Durango City Council readily accepted the proposed donation of two pristine natural land parcels totaling 49 acres in the Oxbow Preserve with a last appraised value of $2.5 million earlier this week. The acquisition unlocks opportunities for wildlife preservation, extension of the Animas River Trail and outdoor recreation.
The land was charitably donated by Madelyn and William Waters, owners of Romad Investments. Amy Schwarzbach, city natural lands manager, said the Waters see the value in giving back instead of negotiating for a cash purchase of the land.
“This project represents and contributes greatly to our high quality of life, our vibrant economy and a healthy environment. Not to mention a healthy community,” she said.
The acquisition has been in the making for years – city documents say over a decade – and the community has made it clear that preservation of the Animas River Greenway is a top natural lands preservation goal, she said.
“The preservation of this tract along the Animas River corridor in its natural condition will continue (to provide) a healthy watershed, recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat,” Schwarzbach said.
After nine years of research in conjunction with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and a bird banding study last year, the city has identified 70 bird species that make Oxbow Park and Preserve their home, and Schwarzbach has no doubt they also occupy the 49 acres donated to the city this week.
“We have indications of great biodiversity in the preserve, and I’m sure that extends onto this adjacent land,” she said.
She said 70 species in one area is “incredible” and indicates just how valuable protecting riparian areas along the Animas River really is.
In accepting the donation, the city agrees to pay due diligence expenses and outstanding property taxes totaling $16,000. But a new appraisal of the property is also needed, which could cost around $5,000. As of 2012, the 49-acre property was valued at $2.5 million. All things considered, the city is facing a $21,000 bill, Schwarzbach said.
“We’ll look at that new value before closing the deal and bring that back to council in an update,” she said.
“With the acceptance of this incredible land donation, the city may preserve a large, undeveloped parcel of very pristine and very desirable Animas River front property,” she said.
Maintenance of the property is key. Among Parks and Recreation’s first steps is to perform an environmental assessment followed by a more detailed site evaluation, Schwarzbach said. Expected outcomes are weed and fire mitigation and possible riverbank stabilization.
Larger concepts to consider include expansion of the Oxbow Park and Preserve, extension of the Animas River Trail or other recreational uses, she said.
Parks and Recreation staff members are working on a refined open space and trails plan that will include the newly acquired natural land.
cburney@durangoherald.com
