On the Fort Collins’ 2025 ballot, Ballot Issue 302 is a tax-extension measure to fund nature areas in Fort Collins. This tax extension funds the preservation and maintenance of the 52 natural areas sponsored by the city. These include public arboretums, walkways, bike trails and the maintenance of benches and trash cans in these areas.
Fort Collins has a long history of investing in natural areas within urban limits. The prominent trees around the city are a result of Front Range settlers planting trees in the late 1800s. These trees were planted and became an environmental investment for generations, hundreds of years later. Today, residents enjoy the shade, cooling effects and improved air quality from greenery that was planted more than a century ago.
Having regular contact with the outdoors has benefits for mental wellness. In the Adult Learning and Veterans Services Center at Colorado State University, peer mentor Anna Kohl leads students on a weekly nature walk…