Save Dinosaur Ridge

The private property around Dinosaur Ridge, Matthews-Winters Open Space and Hayden-Green Mountain Park is currently zoned to allow for smart development that promotes low impact development that promotes economic growth. However, this land has significant development challenges, is archaelogically sensitive, and generally is not very attractive for large retail development. An application to allow re-zoning of the land to accomodate highly impactful uses that conflict with the surrounding uses of open space and park is being proposed.

This land should be protected for its historic, geological and archaeological significance. It should remain a place of education and recreation for future generations. The property houses the museum at Dinosaur Ridge and lies in the Rooney Valley between several parks and open spaces including the Dakota Ridge Hogback, Dinosaur Ridge, Hayden Park (Green Mountain), Bear Creek Lake Park and Forsberg Iron Spring Park. Any development of this land should follow the criteria established under the Jefferson County Comprehensive Master Planning & Zoning Guide. It should: 

Be compatible with the existing and allowable land uses in the surrounding area,

 Not negatively affect the health, safety and welfare of the residents and landowners in the surrounding area including users of public lands,

 Not result in impacts upon property in the surrounding area without adequate mitigation of impacts to pre-existing levels.

We are seeking funds to support printing materials like business cards and flyers, to do public outreach and pay any legal fees. But, have set our goal so high so that, should we obtain this level of support, we may either attempt to negotiate for a land acquisition or build a new facility in a new location. Any funds raised and not applied to the above uses will be donated to the Friends of Dinosaur Ridge.