Updated Access Policy for Timnath Reservoir - Larimer County (no bird observations)

[John Shenot]

Fort Collins Audubon Society (FCAS) has worked to maintain access for birders to Timnath Reservoir ever since the town adopted a restricted access policy several years ago. The policy is a frequent source of confusion for birders. After a recent conversation with town officials, I thought it might interest some in the COBIRDS audience to update/reiterate the town's current policy for public access. See below. Feel free to contact me if you have questions.

John Shenot

FCAS President

Fort Collins, CO

Timnath Reservoir is one of the top birding destinations in all of Colorado, with 270 different bird species observed there throughout the years. However, signs at the Timnath Town Park entrance and information on the town website state that access is for permit holders only. I have some good news to share about that.

But first, some background. The Town of Timnath has a lease agreement with the water company that owns Timnath Reservoir that allows for recreational uses on the water and shoreline. The town adopted a policy limiting those uses to permit holders. Town residents can get an annual shore use permit for free, but must pay to obtain a permit for boating. All others must pay to obtain a permit for shore use or boating – with one important exception.

FCAS secured an informal agreement with the Town’s Parks and Recreation Department that allows FCAS members in groups of 5 or fewer people to have free access without a permit to the reservoir shoreline, including the park on the southwest side of the reservoir, for wildlife viewing (including birding) only. Larger groups must notify and get prior permission from town parks department staff. If a town employee asks to see your permit, tell them you are a member of FCAS and you will be allowed access for birding, but not for boating, fishing, dog walking, disc golf, or any activity other than wildlife viewing. You will not have to show proof that you are an FCAS member.

If for any reason a town employee insists you need a permit, please don’t argue with them. Be respectful, leave the area as requested, and notify FCAS so we can try to fix the problem. Access by a non-town resident is a privilege, not a right, and it is important that all of us follow the rules and observe good birding ethics if we want this privilege to continue.