https://sedgwickcounty.colorado.gov/ https://townofjulesburg.com/ https://www.sedgwickcolorado.com/ http://www.rivertrailonline.org/ or
Advocate www.julesburgadvocate.com Akron News Reporter www.akronnewsreporter.com Content for this section is provided by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Project Staff Sara Waite, Editor/Publisher Kristen Zoellner, Production Copyright 2025, Prairie Mountain Media
PHOTO COURTESY MIKE DELLIVENERI/CPW
A black-footed ferret looks out from its burrow. Responsible outdoor recreation protects endangered species like these.
COLORADO STATE PARKS
Immerse yourself in fresh air of adventures at state parks
With the return of warmer weather, outdoor enthusiasts are flocking outside to see the breathtaking blooms in nature on Colorado’s vibrant landscapes. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) encourages state park visitors to act as stewards for the state’s land, wildlife and water by balancing outdoor recreation with mindful conservation.
Coloradans and out-of-state visitors play a crucial role in protecting the pristine beauty of our state parks, living in harmony with wildlife and making the outdoors safer to explore.
Below are a few tips from outdoor experts on how to recreate responsibly and show respect to our great outdoors.
Know before you go
Preparation is key when it comes to outdoor activities in Colorado. The unpredictable spring weather, melting snowpacks, muddy trails, thinning ice, cold water temperatures and strong currents on rivers and streams all underscore the importance of being well-informed and ready for any adventure
Choose your location based on the weather forecast and your activity based on your skill level and safety gear.
PHOTO COURTESY COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE
visit to a Colorado State Park.
Parks
FROM PAGE 4
Plan your visit with the 2025 Quick Guide to State Parks or the Colorado State Parks Guide (Guía De Los Parques Naturales).
Camping reservations at Colorado state parks are required. Find park events and classes on the CPW Events Calendar.
Download the free COTREX app to find trailheads and trail maps.
Stay hydrated. Bring more water than you think you (and your pet) will need.
Bring layers of clothing for elevation and changing weather conditions.
Avalanches occur year-round anytime there’s snow on steep slopes (between 30 and 50 degrees). Many people are caught in avalanches in April and May every year, and people have died in avalanches in Colorado every month except September Check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center avalanche forecast for the current avalanche danger and a summary of current conditions.
“Even as we transition to spring and summer activities, you still need to think about avalanches. You can avoid avalanche risk altogether by avoiding traveling on or beneath steep snow-covered slopes. Simple tools like an inclinometer or map apps with slope angle shading can help you identify steep terrain (but always verify what you see with what’s on the ground). If you plan to travel in avalanche terrain, get some education, check the forecast, and carry the right gear,” said CAIC Director Ethan Greene
Boating and river safety
Wear a life jacket Last year, most water-related fatalities occurred because people did not wear a life jacket.
Paddle boards and kayaks are considered vessels, and life jacket requirements apply.
Dress accordingly and protect yourself from the dangers of cold water shock. Regardless of your age or experience level, cold water can quickly create a drowning emergency.
Heavy rain or snow melting in nearby mountains can raise water
PARKS » PAGE 15
PHOTO COURTESY COLORADO PARKS & > WILDLIFE
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts can enjoy Colorado’s beautiful wildflowers, but should leave them in place to support critical ecosystems.
Escape hustle and bustle on a trip
Colorado’s state parks manage more than 4,000 campsites throughout the state Amenities range from backcountry sites with limited facilities to full hook-up sites with water, sewer and electric connections.
Reservations are required for state park campsites, which can be done online at cpwshop.com. A reservation can be made no more than 6 months before your arrival date. Any reservations made within more than one day outside of the 6-month reservation window will be frozen to changes for 14 days from the date the reservation was made.
Daily park entrance fees of $10-11 apply in addition to camping fees, or a valid annual pass must be displayed. The Keep Colorado Wild Pass is a great value for residents, available only with your next Colorado vehicle registration
Campsite Occupancy
One camping unit with up to six people is allowed per campsite. A camping unit is defined as the maximum combination of camping equipment allowed in one campsite. If you have more than six people, another site will need to be booked.
The allowable combinations are:
• One passenger vehicle and two tents.
• One motorized vehicle towing a camping trailer and one tent (if space allows). If space permits, one additional passenger vehicle and/ or motorcycle may be parked at a campsite.
A violation may result in the visitor being required to purchase an additional campsite (if available), or the reservation may be terminated and the appropriate fees refunded.
Guests
Guests are allowed during the day, but only a maximum number of six people are allowed at night/ overnight. All guests must pay the entrance fee for their vehicles
Vehicles at campsite
State park regulations allow for one vehicle in addition to camping equipment at each site. Many parks will allow a second vehicle if space allows. If there is no room on the
internet reservation. You must hold a valid pass at the time of reservation AND the time of your stay for the discount to be valid.
If you believe the discount was not applied correctly, please contact the Aspira call center at 1-800-244-5613 for assistance. Be prepared to give your reservation number to the agent.
Special discounts
The Aspira Call Center does not have the authority to give discounts to campers. Please call the park you are interested in visiting and ask the park staff about special permits.
Reserve multiple campsites
Customers booking their reservation online or by call center for multiple sites will need to provide a primary occupant for each site
site, or the park stipulates it, extra vehicles may be parked in designated parking areas
Vehicle pass
A vehicle pass is required for all vehicles entering a state park. Vehicle fees are separate from camping fees.
Towed vehicles
The towed vehicle pass is intended for a vehicle that is towed in by a motorhome. The motorhome is required to have a paid pass, and the towed vehicle pass is issued at no charge to a vehicle towed or carried in by a motorhome.
To receive the towed vehicle pass, a camping permit or proof of a camping reservation must be presented at an attended visitor center, office or entrance station. The towed vehicle pass is placed on the vehicle being towed, and the tow vehicle must be under tow at the time of entry The towed vehicle pass is valid for the same time period as the camping permit/reservation Slide-in truck campers do not qualify for towed vehicle passes.
Dogs
Some campsites are dog friendly.
Dogs must be on a leash that is no longer than six feet in length at all times. Pets are restricted from some trails. Owner is responsible for removal of pet waste Failure to do so may result in a fine.
Horses
There are only a few parks that allow horses in their campground. Please call the park for these restrictions.
Discounts
The following pass holders are eligible for camping discounts at individual campsites, Sunday through Thursday, excluding holidays and the day prior to a holiday. This discount does not apply to fees for cabins or yurts
• Aspen Leaf Pass
• Columbine Pass holders over the age of 64
• Centennial Pass holders over the age of 64
• Blue Spruce Pass holders over the age of 64
• Senior volunteer pass holders
• Keep Colorado Wild Pass holders over the age of 64 (pass must be linked to customer profile prior to making the reservation)
Discounts can be applied to an
Each primary occupant must be over 18 years of age and have an account in the system. The customer making the reservation will need the primary occupant’s CID in order to make the reservation
For customers who need to make reservations for multiple sites such as Boy Scout groups, family reunions, schools, etc., where the exact primary occupant may not be known for each site, they will need to call 1-800-244-5613.
Campsite changes
All changes must be made through cpwshop.com or by calling 1-800-244-5613. A different park cannot be booked as a reservation change; it will be considered a new reservation.
The fees for changing the reservation dates (arrival date and/or departure date) for a campground site, group campground site, group picnic area, and event facility are as follows, except there shall be no additional fee to change the departure date if the reservation is extended beyond the original departure date:
• If the change in the reservation dates is made seven days before the arrival date through the arrival date, 20% of the fee for one night or day-use permit will be retained.
FILE PHOTO
Recreational vehicles parked in the campground at Jackson Lake State Park
Camping
• If the change in the reservation dates is made 28 days before the arrival date through 8 days before the arrival date, 15% of the fee for one night or day-use permit will be retained.
• If the change in the reservation dates is made more than 28 days before the arrival date, 10% of the fee for one night or day-use permit will be retained.
• If the change in the reservation dates is made between the day after the arrival date and the departure date, the fees for any nights or days passed will be retained.
• If adding nights to your reservation, the additional charges and change fee are due at the time of the change.
There shall be no additional change fee for changing the site of a reservation at a campground, group campground, group picnic area, and event facility if the reservation dates remain the same or are further extended. If the cus-
tomer changes the site of the reservation, they shall be charged or refunded the difference in the price for the site type only, if applicable
Once a reservation is checked-in (no later than 11 p.m. the day of arrival), it can only be changed at the park office.
For detailed information on CPW reservation changes or cancellation policies, please review our Camping & Park Facility Reservation Regulation and Policies.
Canceling a campsite
To cancel, please visit cpwshop. com or call 1-800-244-5613 Once a reservation is canceled, it cannot be undone
Rebooking a canceled reservation will incur any necessary fees to make the new reservation. Once a reservation is checked in (no later than 11 p.m. the day of arrival), it can only be canceled through the park office.
Cancellation fees
Cancellation fees depend on how far in advance a reservation is cancelled. The fees for cancelling a reservation for a campground site,
group campground site, group picnic area, and event facility are as follows:
If the cancellation is made seven days before the arrival date through the arrival date, 100% of the fee for one night or day-use permit will be retained.
If the cancellation is made 28 days before the arrival date through 8 days before the arrival date, 50% of the fee for one night or day-use permit will be retained
If the cancellation is made more than 28 days before the arrival date, 25% of the fee for one night or day-use permit will be retained.
If the cancellation is made between the day after the arrival date and the departure date, the fees for any nights or days passed will be retained.
If the customer fails to occupy the site of their reservation during the selected dates or fails to contact the park, recreation area or vendor to inform them that they will not occupy the site of their reservation during the selected dates, the fees for any nights or days passed will be retained and the customer will be ineligible for a refund for those nights or days
passed.
Grace period — Customers who cancel their reservation within 24 hours of making the reservation are eligible for a full refund unless the date of arrival is the date of reservation
Refunds
When an online or phone reservation is canceled, a credit is applied to the credit card used for the original purchase. If the original credit card is unavailable, or the reservation was made directly with a park, a refund check will be processed and will take up to 90 days to receive
Customers who wish to receive a refund outside of these rules will need to contact the park at which they have the reservation directly. No exceptions to the refund policy will be given for bugs, bad weather, campfire bans or water conditions.
No show policy
If you do not show up within 24 hours of your scheduled check in time, and you do not notify the park that you will be arriving late, your site may be resold and may not be available when you arrive.
CampingGear List: Essential +Recommended Items
Essential Items:
Good Walking shoes/ boots
Shorts
Long pants
Long sleeve shirt/sweatshirt
Short sleeve shirt/t-shirt
3 pairs of socks (per person)
Raingear
Sleeping bag/ blankets/ bedding
Backpack/ daypack
Firewood – buy locally!
Matches/ lighter
Fire starter/ kindling
Dishware (plates, cups, silverware)
Cooler with ice/ reusable cold packs
Water bottle
Food items (see separate menu list)
Tent
Tarp/ footprint
Lantern
Sleeping pads
Cooking stove
Cooking stove fuel (propane)
Cooking pots and pans
Cooking utensils
Washtub with sponge and bio-soap
Large water containers
Recommended Items:
Personal Hygiene and Safety
Towel
Wash cloth
Lip balm
Toothbrush/ toothpaste
Soap
Deodorant
Sunglasses
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater)
Insect repellent
Family first-aid kit
Flashlight/ headlamp
Clothing
Hat
Sleepwear
Underwear
Swimsuit
Water shoes
Warm jacket
Kitchen Items
Resealable plastic bags
Paper towels
Trash bags
Hand Sanitizer
Dish towel
Can opener
Aluminum foil
Roasting sticks
Extras
Camera
Extra batteries
Camp chairs
Notebook and pencil
Playing cards
Nature guide
Binoculars
Take a swing in the sunshine at Sky Ranch
Mature landscaping and rolling hills are trademarks of the 155acre oasis called Sky Ranch Golf Course on the west edge of Sterling, where you’ll find water on nine of the 18 holes and plenty of challenging greens.
The course, one of the five oldest in Colorado, was known as the Sterling Country Club for nearly 95 years, then changed hands a few times before being acquired by Sterling Golf Investments in August of 2020, when it took its new name
Sky Ranch Golf Course first opened Valentine’s Day weekend in 2021 under the name Sky Ranch Golf and Grill.
The new ownership rebranded the property to feature a full-service public golf course, including a driving range, practice greens, pro shop and the 18-hole course, in addition to a full-service restaurant and event venue.
COURTESY PHOTO
Sky Ranch is a full-service public golf course.
The fight against aquatic nuisance species in Colorado waters continues
With zebra mussel veligers discovered in 2024 on the Colorado River, CPW’s Aquatic Nuisance Species section is asking everyone who enjoys boating or water-based recreation to follow “Clean, Drain, Dry” practices to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS).
“As the challenge of protecting the state’s waters and infrastructure from aquatic nuisance species continues to grow, CPW continues to lead the charge against these destructive species,” said Robert Walters, CPW’s ANS program manager. “And as boating season approaches we ask for help from the boating community to combat invasive species in the state.”
Colorado’s ANS inspectors were busy in 2023 with staff conducting a total of 452,225 inspections and decontaminating 33,833 boats suspected of carrying mussels, other aquatic invasive species or standing water.
From 2019 to 2023, CPW found 634 boats fouled with invasive mussels, an average of 127 boats per year Mussels are destructive to aquatic habitat, can seriously damage reservoir infrastructure and cause problems on boats
Contaminated boats usually come into Colorado from neighboring states, especially Utah and Arizona because of our proximity to Lake Powell, which has been mussel-infested for years. Other neighboring states with mussel infestations include Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas and South Dakota Most Midwestern and East Coast states also have infested waters.
About the ANS Program
The Colorado ANS Program was authorized by the Colorado Legislature in 2008 utilizing severance tax funds and in 2018 the Colorado General Assembly provided funding to the program through SB17259, funding the program through boating registration fees from residents and non-residents.
The agency is aided in the program by Colorado counties, municipalities, water districts, federal agencies and private companies that also conduct inspections. CPW also works proactively looking for aquatic nuisance species by sampling waters throughout the state. In 2023, CPW crews sampled 1,178 standing waters and 52 flowing waters; these intense sampling efforts resulted in the early detection at Highline and emphasize the importance of this program.
CPW has also been instrumental in establishing the Water Inspection and Decontamination (WID) protocols which are now used by states throughout the nation. Agency staff are also active with the Western Regional Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species Watercraft Inspection and Decontam-
ination Committee.
Walters said that CPW will always remain vigilant in the fight against mussels.
“Mussels aren’t going away However, by continuing our preventative watercraft inspection program Colorado can continue to set an example in the West and keep our waters clear of highly destructive invasive species.”
Roadside Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Stations
In 2021, Colorado Legislature passed House Bill 21-1226 which authorized Colorado Parks and Wildlife to implement a pilot roadside watercraft inspection and decontamination program. Year one of this pilot program was implemented in 2022 at the Loma Port
of Entry. This effort was highly successful as 26 mussel fouled boats were intercepted over the course of three days. The pilot program was expanded in 2023.
Boaters are reminded that if they are traveling with a motorized or trailered watercraft on I-70 east from Utah (Loma Port Of Entry) or I-25 north from New Mexico (Trinidad Port Of Entry) they will be required to stop for an inspection Thursday through Monday through Oct. 31.
What can boaters do to help prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species?
Boat owners are reminded to “clean, drain and dry” boats after every use and utilize the green-seal program when entering and leaving a body of water. CPW has estab-
COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE PHOTO CPW ANS Inspector Travis Beam checks a boat for invasive mussels at the Loma Point of Entry on May 15, 2022.
lished Gear Cleaning Stations for ANS prevention around the state, with more in the works for 2025, including at Jackson Lake and North Sterling state parks
Boaters should also inspect their trailers and look in hard-to-reach spots on boats and engines for evidence of mussels. Anyone who has used a boat in waters outside of Colorado is obligated to tell boat inspectors. Boat owners can also call any state park or wildlife office if they have questions, concerns or would like information on scheduling an off-water inspection/decontamination.
All ballast boats, inboard and inboard/outboard engines must have a green seal in between launches or decontamination may take place prior to launching. Boaters are encouraged to inspect their own boat between every use and make sure it is clean, drained, and dry.
The State of Colorado requires boats to be professionally inspected if:
A boat propeller covered in invasive mussels was intercepted during an Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) inspection before it could contaminate Colorado waters
• A boat has been in any body of water that is positive, or suspect for ANS.
• A boat has been in any body of water outside of Colorado.
• A boat will be entering any wa-
another. To encourage a speedy inspection process, boaters are encouraged to:
• Keep your green exit seal attached to your vessel and trailer. This seal tells inspectors what body of water the vessel was in last.
• Have your paper exit slip (blue or white) readily available. This slip tells inspectors details from your previous exit inspection that can speed up the process
• Open/drain all compartment hatches like: live/bait wells, bilge areas, anchor compartments, equipment compartments and any other compartments that hold items that could have come into contact with water. Have the anchor and ropes out of their compartments for inspection.
ter body where inspections are required
• A boat encounters an aquatic nuisance species check station.
Tips for a speedy inspection
Boaters are required to stop for an inspection when both entering, and exiting most bodies of water in Colorado Stricter inspection requirements exist when taking a vessel from one body of water to
• If you know the next body of water you are going to will require a decontamination procedure, request a decontamination during the exit inspection so you can get onto your next boating adventure more quickly.
For more information about aquatic nuisance species and CPW’s ANS program, visit our website or read the Boater’s Guide to ANS Inspections.
COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE PHOTOS
A zebra mussel found on a suspended PVC substrate in Highline Lake.
Fishing an unrivaled opportunity
Whether you’re an angling expert or a novice fisherman, Colorado has a lot to offer in the way of fishing.
Cast a line in any of the 6,000 miles of streams or 1,300 lakes and reservoirs, with an opportunity to catch over 35 species of fish.
The Colorado Fishing Atlas, the latest interactive mapping tool offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, allows users to search for fishing opportunities by species, specific interest or proximity to your home or destination. Information includes accessible fishing access, stocked waters, boat ramps, special fishing regulations, stream gages (including links to real-time data) and more.
Annual fishing licenses are valid March 1 through March 31 (13 months), and go on sale March 1 each year. Youth aged 15 and un-
der fish for free.
To purchase a license, you’ll need:
• Government-issued identification
• Proof of residency
• Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number
• Habitat stamp
Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers a free Lifetime Fishing License or a Lifetime Fishing and Small Game Hunting Combination License (VA combo license) to veterans with a service-connected disability.
VA combo license holders are exempt from purchasing a Habitat Stamp each year. The VA combo license will only be valid as long as the applicant maintains their Colorado residency.
The specific fishing licenses and stamps available include:
• Other licenses: Disability lifetime, VA lifetime, first responder lifetime
• Stamps: Extra rod stamp
Resident small game hunting & fishing combination licenses are not currently available.
Anglers can use a second rod, hand line or tip-up by purchasing a second-rod stamp. One stamp is allowed per season and is non transferable. A second-rod stamp does not entitle an angler to an additional bag limit, nor can it be used for another person to fish. A second-rod stamp is not required when only using trot-lines or jugs.
Resident fishing licenses are now
accessible through myColorado™, the State of Colorado’s official mobile app™. Anglers purchase their licenses the same way they always have, but have the option to display it within the app
Looking to learn to fish, or know someone who is? Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s angling outreach programs offer clinics, seminars, advice, in-field experiences and educational materials for people of all ages and abilities.
You need just a few basic items to get started fishing:
• Fishing line, 4 to 8 pounds
• Hemostats or needle-nose pliers; These help you dislodge hooks and grip line while tying knots
• Sinkers, 1/8 oz
• Bobbers
• Hooks, No. 8 or No. 10
• Swivels, No. 10: Swivels keep your line from twisting.
FILE PHOTO
Anglers of all ages cast a line from the dock of Sterling’s Kiwanis Pond at the Overland Trail Recreation Area
COLORADO WILDLIFE
Hiking a family-friendly intro
Take your family outdoors and learn a little about Colorado’s natural world. Colorado State Parks offer a number of family-friendly and interpretive nature trails equipped with educational signs and brochures
Take advantage of these trails next time you are at a state park and discover the plants and animals that call Colorado and our parks home!
Here’s information about trails at northeast Colorado’s two state parks:
Jackson Lake State Park
Prairie Wetland Nature Trail is a ¼ mile, self-guided trail and is located north of Cove Campground. There is also a 1.5 mile trail located between the Visitor Center north to Northview Campground Park visitors can also enjoy walking along the shoreline or along park roadways
North Sterling State Park
Point-to-point, the South Trail is a natural surface trail extending over 3.5 miles from the Inlet Canal southwest along the shoreline to a trailhead on County Road 29 There are several other shorter trails on the park that are natural surface as well.
Dogs are required to be on a maximum six foot leash.
landscape.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife also manages more than 350 State Wildlife Areas statewide. The purpose of these properties is to conserve wildlife habitat and provide wildlife-related recreation.
To ensure those goals are met, everyone who enters an SWA must possess a valid Colorado hunting or fishing license, or a Colorado SWA Pass
Hiking is an allowed activity on SWAs, but is not an intended use of the properties.
Users of trail systems connecting to SWAs also need to purchase a license or pass.
Many SWAs are closed periodically during the year when wildlife are reproducing and nurturing their young or on critical winter range.
THE SPRING & SUMMER OUTDOORS GUIDE
is aspecial publication in coordination with Colorado Parks &Wildlife.
Prairie Mountain Media wishes to thank Colorado Parks &Wildlife for photos, stories and information provided for republication in thissection.
JOURNAL-ADVOCATE FILE PHOTO
North Sterling State Park offers miles of trails where hikers, bikers and horseback riders can enjoy the natural
Fire up the grill, but don’t forget these tips
When the weather heats up, so do our grills. Backyard barbeques, or BBQs, are a dietary staple in the summertime, but they can be dangerous too if you aren’t careful.
“It is estimated that there are roughly 10,600 home structure and outdoor fires involving grills per year, of which most of them happened in the warmer months,” said Bellal Joseph, MD, FACS, a trauma and general surgeon at Banner Health. “The leading factors are due to an improperly cleaned grill, leaks or breaks, leaving the grill unattended and having it too close to something that could catch fire.”
10 grilling safety tips for barbeques
Before you throw the brats, burgers and veggies on the grill, here are some helpful tips to remember so your next BBQ doesn’t end with a trip to the ER.
1. Grill outside and away from your home or any structure
Grilling should always occur outside and never indoors.
“Propane and charcoal grills are strictly designed for outdoor use where there is plenty of ventilation,” Dr. Joseph said “You should place your grill no closer than 10 feet away from any house walls, siding, deck rails, eaves or hanging branches.”
2. Grill on an even, flat surface
Make sure your grill is set up on a stable surface, such as a concrete slab so that it remains level while cooking food. Grills that are placed on slopes or other uneven surfaces can tip over easily and cause a fire
3. Inspect the connection hoses and tanks on a gas grill
Check the grill, gas hoses and tanks to make sure they are in good working order
To do this:
• Check the major connection points between the gas or propane tank hose and the regulator and cylinder and where the hose connects to the burners Tighten if loose.
• Check the gas or propane tank hose for the potential leaks To check, apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle. Then turn the tank on with the grill lid open. If there
Make sure your next barbecue doesn’t end with a trip to the ER with these safety tips from Banner
is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see)
4. Light grill with lid open
If it doesn’t light right away, keep the lid open and wait a few minutes before trying again. When lighting a charcoal grill only use charcoal lighter fluid. Do not use gasoline or kerosene to start a grill.
“These are highly volatile fluids and can explode,” Dr. Joseph said. “As an alternative to lighter fluid, use an electric, solid, metal chimney or other starters specifically made for lighting charcoal briquettes or wood chunks.”
5. Never leave a grill unattended
A fire can double in size every minute, so always keep a watchful eye on your grill. Plan ahead so you don’t have to run back inside for anything or send someone inside to get things for you.
6. Keep kids and pets away from grill
Make sure children and pets are at least three feet away from the grill, even after you’re finished cooking. The grill will stay hot for at least an hour after use.
7. Be prepared to put out a fire
Fires move fast, so it’s important to always keep a fire extinguisher on hand. It’s also helpful to have baking soda, sand or kosher salt on hand, but never use water to try and put out a grease fire or flare-up
“To put a fire out, remove the food and smother the flames with baking soda, sand, kosher salt or fire extinguisher,” Dr. Joseph said. “You can also close the grill lid, as a lack of oxygen will help ease the fire and slow it down.”
8. Regularly clean your grill
Clean your charcoal or gas grill after each use with a grill brush and empty the grease tray when it begins to fill up.
“Barbecuing regularly causes grease to build up on the grill plates and collect inside the grease tray,” Dr Joseph said. “If not cleaned, the build-up can then act as fuel and catch fire while the grill is in use.”
To clean your grill, first turn of the gas, and then turn off the grill itself When the grates cool down, but are still warm, take a grill brush and clean any food particles that are stuck on the grate It’s also helpful to preheat the grill for about 15 minutes and brush the
grates again
9. Wear the right clothing
Wear clothes that fit close to the body and have flame-retardant mittens or gloves for grilling. Pieces of clothing that have long sleeves or items dangling can catch fire easily when too close to an open flame.
10 Properly store gas sources after use
The propane or gas tank should be stored outdoors standing upright in a well-ventilated, shaded area Storing indoors creates a fire hazard.
Seek immediate medical attention
If you’ve suffered a grill burn, it may require specialized care To learn more about burn care services at Banner Health, visit bannerhealth.com.
Takeaway
Grilling is fun and the food is even better. That being said, injuries happen more often than you think, even when you think it couldn’t happen to you Focus on preventing grill fires before they start so they don’t ruin your fun.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
Health.
FROM PAGE 9
The golf pro on staff can help improve your game with golf lessons or regrip and repair golf clubs for a fee. The Pro Shop is stocked with the latest golf apparel and equipment. And if they don’t have what you’re looking for, they can order what you need
Looking to improve your golf game or enjoy a fun night out with friends? The clubhouse features a Trackman Golf Simulator located in the 19th hole Play 18 holes of golf in as little as one hour on some of the world’s most exclusive golf courses Practice with purpose
Parks
levels quickly and without notice. Check river flows at https://dwr. state.co.us/Tools/Stations
“On the surface, rivers and streams can seem calm, warm, or shallow. But even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts can become victims to deceptively strong currents, cold water temperatures, and unexpected changes in depth,” said Michael Haskins, River Outfitter Licensing and Swiftwater Investigator.
“You should always wear a life jacket, paddle with a buddy, know your limitations, and scout rapids before floating them.”
Beware of aquatic nuisance species
The fight continues for CPW’s aquatic nuisance species (ANS) staff to keep invasive species from spreading in Colorado lakes and reservoirs In 2024, CPW intercepted 110 boats carrying invasive mussels. Mussels are destructive to aquatic habitat, can seriously damage reservoir infrastructure and impact the taste and smell of drinking tap water.
Clean your gear at a CPW Gear and Watercraft Cleaning Station to decontaminate your boat, wet equipment, waders and boots
If you are a boat owner or enjoy water recreation in Colorado, “clean, drain and dry” your boat and gear and use the green-seal program when entering and leav-
in the virtual driving range year round, perfect for every level of golfer.
New to the property this year is their short-term vacation rental located on the golf course’s 16th hole. The luxurious five-bedroom, threeand-a-half-bathroom home is the perfect place to stay while in Sterling for a wedding, reunion or golf trip.
The Hot Spot Smokehouse offers a unique fusion of classic barbecue and inventive dishes in a welcoming atmosphere Located in the Sky Ranch clubhouse, the family-owned eatery serves slow-smoked meats like brisket, pulled pork and ribs, complemented by creative sides such as jalapeno cheese curds and sweet potato fries Guests can en-
joy this full service restaurant and bar 6 days a week.
Out on the course, the longest hole on the 6,436-yard course, No. 16, is a 534-yard par 5 that requires a straight shot from the tee to avoid the rows of trees on the left and right of the fairway.
The course’s signature hole, No. 7, is all about risk vs. reward. A 30foot periscope helps ensure golfers’ safety on the blind tee shot, and you’ll need a skillful chip or iron shot to find the green on the second stroke or you’ll be in the water on this challenging par 4. Aim for the gap between the trees on Sky Ranch’s No 11 hole to avoid being sent into the water.
Another tricky hole is No. 11, where golfers must play through a
“As the challenge of protecting the state’s waters and infrastructure from aquatic nuisance species ... (grows), CPW continues to lead the charge against these destructive species.”
— Robert Walters, Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s ANS program manager
ing a body of water.
“As the challenge of protecting the state’s waters and infrastructure from aquatic nuisance species continues to grow, CPW continues to lead the charge against these destructive species,” said Robert Walters, CPW’s ANS program manager. “As the spring season approaches, we ask for help from both the boating and water-based recreation communities to combat invasive species in the state.”
Stick to trails
Melting snow leaves trails and vegetation more vulnerable to damage. It’s important to stick to trails and walk in the middle of them — even if wet, muddy, slushy, or icy — to show respect for the environment and other hikers, and to avoid erosion and damage to trailside plants.
Use the State Park Finder to explore maps of Colorado state parks Download the free COTREX app to find trailheads, trail maps and closure alerts.
Yield to uphill hikers and bikers, be friendly and considerate when needing to pass, and keep control of your pets on the trail.
Respecting trail closures is a must — they’re closed for a reason. Trails may be closed because
they are dangerous during spring months or to protect wintering wildlife.
Wear sturdy footwear to stay on trails in wet and muddy conditions
“Some common mistakes we see our outdoor community make in the spring are not wearing the proper footwear for trails, swimming in extremely cold water and walking out on ice. These actions can put your safety at risk and negatively impact the environment,” said CPW Backcountry Search and Rescue Program Manager Perry Boydston
Leave it as you find it
Colorado is beautiful all on its own. Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them so others can experience the joy of discovery.
Don’t pick wildflowers — they help bees and are critical parts of ecosystems Carving or hacking plants and trees may kill or disfigure them. Park in designated areas — undesignated parking can destroy vegetation and block outdoor first-responder vehicles in an emergency.
Trash the trash
Throw all your trash away in trash cans and help leave our out-
tight gap in a stand of trees. Miss the window, and you might find your ball bouncing off the cottonwoods and into the irrigation canal. While one of the shorter par-4 holes on the course at 350 from the blue tee, you’ll need to get your ball on the right level of the twotiered green if you want a chance at birdie.
The golf course is open to the public year around with their peak golf season being April through October. More information can be found on their website www.skyranchgc.com. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram under Sky Ranch Golf Club. Stop in and see them at 17408 HWY 14, Sterling CO 80751, or give them a call at 970-522-2836.
door spaces clean.
Pack it in, pack it out. Whatever you bring into the outdoors, take it out with you.
Don’t leave a pet waste bag on the trail
Bring plastic grocery bags to carry trash when trash cans are not available or full.
Keep wildlife wild
Spring can be a particularly sensitive time for wildlife since many species are nesting, having their young or coming out of hibernation
Colorado is home to big game species, including elk, mule deer, moose and bighorn sheep. Human disturbance can cause stress for wild animals and reduce females’ chances of successfully raising offspring.
Do not feed or approach young wildlife Be bear prepared on trails and while camping to help reduce human-bear conflicts Keep dogs leashed on trails to prevent them from chasing wildlife.
If you see wildlife that appears sick or injured, leave it alone. Call your local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office and ask a trained wildlife officer for guidance. Join us in keeping Colorado, Colorado. Get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your next vehicle registration to create sweet summer memories.
The pass gives you entry to all state parks and supports wildlife conservation.
Learn more at cpw.info/ keepcoloradowild and cpw.info/ keepcoloradowildpassspanish.
•Explorethe gravesite of Thad Sowder in Ovid,originalrider with theBuffalo Bill Wild West Show and firstinducteeintothe Cowboy Hall of Fame.
•ExploreJulesburgReservoir, knowntolocalsas"Jumbo",just outside of thetownofSedgwick, and the best place to boat, waterski, fish,swimand hunt smallgame.
•Explorethe speed at JulesburgDragstrip,oldestcontinuous operationalracetrack in thecountry.
