Vandalism at Boulder Open Space Raises Safety Concerns
A series of acts of vandalism at Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks properties has raised safety concerns for the surrounding areas. The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the community’s help to find those responsible for repeatedly cutting livestock fencing on leased agricultural lands over the past several months.
Importance of Livestock Grazing
Cattle grazing on these properties is crucial for reducing wildfire risk and maintaining healthy grassland ecosystems. When released, the cattle not only pose a safety threat to drivers, hikers, and recreational users but also risk their own safety as they can escape into nearby neighborhoods and roadways.
“Cutting livestock fencing is not only destructive but also dangerous,” said Dan Burke, Director of the City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks Department. “Loose cattle can wander into traffic or onto busy trails, putting people and animals at risk. These incidents also create a significant financial burden for the department and our agricultural partners.”
Damage Overview
Between June 15 and September 3, vandals targeted more than a mile of fences across 10 agricultural properties, including:
- Eagle Trailhead
- South Boulder Creek West Trailhead
- Fern Canyon Trail
- Greenbriar Connector Trail
- Lehigh Connector Trail
- Lower Big Bluestem Trail
- South Boulder Creek Trail
- South Shanahan Trail
- Greenbriar Road
- Marshall Road
The sheriff’s office is asking local residents to review their home security cameras for any suspicious activities, particularly overnight. Individuals seen accessing agricultural areas or near livestock fencing with tools or equipment may be of interest.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
Anyone with information regarding suspicious behavior in these areas, especially at night, should call 911 if an incident is in progress. For non-emergencies, the contact number is (303) 441-4444, citing case number 26-04116. Community members are advised not to confront any suspicious individuals directly but to document their observations and provide any photos or videos to the authorities if possible.
