Commission hears evidence of repeated Red Hill trail‑restoration vandalism; staff to coordinate with CPW on osprey‑platform siting

Commissioners reported that new signs, ropes and stakes placed to protect Red Hill restoration areas have been repeatedly vandalized this fall. Staff said Red Hill Council installed game cameras that captured time‑stamped footage showing a person using a crowbar and removing stakes and ropes; the council and BLM are pursuing evidence and working with county prosecutors to identify a suspect.

Commissioners expressed frustration at intentional, repeated damage to restoration efforts and discussed enforcement limits; staff noted that Garfield County sheriff and prosecutors are engaged and that the BLM has investigatory authority for incidents on BLM land.

On a related parks management item, staff described outreach to the Audubon Society and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to get written guidance on acceptable distances and pole heights for osprey nesting platforms. Mary Harris (Audubon) advised that suitability depends on platform height and nearby human activity; CPW staff would conduct site visits to identify locations that minimize disturbance while offering safe alternatives to nests on utility poles and light fixtures.

Next steps: Red Hill partners will continue the criminal investigation; staff will schedule on‑site site visits with CPW and Audubon to identify candidate platform locations and report back to the commission on recommended placements and any activity restrictions.