogs in a safe place.

INCORPORATE HISTORY AND CULTURE INTO DESIGN

Storytelling with Landscape Materials

Incorporating history and culture into the design of new parks is essential to creating spaces that resonate with the community and honor local heritage. This can be achieved through the thoughtful use of significant colors, symbols, language, references to native animals or plants, history, geology, and cultural elements. Representation of these features could be fulfilled by incorporating local artists’ or crafts peoples’ skills in the development of different elements of site or product design. By embedding these cultural markers into the fabric of the park, a rich tapestry is created that tells the story of the UMUT community and its values.

Laser-Cut Shade Structure Paneling

• Artistic Panels: Shade structures with laser-cut panels can feature intricate designs that reflect cultural motifs, such as traditional textile patterns or iconic local symbols.

• Shadow Play: As sunlight filters through these panels, the resulting shadows can create dynamic, ever-changing patterns on the ground, symbolizing the ongoing influence of history and culture in the present.

• By integrating these elements into the construction documents for the next phase of the park’s design, we ensure that the space not only serves its recreational purpose but also becomes a living repository of the community’s rich history and culture.

The ideas shown on these pages are intended to act as an idea-generator for the next step in developing the concept plans shown in this parks and trails master plan. As outdoor recreation amenities are selected for funding and installation, a more detailed design that includes the UMUT history and culture in the landscape materials should be developed, then reviewed and approved by Tribal Council.

To further promote the sense of community in the development of these proposed outdoor spaces, a youth committee could help with the park naming. Potentially, tribal youths could idea-generate park names then have the elders interpret the names in the written UMUT language. This could be part of a community engagement event with prizes offered to those who contributed the winning park names.

• Cultural Elements: Signage can incorporate historical symbols, traditional fonts, and languages that reflect the community’s heritage. For example, information boards can feature the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe language, additional regional languages, and/or historic scripts alongside translations.

• Historical Narratives: Storyboards and plaques can narrate significant events, notable figures, and/or the cultural evolution of the area, offering educational opportunities for visitors that give the community a platform to tell their stories.

• Cultural Imprints: Concrete surfaces can be textured or stamped with patterns inspired by traditional art forms or significant symbols such as the bear, eagle, or roses—thereby weaving cultural aesthetics into the very pathways on which visitors tread.

• Historic Symbolism: Embedding symbols or emblems into concrete structures can highlight cultural heritage and provide tactile connections to history.

• Colors: Ute colors are red, yellow, and sky blue. The yellow sun represents that creator.

Examples of Storytelling with Landscape Materials

Signage

Concrete Patterns

The Barn, 900 University, BOK Modern (14)

Indigenous Heritage Signage, Queen’s University (15)

Three Springs Leaves, DHM Design

Wayfinding

• Symbolic Markers: Wayfinding elements, such as directional signs and trail markers, can include culturally significant motifs and colors. These markers can guide visitors and introduce them to local history and traditions.

• Cultural Routes: Designating specific trails or paths that follow historical routes or significant cultural landscapes can help visitors explore the park through a narrative created by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe community.

“WE USED TO PLAY IN TREES AND DRINK FROM THE WATER HOSE, BUT TODAY GAMES ARE ELECTRONIC. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS ARE SO IMPORTANT,” TOWAOC COMMUNITY MEMBER, 2024.

Paver Patterns

• Traditional Designs: Paver layouts can mirror traditional weaving patterns or other important designs from the local culture, adding a layer of historical relevance to the ground plane.

• Storytelling Pathways: Different areas of the parks can have unique paver patterns that represent different historical periods or cultural themes, guiding visitors on a journey through time.

• Community Murals: Large-scale murals depicting historical events, cultural symbols, and native wildlife can transform walls and surfaces into vibrant storytelling canvases. These murals can be created in collaboration with local artists and community members.

• Thematic Artwork: Themes for the murals can be drawn from folklore, significant historical moments, or important cultural figures, and provide a visual narrative that enriches a park’s atmosphere.

Mural Art

Abenaki Signage, Indigenous New Hampshire Collaborative Collective University of New Hampshire Campus (16)

Paver Pattern (17)

Every Child Matters Mural, Agnes Yellow Bear and Melanie Moniz Bismarck’s Art Alley, Bismarck, North Dakota (18)

PROPOSED NORTH POCKET PARK

North Pocket Park

The North Pocket Park concept plan is intended to act as a potential community park design featuring the activities that were desired by the project stakeholder group and community members who participated in the public process. This park is approximately 1.1 acres in size. The amenities provided in this concept plan are outlined below.

• Playground area with poured-in-place safety surfacing and freestanding equipment

• Small boulder play area

• Benches with shade

• Small restroom

• Small storage shed (for maintenance)

• A small shaded community gathering space

• Fencing with double-gated safety entrance

• Accessible walkway surfacing

• Gravel parking area

• Basketball striping and goal

• Perimeter walking path

ARTIFICIAL TURF AREA, TYP.

SMALL FENCED DOG PARK

FREESTANDING SLIDE

SMALL SHADED GATHERING AREA WITH GRILL FOR COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

BASKETBALL

VAULT TOILET

DOUBLE-GATED SAFETY ENTRANCE

PARKING STOPS (TYP.)

SWING SET

BENCH WITH SHADE (TYP.)

BOULDER PLAY AREA

POWDERCOATED BLACK 5’ HT. CHAINLINK SAFETY FENCING

BOULDERS AT ENTRY

GRAVEL PARKING AREA (19 SPACES)

Basketball

Swing Sets (22)

Mommy-and-Me Swing (21)

Bench with Shade

Slide (23)

Boulder Play Area (20)

Shade Shelter at Storytelling Gathering Space (24)

PROPOSED SOUTH POCKET PARK

South Pocket Park

The South Pocket Park concept plan is also intended to act as a potential community park design and features different activities that were desired by the project stakeholder group and community members who participated in the public process. This park is approximately 1.3 acres in size. The amenities provided in this concept plan are outlined below.

• Playground area with poured-in-place safety surfacing and freestanding equipment

• Small boulder play area

• Paved half court basketball/multi-use games area

• Benches with shade

• Small restroom

• Small storage shed

• A sand volleyball court area with viewing seating

• A picnicking area with overhead shade

• Fencing with double-gated safety entrance

• Accessible walkway surfacing

• Gravel parking area

• Perimeter walking path

GRAVEL PARKING AREA 26 SPACES

BOULDERS AT ENTRY

DOUBLE-GATED SAFETY ENTRANCE

LARGE CLIMBING BOULDER VAULT TOILET

BOULDER CLIMBING PLAY AREA

COMMUNITY SHADE SHELTER WITH PICNIC TABLES & GRILL FOR COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

SAND VOLLEYBALL WITH VIEWING SEATING

PROPOSED TREES

PLAYGROUND AREA

STABILIZED CRUSHER FINES WALK HALF COURT BASKETBALL/ MULTI-USE GAME AREA BENCHES WITH SHADE

SMALL 7’X10’ STORAGE SHED

Sand Volleyball with Viewing Seating

Multi-Use Half Basketball Court / Games Area (27)

Vault Toilet

Sculptural Shade Shelters over Benches

Large Climbing Boulder (28)

Community Picnic Shelter with Tables (26) Playground

Concrete Bench Seating (at Sand Volleyball Area)

•

PROPOSED TOWAOC COMMUNITY PARK

Towaoc Community Park

The overall concept plan shown on this page represents a more regional, athletic facility sized community park. It is roughly 23 acres and is intended to show what the layout of a larger scale park in Towaoc would feature. It would need to be developed in phases as the park is so expansive but encompasses a majority of the desired amenities expressed at the Towaoc public meetings. (See page 34 of this report for a phasing diagram for this design.) Another benefit of this plan is that it features a placeholder location for softball fields that may need to be relocated if the KCA education campus expands into the existing softball field area. Amenities featured at the Towaoc Community Park are bulleted below.

• Tot lot playground space (for children aged 2-5 years)

• Playground space (for children aged 5-12 years)

• Boulder climbing area

• Amphitheater community gathering area with open air stage

• Fenced dog area

• Feast house with food preparation area and restrooms

• Large picnic shelter for 50+ people

• Multi-use turf sport field (football, lacrosse, soccer, etc.)

• High school regulation size baseball fields (1 field; multi-functional as softball field)

• Press box with P.A. system and restrooms

• Dugouts, batting cage, and shaded viewing bleachers

• An artificial turf flex space area which could be adjusted to feature outdoor volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, basketball courts, water/splash park, or other amenities as future park priorities are re-evaluated by the community and Tribal Council prior to the construction of this space within the community park (such reassessment of values and potential park amenities could be done every five years to remain up-to-date with community priorities)

• Pickleball (3 courts) with noise buffer berms

• Shaded outdoor workout equipment area

• Small family picnic shelters (7 shown on plan)

• Small group picnic shelters (for groups of 10-20 people; 2 shown on plan)

• Drainage improvements

• Looped path system (10’ wide paved and 6’ wide soft surface trails) with signage that could include information on trail mileage or numbers of calories burned/mile

• Gravel parking area (with potential temporary vendor set-up area near the baseball/softball field and press box)

OVERALL CONCEPT PLAN

SMALL PICNIC SHELTERS WITH 2 TABLES (TYP.)

AMPHITHEATER COMMUNITY GATHERING AREA WITH OPEN AIR STAGE TO VIEW BLACK + UTE MOUNTAINS

FEAST HOUSE WITH FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND RESTROOMS WATER TREATMENT DETENTION AREA

LARGE PICNIC SHELTER FOR 50+ PEOPLE WITH GRILLS FOR COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

ARTIFICIAL TURF FLEX SPACE FOR ADDITIONAL SOFTBALL FIELD/ VOLLEYBALL/SOCCER/ETC.

SHADED VIEWING BLEACHERS (TYP.)

DUGOUTS (TYP.)

PRESS BOX WITH P.A. SYSTEM AND RESTROOMS

MULTI-USE TURF SPORT FIELD

PLAYGROUND (AGES 5-12)

TOT LOT

BOULDER CLIMBING PLAY AREA

6’ WIDE SOFT SURFACE TRAILS; TRAILS WITH LOOPS AND CALORIE COUNTER INFORMATION SIGNS

10’ WIDE CONCRETE TRAIL

POTENTIAL FUTURE ROAD CONNECTION (IF NEEDED)

GRAVEL PARKING LOT (251 PARKING SPACES WITH 4 BUS PARKING SPACES)

SHADED WORKOUT EQUIPMENT AREA

SMALL PICNIC SHELTER (4 TABLES)

PICKLEBALL (3 COURTS) WITH NOISE BUFFER BERMS

SMALL PICNIC SHELTERS WITH 2 TABLES, TYP.

PROPOSED TOWAOC COMMUNITY PARK ENLARGEMENT PLAN 1/2

PROPOSED TOWAOC COMMUNITY PARK ENLARGEMENT PLAN 2/2

Baseball/Softball

PHASING

Project Phasing

The purpose of this Master Plan document is to act as a road map for the future development and improvements for parks and trails around Towaoc. With input from the community and availability of funding, prioritization on the parks and trails improvement projects can be chosen and built. It is anticipated that as parks and trails projects are selected and slated for construction, design consultants will be employed to develop construction documents and will prepare more detailed cost estimates. (See Appendix A for rough cost estimates that were developed from the concept plans and maps shown in this report.) Based on available funding and other considerations, it is suggested the list of parks and trails projects outlined in this master plan be divided into many different phases with funds budgeted towards the goal of completing a logically usable phase (which can stand on its own) each fiscal year. The completion of all recommended projects outlined in this master plan for Towaoc’s proposed parks and trails improvements may take 20 years or more to complete. As these improvement projects take place over time, priorities may shift. It is important that the Town continue to reevaluate priorities and phasing of improvements every five to 10 years to continue to align with the community goals for enhancing Towaoc’s parks and trails network.

Phasing of projects is best guided by several criteria including:

• An immediate opportunity where a logical, usable connection can be made with current or readily available resources

• Availability of rights-of-way and permitting

• Availability of funding and/or grants to build and maintain improvements

• Catalyst projects that demonstrate the value of the project, build public support and help promote further community support and fund-raising

• Opportunity to include a trail with a current private or public development project such as a highway improvement, access road or new subdivision

• Projects that can be completed using volunteers or in-kind labor and resources.

• Segments that offer an exceptional experience and/or are highly visible to the public

• Availability of funding and/or grants to build and maintain improvements

Next Steps

The next steps that the UMUT needs to take to develop the recommended outdoor recreation spaces shown in this report are as follows: 1) confirm high priority parks and trails improvements or individual projects for these, 2) start fundraising and planning efforts to acquire funding for the construction of these projects, and 3) hire design professionals to develop more detailed construction documents and cost estimates for implementation. The recommended priorities for effective implementation of the proposed parks and trails recommendations outlined in this master plan document are shown in further detail on pages 23 and 24 of this report. The diagram shown on this page is a further more detailed breakdown for phasing in improvements for the Towaoc Community Park since it is such a large-scale park.

Community Park Proposed Phasing Diagram

Potential phases for the Towaoc Community Park are described in greater detail below. These phases may be reorganized as needed depending the park’s determined location and where the vehicular access points into the site will be situated.

Phase 1 - Playground

• (1) Age 5-12 Years Play Area

• (1) Ages 2-5 Years Play Area

• (1) Boulder Climbing Play Area

• (5) Small Picnic Areas w/ (1) shelter and (2) tables

• Water Quality Treatment Areas

• (1) 950 LF Concrete Loop Path

• 28 New Trees and 22 Gravel Parking Spaces

Phase 2 - Community Gathering Area

• Stage/Amphitheater for Community Events

• Feast House with Large Shelter for Community Events and Food Preparation Area

• 16 New Trees and 14 Gravel Parking Spaces

• 320 LF 10’ Paved Trail and 260 LF 6’ Unpaved Trail

• (2) Small Picnic Areas w/ (1) shelter and (2) tables

• (1) Small 7’x10’ Storage Shed

• Water Quality Treatment Areas

Phase 3 - Multi-use Sport Field

• (1) 230’ X 390’ Multi-use Sports Field

• (1) Mid-sized Picnic Area w/ (1) shelter and (4) tables

• 670 LF 10’ Paved Trail and 1,160 LF 6’ Unpaved Trail

• 50 New Trees and 103 Gravel Parking Spaces

Phase 4 - Baseball Fields & Multi-Use Flex Space

• (1) Full-Sized High School Baseball Fields

• (1) Artificial Turf Flex Space Area

• (2-4) Dugouts and (2-4) Shaded Bleachers

• Press Box with P.A. System and Restrooms

• (1) Batting Cage

• 1,110 LF 10’ Paved Trail and 1,300 LF 6’ Unpaved Trail

• 60 New Trees and 103 Gravel Parking Spaces

Phase 5 - Pickleball Courts & Exercise Area

• (3) Pickleball Courts

• (1) Mid-sized Picnic Area w/ (1) shelter and (4) tables

• Shaded Outdoor Exercise Area with Workout Equipment

• Noise Buffer Berms

• 160 LF 10’ Paved Trail and 80 LF 6’ Paved Trail

• 20 New Trees

Phase 1 - Playground

Phase 2 - Community Gathering Area

Phase 3 - Multi-use Sport Field

Phase 4 - Baseball Fields

Phase

PROPOSED TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS

The trail improvements shown on this plan match the recommendation descriptions shown on the Trail and Trail Amenities Priorities shown previously on page 24 of this report. The proposed park concepts described on pages 27 through 33 can be supported by the creation of the trail network shown on this page - creating an overall outdoor recreation corridor throughout the Towaoc community.

Regional Trailhead at Mike Wash Road Terminus with Restrooms, Signage, Picnic Area Scenic Overlook (39)

Trail Storytelling Space (40)

Small Trail Overlook Areas with Seating, Shade, and Informational Signage (38)

Fenced Dog Park (36)

Unpaved Trail Concept (37)

Mountain Bike Trail (41)

MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY

Programs to Foster Park Success, Safety, and Longevity

For the parks and trails recommendations to be deemed successful, safe, and long-lasting, it is paramount that Towaoc develop and enact maintenance programs that are both funded and staffed. Such programs would include regular maintenance schedules that UMUT staff would perform as well as frequent security patrols. Community engagement efforts such as build projects, fall or spring clean-ups, or group mural art at outdoor recreation areas could help generate a sense of ownership within residents that would help with reducing potential vandalism at these spaces.

In order to fund regular tribe-sponsored maintenance for outdoor recreation in Towaoc, monies must be set in place in the annual UMUT budget. The funds supporting this budget could be supported by grants and/or public-private partnerships. Regardless, a continuous annual budget to support additional outdoor park or trail improvements is crucial in ensuring long-term success for these spaces. With the allotted funds, the UMUT shall employ dedicated and experienced parks maintenance staff to oversee operations and upkeep to guarantee that these spaces remain vibrant and safe for years to come. Vested community members or interest groups in the tribe could help promote and lead any potential local involvement efforts for park amenities such as annual clean-up efforts.

Proper management and resource allocation will help sustain any new park and trail infrastructure created in Towaoc--improving aesthetic appeal, safety standards, and fostering these thriving community assets.

The Venn Diagram for Park Success Built To Last

Using durable, high-quality, and low-maintenance materials and ensuring quality control during construction can result in both long-lasting and made-to-last outdoor recreation spaces.

Community Involvement

Community involvement can promote usage and care of park and trail amenities. Public participation in the design phases can ensure that the amenities incorporated into parks and trails reflect local values and needs. Similarly, inviting Towaoc residents to help build these recreation spaces can engender a sense of ownership—thereby reducing the potential for vandalism. Volunteerism in the form of a one-day clean-up could occur at different times throughout the year (such as Earth Day) and could further promote a sense of ownership for local parks. Tribal leadership could even sponsor one-day clean-ups using employees.

Regular Maintenance

No matter how low maintenance a project is designed to be, ongoing regular maintenance is a requirement of any facility. Therefore, a budget dedicated for regular upkeep and operations shall be set in place as these amenities are designed and built. With budgeted funding, dedicated UMUT maintenance staff can fulfill the daily, weekly, monthly and annual service requirements to verify that the longevity of these built products is sustained. Potentially, even Weeminuche Construction Authority (WCA), a day labor program, or an independently-hired landscaping company could be recruited to help with parks/trails maintenance and upkeep. Another consideration for maintenance is purchasing and designating funding and storage for equipment needed to maintain parks and trails such as lawn mowers, weed eaters, tractors, etc. Refer to Appendix C for a more detailed description of these maintenance recommendations.

Design Considerations

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Universal accessibility is a top design priority for future parks and trails improvements. By accommodating for people of all ages and abilities ensures that outdoor amenities are not restrictive. They shall be both welcoming and usable by everyone. Accessible considerations include planning for paths, seating, parking, and play areas.

Aesthetic Appeal

Attractive, thoughtful, and well-planned design elements are a draw for parks and trails visitors and encourage repeated use. Such amenities contribute to a facility’s popularity and long-term success.

Safety Features

Incorporating safety features such as installing pedestrian lighting, maintaining clear sightlines, and providing emergency call stations can augment park users’ sense of security and comfort.

Durability Considerations

Durability

It is important to incorporate high-quality, durable materials in the design and construction of these outdoor recreation improvements. Long-lasting materials ensure that the park can withstand heavy use, potential vandalism, reduced maintenance, and annual weather conditions. This reduces the need for frequent repairs.

Low-Maintenance

Selecting materials and plants that require minimal upkeep helps manage maintenance costs and effort, making the park more sustainable.

Long-Term Maintenance

Every amenity requires some upkeep and maintenance. Towaoc’s planning for long-term maintenance from the outset should include both budget allocation and resource/personnel planning. Such efforts can ensure that future parks and trails remain in good condition and have longevity.

Construction Considerations

Value Engineering

It is important to maintain the overall integrity of parks and trails designs during discussions on cost savings and cuts. For example, changing from one material to another does not guarantee that each will have the same longevity or aesthetic quality. Some modifications may still work with the intended goals for the amenities, while others it is worth it to pay more and maintain quality.

Awarding Bids

Different construction companies may bid to build these outdoor recreation improvement projects. The lowest bidder may be the top choice; however, it is important to consider skill level, previous projects, and relevant experience as factors in determining a construction company. It may be better to pick a competitor that is not the low bid in order to ensure success during construction—especially if the project involves specialty work.

Quality Control

Ensure quality control is maintained during the construction process. An Owner’s Representative educated in building or hiring design consultant(s) to provide construction observation services can help to guarantee a project is built to endure in a safe manner.

Path Accessibility, Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore, NPS (42)

Ridgway Streetscape Project; Ridgway, CO

Ridgway Streetscape Project; Ridgway, CO

CREATING SAFE PUBLIC SPACES/DISCOURAGING VANDALISM

Community involvement in the planning and maintenance of public outdoor spaces engenders a sense of ownership and pride among residents. This can lead to better care and reduced vandalism. Initiatives such as volunteer cleanup days and neighborhood watch programs both enhance park upkeep and promote safety. Furthermore, active spaces that are equipped with features like playgrounds and trails attract frequent visitation which can create natural surveillance that deters crime and vandalism. Park placement is also important. By strategically locating outdoor recreation amenities in centralized and accessible situations, increased usage of these facilities is generated. More users also equates to augmented visibility—further enhancing safety by integrating these spaces into the community’s daily life. All of these efforts can help to discourage vandalism in Towaoc’s outdoor recreation amenities.

How Park Placement Improves Safety

Strategic placement of parks can significantly enhance community safety. Parks located in central, accessible areas increase both foot traffic and visibility. This creates a natural deterrent to criminal activities. By situating parks near hubs of activity such as residential areas, schools, and community centers, they become more integrated into daily life. Encouraging more frequent use of these spaces makes them safer.

How Active Places Create Natural Surveillance

Active parks with features such as playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails naturally attract people—which leads to higher usage rates throughout the day. Such regular activity creates natural surveillance; park users and passersby are observing and monitoring the area. Therefore, the increased visibility and regular foot traffic reduces opportunities for illicit behavior, making public amenities safer for everyone.

Community Involvement Creates a Sense of Stewardship

Engaging the community in the planning, development, and maintenance of parks fosters a sense of ownership and pride among residents. When people feel connected to and responsible for their local parks, they are more likely to care for them, reducing instances of vandalism and neglect. Furthermore, this sense of pride leads to more self-regulation and policing. Fellow residents are less likely to damage cherished public amenities. Community involvement initiatives, such as volunteer cleanup days, neighborhood watch programs, and local stewardship groups, can significantly enhance the upkeep and safety of parks.

Father’s Day Walk, Ute Bulletin Vol. 58

Kwiyagat Meet and Greet at Veteran’s Park, www.the-journal.com

Kwiyagat Community Academy, treeswaterpeople.org

ANIMAL CONTROL

Strategies for Animal Control and Enhancing Community Well-Being

Implementing efforts to reduce human and animal conflicts can significantly improve community-wide health by creating safer walking and running spaces for residents. A prime example of unsafe conditions created by animals is Towaoc’s wild dog population. Some potential programs to improve safety for the loose dogs include spay/neuter programs and providing fencing around residential houses and outdoor recreation spaces. With fewer unchecked animals moving freely about the community, children and adults can circulate freely, fostering increased socialization and active lifestyles. Moreover, safer environments can encourage elderly residents to leave their homes and engage in outdoor activities—which would promote both physical health and mental well-being. Such augmented safety and accessibility would result in stronger community connections. Neighbors could interact outdoors in shared spaces, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Some ideas for animal control are bulleted below.

• Enforce Neuter and Spay Programs: Implement low-cost or free spay/ neuter clinics to control population growth.

• Implement Catch and Adopt Programs: Establish initiatives to capture wild dogs for adoption while helping to find them permanent homes.

• Provide Community Education: Raise awareness about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying/neutering animal populations.

• Install Gates and Fences at Public Amenities: Create community spaces with double-gated entries to minimize wild dog access.

• Offer a Fence Installation/Replacement Program for Residents: Upgrade and replace fences to prevent wild dogs from entering residential areas. A rough cost estimate for such a program is shown in the table below.

Potential Fence Replacement Fund Program for Residents Assumes +/- 20 year fence installation plan for all Towaoc Homes Assumes +/- 450 LF of 3’-5’ ht. fence per house

Spay/Neuter Programs, Underdog Rescue and Rehab (43)

Keith Slim-Tolagai, Best Friends Navajo Nation Program Specialist (44)

Double-Entry Gates for Community Outdoor Recreation Areas (48)

Rez Roads Adventures Chantal Wadsworth (45)

SECTION FOUR IMPLEMENTATION

STEPS FOR IMPLEMENTATION

Next Steps Needed to Realize Parks and Trails Implementation

The Ute Mountain Ute Parks+Trails Master Plan features recommendations for outdoor recreation improvements that were guided by the public process and input from the project stakeholder group. There are also solutions described for successful maintenance, safety, and discouraging vandalism. Probable costs for these projects are shown in Appendix A. Appendix C features additional maintenance information including probable staffing hours, costs, and required number of staff members needed per different sizes of the proposed parks and trails plans. Potential funding strategies are also described in the following pages of this document. In addition to all of this information, it is important to outline specific steps that the UMUT must take in order to move forward with these parks and trails recommendations. These steps are shown in the flow diagram to the right.

Other workflows that would contribute to the success of the parks/trails recommendations implementation process are listed below.

• Identify key staff who can act as project coordinators to promote and guide implementation activities. Potential tasks include acting as a liaison for Tribal Council and the community with the Design Team during the public process and construction documents development, and Owner’s Representative during construction.

• Creating a public information program that includes a project website to keep the community informed on the plans, accomplishments, and volunteer activities, etc. associated with the project development.

1) Tribal Council and UMUT Recreation Department to Confirm Priority Projects for Parks and Trails Recommendations Shown in this Master Plan

6) Put the Project out to Bid; UMUT/ Tribal Council to Hire a Construction Company to Build the Project

2) Tribal Council and UMUT Planning Department to Confirm Trail Routes and Park Locations

7) Select Owner’s Representative to Observe Construction Process (could be the Designer or Someone from the UMUT Experienced in Construction

3) UMUT to Determine Funding Sources (Potential to Apply for Grants, Allocating Monies from Tribe Annual Budget, etc.)

8) Complete Project Construction (could Involve Community Build Projects during the Process); have Grand Opening Celebration

4) Select a Project for Construction; Approve at Tribal Council Session

9) Allocate Resources (Staffing and Funding) for Project Upkeep: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, and Annually

5) Hire a Design Firm to Prepare Construction Documents; this Company could also Help with the Bidding Process or Involve a Public Input Process

10) Repeat Steps 1 - 9 for Each New Park or Trail Improvement Project

Naturita Town Park KaBOOM! Adventure Course Community Planning Meeting at the Community Building (8/23/2021)

GRANT AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

How to Achieve Grants for Parks and Trails

1. Prepare a master plan document to guide future development.

2. Acquire required funding matching (could be through Towaoc budget and/or private donations).

3. Fill out grant application forms. (The UMUT could hire a grant writer if assistance is needed.)

Other Helpful Factors that Boost Grant Applications

• Provide public participation/input/letters of support for project.

• Develop a maintenance plan.

• Confirm community participation in constructing/maintaining the built project (volunteerism).

• Show in-kind donations (funding, materials, or labor) for the project.

Funding Strategy

There are several potential funding sources that could help with the development of the Towoac parks and trails improvements depicted in this master plan over the next several years. These include:

Local Appropriations

These funds come from Tribal revenues (such as income from the Ute Mounatin Casino Hotel and WCA Construction LLC) and other sources and appropriations. Local commitment and dedication of some of these monies to parks and trails development and maintenance is key to providing match money for grants and helping leverage potential outside funding.

Create a Designated Fund

There are numerous examples of special taxes dedicated to open space, trails, parks and other similar community investments. A very small additional increment on sales or casino revenue collected by the tribe can generate substantial funds that can be invested in infrastructure vital to the long-term health and economic well being of the community. Tribes can also establish a community foundation, which is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization that collects funds for the benefit of a specific geographic area and type of improvement project—such as for parks and trails improvements. Donations to community foundations are tax deductible.

Local Development

As new building construction comes on line, a number of communities have been successful in funding trails and greenway improvements through the sub-division development process.

As an example, Commerce City, Colorado has been extremely successful working with developers to set aside open space corridors and build trails and parks in the developing area west of Denver International Airport. A key to this success was having a sound master plan in place. It should be noted that many developers want these improvements because they recognize them as essential benefits for the future marketability of their lands.

Individual, Philanthropic and Corporate Giving

There are several possible sources of private sector funding for trail and recreation projects. Programs and levels of sponsorship vary. These might include: gifts, grants, bequests, fundraising events, and other forms of giving. There are many ways to recognize these individuals or groups such as signage along trails or in parks where the gifts were used in a project’s development.

In-Kind and Volunteerism

There are opportunities to engage in-kind services from public agencies or private participants both in land donations and possibly use of equipment, labor or materials. This might also include the local schools, youth programs, scout projects, and volunteerism.

DHM assisted the City of Denver with a successful GOCO grant application that funded multiple river parks along the South Platte River.

Suggested Grants/Foundations Opportunities

There are several potential grant sources typically considered for recreation and trails projects. The following list illustrates a number of grant agencies and programs that may provide access to funding for planning and/or implementation of specific these types of projects. This list is not exclusive; other options may also be available. The most effective method for choosing and pursuing grant funding is to engage the expertise of a grant writing professional or an individual with direct experience in winning grants to evaluate funding opportunities and assemble applications for the tribe. It is also possible to submit for several grant applications simultaneously. Many grants allow the matching monies that would be supplied by the UMUT to be used for several grants if they are won and built within required timeframes. Therefore, it is actually in Towaoc’s best interest to apply for multiple grants and leverage funding to make the tribe’s matching capital stretch further and receive more recreation improvements.

Fundable Project Elements

• Recreation

• Interpretation (signage)

• Education

• Restoration

• Public Access

• Specialized Programming (cultural, biking, trails, etc.)

• Energy Efficiency

• Public Art

• Public Transportation

Eligible Local Projects

• Playgrounds

• Trails

• Connectivity to Town amenities

• Environmental education facilities

• Outdoor amenities including gathering areas

• Infrastructure (irrigation, sprinkler systems, drainage pipes, parking lots, lighting)

• Amenities (restrooms, drinking fountains, benches, picnic tables, pavilions, etc.)

Colorado Grant Programs

• GOCO - Special Initiative Grants (including Community Impact and Generation Wild Grants)

https://goco.org/programs-projects/our-grant-programs https://goco.org/programs-projects/grant-programs/generation-wild Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) offers competitive grant programs for outdoor recreation, land conservation, and stewardship projects throughout Colorado.

• Colorado Department of Local Affairs dlg.colorado.gov/conservation-trust-fund-ctf Conservation Trust Fund, funding can be used for the acquisition, development, and maintenance of new conservation sites, or for capital improvements, or maintenance for recreational purposes on any publiclyused site.

• Colorado Department of Transportation - Transportation Alternatives Program www.codot.gov/programs/planning/grants/tap-fiscal-years-2024-26 Federal funds are allocated under the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) to transportation improvement projects that expand travel choice, strengthen the local economy, improve quality of life, and protect the environment. Many TAP projects enhance non-motorized forms of transportation like biking and walking.

• The Gates Family Foundation gatesfamilyfoundation.org/engage/how-to-apply/

The mission of the Gates Family Foundation is to invest in projects and organizations which have meaningful impact in Colorado primarily through capital grants and foundation initiatives that enhance the quality of life for those living in, working in, and visiting the state. The foundation seeks to promote excellence, innovation and self-sufficiency in education, healthy lifestyles, community enrichment, connection to nature, and stewardship of the state’s natural inheritance.

• Colorado Parks and Wildlife Division (CPW)

The Recreational (non-motorized) Trails Program cpw.state.co.us/aboutus/Pages/Non-Motorized-Trail-Program.aspx

The Non-motorized Grant Program is a multi-agency funding partnership that includes Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), Colorado Lottery, Federal Recreational Trails Program funds (RTP) and Federal Land and Water Conservation funds (LWCF). This Grant Program provides funding for trail planning projects as well as small and large trail construction and maintenance projects.

Federal Grant Programs

• America Walks americawalks.org/programs/community-change-grants/ The Community Change Grants program supports the growing network of advocates, organizations, and agencies working to advance walkability. Grants are awarded to innovative, engaging, and inclusive programs and projects that create change and opportunity for walking and movement at the community level.

• Advocacy Advance www.advocacyadvance.org/

Advocacy Advance Grants, a dynamic partnership of the League of American Bicyclists and the Alliance for Biking & Walking—aims to boost local and state bicycle and pedestrian advocacy efforts. With support from SRAM Cycling Fund, the Everybody Walk Collaborative, REI, and New Belgium Brewing, Advocacy Advance provides targeted trainings, reports, grants, and assistance to equip advocates with the specific tools they need to increase biking and walking in their communities.

• USDA - Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/community-facilities/communityfacilities-direct-loan-grant-program

This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area and does not include private, commercial, or business undertakings.

• CPW The Land and Water Conservation Fund https://cpw.state.co.us/land-and-water-conservation-fund-grants From parks to playgrounds, wilderness to wetlands, bicycle paths to hiking trails, the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) has helped government agencies nationwide to protect valuable natural resources and provide meaningful public recreation opportunities since 1965.

• Other Federal Grants https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/search-grants.html

Tribal Grant Programs

• Tribal Transportation Program Safety Fund (TTPSF) https://highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/tribal/safety/funds

Transportation fatalities and injuries severely impact the quality of life in Indian country. Each year under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), as enacted by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 11758), 4% of the available TTP funds are set aside to address transportation safety issues identified by federally recognized Indian tribes through a competitive, discretionary program. Projects are chosen whose outcomes will reduce fatal and serious injuries in transportation related incidents— such as motor vehicle crashes.

• Indian Land Tenure Foundation https://iltf.org/grants/

The ILTF offers grants to Indian nations and nonprofit organizations for land-related initiatives in education, cultural awareness, economic opportunity, and legal reform.

• Notah Begay III Foundation https://www.nb3foundation.org/

The Notah Begay III Foundation offers potential funding to ensure Native children achieve their full potential by advancing cultures of Native American community health.

• The Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation https://www.reynoldsamerican.com/santa-fe-foundation/

The Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation grants financial assistance to organizations that support the preservation, promotion, and advancement of American Indian self-sufficiency and culture in the United States, including programs for (i) the development of American Indian entrepreneurism, (ii) facilitating American Indian education (particularly college, graduate, and post-graduate education), and (iii) the preservation and enhancement of American Indian culture. The Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company (SFNTC) Foundation will only consider proposals that fall within the above charter. Grants generally range from $10,000 to $20,000 and are primarily awarded to organizations that serve Native Americans in the following ways:

• Community-Building

• Education

• Arts and Culture

• Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community https://shakopeedakota.org/charitable-giving/donations-grants-scottcounty/

Each year the SMSC dedicates funds to programs supporting youth and educational initiatives, creating opportunities for the present and future generations to come. SMSC has a history of supporting Native American education, including some support for charter schools and capital projects.

Other Programs

• KABOOM! Community Build Projects

https://kaboom.org/community-built-playspaces/need/ KABOOM! offers municipalities or organizations the opportunity to lead a public design and construction process for outdoor recreation that centers around a community’s voices. Both kids and adults are able to participate in designing, planning, and building a new playspace or adventure course using high quality equipment and KABOOM!’s signature community-build model. At the end of the process, the tribe would have an amazing place for kids to play; a place that allows them to fully experience the physical, social, and emotional health benefits of play. KABOOM!’s ultimate goal in the development of these projects is to end playspace inequity by providing underserved communities’ youths access to quality playspaces and by fostering a sense of belonging within the local populous.

• Grants through Landscape Structures

https://www.playlsi.com/en/playground-planning-tools/playgroundfunding/playground-grants/

Although Landscape Structures does not directly provide playground grants, the company does offer curated online grant resources with national, state, and regional organizations that offer grant funding for commercial entities.

• Grants through GameTime https://www.gametime.com/funding

According to a recent study, there is an estimated $360 billion available from funding sources for community play and recreation projects. Organizations across the country and around the world have money to contribute to playgrounds, fitness parks and other recreation initiatives. GameTime has compiled a list of local, regional, national, and global funding sources to help you find the funds you need. With over 60 pages of sources, including contact details, websites, grants, and deadline information, the Playground Funding Guide is a valuable part of any fundraising toolkit. GameTime does offer grants or playground construction discounts if equipment is ordered and scheduled for installation within a specific time-frame.

*Other playground equipment companies may offer similar programs or discounts as Landscape Structures and GameTime. It is worth consulting with different company’s playground representatives to determine these potential resources when planning for park improvement projects.

Towaoc Veterans Park swing set in a state of disrepair (March 7th, 2024)

GRANT AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

Grant and Funding Opportunities - Naturita Town Park Case Study Bids by Construction Contractors in February of 2022; Completed by June of 2023

The case study shown on this page features Naturita Town Park located in Naturita, Colorado. This DHM Design project followed a similar development process as is proposed for Towaoc— a GOCO-funded master plan followed by outdoor recreation improvement project(s). Leveraging five different grants, Naturita was able to develop an $800,000 park improvement project with just $50,000 of Town matching (some of which was provided by private donations). This process is outlined below.

1) Acquired Local Funding Matching (+/- $50,000; some of which was Town funds, some from private donations, and some from in-kind donations)

2) Applied and won GOCO Grant for Playground(+/-$350,000)

Selected Playground Design Company through Public Process

4) Applied and was Awarded a GameTime Playground Equipment Fabrication Grant (+/-$60,000 discount on playground equipment)

5) Applied and Won a CWCB (Colorado Water Conservation Board) Grant (+/-$30,000 for landscape improvements to the existing park site)

6) Applied for LWCF (Land and Water Conservation Fund) Grant (+/$350,000; was able to leverage local funding matching and other grant award monies as matching to increase the size of the LWCF grant request; federal funding was harder to coordinate and win than state grants)

7) Applied and won KABOOM! Community Build Grant for Landscape Structures Outdoor Adventure Course Area; sponsored by Colorado Health Foundation (estimated value is +/-$40,000; community-build project)

Finished Product: +/-$800,000 Park Improvement Project

3)

KABOOM! Adventure Course community build day (October 16th, 2021)

Naturita Town Park playground grand opening (June 3rd, 2023) Naturita Town Park playground grand opening (June 3rd, 2023)

KABOOM! Adventure Course community build day (October 16th, 2021)

Grant and Funding Opportunities - Victor Case Study

A 10-Year Parks and Wayfinding Improvement Process in the City of Victor

The case study shown on this page features the City of Victor and its 2012 Parks and Recreation Master Plan which has lead to the revitalization of the city’s parks and wayfinding over a 10 year period—starting in 2011. The City of Victor is a small community with a population of just 379 people in 2020. However, the dedication and leadership of Victor’s City Administration staff has led to the development of over $1.4 million in capital improvement projects for the community’s parks, recreation, and wayfinding systems. Through generous donations from the nearby Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company business, allocations from the City’s annual budgets, and filling out five or more winning grant applications, almost all of the recommendations outlined in the 2012 master plan have found actualization and been constructed for Victor residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

Other prioritized park improvement projects that were not completed from the City of Victor Parks and Recreation Master Plan include #5 Community Garden, #6 the Victor Campground and #7 Potential Future Pocket Park. It is unknown if these have been implemented yet. The Victor Campground project has completed a master plan design that is project specific in June of 2020. Nevertheless, four of the seven park project projects listed and desired by Victor residents during the public process have been built since the master plan was adopted in 2012. This is in addition to three wayfinding projects, two of which have also been developed, and the Third Street Plaza public space and community gathering area renovation.

1) May 15, 2012: The City of Victor Parks and Recreation Master Plan is issued; $33,750 GOCO grant funded with City of Victor matching

2) July 2013: #2 Priority from Master Plan - the Gold Bowl Soccer and Baseball field is completed; funded by a private donation from the nearby Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company business

3) November 2013: #1 Priority from Master Plan - Brian’s Park Outdoor Ice Rink is completed; $350,000 GOCO grant funded with City of Victor and Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine matching

4) September of 2015: #4 Priority from Master Plan - Washington Park Playground is completed; $188,886 GOCO grant funded with City of Victor and Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine matching

5) October, 2017: #3 Priority from Master Plan - Wallace Park Gazebo completed; $45,000 GOCO mini-grant; $15,000 cash match by City

6) June 2016: Victor Wayfinding built; provided pedestrian wayfinding signage, an information kiosk, and a grand entry sign

7) May 2017: Victor West Entry Sign construction documents completed; $230,000+ cost grand west entrance sign into the City cantilevered on the face of the cliffs leading into Victor (not

8) June 2017: Victor 3rd St. Plaza completed; $609,262 project funded by City of Victor

9) June 2020: Victor Gateway Sign off of HWY 67 completed; $23,892 project funded by City of Victor

10) June 2020: #6 Priority from Master Plan - Victor Campground construction documents completed; $230,000+ cost (not

Finished Result: +/-$1.4 Million in Parks and Signage Improvement

Brian’s Park Outdoor Ice

was completed in November of 2013 and was funded by grant funding from GOCO and matching efforts by the City of Victor and the nearby Cripple Creek & Victor

Washington Park Playground was constructed 2015 with grant funding from GOCO and matching by the City of Victor and the nearby Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Companies

built)

built)

Projects

The City of Victor Parks and Recreation Master Plan was issued on May 15, 2012

Rink

Gold Mining Companies

APPENDIX A COST ESTIMATION

PRELIMINARY OPINION OF PROBABLE COSTS

The costs featured in Appendix A of this report represent a rough opinion estimate of probable costs per current analysis of market costs as of October, 2024. As time progresses, escalation of these preliminary prices will increase at an estimated rate of 5% per year. It is important to note that construction costs from 2020 through 2023 were very volatile and unprecedentedly high to the extent of quadruple the cost of some material types. It is unknown if this escalation percentage will continue at the current rate moving forward. These preliminary opinions of probable costs can be used to budget for funding and apply for grants as the UMUT selects and constructs different parks and trails improvements. The costs shown are high level numbers for the construction of specific outdoor recreation features as listed. A design fee of 10% of the total cost; a contractor fees, bonding, and mobilization fee of 20% of the total cost; and a contingency fee of 25% of the total cost should be added to the total of the line items that are selected as projects for development and as funding is acquired.

As each design/project moves forward from a master plan level to construction documents, layouts and materials may change and cost estimates will need to be updated accordingly.

SOUTH POCKET PARK

SOUTH POCKET PARK

Community Park Cost Estimate: Phasing Implementation

The Towaoc Community Park is so large and comprehensive that it is meant to be developed in five (5) or more potential phases that could occur over a period of 10 years or more as funding for different projects is acquired. The costs shown on these pages are meant to be high level numbers for the construction of specific outdoor recreation features as described in this Parks+Trails Master Plan. Potential phases for the Towaoc Community Park are described in greater detail on page 34 of this report. These phases may be reorganized as needed depending the park’s determined location and where the vehicular access points into the site will be situated.

TOWAOC COMMUNITY PARK

3rd Community Engagement Event at Recreation Center (September 19th, 2024)

TRAILS

TRAILS

APPENDIX B FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Beyond the Parks+Trails Master Plan

Towaoc has several opportunities to enhance its outdoor recreation amenities beyond what is currently outlined in the recreation plan. The ideas presented in Section 3 are just a starting point, and additional suggestions for parks and trail improvements are provided below. These suggestions are based on feedback from community surveys and public meetings, with frequently mentioned ideas organized by priority to reflect local preferences. In addition to these highly desired park amenities, there is potential for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (UMUT) to consider future enhancements to ceremonial spaces, such as the Pow Wow and Bear Dance Grounds, which are essential spaces for the community.

Another opportunity is to expand the space around Veterans Park to create additional recreational areas. This expansion could help link nearby civic spaces, such as the Pow Wow grounds, Recreation Center, and Community Center, fostering a more integrated community environment. Currently, the Veterans Park area serves as an informal plaza for many of Towaoc’s civic service buildings and is a central hub for a diverse range of age groups and daily activities.

Further details on these ideas will be outlined in the following pages of this Appendix, providing a clearer view of how Towaoc can expand its outdoor recreational offerings.

Ceremonial Space Improvement Opportunities

Pow Wow Grounds: The location of the Pow Wow Grounds in the civic center of Towaoc presents an opportunity for nearby pedestrian-focused improvements and amenities. These enhancements could optimize existing uses and circulation, such as modifying vehicular drive lanes to better accommodate vendor spaces and food truck access. Additionally, strengthening pedestrian connections to surrounding areas, including Veterans Park and the Community Center, would enhance accessibility. Expanding park space at Veterans Park could further increase community access to recreational amenities.

Bear Dance Grounds: The Bear Dance Grounds are among the most historically and culturally significant spaces in Towaoc. Used exclusively during annual ceremonies, this sacred area features temporary elements such as a cedar brush circular enclosure, furnishings, and parking delineation. Proposed improvements include burying electric and utility lines to maximize views and developing more permanent restroom facilities. However, it’s crucial to maintain the openness of the space to honor the tradition of the Bear Dance, which involves setting up for the ceremony, then fully disassembling and removing all elements. Enhancing pedestrian connections through walks and trails from other proposed park improvements or civic spaces would improve the arrival experience and highlight the significance of these grounds to the UMUT.

Hand Games Area: The Hand Games Area at the Bear Dance Grounds could be significantly improved by creating a more permanent and substantial shade shelter. Currently, the area relies on a temporary tent that is set up for events and taken down afterward. A new shelter could be enclosed on one or more sides to provide greater privacy for the activity. Additionally, installing permanent or high-quality movable seating would enhance the experience for participants.

Other Considerations for Future Recreation Opportunities

Note: The Importance of Re-assessing the Parks and Trails Priorities at a Regular Five-Ten Year Interval

It is important for the UMUT to re-evaluate their parks and trails priorities every five to ten years to confirm the community’s values for outdoor recreation still align with the amenities described in this master plan. If local desires have shifted, then different amenities may have higher priorities and may be selected for implementation. For example, a splash park may gain support and traction with Towaoc residents within the next five years and that may shift to be a higher priority than some of the other project recommendations outlined in this document.

Note: Fixing Towaoc’s Existing Amenities

A goal that Towaoc residents repeatedly stated to the Design Team during the public process was that they would like to see the existing amenities be repaired, reopened for use, and/or enhanced—even prior to new outdoor parks being constructed. Examples of these existing facilities include repairing and reopening the indoor pool at the Ute Mountain Recreation Center, repairing and maintaining the existing basketball and skate park, and improving the indoor gym at the Rec. Center.

Other Future Opportunities

High Priority Improvement Opportunities

• Water park or splash park

• Pool (indoor or outdoor)

• Fishing pond and access

• Providing more real-grass fields for passive recreation (field games and picnicking)

• Mountain Bike Trails/Bike Skills Park

• Picnicking Spaces

Mid-Level Priority Improvement Opportunities

• Improvements to existing Basketball Courts

• Improvements to existing Skate Park

• Horse Riding opportunities

• Community Garden

• Ropes Course

• Archery

• Dog Park

Low Priority Improvement Opportunities

• Outdoor Chess table

• Outdoor Movies (inflatable movie screen and projector)

• Tetherball and/or Sand/Grass Volleyball Courts

• Golf

• Horseshoes

• Rock Climbing Wall

Robert Shryock Park and Splash Pad in Augusta, Kansas (June 27th, 2024)

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Central Park: Sunset Blvd Existing Conditions

The Central Park location is an extension of the existing Veteran’s Park near the town center. The central location between the Recreation Center, Community Center, KCA, Tribal Headquarters, and Pow Wow Grounds make this an ideal location for enhancing community outdoor space. Currently, parking and drive lanes surround Veteran’s Park - which makes the pedestrian connectivity to all the surrounding community spaces not as safe and walkable. The concept of creating a pedestrian plaza connection and consolidating some of the parking areas would improve this space and make being outdoors more inviting to residents frequenting Towaoc’s town core.

Veteran’s Park would remain in its current condition except for the removal of the swing sets that are in a state of disrepair. The new park would act as a community-focused extension of this space.

Rustling Willow St

Drive lane adjacent to the Community Center closed for events at the Pow Wow grounds

Nearby Pow Wow grounds situated to the west of the drive lane by Veteran’s Park

FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Central Park

The proposed improvements for Towaoc’s Central Park aim to connect various park and community hubs by slightly reducing parking and vehicular drive lanes in this existing civic town center. While vehicular access will still be available along the east side of the site, the thoroughfare from the Recreation Center entrance to the Pow Wow Grounds has been removed to create safer pedestrian access between these spaces. The recommendations for this area will enhance both park space and the central community area at the heart of Towaoc, fostering connections among locals and enhancing the existing pedestrian activity. Proposed amenities for Central Park are listed below.

• A playground near the Recreation Center entrance, utilizing the sloped area for hill slides and climbing structures.

• A stabilized crusher fines area for passive games, featuring horseshoes, picnic tables, chess tables, ping pong tables, and permanent cornhole boards.

• A colored concrete pedestrian plaza to connect the Pow Wow Grounds with the Recreation Center entrance.

• An allée of shade trees along the pedestrian plaza.

• Community or demonstration garden planters along the pedestrian plaza.

• A multi-purpose lawn space directly north of Veterans Park, serving as an extension of that green space.

• A temporary covered vendor area for events along the new pedestrian plaza.

PLAYGROUND ON SLOPE WITH COLORED POUREDIN-PLACE SAFETY SURFACING BENEATH

EX. PARKING TO REMAIN

RECREATION CENTER

STABILIZED CRUSHER FINES PASSIVE GAMES AREA (CORNHOLE/ HORSESHOES/ PING PONG)

COMMUNITY CENTER

TEMPORARY COVERED FOOD STALLS FOR EVENTS

EXISTING POW WOW AREA TO REMAIN

KWIYAGAT COMMUNITY ACADEMY

CONCRETE WALK

EXISTING VETERAN’S PARK TO REMAIN (REMOVE SWING SETS)

STAMPED COLORED CONCRETE PLAZA

TREE ALLÉE WITH RAISED GARDEN PLANTERS AND BENCHES

SUNSET BLVD

SCHOOL DROP-OFF ZONE

MULTI-USE LAWN AREA

Playground with Poured-In-Place Safety Surfacing on Slope

Stabilized Crusher Fines Passive Games Area

Cornhole / Horseshoe Game Areas

Tree Allée in Crusher Fines

Colored Concrete Plaza

Ping Pong

APPENDIX C LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

Integrating Maintenance Recommendations

Maintenance is a key consideration for budgeting and staffing as the UMUT continues to improve and expand its parks and recreation amenities. The existing parks and facilities in Towaoc need a regular maintenance program established. Additional maintenance staff and hours will be needed as more parks and trails (as recommended in this master plan) are incorporated. As the Towaoc parks system expands, maintenance staff need to be added at a rate of approximately (1) staff per 14 acres. This is assuming that a moderate level of maintenance will be needed on average to maintain Towaoc’s parks and trails and for an employee that is working 40 hour work weeks. (The level of maintenance needed varies based on types of facilities—see chart this page for how many acres can be maintained by one person.) Maintenance personell hourly rates are approximately $22 to $24 per hour in 2024 for this type of work or $46,000 to $52,000 per year.

The UMUT should develop an annual maintenance budget of approximately $15,000 per acre for active recreation parks—such as the North, South, and Community Parks shown in this master plan. Other numbers to integrate into the annual budget is $4,500 per acre for open space and $3,000 to $7,500 per mile of trail depending on the level of maintenance desired and the type of trail. (Soft surface trails may not need to be maintained to as high a level as concrete paths that need snow removal, etc. for seasonal use.) It is important to make sure that these costs are considered in the Tribe’s annual budget prior to the construction of new parks or amenities.

Other potential ideas to provide for park maintenance workers (if creating an internal UMUT maintenance program is not feasible) include recruiting the Weeminuche Construction Authority (WCA), implementing a day labor program, or hiring an independently-hired landscaping company to help with parks/trails maintenance and upkeep. (There is potential for volunteerism efforts to keep these costs lower. Ideas for this include park clean-up days

that are open to the community or hosted by Tribal Leadership with internal employees. For example, for Earth Day, the UMUT could sponsor a community event for park clean-up and encourage people to participate by offering food or other fun activities to coincide with the clean-up event.)

It is also important for Towaoc to consider typical equipment (i.e. - lawn mowers, weed eaters, tractors, etc. ) needed in any maintenance plan/ budget. This includes purchasing, providing storage, and planning for annual upkeep/repairs of such equipment. Costs for such equipment are shown below. Furthermore, the incorporation of safety/security cameras with the parks improvement projects should be considered as part of this overall maintenance plan.

To improve upon any selected parks and trails maintenance system, it is recommended that Towaoc track the cost of maintenance, utilities, supplies, equipment, and employee time for parks and recreation facilities. Maintenance staff should also track and manage life cycles of equipment for all replacement schedules. Such efforts will help the UMUT plan and budget for maintenance as the parks system continues to develop and expand.

See the following pages of this Appendix for an example of maintenance specifications for active parks, trails, and open space areas.

Notes

The below chart is the APPA’s cleaning standards from the APPA’s Grounds Staffing Guidelines for Educational Facilities.

The APPA (Association of Physical Plant Administrators) is the organization for Leadership in Educational Facilities. It offers informational resources, continuous learning programs, and opportunities to connect and network with fellow facilities professionals.

The APPA features annual surveys for Facilities Performance Indicators. The information shown represents the average acreage that one (1) maintenance staff person can maintain at the associated level of maintenance (high, medium, low, etc.).

Safety Costs

Another consideration is if an additional Tribal Police Officer is desired or needed to patrol parks and trails improvements in Towaoc. If this is desired, the hourly wage in 2024 is roughly $30/hour or $62,000/year

Number of Park Acres that One Maintenance Staff Person can Maintain at Different Levels

MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATION EXAMPLE

The costs shown are high level numbers for the construction of specific park features as listed. A design fee of 10% of the total cost; a contractor fees, bonding, and mobilization fee of 20% of the total cost; and a contingency fee of 25% of the total cost should be added to the total of the line items that are selected as projects for development and as funding is acquired.

LANDSCAPING & IRRIGATION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

1.1 Description of Work

A. Furnish all supervision, labor, materials, equipment, transportation and all other incidental expenses required to maintain the landscape and irrigation system called for under this contract, in an attractive, healthy, operable condition. This includes but is not limited to: watering, fertilization, pruning, spraying, weeding, herbicide applications, bed cultivating, mulching, mowing, trimming, edging, litter removal in landscape areas, emptying trash and recycling receptacles, inspection and maintenance of irrigation system and lighting, and irrigation system winterization and spring start-ups.

Provide general clean-up to include the removal of trash and products of maintenance activities.

B. Maintenance Areas (see parks and recommendations plans)

C. Spring (Start-Up)

-Irrigation system (start-up)

-Fertilize turf areas

-Fertilize trees and shrub areas

-Aerate/thatch removal turf areas

-Topdress turf areas with organic soil amendment @ 1 CY/1,000 SF

-Recharge mulch in shrub beds and tree wells

D. Summer (Growing Season)

Weekly

-Mow turf areas

-Trash removal. Pick up trash from site and empty trash cans.

-Remove debris from entry monument drain

-Sweep mud/debris from sidewalks, trails, and curb and gutter

-Wash mud/debris from stone walls, stone benches, trail markers

-Wash mud/debris off metal site furnishings/lights/playground equipment

E. Bi-Weekly

-Weed control upland/turf/wildflower areas – spot spray/trim/hand pull

-Weed control tree wells and shrub beds – spot spray/hand pull (no trimming near tree’s base)

-Irrigation controller adjustments. Contractor needs to be especially conscious of overwatering.

-Irrigation system maintenance - test and repair zone by zone

-Visual review of upland/wildflower/turf areas for overseeding

-Review perennial beds and dead-head flowers as needed.

-Refresh and rake crusher fines

-Flush chase drains and slot drains under trail.

-Flush area drains, chase drains, and small culverts/pipes under sidewalks

F. Monthly

-Mow/trim all upland areas. Work around wildflowers and let desirable grasses go to seed.

-Visual review of all exterior site lighting

-Visual review of water feature vault.

-Inspect play equipment, cable railings and site furnishing hardware.

G. As Directed and Approved by the Owner (time and materials)

-Overseed bare patches of upland/wildflower/turf areas (check bi-weekly)

-Change light bulbs in bollards and light fixtures

-Repair/addition of erosion and sediment control measures

H. Fall/Winterization

-Irrigation system (winterization)

-Fertilize turf areas (early fall/winterizer)

-Aerate turf areas (early fall)

-Install deer protection fencing (late fall)

I. Winter (or Dormant Period)

-Prune trees (once during year by licensed arborist)

-Recharge wood fiber mulch at playground (once a year if needed) coordinate with the Owner’s Representative.

- Winter watering. Owner shall supply and pay for winter watering on a time and materials basis, if needed.

1.2 O ther work that may be required:

A. Irrigation repair other than normal system servicing as determined by the Owner’s Representative and Landscape Architect.

B. Erosion and sediment control.

C. Field mowing with a flail mower outside of the contract areas.

D. Staking or guying of trees.

E. Additional pest control

F. Change light bulbs in bollards and other landscape lighting.

G. Planting of flowers, bulbs, and “seasonal color installations”

H. Over seeding – with approved seed mixes (see Part 2 - Products).

I. Recharge cedar bark mulch in City areas as directed by Owner’s Representative.

J. Recharge engineered wood fiber mulch per playground safety standards at playground.

K. Minor street curb and sidewalk repair.

L. Replacement of dead plant material not currently under a warranty. The areas under warranty will be outlined at the time of initial site inspection with the Contractor.

1.3. Schedule of Maintenance Operations for the duration of the contract shall be submitted before work begins in April. The schedule (estimated dates/tasks) shall include but not be limited to the following:

A. Irrigation System Maintenance

1. Spring start-up procedures

2. General schedule systems checks

3. Irrigation system at event areas should be turned off a minimum of 24 hours prior to event.

4. Winterization procedures

B. Turf Area Maintenance

1. Irrigation schedules (coordinate w/Owner’s Representative)

2. Fertilization (once in the spring, once in early fall, and use winterizer in November, Naturesafe organic fertilizer, or approved equal)

3. Organic soil amendment (submit soil analysis and small sample to Owner’s Representative.)

4. Aeration and thatch removal (spring and early fall)

5. Mowing (weekly during growing season)

6. Weed control (apply herbicide as needed, coordinate w/ Owner’s Representative)

7. Disease and insec t control (apply as needed, coordinate w/ Owner’s Representative)

8. Flush area drains, chase drains, and small culverts/pipes under sidewalks (bi-weekly).

C. Native Seeded Area Maintenance

1. Irrigation schedules (coordinate w/Owner’s Representative)

2. Mowing (monthly, or as needed)

3. Weed control (trimming/hand pulling /spot spraying)

D. Woody Plant Maintenance (including groundcover and perennials)

1. Irrigation equipment and schedules (coordinate w/Owner’s Representative)

2. Re-mulching and soil cultivation (time and materials)

3. Re-staking, guying, and wrapping trees

4. Tree and shrub pruning

5. Weed control (hand pulling in shrub & perennial beds/spot spraying)

6. Disease and insec t control (apply as needed, coord w/ Owner’s Representative)

7. Tree and shrub fertilization

E. Sidewalks and Trails

1. Sweep/remove mud and debris from sidewalks and trails (weekly).

2. Flush chase drains and slot drains to maintain open and clean drainage through pipes (bi-weekly).

1.4 The Contractor shall submit product data for all maintenance materials such as fertilizers, herbicides, etc. This information shall relate directly to time of use and rate of application. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) will also be required for any fertilizers, herbicides, etc. used on-site. Sample reports are shown in the Appendix for informational purposes.

A. Submit copy of Colorado Department of Agriculture Commercial Certified Pesticide Applicator’s license.

B. Submit copy of Certified Arborist’s license.

C. Submit copy of certification for Rain Bird Irrigation Technician’s Course (or approved equal).

D. Insurance, Taxes, and Bonds

- Commercial General Liability

-Workers Compensation

-Automobile Liability

-Property Insurance

- Certificate of Insurance - filed with the Owner prior to commencement of work and noting the O wner as an Additional Insured.

-Insurance Review Clause

-Licenses

-Taxes –Owner can provide tax ID#.

-Bonds - Performance Bond, Labor and Material Payment Bond.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS

2.1 Irrigation System

A. All material used in the repair of the irrigation system shall be equal to materials in the original installation, new and in perfect condition.

B. All replacement irrigation heads will be the same model from the same manufacturer as those being replaced. Replacement heads will be installed as shown on the record drawings.

2.2 Landscape Materials

Materials listed under this section are expressly specified for use but this does not prohibit or restrict the contractor from providing other approved materials not listed in order to complete the work herein. Substitutions requests shall be submitted in writing to the Owner’s Representative prior to any materials being delivered to the site. All materials shall be new and in perfect condition. Preference will be given to locally manufactured materials as well as sustainable, eco-friendly materials.

A. General : All materials and equipment, unless otherwise indicated, shall be provided by the Contractor. The Contractor shall supply and secure fencing for storage area if needed.

B. Water: Clean, fresh, furnished and paid for by the Owner.

C. Lawn Fertilizer: Naturesafe organic fertilizer, or approved equal.

D. Pesticides, Herbicides, Insecticides, and Fungicides: Submit proposed product for review by Landscape Architect.

E. Grass Seed for Over-seeding:

F. Lawn Areas - Centennial Turf Seed Mix supplied by Southwest Seed, or approved equal.

G. Wildflower Areas – Western Wildflower Mix supplied by Applewood Seed Co., or approved equal.

H. Upland Seed Mix Upland Seed Mix PLS Common Name Botanical Name

‘Rimrock’ Indian Ricegrass Achnatherum hymenoides ‘Rimrock’

Blue Grama Bouteloua gracilis ‘Lovington’

Mountain Beeplant Cleome serrulata VNS

Blue Rabbitbrush Chrysothamus nauseosus albicaulis

poppy Eschscholzia californica VNS

Sulphur‐flower buckwheat Eriogonum umbellatum VNS

Indian blanketflower Gaillardia pulchella VNS

Desert Verbena Glandularia gooddingii VNS

Bigelow’s tansyaster Machaeranthera bigelovii var. bigelovii VNS

Blue Flax Linum lewisii

Chokecherry Lupine Lupinus prunophilus

‘Arriba’ Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum smithii ‘Arriba’

Firecracker Penstemon Penstemon eatonii

Palmer Penstemon Penstemon palmeri VNS

Rocky Mountain Penstemon Penstemon strictus VNS

I. Wetland Seed Mix

Drainage Seed Mix

Common Name Botanic Name

Redtop Agrostis alba 1

Tufted hairgrass Deschampsia cespitosa 1

Switchgrass Panicum virgatum 3

Fowl Bluegrass Poa palustris 2

Common Spikerush Eleocharis palustris 0.5

Sodar' Streambank Wheatgrass"Sodar" Elymus lanceolatus 2

*Seeding rate based on 100 pure live seeds (PLS) per square foot, broadcast or drill-seeded. The seeding application rate shall be doubled for hand broadcast application.

J. Sod – Thermal Blue or Kentucky Blue mix supplied by Superior Sod of Montrose, CO, or approved equal. The intent is to have a more drought tolerant mix with lower water requirements.

K. Shrub and Tree Liquid Fertilizer (Organic): Submit proposed product for review by Landscape Architect.

L. Organic Soil Amendment – shall meet the following requirements: Organic matter: 25% minimum, Salt content: 6.0 mmhos/cm maximum, pH: 8.5 maximum, Carbon to nitrogen ratio of 10:1 to 25:1. No live noxious weed seeds or plants shall be present. Mountain peat, aspen humus, gypsum and sand will not be accepted. Analysis shall be from tests within the previous 90 days.

M. Engineered Wood Fiber Mulch for Playground: Sof’ Fall, or approved equal. 1-800-523-8690.

N. Willow stake Collection: Live young stem willow stakes of the proper species shall be collected from designated or approved growing sources in the immediate area. Harvest areas for collection of willow stakes and herbaceous transplants will be designated by the Owner’s Representative. Use extreme care to avoid damage to all remaining plants in harvest areas. Willow stakes shall be in a dormant state. A maximum of 50% of the parent plants branches may be pruned for willow stakes. Collect willow stakes shall be taken from the parent plant with pruning shears. The base cut shall be angle cut, and any top cuts shall be blunt to ensure upright planting. All plant materials shall be handled with care to avoid bark stripping and trunk wood splitting. Willow stake lengths vary; the length is based on the willow stake reaching the water table. Shrub willow stakes shall be ½ inch in diameter, maximum. Tree willow stakes shall be 1 inch in diameter, maximum. Trim all side branches and leaves. Live branch willow stakes shall be bound together securely with twine at the collection site for ease of handling and protection during transport. Live cut materials shall be protected from drying at all

times. Willow stakes not installed immediately shall be kept butt end in water and stored in protected locations where they are shaded and sheltered from the wind. These shall be planted within two days of collection. Willow stakes shall be continually protected from freezing.

O. Mulch: Owner to supply; hauling/delivery shall be the responsibility of the Contractor.

City parks – shredded cedar bark mulch, to be provided by Contractor. Sample to be submitted to Landscape Architect for approval.

L. Crusher fines: Clean, hard, durable particles or fragments of 1/4” minus select brown/gray crushed granite, river rock, or basalt. Match color and texture of existing crusher fines installations. Fines shall be evenly mixed throughout the aggregate.

When produced from gravel, 50 percent by weight of the material retained on a No. 4 sieve shall have one fractured face. The portion retained on the No. 4 sieve shall have a maximum percentage of wear of 50 at 500 revolutions as determined by AASHTO T96. The portion passing a No. 4 sieve shall also have a maximum liquid limit of 25 and a maximum plasticity index of 7, as determined by AASHTO T89 and AASHTO T90 respectively. The crushed aggregate screenings shall be free from clay lumps, vegetable matter, and deleterious material.

The grading requirements for screened crushed aggregate (crusher fines) per AASHTO T11 and T27 are as follows:

2.3 Machinery

Machinery requirements listed under this section are not intended to be restrictions of specific manufacturers or models unless so stated. Specific mention of manufacturers is intended as a guide to illustrate the final product of maintenance operations desired.

A. Mowers shall be commercial grade rotary type in good working order, finely tuned to protect the lawn from excessive exhaust fumes. Blades shall be sharp to reduce shredding of the cut grass blades. Grass catchers not required, however, mulching of grass cuttings is strongly encouraged. Excess grass clippings shall be raked up and removed.

B. Lawn edger shall be a rigid blade type trimmer that will produce a fine clean edge where lawn meets walkways, pavements, or curbs. Curbs and walks shall not be trimmed with a monofilament line type trimmer.

C. Pruning tools shall be maintained in good working order, cutting edges shall be sharp. Disinfect all tools when used for the removal of diseased limbs with a twenty (20%) percent solution of bleach and water.

D. Flail type mower shall be used in areas where trails or sidewalks are in close proximity.

E. Line trimmers are allowed for use for weed control in native areas.

F. Blowers are allowed to remove grass clippings from sidewalks and trails. It is recommended that use of leaf blowers be limited to short periods and be respectful of residents.

PART 3 – EXECUTION

3.1 Lawn and Turf Grass Maintenance

Maintenance shall be according to the following standards:

A. All areas shall be kept free of debris and all planted areas shall be weeded and cultivated bi-weekly. Watering, mowing, edging, trimming, fertilization, spraying, and pest control shall be included in the maintenance, see Part 1 for the frequency of these operations. Street gutters where adjacent to work areas shall be kept clean of debris.

Stabilizer Material. A non-toxic, colorless, odorless, non-staining concentrated organic powder that binds soil and screened crushed aggregate together creating a natural-appearing firm trail surface. ‘Stabilizer’ as manufactured by Stabilizer Solutions, Inc, Phoenix AZ, ph. (800) 336-2468, or approved equal.

B. The Contractor shall re-seed all spots within the lawn where normal turf growth is not evident as determined by the Owner’s Representative. All areas not acceptable to the Owner’s Representative shall be seeded to match adjacent turf type.

C. Sod or seed which becomes damaged or injured as a result of Contractor’s operations or negligence shall be replaced, as directed by the Owner, at no additional cost to the Owner.

D. Frequency of mowing shall be once every two weeks in April and October. During the growing season (May through September) mowing shall occur weekly. The height of cut shall be 3” unless otherwise directed by Owner or Landscape Architect. Mowing direction shall be changed every other mowing. Mower blades shall be sharpened after each mowing. All grass clippings shall be removed from all sidewalks, streets, gutters, crusher fine areas, etc. at the time of mowing. When excessive clippings are produced such as after a rainy period or in early spring, rake or vacuum the clippings.

E. String or Line Trimming – use only in those turf areas inaccessible by mower – as determined by the Owner, use line trimmer to maintain turf at approximately the same height as the mowed turf. Scalping of turf is not acceptable. Line trimmers shall not be used around the base of trees or shrubs.

F. Fertilization shall occur 3 times during the year. One time in the Spring, in early Fall, and winterizer in November. Application rates per manufacturer’s recommendations.

G. Aeration shall occur in the Spring and early Fall. The type of aeration shall be core aeration unless otherwise approved by Landscape Architect. Holes should be two to three inches deep and no more than four inches apart. Lawns should be thoroughly watered the day before aerating so plugs can be pulled more deeply and easily. Mark all sprinkler heads, shallow irrigation lines and other shallow utility lines before aerating so those lines will not be damaged.

H. Thatch removal shall occur in the late Spring only when the turf has a chance to recover. A vertical mower or other machinery may be used. Contractor to submit proposed method of dethatching for approval by Landscape Architect.

I. Topdressing – organic soil amendment shall be added to turf areas during the Spring after aeration has been completed. The soil amendment shall be applied at the rate of 1CY/1,000 SF and be spread evenly across the surface of the existing turf. See Landscape Materials section 2.2 for soil analysis requirements.

J. Finishing - all turf areas shall be “finished” each week by cleaning up and removing all paper, trash, twigs, and other undesirable materials from turf areas.

K. Renovation of turf areas – in areas where the turf is severely degraded a program of aeration and organic soil amendment top dressing may be required. If this is required a time and materials proposal would be requested from the Contractor.

L. Weed control in turf areas shall consist of spot spraying with 2,4-D or other approved method. The targeted weeds will most likely be crabgrass, foxtail, and clover. If there becomes a problem in turf areas with disease or insects, the CSU Extension County office should be contacted for an evaluation/recommendation.

M. Drainage Structures – flush with water, or pipe cleaning tools so that pipes are not damaged and drainage flows are opened. If these means are not appropriate report problem to Owner for further consideration.

3.2 Open Space/Trails/Native Grasses

A. All areas shall be kept clear of trash and debris. Pick up trash throughout open space areas weekly. Remove mud and debris from trails, site furnishings, lights, and trail markers (weekly) by sweeping or power washing.

B. Weed control in native areas shall consist of hand-pulling, trimming, mowing, and spot spray with 2,4-D or other approved method. The targeted weeds will most likely be thistle, yellow clover, foxtail, chickory, bindweed, and prickly lettuce. See Weed Management Plan in Appendix. Special care needs to be taken in wetland and upland buffer areas. If weeds need to be treated in or near a wetland, consult with Landscape Architect.

C. Mowing: Native grasses will be mowed/trimmed monthly. The intent of mowing is mostly for weed control. Desirable grasses and wildflowers should be left to go to seed wherever possible. The 2’ shoulder on both sides of the trail should be mowed monthly and kept clear for trail users. Use a flail mower when mowing in close proximity to the trail or other open space areas where people are present. Do not mow any wetland areas unless directed by Landscape Architect for weed control.

D. The Contractor shall over seed all spots within the native grass areas where normal growth is not evident as determined by the Owner’s Representative. These areas shall be seeded to match adjacent grass mix type.

E. Willow Staking: Live stakes shall be tamped into the ground to the depth of the water table and shall protrude from the ground surface a maximum of 6”. Prepare a pilot hole by hammering #5 rebar in the entire depth of cutting or other approved method. The cutting shall be tapped into the hole with rubber mallets or dead blow hammers so as not to split the wood. Carpenter or sledge hammers are not acceptable staking tools. Holes shall be backfilled as necessary so that no voids remain around the cutting. Coordinate with Landscape Architect for spacing. Planting operations shall be conducted under favorable weather conditions. No planting shall be undertaken when freezing temperatures are forecasted 24 hours in advance.

F. Drainage Structures – flush with water, or pipe cleaning tools so that pipes are not damaged and drainage flows are opened. If these means are not appropriate report problem to Owner for further consideration.

A. Watering: Maintain a large enough water basin around plants so that enough water can be applied to establish moisture through the major root zone. When hand-watering, use a water wand to break the water force. Keep mulch replenished to reduce evaporation and frequency of watering. Rebuild tree wells to maintain watering efficiency.

B. Pruning: (to be completed by licensed arborist)

1. Trees:

a. Prune trees to select and develop permanent scaffold branches that are smaller in diameter than the trunk or branch to which they are attached which have vertical spacing of from 18” to 49” and radial orientation so as not to overlay one another; to eliminate diseased or damaged growth; to eliminate narrow Vshaped branch forks that lack strength; to reduce toppling and wind damage by thinning out crowns; to maintain growth within space limitations; to maintain a natural appearance; to balance crown with roots.

b. Under no circumstances will stripping of lower branches (“raising-up”) of young trees be permitted. Lower branches shall be retained in a “tipped-back” or pinched condition with as much foliage as possible to promote caliper trunk growth (tapered trunk). Lower branches can be cut flush with the trunk only af ter the tree is able to stand erect without staking or other support. All sucker growth shall be continually removed from trees.

c. Evergreen trees shall be thinned out and shaped when necessary to prevent wind and storm damage. The primary pruning of deciduous trees shall be done during the dormant season. Damaged trees or those that constitute health or safety hazards shall be pruned at any time of the year as required to eliminate these conditions.

d. The Contractor shall always prune out dead wood. Contact Owner’s Representative prior to commencing any pruning or shaping work. Immediately dispose of all pruning and trimming debris from trees and shrubs. If materials can be taken to the Phoenix Construction Recycling center on-site that is preferred, if they can not be accepted by Phoenix they should be disposed of off-site. If Contractor wants an on-site dumpster, it should be supplied at Contractor’s expense; Owner to determine location.

2. Shrubs:

a. The objective of shrub pruning are the same as for trees. Shrubs shall not be clipped into balled or boxed forms unless such is required by the design and directed by the Owner’s Representative.

b. All pruning cuts shall be made to lateral branches or buds or flush with the trunk . “Stubbing” will not be permitted.

C. Staking and Guying: Remove stakes and guys as soon as they are no longer needed. Stakes and guys are to be inspected to prevent girdling of trunks or branches and to prevent rubbing that causes bark wounds. Replace all broken stakes and ties with the same material in new condition.

D. Weed Control: Keep basins and areas between plants free of weeds. Remove weeds and foreign grasses from shrub bed areas bi-weekly. Use recommended legally approved herbicides. Avoid frequent soil cultivation that destroys shallow roots. Use mulches to help prevent weed seed germination.

E. Insect and Disease Control: Maintain a reasonable control with approved materials.

F. Mulching: Add 2” of recycled wood mulch to all tree wells and shrub beds. Cedar bark mulch to be added to tree wells and shrub beds in City parks as directed by Owner’s Representative. Keep all mulch rings and tree wells intact.

G. Fertilization:

1. Fertilize all planting areas with designated materials in section 2.2. Apply at manufacturer’s specified rates. Fertilize trees and shrubs in the Spring at a minimum. If trees/shrubs are stressed by drought conditions, additional fertilization may be needed.

2. Avoid applying fertilizer to the root ball and base of main stem; rather, spread evenly under plant to drip line.

H. Replacements: Contractor to replace dead and missing plants at Owner’s expense unless damaged by Contractor’s actions or lack of maintenance.

3.4 Groundcover Care

A. Weed Control: Control weeds, with chemical systemic spray or by mechanical means so as to cause minimal damage to planted materials.

B. Watering: Water enough that moisture penetrates throughout root zone and only as frequently as necessary to maintain healthy growth.

C. Fertilizing: Fertilize with designated materials in section 2.2. Apply at manufacturer’s specified rates.

D. Remove trash weekly.

E. Edge groundcover to keep in bounds and trim top growth as necessary to achieve an overall even appearance.

F. Replacements: Contractor to replace dead and missing plants at Owner’s expense unless damaged by Contractor’s actions or lack of maintenance.

G. Dead-heading: Pinch or dead-head all blooms after expiration and prune all dead or damaged foliage. Exceptions - achillea or yarrow species should not be cut back after they are done blooming. Ornamental grasses should be cut back before growth starts in the Spring. Contractor to coordinate with Landscape Architect for any clarifications.

3.5 Irrigation System

A. Spring Start-up routine

1. Standard spray – while in operation, inspect each type of head for nozzle clogging and proper pattern. Adjust valve as required to obtain optimum operating pressure for headto- head coverage. Repair or replace sprinkler heads and nozzles as necessary.

2. Drip irrigation lines and emitters – while in operation, inspect valve for proper operating pressure and clean strainer of all dirt, etc. Flush lines at end cap. Inspect each drip line to insure proper water distribution. Inspect moisture level on both sides of root ball with soil probe.

3. Controller – Set the time clock for a test time interval (3 to 5 minutes) per station and obser ve the operation of each zone to insure proper water distribution. Return timing of each zone to appropriate watering cycle.

4. Inspect all valve boxes throughout the project. Adjust, if necessary, to align with surrounding grades. Remove debris and add gravel to bottom if necessary. Replace damaged lids. Owner to approve and pay for repair parts only.

B. Coordinate irrigation controller programming with Owner’s Representative. Do not switch controller to “off” at anytime except as required for testing and for maintenance operations and as may be required to make repairs.

C. Repair or replace irrigation equipment damaged during normal use of irrigation equipment. Any damage to system by contractor’s maintenance crews, i.e., broken heads by mowers, etc., will be repaired by Contractor at Contractor’s expense.

D. Operate and visually check all zones of the irrigation system bi-weekly to assure all control valves and heads are operating properly, and that no leaks are visible which may require repair. Open all controller enclosures and visually check condition. Clean as necessary.

E. Trim grass around heads and valve boxes as necessary to ensure proper operation of heads and accessibility to control valves.

F. Work with Owner’s Representative and Landscape Architect to establish proper application rates and scheduling of irrigation system to operation to ensure maximum watering efficiency. Adjust scheduling of system throughout watering season as required to adjust for fluctuations in evapotranspiration rate, (every 30 days - minimum).

Water lawns at such a frequency as weather conditions require to replenish soil moisture to 4” inches below root zone, following the schedule listed: during peak growing season – June, July and August (1.25) inches of water per week, during April and October apply approximately (0.35) inches of water per week, during May and September apply approximately (0.75) inches per week.

Water restored native areas at such a frequency as weather conditions require to establish grasses, following the schedule listed: during peak growing season – June, July and August (0.5) inches of water per week, during April and October apply approximately (0.1) inches of water per week, during May and September apply approximately (0.25) inches per week. Once native grasses have become established, it is the intention for the irrigation system to be turned off and only used in drought situations for tree and shrub survival, or for establishment of areas that are reseeded.

Schedule irrigation to be applied in shorter, multiple irrigation cycles. Do not apply all irrigation water in one long cycle. Use cycle and soak program if available on controller. Schedule all normal irrigation between 7 pm and 7 am.

G. Walk through all planting beds with drip irrigation (bi-weekly) and check for any visible signs of stress in any plant material. If stressed plant material is located, check for proper operation of drip system and repair as necessary. Contractor shall also look for visible signs of disturbance in planting beds and verify proper operation of system if any disturbance is located.

H. Check all filters on drip valve assemblies as necessary (every 30 days - minimum) and clean out or backflush filter as required to clean of debris.

I. Contractor shall be responsible for complete winterization of the irrigation system in late October. Contractor shall be responsible for placing insulated bags on backflow preventers in the early spring or late fall if freezing temperatures are predicted. Contractor shall be responsible for insuring that the irrigation system is properly protected from freeze conditions during the early spring, late fall, and winter. Contractor shall make all repairs, including parts and labor, at no cost to the Owner resulting from freeze damage caused during the length of the Landscape Maintenance Contract. Winterization of system shall include voiding all lines of water using compressed air or similar method approved by the Landscape Architect. Contractor to submit winter shut-down routine with monthly schedule for October. Contractor shall reopen and start up system in the Spring and make any adjustments to system as necessary for proper operation (see Section 3.4A above).

J. Winter Watering

Should it become necessary to irrigate during the winter months as a result of a lack of natural precipitation and moderate temperatures, the Contractor shall take whatever measures are required to provide required water to all plantings and turf. If it is decided by Contractor to activate irrigation system at any time during the winter months, he shall also be required to, again, properly winterize system. If winter watering is needed, the Contractor shall submit a proposal for approval to the Owner. The Owner shall supply and pay for winter watering on a time and materials basis.

3.6 General Site and Facilities

A. Litter removal - leaves, flowers, fruit, etc. from around the drip line of a tree. Empty the trash and recycling receptacles weekly. Plastic liners to be replaced and supplied by Contractor. Contractor must dispose of litter in a legal manner off-site unless otherwise coordinated with Owner’s Representative.

B. Mulch Surfaces – to be kept clean of litter, mud, and other debris. Inspect areas weekly with normal litter removal operations.

C. Plazas, stage area, sidewalks, curb and gutter – to be kept clean of litter, mud, and other debris. Inspect areas weekly and clean, sweep, and remove litter and debris as needed. This will require mostly hand sweeping. Dispose of materials as discussed above.

D. Crusher Fines - Refresh and rake crusher fines areas bi-weekly. The Contractor should have (1) CY of crusher fines, that match the existing material, stored at an approved location on-site, so that areas can be refreshed.

E. Lighting and site electrical – Review all lights , monthly, to insure proper operation. Report any damage or non-functioning bulbs. Replacements to be approved/coordinated with Owner’s Representative and will be paid for on a time and materials basis.

F. Play Equipment, Cable Railings, Site Furnishings, Trail Markers, etc. – weekly cleaning to include washing mud and debris from item. Inspection, tightening, and repair of fasteners and other hardware to be done as necessary.

G. A staging area will be identified on-site after a contractor has been selected.

END OF SECTION

APPENDIX D SURVEY RESULTS

Ute Mountain Ute Tribe - Recreation Master Plan 2024 Youth Survey Results | June 2024

YOUTH SURVEY RESULTS

1.) What is your name and phone number or email? (Please include your name and phone number or email if you would like to be entered into the raffle for a prize.)

• 9705607625

• Kiowon

• Jaimarkus

• Jayden

• Aiden

• Rae’Mya

• Amaya

• Marvel

• Kaylee

• Mahalia

• Laila

• Kaiten

• Dwayne

• Acicran

• Lilly

• Thimder

• Tazan

• Baer

• Sunrise

• Kain

Kitt

Serentiy

Yakine

Leah

Zamias

Noah

Marrins

Caleighia

Terrance

Auria

Berry

Colay?

Alyra

Kaitlyn

Amethyst

Dior

McKinsley

Jazlyn

Max

2.)

5.) What grade are you in?

6.) What is the name of your school?

7.) What is your favorite activity after school?

• Play

• go home and relax

• basketball

• nothing

• Football

• Play • Swim • nothing

• art

• Basketball practice

• Sports

• Art

• Play outside

• Sleeping

• Baseball

• Toys

• Play

• Video Games

• Video Games

• Skate boarding

• Play • Painting

Math

games

Playing • Walking • Math • Playing outside • Cleaning Boba shop

Basketball

Homework

Drawing • Go swimming

Math

Math

Math

Football

PE

Football

Sleep, Game • Practice or Chill

Volleyball

• Watching TV

Water Guns • Basketball

• Play outside

Volleyball • Tag ousidse

Sleeping

Basketball and Video games • May

Chess

8.) Where is your favorite place to meet friends?

• School

• School

• the canivel

• house

• everywhere

• Park

• at school

• Anywhere

• School • at school

• Rec center

• School

• School

• Park

• Skate Park

• School

• School

• School

• School

• School

• School or activities

• School

• Park

• School

• School

• No where

• Park, rec center

• school

• reccess

• Park • School

• School

• School

• School

• School

• Playground

• The park

• School

• In Towaoc

• Home/School

• On the rez

• I don’t go out

• Skate Park

• Walmart

• Home/School

• Park

• Swing and seesaw

• School/Towaoc

School

Park

Gym and mall

Gym

School

9.) Where do you celebrate birthdays with your family and friends?

Home

Home

at home or community center

my house

cortez

Grandmas

Grandmas

no

Home

Parks or at home

At my house

Home

Family

At the park

Parks

Home

Home

Home

Home

My grandmas house

Home

Home

Park

Home

Home

None

My house

home

at home

Birthday

Anywhere

Farmington

Parks, Homes

Home

Dennys

Home

Yes

Park

Home

At home

Home

Home

Home

Yes

Home

Park, Home

Home or flyhigh

Home

House

Out of Town Park

Park

Home or park

Gym

Home or Park

10.) Do you participate in any UMUT youth programs?  If so, which ones?

12.) Who lives in your house with you?

• Grandpa, Great Grandma, mom,uncle and sister

• mom

• mom

• mom

• mom and dad

• Mom and siblings

Yes, all

Yes, basketball

Yes, basketmaking

Yes, handgame

Yes, Little cub clubs

Yes, Red Mesa Powow

Yes, Skirt making

Yes, this one

11.) How many sisters and brothers do you have?

• 2

• 2 sisters and a brother

• 2 sisters • 4

1 brother 1 sister

2 brothers

0

8

3

1 sister, 1 brother

4

2 brothers • 2 brothers and 1 sister

• 4 sisters, 2 brothers

• 5 sisters

• 4 sisters, 3 brothers

• 9 sisters and 8 brothers

• 1 sister, 1 brother

2

1 sister

2 sisters

3

1 sister, 3 brothers

2

sisters, 1 brother • 4 siblings

• Mom, Grandma, Cousin

• My mom

• Mom, brother, me

• Mom, dad, and sisters

• Mom and dad

• Auntie, sister, mom, me

• Mom and siblings

• Mom and dad

• Brothers, sisters, and grandma

• My family

• Parents and Siblings

• My siblings, my mom, and my uncle

• Mom and brothers

• Brothers and mom

• My mom

• Family

• Mom, dad, sisters

• Family

• mom

• My family

• Mom, dad, sisters

• Mom, dad, sisters

• Family

• Mom and sisters

• Mom, dad, grandpa, siblings

• Siblings, mom, dad, grandma

• Granny, siblings, parents

• my family

• mom, sister

• Parents

• Parents and Siblings

• Uncle, sisters

• Mom, Grandpa

• My uncles, sisters, me

• family

• Mom, dad, siblings

• Mom, dad, brother

• Uncle

• Family

• Mom, sisters and brothers

• Olive, Archie, Niomi, Collete

• My family

• My mom and sister

• Cousins, aunt, uncle, mom

• My mom

13.) What is your favorite thing to do when you are not in school?

• I play

• play on my ipad

• play

• have fun outside

• football, TV

• play outside

• math

• nothing

• play outside

• Play Basketball

• Have fun

• Play my instruments

• Play with pets

• My friends house

• Play Games

• Play toys

• Friends

• play

• Video Games

• Video Games

• Phone

• play outside

• Outside

• Stay up

• waterparks

• Play at home

• Stay home

• Draw

• Playing with a puppy

• Swim

• Sleep

• Play Games

• Sleep, Draw

• Watch my phone

• Watch youtube

• Play Games

• Play Games

• Go outside

• Chill

• Sports

• Sleep

• Chill, whatch, play games

• Clean

• Watching TV

• Play games, TV, Sleep

• Sleep

• ?

• Run around, softball

• Sleep

• Play on my phone

• Watch TV

• Play hand game

14.) Where is your favorite place in the UMUT community?

• Veterans park

• Play

• the rec center

• rec center • home

Cubs Club • Gym • Mountains

• I don’t know

• Anywhere

• The gym

• rec center

• ?? • Home • home

• Skate Park

• Home

• Park

• Home

• rec center

• Store

• the rec center

• rec center

• Playground

• rec center

• Swimming pool

• Skate Park

• rec center

• The gym

• The gym

• Home

• Gym

• the rec center

• rec center

• Ute mountains

• rec center

• Park

• the rec center

• Moguan • Gym

• rec center

• None • None

• My friends house

• Home • rec center

Home

rec center

Gym

Gym

Community Center

15.) What would like in your neighborhood that you don’t have?

• I don’t Know

• No

• water park

• swingset

• café

• football field

• Playground

• Nothing

• A park

• Not sure

• Playground

• A paived road

• Playground

• Park

• ATV’s

• Playground

• Playground

• Internet

• Park for the kids

• Toys

• Park

• Park

• swingset

• swingset

• A side walk

• grass

• Playground

• Park

• A park

• A park

• A basketball court

• Basketball hoop

• Basaketball

• No

• Basketball hoop

• A playground

• I don’t Know

• Walmart

• IDK

• Pool

• Pool

• Playground

• Horse Riding

• A park

• Grass area, picnic shelters

• Park

• I don’t know

• I don’t know

16.) What places do you visit with your family and friends outside of Towaoc?

• McDoanlads

• Town • movies

• park

• cortez

• Uncles house

• Uncles house

• Movies

• The park

• Denver, Cortez

• cortez

• Ignacio

• All over

• Farmington

• Farmington

• cortez

• Park

• Playground

• Abq

• Cortez, Durango, Shiprock, Farmington

• Town

• Places

• Cortez

• Shopping

• Durango

• Durnago

• Community center

• cities

• Disneyland

• Gym

• Everywhere

• Farmington

• House

• Hike

• Shopping

• Park

• Places to eat

• Movies

• Cortez

• Everywhere

• IDK

• Mexican Restaurant

• Utah

• Movies, malls

• Flyhigh

• Ignacio

• Denver

• Movie and Cortez

• Cortez, Farmington, Utah

17.) Where do you play or hang out?

• Home

• The Mountain

• at the park or in town

• park

• home

• Grandma’s, Uncle’s, Auntie’s

• Grandmas

• Home

• Anywhere

• School

• Cortez park, Farmington

• My house or rec center

• Trampoline

• Home

• At the park

• Home

• School/home

• Play

• Park

• Home

• My house

• School

• Outside

• Park

• School

• Spinny thing

• home

• Skate park

• Skate park

• outside

• Gym

• My house, ouside

• Park

• Outside

• Outside

• Park

• School

• At my grandmas

• Basketball court

• Outside

• Gym and home

• School/Fields

• trench

• Home or school

• Rodeo grounds

• Playground

• Home, Malls

• Rec center

• Rec center

• Park

• Gym, movie, rec center

• Gym

• Indian village, community center

18.) What do you want to do in the future?

• Work

• go to tokyo

• be a police

• NFL

• Doctor

• Make a better place

• I don’t know

• Singer

• Go to college

• Play basketball/sports

• Lawyer

• Doctor

• Play football

• Graduate

• Coaching

• UFC Fighter

• Doctor

• Mickey Mouse

• Save Money

• Teacher

• be a police

• A cop

• IDK

• Nails

• be like my auntie

• Doctor

• Do dishes

• Professional Basktball Player

• A doctor

• Cop

• Be a MLB player

• Police

• Get good grades

• A vet

• Get a job

• Be a cop

• Army

• Welding

• Makeup

• Drawing

• Cop/Bear Dance Chief

• Basketball Player

• Volleyball, Basketball

• Save Money

• Play basketball

• Nothing

• Be a cook

19.) What places do you want to keep safe?

• My Home Land

• My Home

• My home

• community

• My mom and my dad

• Home

• home

• I don’t know

• Home

• Not sure

• My home

• My home

• Home

• My Home • Home • Home • Home

• My home • Towaoc

• My house • Home

Home

House

Home • Home • home

• My house • Home

• At home

• Gym

• My home

• Home

Home

• Towaoc

• Gym

• Rec center

• Ute

• Idk

• Moguan and Home

• My home and family

• My home

• Anywhere

• Home

• IDK

• Home

• My home

• I don’t know

• Bike trails

• My house

• I don’t know

• My home

• Forests and wildlife

Ute Mountain Ute Tribe - Recreation Master Plan 2024 Adult Survey Results | June 2024

ADULT SURVEY RESULTS

1.) What is your name and phone number or email?

• Danielle House, (970)739-7080

• Trai Yellowman (970)570-3471

• Vida Clark, vclark@utemountain.org

• Tron Wave, twave@utemountain.org

• (970)749-4015

• Vansan Viceuti, (970)560-8742

• Rayhal Frank, (970)560-1758

• Rene Wells, (970)541-7614

• Florita Lopez, lopezflo176@gmail.com

• George Wetlr Jr.

• Sealy Whiteskunk, (970)739-5437

• Kasity Porambo, (970)560-7399

• Sharon House, (970)283-6045

• mbox@utemountain.org

• Flaudia Knight, (970)739-4317

• Charinda Jones, (970)238-0237

• Davina J. (970)739-5867

• Mitzi Redhorse, (970)570-2378

• Bengina Pavisody, (970)739-7993

• Iyonia Pavisook, (970)560-5487

• (505)675-8067

• Kim, (623)640-9460

• (970)739-1301

• Sequoia, sw_sequoia@yahoo

• Canaida Poitsinnie

• Quintina Pavisook, (970)903-8608

• Derira Valdez, dicksonderica@yahoo.com

• Sharon Jay, (385)259-9150

• Alfonzo James

• Sheryl Baldwin, (970)739-9797

• Stacie Choyou, (970)564-6183

• Blaine Choyou, (970)779-1613

• Kadence

• Rebecca Hammond

• Toni Summa (970)426-8960

• Raymond, (505)686-1882

• Epheline Notah, (928)429-7457

• Marilynn House (970)564-5600

• Danielle House, 970-793-7080

• selwyn.whiteskunk@utemountain.org

• Dyllon mills

• awhitehead@utemountain.org

• Vansan Vicenti Vicenti.rose@gmail.com

• vclark@utemountain.org

• Alvora Ketchum (970) 238-6880 aketchum@utemountain.org

• Shelley Eyetoo, 970 559 0439

• Sonya Lefthand slefthand@utemountain.org

• jthurman@utemountain.org - Jessica

• Nikki Posey (970)-238-0878

• Sonya Cuthair - email scuthair@gmail.com

• rweeks@utemountain.org Rufina Weeks

• Josiah Lopez

• Arlene T. Lang (970)560-3011 or (970)739-3426

• Tawnie Knight 970-676-1100 tawnieknight@utemountain.org

• Tron 970-739-5151

• Flaydina Knight

• Fernessa Brooks 860-861-8633 Brooks012919@ gmail.com

• Blaine House wudaopuch92@gmail.com

2.) What is your age demographic?

a. 19-30 years old22

b. 31-40 years old 31

c. 41 -50 years old18

d. 51-64 years old27

e. 65+ years old6

e. 65+ years old

d. 51-64 years old

c. 41 -50 years old

b. 31-40 years old

a. 19-30 years old

3.) Select your primary mode of transportation for getting around Towaoc.

a. Vehicle 96

b. Bicycle 2

c. Walk 8

d. Other 2

• Other, I do not live in Towaoc.

• Walk and vehicle longboarding

6.) What do you treasure and want to preserve in Towaoc?

Cultural Activities, Gardneing Culture

N/A

N/A

Not sure park

Outdoor Recreation

N/A

Culture

Keep people on pavement

N/A

The parks

N/A

Free places to workout

The elders who teach culture and language to younger kids

Hiking Trails

The authenicity, the Art/Culture Culture

Culture

Preserve the parks and clean up

Cook-out area, too much vandilism

Parks, Rec center, Powwow and beardance grounds

The softball fields

Softball fields

Parks and event areas

fire trail

Beardance Grounds

The language

Things for the children, trips

The culture and heritage

N/A

Ute language

The culture Culture

Walking trails, beardance grounds

The trees in the park, Skate park

the elders who teach songs and beardance to kids

youth spaces

Traditional ways, health

Gym and rec center pool, culture, land, family, safety

Morals, Respect, Values

State Parks

Health and positivity

• N/A

• The rec center

• Most areas need maintenance/landscaping

• Swimming pool, what could the tribe contribute to make it possible to re-construct the indoor pool?

• Culture and traditions

• N/A

• traditional cultures

• N/A

• N/A

• Rec centers for young children

• The beardance is very special and should be preserved

• Culture, reservation, park areas, mountain

• The culture

• Park with playground

• N/A

• culture, language

• Education, culture

• N/A

• Beardance

• Beardance

• Swimming pool

• Culture

• Health, physically and mentally

• N/A

• Culture, plants, animals

• mountain

• The trails

• Parks, public spaces

• walking/running trails

• N/A

• beardance grounds

• N/A

• The land and its people

• Natural beauty

• N/A

• n/a

• N/A

• the culture

• basketball

• Cultural activities, gardening

• FAMILY LIVING, Having families come together to enjoy togetherness.

• Native plants

• I treasure the history of Towaoc and at one time the Recreation Dept. had a fantastic swim team.

• plants and trees

• some of the older buildings

• Water

• The trail behind the headscarf. It’s a beautiful walking trail that needs maintenence now & then.

• Culture and Community

• Kids playgrounds.

• memorial at veterans park

• our mountains, land for all generations to come n enjoy n love what we have right here in our own back yards.

• The idea of physical activities growing with the people.

• The Swimming Pool. My daughter loves to swim. Our parks and trails.

• All of our land on the reservation.

• Our Children need better place to grow and play

• Traditional Ute

• Treasure our culture and way of life, also our individuality as a tribe.

• Culture

• Culture & Tradition

7.) What recreation amenities do you drive to Cortez or other cities for?

• Park

• Swimming Pool

• Pool

• Better Parks

• Pool

• Mountain biking, Picnicking Area, Market Spaces

• Picnicking Areas

• Unpaved hiking trails, volleyball

• Playground, Swimming pool

• Gym, Park, Playground

• Food

• City park, Swimming

• Park, Swimming

• Swimming Pool

• Rivers, Parks

• Help us support we are humans

• Basketball

• Hiking, Swimming

• Playground Area

• Skate park, Playground, Picnicking area

• Basketball, Skate park, Mountain biking, Playground, picnicking ares, storytelling spaces

• Playground area

• Pool in Cortez and at Sun ute community center

• Basketball courts, picnic area

• Cortez Rec swimming pool

• Fitness walk

• Pool, Park, Rec center

• Baseball, Basketball, Swimming • Basketball • Little League sports

• Ropes course, Mountain biking trails

• Park

• Outdoor event/market spaces

• Swimming pool

• skate, biking, fishing

• swimming

• Rec center, trails

• Ffood and visit friends

• Softball and fishing

• Rec center sports

• shiprock

• softball complex

• Park, swimming pool

• N/A

• Showering Lockers Access to water Clean gym equipment Pool Stream room Stretching course Children daycare

• Swimming

• side walk behind the hospital Durango reenter

• grocery, ude of the pool, having a new recreation cntr for everyone to enjoy.

• Sports, Entertainment/Events, and Swimming

• Wading pool to exercise in Cortez.

• Tourism. Swimming. Golf

• Swimming pool & recreation center.

• pool, horseshoes, and watch BMX riders

• Weight training and cardio around a track.

• To walk safely without being bitten by a dog.

• softball & sand volleyball leagues, the various parks for playgrounds.

• Swimming, park to play and walk, soccer, softball, volleyball

• Groceries, household items and entertainment.

• Parks, Rec Center thats updated and open, Trampoline park, swimming!

• Walking

• Leagues and tournaments

• 24/7 Weight rooms

8.) Please select your top 5 priorities for the Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Master Plan including existing outdoor recreation and proposed outdoor recreation activities. (What would you use if built?)*

*These are open ended repsonses from hard copy surveys

• Swimming Pool, water slide, pocket playground, and golf course

• Better Bike Track

• Pool, Rec center, New basketball courts, Huge park, Pond w fish

• Pool, Playground, Picnic Area, Side walks, Resaurant

• Community garden, Outdoor market space, basketball courts, outdoor movie, Playground

• Baksetball, Volleyball, Ourdoor picnic area, Playground

• Ropes Course, Elder Activity area, Ampitheater, Botanical Gardens, Market Space

• Paved and unpaved hiking trails, Pool/hot tub, Outdoor movie, Mountain biking trails

• New rec center, Outdoor/indoor pool, Activity Center, Playground, Shelter/meals

• Indoor/oudoor swimming pool, New rec center, Event center

• Skate Park, Basketball Court, Playground, Shelters/ Meal spaces, Ourdoor movie screen

• Softball, Veterans Park, Skate Park, Beardance/ Powwow Ropes

• Archery course improvement

• Playgrounds, Natural Climbing Boulders, Community shade, Oudoor movie screen, Archery

• Ampitheater, Mountain Bike trails, Paved hiking trails, Elder activity areas, Outdoor screens

• Hiking Trails, Playground Area, Outdoor Movie screen, Outdoor event/Market Spaces, Storytelling spaces

• Pool, Volleyball area, Picnick area, Park, Community/ Botanical Gardens

• Basketball courts, Softball Fields, Unpaved hiking trails, Playground, Shelters/Meal Spaces

• Playground, Picnic area, Shelters/Meal Spaces, Elder activity areas, Ampitheater

• Elder activity areas, Ampitheater, Communtiy Botanical Gardens, Basketball court, Outdoor Market

• Softball, Paved hiking trails, Picnic area, Playground, Basketball courts

• Volleyball, Swimming pool

• Swimming pool, softball, playground, outdoor sand volleyball

• Playground@veterans park, Cameras around state park for grafity prevention

• Volleyball, Paved hiking, Picnic area, Community

Shade, Outdoor event/market spaces

• Ropes Course, Unpaved and paved hiking trails

• N/A

• Basketball, Skate Park, Softball, Unpaved hiking, Mountain bike trails, Elder space, Shelters

• The gym, Swimming pool, elder spaces

• Community Shade, Elder activity areas, Storytelling spaces, Archery, Ampitheater

• Basketball courts, Volleyball area

• Playground, Skate park, Duck pond, Fishing areas, Unpaved hiking

• Playground, Picnic areas, Outdoor Movie screen, Skate Park

• Paved hiking trails, Playground, Shelters/Meal Spaces, Outdoor movie screen and games yard

• Playground, Picnicking, Movie screen, Skate Park, Softball Fields

• Pool, Basketball courts, Climbing wall, Outdoor space with shade, playground

• Playground, Swimming pool, Young kid activities, Food place, elder activities

• Picnicking area, Elder activities, Playground

• Playground, storytelling, climbing walls, walking trail, ropes course

• Training area, Park with playground, Pool, Walking path, ropes course

• Pool w/ lessons, Community park, covered basketball court, ampitheater, playground

• Park, Outdoor events, movie screen, hiking trails, natural climbing

• Volleyball, Basketball court, Skate park, play ground, picnicking/shelter meals

• Skate Park, Playground Area, Archery, Volleyball, Outdoor Games Yard

• Basketball courts, pool, trails

• Playground, Maintenance for basketball area, skate park, and grass landscape

• Basketball court, Elder activities, Market spaces, Paced hiking trails, Outdoor games yard

• Playground, Unpaved hiking, Community Shade, Botanical gardens, Outdoor event/market spaces

• Ampitheater, Playground, Picnic area, Outdoor movie, Outdoor event, market spaces

• N/A

• Swimming pool, basketball courts, softball, volleyball, ampitheater

• Rope course, Softball field, storytelling, archery,

natural climbing boulders

• Volleyball court, playground, movie screen

• Playground, park, safe walking zones, community garden, outdoor movie screen

• Playground, water park, safe play for kids, elders walking path

• Basketball Court, BMX track, Tennis/Pickleball courts, Track, playground

• Basketball, Softball, Volleyball, Mountain biking, Elder activities, storytelling

• Hiking Trails, Picnic area, Game yard, Event/market space, biking trails

• Ampitheater, Outdoor learning area, volleyball, community shade, garden

• Paved hiking, playground, picnic area, ampitheater, outdoor event/market spaces

• N/A

• N/A

• Picnic area, Senior Space, Gardening area

• Bike trails, Go karts

• Swimming pool, Gym, consession stand, basketball court(outdoor)

• Picnic area, Paved hiking, Ampitheater, Archery, Ourdoor movie

• Basketball courts, Skate park, softball fields, playground

• Volleyball, Playground, Picnicking, Community shade, outdoor movie

• Basketball courts, mountain biking trails, volleyball, shelters/meal spaces

• Basketball courts, weightlifting

• Picnic area, Shelters/meal spaces, elder activities, climbing boulder, outdoor movie screen

• basketball courts, unpaved hiking trails

• Softball, storytelling space, biking trails, volleyball, playground

• Softball fields, paved hiking, picnic area, elder activities area, ampitheater

• Pickball, Basketball court, water park, hiking trails

• Exercise, mental stability, fun, energy, amusement

• unpaved hiking, volleyball, archery, community botanical areas, natual climbing boulders

• outdoor games yard, paved hiking trails, shelters/ meal spaces

• basketball, playground, picnic, elder activities, movie screen

• Ropes course, Mountain bike trails, archery, outdoor event/market spaces, ampitheater

• ropes course, biking trails, ampitheater, gardens, playground

• basketball, softball, playground area, picnic area, ampitheater

9.) What is your Top Priority? Please select your top priority for the Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Master Plan. (What would you use if built?)*

*These are open ended repsonses from hard copy surveys

• Swimming Pool

• New Rec Center

• Pool

• Fix the pool

• Rec center, cultural area

• Ropes Course

• Walking path

• Picnic/Gathering area

• Indoor/Outdoor pool

• Playground

• Softball

• Archery Course

• Playgrounds

• Mountain bike trails(kid friendly)

• Outdoor Event/Market places

• Park

• Playground

• Park with a playground

• Community Shade

• Ampiteater

• Swimming Pool

• Swimming pool/sauna

• Pool to be opened

• Outdoor Movie Screen

• Rock wall

• A big community area to provide sports activities, cooking, and after school activities

• Health purposes

• Support all, elder spaces

• Ampitheater

• Playground

• Playground/Picnic areas

• N/A

• Playground and swimming pool

• Playground

• Playground

• Playground

• Park with a playground and walking area

• Swimming pool

• Park

• Pool

• Skate Park

• Pool and weight room

• Large play area

• Pysical activity spaces

• Playground area

• Outdoor movie theater

• swimming pool

• Ropes course

• Playground area

• Safe play to play, duck pond

• Safe walking path

• Tennis/Pickleball courts

• Mountain bike trails

• Hiking trails

• Ampitheater

• Outdoor Event/Market spaces

• Community Garden

• Outdoor pool

• New gym

• Outdoor, shaded gazeebo

• Activities for youth 8 and under

• Archery

• N/A

• Community botanical gardens

• trails

• N/A

• Elder activities area

• Sports activity

• Everything for the expierience

• Softball

• pook, basketball court

• N/A

• mountain bike trails

• hiking trails

• Playground/Picnic areas

• Basketball Courts

• Softball Fields

• Softball Fields

• Softball Fields

• Ropes Course

• Unpaved Hiking Trails

• Mountain Biking Trails Paved Hiking Trails

• Mountain Biking Trails Paved Hiking Trails

• Playground Area

• Playground Area

• Picnicking Area

• Picnicking Area

• Community Shade

• Shelters/Meal Spaces

• Storytelling Spaces

• Amphitheater

• Archery

*These repsonses from online survey, 22

Eighth Generation Warrior Wool Blanket raffle drawing winner for participating in Parks and Trails Community Event Survey (June 1st, 2024 Towaoc Bear Dance)

APPENDIX E MEETING NOTES

Towaoc Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Master Plan Community Engagement Event #1 – Spring Youth Fair

11:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, March 20th Recreation Center, 495 Sunset Blvd, Towaoc, CO 81321

Notes:

• Weave culture and history into outdoor spaces

• Seasonally/holistically/traditional cultural ways of living and fitness

• Weave background and storyline of UMUT into parks

• Time of day is important

• Tells a story to learn a lesson

o He represents the conscience of the people

o Utes used to live in Hogans.

o Mountain People, Hiking Mountains, Strength, Running,

o Support for Community’s New School and Athletics

o Choctaw reference to doing well

o Support for “The Home” is the Ute “Way”

- Ute Language, Culture, Tradition

- Take kids to the mountain, teach them the prayers, say the words in the right sequence; the spirit will tell you. If you don’t, your chance to connect to the spirit is lost.

- Make the effort to teach kids the ute way.

- The importance of songs and the messaging of the song from the spirit.

- Kids must stand in two worlds (Ute and White Man)

- It’s above the journey. Show kids the places energy is and where people used to live and how they lived.

- Combine Traditional and Spiritual Knowledge and Education

• The Spirit of the Mountain is real.

General Notes - Culture

• Need connections to Education, Athletes, Culture, Language

o Find something for the future! Have something to look forward to.

o KCA: What, How, When, Who is going to teach?

o Incorporate Ute Language?

o Pictures of Animals with Ute Names

o Be Cautious and have a Thorough Plan (Teachers, Students, Maintenance, Administration, Community Support, State Certified)

o Need persistent Support and Involvement

o Club sports – basic skills (dribble/throw balls/etc.); no dedicated PE teachers; would help parent programming

o Spiritual Knowledge Jim Williams medicine man (no longer around).

- Educational Knowledge, Academia, Traditional Knowledge Combined

o Community gardens

- Traditional/medicinal plants – need storyline

- Grow food/harvest/outdoor cooking places (could this tie into supervision)

o Lots of Single Parents in the Community are raising children.

• Archaeological Sites

o Case by Case Basis

o Site Could be Anywhere (Additional grave site near Terry’s old house?)

o Indentations in ground or gather of rocks different from other rocks in the area are a visual sign of potential site

o exercise stations by the trail; well-used

Pocket Park Notes

• No swing set at Veteran’s Park – need more sacred places

• Picnic Area at Rodeo Grounds, Use Water Run-Off to Grow

• Have Playgrounds in Neighborhoods (Not Used)

o Evaluate pocket park….what can be in them

• Exercise stations by the trail are well-used

• What amenities are worth considering

o What amenities already there?

o How can these be utilized?

o Can ex. swimming pool be reopened?

- Built in 1962; $3.9 million dollars to improve indoor pool

- Needs improvement/funding inefficiencies

o Can we emphasize/enhance existing trails?

o Ex. basketball court = dilapidated; not standard

o Can we improve upon existing/maintenance

o Need to improve upon existing systems

o Maintenance is a huge section

Dog Issue and Vandalism Notes

o Dog issue -such a barrier and obstacle (policy)

- How can we address this fear

- Safety issue with the dogs

- What current programs are in place and have been addressed?

- Policies are in place, but no existing rules are being followed

- Other case studies? How has this been addressed on other reservations?

- Have pictures and videos; needs to take to council

- Task force? Awareness is out there. No task force has been created. Fencing with drop-offs? Fence maintenance is key. Intuitive fence installation

o Locks? Graffiti/vandalism/security

- Make sure is in the budget

- Fencing/deterrent for dogs

- Elders could drive up to fence; park; and walk into the park

- Affordable/attractive fencing/need visibility into fencing/different fencing types/durability

Park Design Notes

o Need different activities/services/events to be created

o Playground

- Slides/spinners/swings = favorite items (movement-based)

- Supervision/observation during the day

- Big kids beat up on younger kids

- Someone sitting/driving by to make sure that bad things aren’t happening

- High visibility by multiple residences/tribal police route

- Could someone be hired at the park

- Shaded adult bench area (comfortable vantage point)

- Security cameras

- Swings = important

- Natural playground is not worth weighing in

o Are there safe spaces to get outside for elders?

Towaoc Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Master Plan

Mark Wing & Student Group Meeting Notes

4:30 P.M. Thursday, April 18th

Virtual Zoom Call

Notes:

• This group enjoys football, cheerleading, volleyball, swings (at Cortez/schools)

o Volleyball (at Cortez schools and Towaoc Rec Center); inside at Rec Centernot in grass

o Swinging (both; any kind of swings)

o Swimming pool (one at local Rec Center is no longer usable)

- Can get in vehicles to go to Cortez swimming

• Play outside in Towaoc –

o At Community center/gym

o At own houses

- One kid live on 201 in middle of road

- One kid lives by EMS building by Mike Wash Road

- Bike riding (mostly around house)

• Ride bikes on the roads and back trails in Towaoc

• Biking trails; mostly by themselves

• Dogs make ride faster on bikes

o No other places for outdoor recreation/some are currently perceived as dangerous

o Existing parks are unused

o Don’t do nature walks right now – perceptions on dangerous kidnappers, kid perception of dogs are nice

• Activities with Moguan Behavioral Health – can play outside building in grassy area; easter egg hunt held here

o Activities when school is out – every Friday (ride bikes/fishing/camping)

- Group activities are more fun than ones by themselves

- Drive to most of these activities

- Mark and mom(s) drive to places

- Fishing/Archery – wildlife department

- Band – saxophone

- Rock climbing gym; ziplining

- Mancos medicine horse therapy; Horseback riding

- Mesa Verde

• Activities with Towahi Program

o Biking

o Cooking class

o Community center

o Hand games – annual hand game day (whole gym needed)

o Would do outside if there was a grassy field

• Bear dance (community cooks food at houses and bring it over to bear dance grounds)

• Casino activities: Christmas dinner – at casino and community center

• Wish List Items

o Would like to have a space for picnicking

- Gazebos/picnic shelter

o Multi-use event lawn

- Softball in the summer time

- Football/kickball

- Football; only one softball field

- Movie nights – projector (at rec center); air up screens

o Playgrounds: Seasaws for littles; slides; swings; trampolines; rock climbing (both manmade and handholds); like natural play areas

o Other activities

- Pingpong table

- Cornhole would be good

- Outdoor swimming

- Older kids play basketball, chill hang-out spaces, place to eat – teen center Boys/Girls club

- Amphitheater

- Storytelling and covered event areas = good for elders

o Bike trails

- Make wider

- Like hills on bikes

o Landscaping

- Big shade trees

- Flowers and trees

- Fountain in community

o Furnishings

- Bike racks would be good

- Benches

- Lights – key for safety

o Maintenance

- Skate park = unsafe at night (sometimes use existing skate park)

- Basketball needs new nets

o Community Artwork/statue of eagle

- Painting on sides of buildings – illegal

For Reference

– Prompts/Questions:

• How old are you?

• What grade are you in?

• What is the name of your school?

• What is your favorite activity after school?

• Where is your favorite place to meet friends?

• Where do you celebrate birthdays with your family and friends?

• Do you participate in any UMUT youth programs? If so, which ones?

• What is your favorite thing to do when you are not in school?

• Where is your favorite place in the UMUT community?

• What would like in your neighborhood that you don’t have?

• What places do you visit with your family and friends outside of Towaoc?

• Where do you play or hang out?

• What do you want to do in the future?

• What places do you want to keep safe?

• Types of equipment/activities

• Outdoor recreation in Towaoc

• Activities/amenities for different ages

Towaoc Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Master Plan

2nd Community Engagement Event Draft Work Plan

8:00 AM Saturday, June 1st – 3:00 PM

Notes:

The meeting took place on Saturday June 1st during the Bear Dance and featured a large booth in front of the Rec Center with three canopies, tables, chairs, a coloring station, a chili-bar food station, surveys, draft park and trails plan boards, and a raffle Eighth Generation Blanket prize drawing. A smaller booth also was held at the Post Office to gather more input from Bear Dance event attendees. Public input from this meeting has been recorded in the form of survey data, photos, and in these meeting notes.

• Review of preliminary parks and trails concepts

o Create map of what is existing for presentation to share w/ the community

- Existing BMX track

- Existing archery at north

- Existing location for bikes; no one is using

- Existing trail by school is a fire department training area

o Parks would be a great improvement for Towaoc

- Need parks due to obesity/diabetes problems

- Would like more parks

o Need storytelling spaces for speakers

- Like idea of amphitheaters with 3-4 levels

o Keep open parking by Veterans

- Would like to see cookouts/more park amenities near Veterans since is at the heart of the town

- Having Veteran’s park close to all of the existing community resources is good

o Towaoc Community Park

- Pickleball would be great

- Park close to cemetery is not good; don’t want parks close to death ceremonies

- People don’t go out and play at night

o Trails

- Multiuse trails would be great

- West side by the KCA has too many arch sites for development to occur

- Remove trail route along Fox Ave. from Trails Map; would not be monitored/may lead to trash, dust, and other problems

o Need shade shelters

- Ex. Gazebo; need to replace with something else

• Need to incorporate Ute Mountain Ute culture/layers of meaning into schematic designs

o Would be good to reach out to Terry for information to include in report

o Add recommendations on layers of meaning into report (via symbolism/ colors/signage/etc.)

o Look at pottery and casino

o Important animals

- Buffalo

- Bear

• Bear Claw/Bear Paw

• Bear walking on sides walking to center

- Eagle

• Lines/feathers

o Circle can be Ute design/logo

- Black triangle

- Medicine circle wheel (look up on website)

o 4 directions are important

- E=Beginning, S=Youth, W=Mature, N=End Life

- Enter facing East=Good; facing East for morning prayers is good

- Facing West for leaving; bad things leaving

- UMUT - clockwise paths are important; consider circulation

- Four corners

o 4 Seasons are important

o Stair stepping pattern; could do this at @Veteran’s park

o Colors are important

- Black, white, red, yellow

- These could be poured-in-place safety surfacing colors

o Language/signage/interpretive signage

- Could name parks with native names or put locations/ recommendations for interpretive signage into report

o Get ideas from community/graphic design recommendations for construction document phase of work

- Artists should be limited to within UMUT

- has done logos before for Amaktoolik

• O ther potential amenities

o Livestock (Horses and cattle farm learning app.)

- Horseback riding (especially for kids)

o Volleyball

o Archery

o Outdoor Pool

- A big water park

- Splash Park

o Obstacle course

o Basketball court

• Good management and operations are needed

o Issue/challenge – sustainability; maintenance, repair

o Parks and recreation department is needed; need more grants for maintenance for buildings

o Need more funding and manpower

o Restrooms should be regulated, supervised, and maintained

• Safety Concerns

o Walk by casino=not safe

o Packs of feral dogs

o Hiding places in bushes or by existing trails

o Rattlesnakes by/behind the school

o Bike path should remain close to town/visible areas because of vandalism

o Need to re-grade the road

- Broken ankles have happened

- Falling Elders

- Elders need ride to meeting

Towaoc Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Master Plan

Elder Committee Engagement Event Meeting Notes

10:00 AM – 12:45 PM, Tuesday, June 11st Fozzie’s Farm, 19760 Road W, Lewis, CO 81327

Draft Meeting Notes

The meeting took place on Tuesday, June 11th at the Fonzi Farm meeting room during an Elder Committee meeting. Notes for this meeting are below.

Introductions and Messages for Youth

• Attendees included youth (13-17 years old), elders, and invited professors from neighboring colleges

• message for youths

o Important to learning about how things grow; important for youth to care for themselves and their communities this way

o Importance of balance, gratitude, and positivity in everyday life as a choice

• prayer for the group before the elder committee moved into the meeting room

• elders are appointed and selected for a 3-year term to advise

o Introduced the Towaoc Recreation Master Plan project.

Overall Comments

• Elder committee thought this project was a plan under one of the other master plans

o Clarified that this master plan focuses on parks and trails and was funded by GOCO

o Desire to be more included in planning processes; would like opinions to be heard and considered

• Concerned with the engagement processes, project phasing, and the importance of speaking to individual households near the proposed trails and trailhead

• Education and safety = top priorities

• Do not want a “commercial-feel” (attributed to the Southern Ute parks)

• Community amenities should not require payment and be open to all in the community; parks and recreation sites may benefit from issued decal entry for tribe member vehicles

• Visitors coming to Towaoc is good

o Like idea of people from Cortez coming to these parks and renting their amenities

o Like the idea of outside guests from neighboring tribes, visitors from Cortez, and tourism from the Casino, RV, and truck stop area

• Someone who lives near the casino area, expressed frustration with needing to protect hiking tourists, truck drivers, and RV site users from the wild dogs

o Signage and fences would help control visitors

• Why aren’t the parks located closer to the highway?

o There is more room out there such as the empty hayfield

o The center of town is already congested; additional parks near the center of town to would add to the congestion in that area

Trails

• Concerns about the regional trail location

o Residents near the location of the proposed trailhead location wouldn’t like it to be so close to their homes

o Wild dogs and mountain lions are present in the location of the proposed trailhead; it may be best to move the trail closer to town

Towaoc Community Park

• Concerns with park’s proximity to the cemetery

• Committee was unaware that the new school is slated to be built on the existing softball fields

• Little need for sports fields; softball fields are not used except during Beardance o If developed, would be good if Cortez would want to rent these spaces

Community-Built Parks/Opportunities for Local Artists

• Someone mentioned that her relative was the original fabricator for the swings at Veteran’s Park

o Opportunity in new parks development for skilled welders and fabricators from the tribe to build park amenities

o Possible amenities to be built by local artists include swings, benches, shade structures

Maintenance and Phasing

• Important to have “champions” for parks

o Parks and trails should be phased in; start small

o This would allow Towaoc to fall in love with one of the parks at a time and help get other parks built

o This method could inspire/promote long-term maintenance

o Improvements near Veteran’s Park would be the best place to start as is in the heart of the community; really liked the design

• There is difficulty in convincing the community of the value of trimming trees and clearing vegetation – especially in the North residential area

o Need to increase safety by improving understory visibility and decreasing the potential hazard for fires with controlled burns

o Need to speak directly to Towaoc residents and people who work closely with the land (bushwacking groups)

Safety Concerns (Wild Dogs)

• (Someone who has worked with Animal Control) confirmed the wild dogs are numerous and dangerous

• The group agreed a layered approach to managing the dogs would be best and would like suggestions included in the master plan

o Ideas included the following:

- Spay/Neuter Programs

- Wild Dog Capture Programs

- Adoption Programs

- Fence Replacement for Residents

- Fences for Parks

White Mesa Community

• Would like this project to include White Mesa

o GOCO grant is a Colorado grant, but a recommendation for the UMUT to look at outdoor recreation for White Mesa can be documented in the master plan report

• Pollution activism: pollution in the air makes people avoid going outdoors; pollution in White Mesa is caused by the Energy Fuels site (an open-pit uranium mine) 5.6 miles to the north

• Dislike proximity of recreation sites to sewer treatment area; smell

Considerations

for Master Plan Report Development

• Questions to consider for the Parks/Trails improvement recommendations:

o How will these Parks/Trails recommendations benefit the community?

o What are the recommendations for maintaining new these new parks and trails? (Shouldn’t build more/new facilities until solid plans for maintenance are in place.)

o Why are some of the existing park spaces not included in this master plan?

- Why are there no proposed improvements for the Pow Wow grounds? Should this be paved?

- Why are there no proposed improvements for the Beardance grounds?

- Why are there no proposed improvements to the interior of Veteran’s Park?

- Why don’t master plans consider the location of burial sites?

Towaoc Ute Mountain Ute Parks and Trails Master Plan

Community Engagement Event #3 – Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and Rural Development 504 Program Workshop

Thursday, September 19th; 12 PM – 6 PM Elder Center, 900 Dry Creek Rd, Towaoc, CO 81334 Recreation Center, 495 Sunset Blvd, Towaoc, CO 81321

Public Meeting Locations

• Recreation Center (immediately following food workshop; shifted from Senior Center)

• In lawn area in front of Recreation Center with bounce house and food

Meeting Notes

• Rodeo Drive Community Park Comments

o Consider playground at fairgrounds

o Include a trail to softball fields, so kids from Rodeo Drive can walk to school

o Like the amphitheater shown in the KCA Master Plan

o Move larger park to south of community so it is further away from the dogs

o Move basketball to this park

o Good to have loop trail around the park that is paved for use in both summer and winter

o Would be good to have water and electric hookups for vendors at larger park

o Community area by feast house

- Have vending area

- Have water park

• Other Comments to Plan Design Concepts

o Sites for parks need to be identified: #1 next step; council needs to pick one (primary 1st park)

o Signage at parks could include calorie counters; X miles = X calories

- I need a place to walk; everyone needs places to walk, especially kids.

o Add lighting to cost estimates

o Park placement equates to security in a park

o Native drum group with school could be on the north side by the gravel pit

o Splash park should be listed in future opportunities

o Evident that outdoor recreation is not available right now; these plans would help

• UMUT Recreation Department needs to have maintenance protocols established to ensure parks are upkept

o Need to create budget for maintenance in Tribal Council

o WCA could help with maintenance

o Could hire independent landscaping company to do work

o Potential day labor program

o Youth don’t respect what we have; vandalism concerns

• Need to fix existing problems

o Pool has been not working for a while

o Water park; gym is not utilized

o Wild dogs are now moving packs of 6-12

o Skepticism from community members because a previous park was lost due to a location not being selected

• History and Culture

o We used to play in trees and drink from the water hose, but today, games are electronic, but personal connections are important

o Ute colors are red, yellow, and sky blue; yellow sun represents the creator

o Roses = beauty, pure, good

o Could have youth committee help with developing ideas for Park Names and then have elders interpret in the written language; have public activity for place naming; offer in a community event; could offer prizes for the winning names

- Put in notes on plans

- Shoshone-Bannock Tribes – related to UMUT

• Share dialect – plains Indians

• Desert to mountains

• Kids weighed in on activities they like:

o Kids enjoy bike trails; however, there are lots of cocklebur’s

o Running, volleyball, 4 people tetherball

o Swings, tire swings, sand volleyball

o Sand boxes

o Playground

o A smaller scale park in neighborhoods is most important

o Splash park and pools are great for parties

o Slides, monkey bars, swings, bells, harmony music, turtles, butterflies

o Play tag soccer and hide and seek

o Camping and marshmallows

o Play at home

o Swings, slides, monkey bars

o Want park in Towaoc with slides swings, merry-go-rounds, bikes, scooters, drone

o Duck park

o Slides, monkey bars, swings, tire swings, curved, trampoline

o Swings, slides, bikes, soccer, monkey bars, capture the flag

o Nature flowers, trees, ziplines

o Swimming, PIP surfacing, monkey bar, slide, tire swing, skate park, bikes on trails, soccer

o Read book, hang at home

• Recommendations on next steps

o Need to write a tribal resolution for the Tribal Council presentation

o Resolution needs to prove that study from original grant was done and outline the steps to move forward

- Refer to the original language in proposal for Tribal Resolution; include fundamental principles of wellness and fitness

- Add quotes into document regarding historic information regarding outdoor people and survival

- For us to improve, we have to change and it needs to be a community change

Example: the grocery store moved forward for health reasons

• There are currently 350 diabetic community members; this number is expected to grow over the years; this growing number drove the establishment of the grocery store.

o “I want my grandchildren to have a better diet and habits.”

o The grocery store is a tool to address a root problem

- This will be a historical document that is referenced 20 years from now

o Next step is to seek project and allocate construction dollars; reach out to tribal grant writer

- Consider infrastructure grants

o Contact Economic Development

o Could put on 99 Channel for Master Plan Promotion

o Incorporate community design effort in playground construction document process; give the kids copies of the site plan to take home to their parents for feedback

Schedule at a Glance:

• September 19th: 3rd Community Engagement Event at 504 Workshop

• November 4th: Draft Master Plan sent to stakeholder group for review

• November 8th or 9th: Stakeholder Meeting

• November 21st or December: Final Resolution and Master Plan presentation ready to submit to Tribal Council

• November 26th or December: Final Master Plan Presentation to Tribal Council/ Final Master Plan delivered to Towaoc; DHM to follow up and make any final revisions to Master Plan per direction from Council

Action Items

• DHM to edit master plan per stakeholder groups

• DHM to work with UMUT to prepare draft resolution for Tribal Council

APPENDIX F SOURCES & CULTURAL RESOURCE INVENTORY

Sources (Image Credits)

1. Open Space Master Plan, 2016

2. Kwiyagat Community Academy, 2022 (DHM Archives)

3. Growing Ute Futures Education Campus Master Plan, 2022

4. Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Community Master Plan Towaoc, 2024

5. https://www.sudrum.com/education/2022/12/02/remember-our-history-walk/

6. https://www.gametime.com/news/play-on-how-school-playgrounds-create-healthy-and-active-students

7. https://www.visiteauclaire.com/things-to-do/outdoors/parks/phoenix-park/

8. https://treeswaterpeople.org/blog/kwiyagat-community-academy

9. https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/community-stewardship

10. https://coopercenter.arizona.edu/file/691

11. https://www.playworks.org/resource/5-strategies-to-make-recess-work-in-tennessee/

12. https://www.mesacc.edu/programs/map/welding-gas-metal-flux-cored-arc-welding-gmawfcaw-ccl

13. https://www.pinonhillsgolf.com/photo-gallery/

14. https://www.poligon.com/steel/trellises/custom-trellis

15. https://qubs.ca/news/2022/10/01/new-indigenous-interpretative-signs-elbow

16. https://scholars.unh.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=6804&context=unh_today

17. https://www.reflectorart.com/dick/commissions/mn04.html

18. https://artsmidwest.org/stories/a-new-mural-of-indigenous-hope-and-healing-in-bismarck/ 19. https://www.playlsi.com/en/commercial-playground-equipment/playgrounds/highwood-hills-elementary-school/

20. https://www.cornishlandscapinggranite.co.uk/projects/

21. https://www.kaplanco.com/product/PL1141/konnection-swing?c=27%7CPL1035

22. https://www.bluegrassplaygrounds.com/product/5-od-arch-post-swingset-2/

23. https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/spiral-slide-2852678857712.html?mTd=1

24. https://gbla.com.au/project/logis-eco-industrial-park/

25. https://colwellshelor.com/works/scottsdale-community-college-cloud-song/

26. https://srpshelter.com/videos/tribble-mill-park-shelter-georgia

27. https://www.greatoutdoorsplay.com/products/versa-court

28. https://pacificplayinc.com/los-angeles-playground-equipment/

29. https://www.wibandshellsandstands.com/west-bend-silver-lining-stage.html

30. https://projects.seattletimes.com/2022/first-foods-native-people-pacific-northwest-preserving/

31. https://www.insituarchitecture.net/mcminnville-park/

32. https://gfoutdoorfitness.com/senior-sample-package-2/

33. https://www.keepergoals.com/product/world-series-dugouts/

34. https://mybackyardsports.com/kids-sports/how-to-properly-measure-a-baseball-diamond/

35. https://tucsonloop.org/restroom-water-stops-chuck-huckelberry-Tucson-loop

36. https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/Leisure-and-Open-Space/Parks-and-Open-Space/Parks/Broadmeadows-Dog-Park

37. https://www.phoenixmag.com/2017/12/01/valley-hiking-guide/

38. http://www.erdelacland.com/trails-and-signage.html

39. https://www.smithgroup.com/projects/granite-mountain-and-fraesfield-trailheads

40. https://www.encounter.sa.edu.au/whole-college-news/the-yarning-circle-a-new-meeting-and-learning-space/

41. https://sportsgarage.net/new-downhill-trail-at-floyd-hill/

42. https://home.nps.gov/piro/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm

43. https://www.nhonews.com/news/volunteers-sought-for-largest-ever-free-mobile-vet-clinic-coming-to-the-navajo-nation-in/article_5e6dc622-6554-11ef-94c7-07ac3d5af0b1.html

44. https://bestfriends.org/stories/features/lifesaving-rides-pets-navajo-nation

45. https://navajotimes.com/reznews/animal-control-session-urges-responsible-pet-ownership/

46. https://www.martinfarmandranch.com/t-post

47. https://www.nhonews.com/news/navajo-housing-authority-hosts-ribbon-cutting-ceremony-for-lukachukai-development/article_9aec9400-0908-11ef-a2a1-1b65e32ac7a5.html

48. https://www.kgun9.com/news/local-news/new-off-leash-dog-park-to-open-at-speedway-and-stone-sept-10

Class III Cultural Resource Inventory Archaeological Survey

Woods Canyon Archaeological Consultants, Inc. completed a Class III Cultural Resource Inventory Archaeological Survey in December of 2024 for the proposed areas being considered for the future park locations described in this UMUT Parks+Trails Master Plan. See image to the right of these locations.

The northern two sites are prehistoric and are eligible to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), and avoidance of these sites would be good. One of these may have already been impacted by an exercise station. The southern site, the fairgrounds racetrack, is not eligible to the NRHP, and is acceptable for potential site improvements.