Schwartzwalder Visioning
February 15, 2022Open Space Management Plan Development & Landscape Typology Implementation
November 4, 2019
Town of Rico Long-Range Planning
Rico, CO
Client
Confidential
Services
Ecological Master Plan
Ecological Assessments
Visioning & Conceptual Planning
Community Engagement
Great Ecology was contracted in 2020 by a confidential client to prepare a planning document that encapsulates a long-range vision for potential recreation and habitat restoration opportunities within and near the Town of Rico, CO. Great Ecology’s role included data gathering, site analysis, program definition, field reconnaissance, and onsite meetings, culminating in the development of the Town of Rico, Colorado Land Use Study & Conceptual Plan. To support implementation and expansion of the 2020 long-range vision, Great Ecology returned to Rico in 2023 to conduct ecological site assessments on properties surrounding the Town. Our interdisciplinary team developed a comprehensive evaluation and prioritization matrix to guide strategic development in alignment with the 2020 conceptual plan.
As of 2024, Great Ecology continues to advise strategic planning, design, and ecological decisions for this project.
Developing Rico's Long-Range Plan
Great Ecology delineated a conceptual design study area to identify restoration opportunities and challenges.
We selected a number of disturbed and under-utilized areas as prime targets for restoration or enhancement opportunities.
Initial opportunities included trail creation and connection, park development and improvement, and habitat restoration.
In addition to potential recreational and ecological improvements, the study evaluated opportunities for light development including public, residential, and commercial building construction.
Light development provides additional opportunities for desired improvements such as solar energy generation, park development, and trail connectivity.
