Earth Day is around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and give back to your natural areas. Join us at Pineridge Natural Area on April 23 for hands-on stewardship projects that make a real impact. This year, you can choose from two volunteer sessions, a morning session from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or an afternoon session from 1 to 4:30 p.m., making it easier than ever to participate.

Volunteers ages 8 and older are welcome, creating a great opportunity for families and friends to serve together. Projects include trail maintenance, boardwalk improvements, shoreline clean-up around Dixon Reservoir, and a variety of accessible tasks such as maintaining picnic tables, replacing signage, and installing wildlife-friendly trash cans. Tools and refreshments are provided, but please bring a water bottle, warm or layered clothing, close-toed shoes suitable for walking off-trail, sun protection, and any other items needed for comfort outdoors.

Space is limited and registration is required. Learn more and register today to join a meaningful day outdoors helping care for one of our community’s most-loved natural areas.

Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is now open for the 2026 season. As Fort Collins Natural Areas’ largest site, it spans more than 28 square miles of wide-open vistas, nearly pristine grasslands, miles of trails and world-renowned cultural resources. The area offers a truly remote, backcountry experience and is a place to explore and treasure.

While dogs are not allowed, including in vehicles, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing throughout the season. Visit Soapstone Prairie to meet the past, enjoy the present and preserve the future.

Soapstone Prairie is open March through November. Check COTREX for current trail conditions before you go.

Only a few more weeks until spring, and the trails are calling. As snow melts and temperatures fluctuate, some trails may close temporarily to prevent damage. Before you head out, plan ahead and help protect your natural areas with these tips:

• Check before you trek. Conditions change quickly this time of year. Visit COTREX for the most up-to-date trail information before heading out.

• See mud? Stay the course. Walk through it, not around it, to prevent trail widening and erosion.

• Plan ahead. Parking lots fill up and closures happen. Have an alternate destination in mind, including paved options like the Poudre or Spring Creek trails.

• Be prepared. Spring weather shifts fast. Wear layers and sturdy footwear, and bring water, sun protection, and a map.

• Protect what you love. Clean boots and bikes to help prevent the spread of invasive species. Stay on designated trails, give wildlife space, leash dogs, and remember to bag it, pack it, and trash it.

Thanks for helping protect your natural areas every step of the way.

If you’ve driven past the corner of Mulberry Street and Lemay Avenue lately, you may have noticed an unusual blue-green hue across part of Williams Natural Area. That temporary color is part of an active restoration effort.

After removing invasive smooth brome, the site was reseeded with native plant species and hydro-mulched to support new growth. Hydro-mulch is a protective layer that helps retain moisture, reduce erosion and protects the soil until seeds begin to germinate this spring.

Thank you for your patience as this area recovers and grows.

Bring beauty and sustainability to your yard this spring with Garden In A Box. Each professionally designed kit makes creating a low-water landscape simple and enjoyable, with 15–30 starter plants, a Plant & Care Guide, and up to three plant-by-number map. These kits are perfect for replacing thirsty lawns while supporting a more sustainable yard year after year.

Gardens In A Box go on sale March 11. City of Fort Collins Utilities customers can save $25 on a limited number of native garden kits, including Biodiversity Nursery, Butterfly Haven, Sunset & Sage, Pollinator Peak and Mountain Blooms. A limited number of discounts are available, so reserve your kit today and start growing a vibrant, water-wise garden this season!

Nature Along the Poudre River at Lee Martinez Park

Discover the hidden wonders of the Poudre River! Join naturalist Rob Pickett for a guided walk along the river trail as you explore plants, birds, mammals, insects, and geology. Learn fun facts, spot wildlife, and deepen your connection with one of Fort Collins’ most-loved natural areas.

• Saturday, Mar. 7 at 12:30–3:30 p.m.

Dress for the weather and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for walking along paved trails. Bring sunscreen, a hat, layered clothing, a water bottle, and binoculars to get the most out of your wildlife spotting.

Skygazing at Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area

Explore the wonders of the night sky with the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society! Peer through telescopes and learn about stars, planets, galaxies, and more as experts guide you through an unforgettable evening under the cosmos. Bring a blanket or chair and binoculars to enhance your view and enjoy the beauty of the universe.

• Saturday, Mar. 21 from 7:30–9:30 p.m.

Dress for temperatures 20 degrees cooler than expected. All activities take place in a paved parking lot with very little walking. Accessible parking and restrooms are available. Pets are not permitted at the site. Check the NCAS website for weather updates.

Natural Areas News is published on the first Tuesday of the month with occasional special editions. Newsletter comments are welcome. Please contact Rachel Balduzzi, City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Public Engagement Sr Supervisor, 970-224-6153 or rbalduzzi@fortcollins.gov

To learn more about Natural Areas, visit our website.