The Larimer County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) held a work session on July 21, 2025, focusing on updates from the Natural Resources Department. Director Dalen Figgs presented three key metrics related to the department's ongoing initiatives.

The first metric discussed was the Pavement Condition Index, which measures the quality of roads and parking lots within the county's reservoir park system. Figgs reported that the current index stands at 82, consistent with previous years. This figure is crucial for directing maintenance funding and is expected to improve significantly in 2025 due to a large federal grant aimed at enhancing infrastructure.

Next, Figgs addressed the land conservation metric, highlighting a goal to conserve 74,000 acres by 2043. As of 2024, the county has successfully conserved an additional 7,663 acres, bringing the total to 62,141 acres. This includes a mix of fee title and conservation easements, with a goal of achieving a balanced 50-50 distribution by 2043. Figgs noted that the strategy of front-loading conservation funding has proven effective, and the county is approximately 30% of the way toward its conservation goal.

The final metric discussed was the condition of the natural surface trail system, which aims for a score of 75% or better. After experiencing damage from a wet year in 2023, the score dropped to 63%. However, with increased funding and staffing for trail maintenance, the score rebounded to 80% in 2024.

Commissioner O'Shelly McNally inquired about the land conservation goals and the factors influencing the decision-making process for land purchases versus conservation easements. Figgs clarified that the conservation goals are based on population growth and are guided by a master plan that identifies priority areas for conservation. The plan will be revisited later this year to adapt to changing needs and opportunities.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to maintaining infrastructure, enhancing land conservation efforts, and improving recreational access through effective management of natural resources. The next steps include continued monitoring of these metrics and adjustments to strategies as necessary to meet the established goals.