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Top of the Pines reports new education partnership, details prairie dog mitigation and venue rules
Summary
Top of the Pines told the Ouray County Board of Commissioners it retained a wildlife biologist, formed a partnership with the San Juan Mountains Association for expanded educational programming, and used a licensed pest-control contractor (small‑engine exhaust in a delineated area) to reduce prairie dogs in high‑use zones while maintaining non‑lethal options under consideration.
Brad Wallace, president of Top of the Pines, gave an annual update to the Ouray County Board of Commissioners on Feb. 11, highlighting a new partnership with the San Juan Mountains Association that expands formal educational programming and year‑round school‑aged activities.
Wallace said, at the direction of the BOCC, Top of the Pines retained a wildlife biologist who reported on the site and recommended a mitigation plan. Following that plan in October 2025, the nonprofit retained a licensed pest‑control company to administer small‑engine exhaust in a delineated management area intended to discourage prairie dogs from high‑use human areas. "We followed all the directions that we were given by the BOCC in terms of how to implement that," Wallace said, adding that Top posted public notice, used social media and posted signs around the meadow.
Wallace and multiple commenters emphasized that Top of the Pines does not seek eradication across the site and is exploring non‑lethal alternatives such as barriers, raptor poles and habitat‑management actions. Ramona Visnak, a biologist and frequent user of the site, told commissioners the prairie dog colony helps attract raptors and adds ecological value to the venue.
Wallace also outlined venue rules and usage: dogs are allowed on leash (a board decision) though compliance has been inconsistent, bikes are allowed on designated trails but not for recreation through the meadow, motorized vehicles and horses are prohibited, and 3‑day wedding packages include exclusive use of the campground for that period while not fully closing the site to all visitors.
Commissioners thanked the Top of the Pines board for the partnership and for road grading that improved access. No county funding requests or policy changes were made at the meeting.
