Public Service Information
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Read our Public Comments on Proposed Land Uses in the Missouri Heights Character Area
Unofficial Citizen’s Guide Opposing Incompatible Land Use Change Proposals
The guide presents the successful efforts of our campaigns to have two land use change application denied by Garfield and Eagle Counties (respectively) in our rural neighborhood. While it provides specific "how-to" information when necessary, it acknowledges that each situation is unique, and therefore, the exact methods employed may vary. For additional guidance, readers can easily access resources through the internet or via links provided within the guide.
PSA: Horse Containment Standards and Public Safety in the Valley
PSA: Horse Containment Standards and Public Safety in the Valley
In our community, horses are a way of life. However, with that heritage comes a shared responsibility for public safety. As new properties are developed and equestrian facilities are built, it is vital that we adhere to proven safety standards for fencing.
Underestimating the strength and unpredictability of a spooked horse can lead to catastrophic consequences on our public roads.
The Problem: Two-Rail Fencing is Not for Containment
The Problem: Two-Rail Fencing is Not for Containment
While a two-rail fence is aesthetically pleasing and common for marking property lines or driveways, it is not sufficient for horse containment.
Physical Gaps: Horses can easily get their heads or legs through the gaps. This creates a "tangler" effect where a horse may become trapped, panic, and sustain life-threatening injuries.
Visual Barriers: Two-rail fences act only as a suggestion to a horse. In a "bolt" situation, they are easily breached, leading to animal-vehicle collisions which frequently result in fatalities for both humans and animals.
The Gold Standard: For secure paddocks and boundary fencing, a three- or four-rail fence is the industry standard. For added security, a strand of electric wire is highly recommended to ensure horses remain safely away from the perimeter.
Legal & Liability Analysis: Colorado Law
Legal & Liability Analysis: Colorado Law
Proper fencing isn't just about safety; it’s about significant financial and legal protection. Under Colorado law, if a horse escapes due to "inadequate fencing," the following liability risks apply:
1. Who is Liable?
The Boarding Facility: Most commonly held liable for negligence if they fail to follow industry containment standards or maintain fencing.
The Horse Owner: May share liability if they are aware the facility’s fencing is substandard but continue to house the animal there.
2. Who Can Recover Damages?
Injured Motorists: Can sue for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Horse Owners: Can sue a facility for the animal’s value if negligence (like inadequate fencing) led to the loss of the horse.
Our Collective Responsibility
Our Collective Responsibility
We urge all property owners and facility managers to review their fencing structures. Ensuring your perimeter meets the three- or four-rail standard is a small investment compared to the potential loss of life and the legal fallout of a preventable accident.
Let's keep our valley safe for our riders, our drivers, and our horses.
The Rumble Ridge Harvest Party report.pdf
A BEAR INSIDE OF YOUR HOME?
On Friday night and Saturday night (June 28 and 29, 2024) there were 2 separate break-ins by a bear at 2 different homes on Mountain View Rd. The bear got in thru windows slightly cracked opened and ransacked a kitchen/living area in each case. The animal control was contacted and they came to the properties today. A trap has been set for the bear. In the meantime, please be bear aware-bring in bird feeders, do not leave garbage cans outside over night, close all windows completely on ground levels. Please be very bear aware, this is their community as well as ours. We need to be safe and bears need not to be attracted to our homes.
Fencing with Wildlife in Mind
Read Colorado Parks and Wildlife's Article on Fencing
If you have barbed wire on your property that isn't being used, please safely remove that fencing. Our wildlife is being injured on it!
Did you know?......Money from an individual retirement account (IRA) can be donated to charity. What’s more, if you've reached the age where you need to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your traditional IRAs, you can avoid paying taxes on them by donating that money to charity. Please donate and/or volunteer today.
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