In a meeting with other interests last week, the Colorado Division of Wildlife reiterated its commitment to buy the Koziel parcel along the Roaring Fork River near Carbondale. The property is a popular access point for fishermen and has been leased by the DOW for many years.
Points of discussion with representatives of Carbondale included issues surrounding the town’s plans to build a kayak park adjacent to the Koziel parcel. DOW officials previously have expressed concerns about possible impacts to fish and fishery resources from the construction of whitewater structures in the river.
The town has assured the DOW that it would be able to participate in planning efforts to ensure that potential impacts to the fishery are addressed before any boating structures are placed in the river.
“The worst thing that could happen is that we would miss the opportunity to secure public access on this parcel,” DOW director Tom Remington said in a news release. “The rest is in the details, and we are committed to working those out. This is a priority for us.”
The Koziel property includes 7.8 acres of riverfront land with a boat ramp and parking area.
Free fishing at Arsenal.
The fishing season at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge will end Saturday with free fishing, coinciding with numerous other attractions of the Refuge Roundup 2010.
Ladora and Mary lakes on the refuge offer catch-and-release fishing for catfish, northern pike, largemouth bass and other game fish, many of which are large. The refuge is located at 56th Avenue and Havana Street, just north of Interstate 70. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Karl Licis, Special to The Denver Post
