Colorado Springs parks get environmental care from ‘Leave No Trace’ group

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Colorado Springs has been chosen as a "Hot Spot" by the Boulder-based non-profit "Leave No Trace." The Hot Spot Program identifies areas suffering from severe human-related impacts and works to aid them with eco-wise solutions.

The regional parks system was chosen as a Hot Spot because the pandemic has increased foot traffic, especially from new park users who don't always practice sustainably-wise outdoor actions.

"We’re also seeing new users to the parks. So what we’re trying to do is convince our ultra-users, folks that are in the parks multiple times a week, to set really good examples for our brand new park users,” said Park Ranger Supervisor for the Trails Open Space and Parks Program Gillian Rossi.

Colorado Springs is receiving a unique, site-specific blend of programs aimed at a healthy and sustainable recovery.

This weekend, the group is hosting several activities for community members to get involved in restoring the natural state of local parks. Click here for a full list of events like a nature photography hike and a community workday.

"It means so much more than just not littering, and it’s spread by word of mouth. So whatever they learn from this weekend, please just share it with one other person and that can create a huge impact across our community in a really positive way," Rossi said.

Since 2010, Leave No Trace has conducted over 100 Hot Spots in national parks and forests, state parks, city parks, and more.