Eldorado Springs Gates

Eldorado Springs residents were recently surprised to discover that access to adjacent OSMP land would no longer be allowed through several gates that have been used for many years. The seasonal closure is to protect ground nesting birds. The area has no designated trails, but there are cattle trails which visitors also use, and the area is actively grazed by cattle which surely have more impact on the birds than a few hikers. The residents are continuing negotiations with OSMP staff to reverse, or reduce the duration of, the closure. BATCO will continue to monitor the situation and to lobby for reasonable, environmentally responsible access in the area.