Chatfield, CO – Visitors to Chatfield State Park will notice a change in the landscape as Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) begins a significant tree removal operation this week. The project, part of the larger Chatfield Reallocation Project, aims to address both water resource management and forest health within the park.

The Chatfield Reallocation Project is a multi-faceted initiative focused on increasing water storage capacity in Chatfield Reservoir. This expansion will allow for greater flexibility in managing water resources during periods of drought, an increasingly important consideration in Colorado’s arid climate. To accommodate the expanded reservoir, adjustments to the surrounding parkland are necessary, including the removal of a substantial number of trees.

Approximately 2,700 trees have been marked for removal throughout the park. CPW emphasizes that the selection process prioritizes the removal of dead or dying trees, those posing a hazard to public safety, and those impacted by the reservoir expansion.

“This operation is essential for both water resource management and the overall health of the park’s ecosystem,” says Park Manager [Insert Park Manager Name]. “By removing hazardous and unhealthy trees, we reduce the risk of wildfire and create space for new growth, promoting a more resilient and diverse forest in the long term.”

The project has been met with mixed reactions from the public. While many understand the necessity of the project for water resource management, some local residents have expressed concerns about the aesthetic impact of the tree removal. CPW assures the public that the operation is being conducted with careful consideration for the park’s natural beauty and that efforts are being made to minimize the visual impact.

In an effort to maximize the use of the removed trees, CPW plans to repurpose the wood for a variety of uses. Some of the timber will be used for stream stabilization projects within the park, while the remaining wood will be chipped and used as mulch.

The tree removal operation is expected to continue for several weeks. Visitors to Chatfield State Park are advised to be aware of their surroundings and to exercise caution in areas where work is underway.

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