Green Spaces
What is being done to mitigate the brown turf issues this year?
After a thorough inspection of the structure of the wells and the function of the pumps, it was determined that there are two (2) major issues:
The screens on the pumps were clogged
The water level in the aquifer is significantly lower than 5 years ago
How are each issue being addressed?
Clogged Pump Screens:
The screens on the pumps were jet-cleaned at the end of February 2025
This was a $23,950 reserve project ($30k was budgeted)
Hopefully this cleaning will allow the pumps to run with much less effort this year, thus supplying more water to the turf and bringing the green back
Low Aquifer Levels:
The water level is expected to continue to decrease in the coming years and therefore the Board is exploring and developing a Phased Water-Wise Project to replace the turf across the common areas.
Fun Facts!
The original landscaping plan* as laid out by the developer called for much less turf and much more native seed.
*access requires a free account
The Colorado Legislation SB24-005 prohibits…the installation, planting, or placement of nonfunctional turf, artificial turf, or invasive plant species on…common interest community property or a street right-of-way…
Phased Water-Wise Project
A long-term project to reduce the Association’s dependency on water by replacing the turf with native grass seeds and strips of xeriscaping.
Step 1: Planning
The Board & CCG collaborates with the Landscape Designer from the Landscaping Team, the City of Fort Collins, and Northern Water to determine the following:
the scope of the project
the cost of the project
the timeline of the project
We are currently on this step!
Step 2: Budgeting
The Board & CCG examines the Association’s finances to determine if or when this project can be implemented.
The final proposal will most likely be phased over several years.
Step 3: Feedback
The final proposal(s) are presented to homeowners for feedback.
Step 4: Implementation
Commence phase 1!