Pro 303 - Statement in Favor of 303, Fort Collins Citizen Ballot Measure to Designate Hughes a 100% Natural Area for All
A YES vote on Citizen-initiated Ordinance 303 to make Hughes a Natural Area establishes the entire 165-acre site as protected natural habitat, provides public access, and a wide range of LOW-impact multi-use outdoor activities open to all users and their abilities, including hiking, running, biking, bird watching and more.
It ensures the protection of a 100% Natural Area within Fort Collins made possible by the purchase of the land when the majority of voters approved the ballot measure in 2021.
Located in our Foothills, this vital ecological corridor connects the Maxwell and Pineridge Natural Areas. This unique area supports a wide range of wildlife and is one of the last large open spaces remaining within city limits.
Designating the entire site as a Natural Area would protect this important habitat and provide a legacy of open land for future generations.
Since 1992, Fort Collins has had its own dedicated funding through sales tax for the acquisition and ongoing management of Natural Areas. Designation of the land as a Natural Area can be implemented immediately without additional taxes or funding sources.
This Citizen measure offers a clear, lasting commitment to preservation, low-impact recreation, and wildlife conservation. It reflects both the growing concerns among residents that our open lands are disappearing as our region grows, and the importance of protecting them in Fort Collins.
Supporters of this measure believe that the people of Fort Collins can continue to be leaders in conservation and community-driven planning.
Voting YES on Measure 303 is a vote to protect nature and preserve our natural areas for the public and wildlife to enjoy forever, right here within our City limits, where our residents and taxpayers work, live, and desire increased access to the natural areas program they fund.
