Voices of Open Space

Boulder County Parks and Open Space
  • 5.0 (11)
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  • Updated Semiweekly

Welcome to the Boulder County Parks & Open Space Podcast — a storytelling series that explores the heart of our open spaces and the people who care for them. Through conversations with experts, volunteers, staff, authors, and community members, we shine a light on the work of conservation, sustainability, and community stewardship. Each episode brings to life the values, challenges, and triumphs behind preserving and managing our public lands while fostering deeper connections between people and place.

  1. Park Bench Banter — Eva Lark with Shursteen Sharpe

    May 28

    Park Bench Banter — Eva Lark with Shursteen Sharpe

    What does it mean to stop a problem before it starts? In this episode of Park Bench Banter, host Eva Lark sits down with Shursteen Sharpe, Early Detection and Rapid Response Specialist for Boulder County Parks and Open Space. Shursteen’s work focuses on identifying and managing invasive plant species at their earliest stages, often when only a single plant is present. Through careful observation, planning, and collaboration, her work helps protect ecosystems, agriculture, and biodiversity across the county. From remote fieldwork to data-driven strategy, this conversation offers a rare look into the quiet but critical work of preventing invasive species from taking hold. In This Episode: How invasive plants are detected and managed earlyWhy prevention is more effective than large-scale treatmentThe surprising ways plants spread across landscapesThe role of data in tracking and managing infestationsSeasonal fieldwork and long days on the landscapeHow volunteers support large-scale conservation effortsTips for homeowners to avoid planting invasive speciesWhy this work matters for ecosystems and agricultureFeatured Resources: More on Wood Lilies: boco.org/wood-lilyMore on Orange Hawkweed: boco.org/OrangeHawkweedSee Shursteen and her team in action:boco.org/tamariskboco.org/myrtlespurgeboco.org/RushSkeletonweedLearn more about List A and other eradication species: boco.org/NoxiousWeedSpeciesinColoradoReport an eradication species sighting: boco.org/ReportEeradicationSpeciesVolunteer Opportunities: boco.org/volunteerOriginal music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    32 min
  2. Wildfire Mitigation: Living with Fire in a Changing Landscape

    Apr 30

    Wildfire Mitigation: Living with Fire in a Changing Landscape

    Wildfire has always been part of Colorado’s landscape, but the way we experience it is changing. In this episode, host Sarah Quiroga speaks with David Garcia, Water Resources Wildfire Mitigation Specialist for Boulder County Parks and Open Space, about the evolving relationship between people, land, and fire. Together, they explore how wildfire behaves, why mitigation matters more than ever, and what individuals and communities can do to reduce risk. From historic ditch systems to modern neighborhoods, this conversation highlights the importance of preparation, awareness, and collective action. In This Episode: Understanding wildfire as a natural processThe shift from suppression to mitigationClimate change and year-round fire riskLessons from the Marshall FireManaging fuel along ditch corridorsWhat defensible space really looks likeEasy steps to protect your homeWhy neighbors matter in wildfire mitigationLocal programs and financial support for homeownersFeatured Resources: Ditch Wildfire Mitigation Program: Ditch Wildfire Mitigation Program - Boulder CountyBoulder County Wildfire Mitigation Program: https://bouldercounty.gov/disasters/wildfires/mitigation/wildfire-mitigation-programs/Boulder County $500 Wildfire Mitigation Rebate: https://bouldercounty.gov/news/500-wildfire-mitigation-rebate-opens-two-months-early/Wildfire Partners Rebate: https://wildfirepartners.org/rebate/City of Boulder’s Wildfire Resilience Assistance Program: https://bouldercolorado.gov/WRAPCity of Boulder’s Be Wildfire Ready: https://bouldercolorado.gov/wildfireready Original music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    27 min
  3. Two Directors, Two Eras: Stewards of the Land Reflect on Leadership, Legacy, and Care for Our Shared Landscape

    Apr 16

    Two Directors, Two Eras: Stewards of the Land Reflect on Leadership, Legacy, and Care for Our Shared Landscape

    In Two Directors, Two Eras, recorded late last year, host Tina Nielsen sits down with former directors Ron Stewart and Therese Glowacki for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation about the evolution of Boulder County’s open space program, reflecting on the leadership, vision, and legacy that have shaped it over time. From the early, grassroots beginnings in the 1970s to the transformative passage of the open space tax in 1993, Ron shares how a bold community vision helped protect land, prevent sprawl, and preserve agriculture. Therese reflects on a new era focused on stewardship, restoration, and innovation, including forest health, biomass energy, and large-scale ecological restoration projects. Together, they explore what it took to build trust with the community, protect iconic landscapes, and ensure that Boulder County remains a place where nature, agriculture, and people can thrive together. As we look ahead, this episode invites us to reflect on the past, honor the people who made it possible, and carry that vision forward. In This Episode: The origins of Boulder County’s open space program and the vision behind itHow the 1978 Comprehensive Plan shaped land use, conservation, and growthThe long journey to passing the open space sales tax in 1993Early land acquisitions, creative strategies like rolling options, and community advocacyBuilding trust with farmers, ranchers, and landowners across the countyThe evolution from land acquisition to stewardship, restoration, and managementInnovative projects including biomass energy and large-scale creek restorationStories behind iconic open space areas like Heil Valley Ranch, Hall Ranch, and Haystack MountainThe importance of partnerships, community involvement, and long-term visionReflections on leadership, legacy, and the future of open space in Boulder County Original music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    41 min
  4. Tale Feathers: Winter 2026

    Feb 12

    Tale Feathers: Winter 2026

    In this winter episode of Tale Feathers, host Eva Lark explores the joy of birding in every form, from “yard lists” to big community bird walks, and how paying attention to birds can help us feel more grounded where we live. Eva is joined by Ted Floyd, renowned birder and Editor of Birding magazine, the award-winning flagship publication of the American Birding Association. Ted is also a prolific writer and educator, with more than 200 articles and scholarly works on birds and nature, and has recently revitalized three new National Geographic bird field guides that were published in 2025. Together, they talk about the many ways people connect with birds, how journaling and curiosity can shape a life in nature, and why birders are so committed to facts, evidence, and learning. You will also meet one of Boulder County’s most common but often overlooked winter birds, the cackling goose, and learn how to tell it apart from the Canada goose. Plus, Ted shares favorite winter birding spots in and around Boulder County, and ways to join the local birding community. In this Episode: Yard birding, life lists, and why there is no right way to be a birderTed Floyd’s path into birding through journaling, observation, and a childhood love of natureHow birding builds community and creates connection across backgrounds and experience levelsField journaling today, including eBird, iNaturalist, photography, audio recordings, and detailed notesBirding with kids, starting early, nurturing curiosity, and seeing the world through their eyesBehind the scenes of Ted’s 2025 National Geographic field guides and why a field guide can feel like haikuMeet Your Neighbor: Cackling Goose and how to tell it apart from the Canada GooseWinter goose flocks in Boulder County, including snow goose, Ross’s goose, greater white fronted goose, brant, and hybridsWhat winter bird sightings can reveal about climate change, habitat shifts, and changing migration patternsThe power of community science and why documenting birds mattersFavorite winter birding spots in and near Boulder County, plus local outings and upcoming migration events Featured Resources: Spark Bird Stories: https://www.spark-bird.org/Bird species profiles:Townsend’s Solitaire - https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/townsends_solitaireCackling Goose - https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Cackling_Goose/Parks & Open Space Event Calendar: https://discover.bouldercounty.gov/Lagerman Agricultural Preserve: https://bouldercounty.gov/open-space/parks-and-trails/lagerman/eBird: https://ebird.org/ Ted’s eBird profile: https://ebird.org/profile/MTEyMDgz/worldiNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/Christmas Bird Count: https://www.audubon.org/community-science/christmas-bird-countWorld Migratory Bird Day: https://www.migratorybirdday.org/ Original music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    43 min
  5. OSCAR: Amplifying the Power of Nature for a Sustainable, Just, and Resilient Boulder County

    Jan 15

    OSCAR: Amplifying the Power of Nature for a Sustainable, Just, and Resilient Boulder County

    Sustainability, climate action, and resilience are more than buzzwords in Boulder County. They are a shared commitment and a roadmap for what comes next. In this episode of Voices of Open Space, host Melissa Arnold sits down with Tim Broderick, Senior Sustainability Strategist at Boulder County’s Office of Sustainability, Climate Action, and Resilience (OSCAR), to explore how local action can lead to lasting change. Listeners will also join Melissa and Tim onsite as they visit Andy Breiter, founder of Grama Grass & Livestock, who received a Boulder County Soil Health Initiative grant in 2024. Together, they bring the conversation to the ground—showing how regenerative agriculture, rotational grazing, and healthy soils can strengthen climate resilience, support farmers and ranchers, and build a more sustainable future. From nature-based solutions to community-scale planning, this is a hopeful, practical look at what it means to amplify the power of nature in Boulder County. In This Episode: An introduction to Boulder County’s Office of Sustainability, Climate Action, and Resilience (OSCAR) and how it supports a sustainable, just, and resilient communityHow local climate action takes shape through building decarbonization, transportation electrification, and natural climate solutionsAn onsite visit with Andy Breiter, founder of Grama Grass & Livestock, and a look at how the 2024 Boulder County Soil Health Initiative grant supports regenerative agricultureA deep dive into healthy soils, rotational grazing, and why soil health is key to climate resilience and food systemsHow nature-based solutions like beaver habitat restoration, forestry management, green roofs, and biochar can amplify the power of natureThe role of data, policy, and community partnerships in shaping Boulder County’s climate futureA hopeful vision for what Boulder County could look like 50 years from now Featured Resources: Boulder County’s OSCAR website: https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/Resolution for the 2016 Sustainability tax, has great descriptions of why the residents of BOCO chose to support this https://assets.bouldercounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2016-79-gad-sst-open-space-and-sustainability-0.250pct.pdfNature Based Solutions, Boulder County site: https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/nature-based-solutions/Boulder County’s Sustainable Food and Agriculture Fund https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/food-ag-grant/Boulder County’s Soil Health Initiative: https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/soil-health-initiative/USDA Principles of Soil Health https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-basics/natural-resource-concerns/soil/soil-healthZero Foodprint’s Restore Colorado https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/food-and-agriculture/restore-colorado/ (work with restaurants in BOCO, 1% surcharge on bills that goes back to the farms)Grama Grass & Livestock https://www.gramagrasslivestock.com/Liability Biomass Study https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/forest-waste/ (this is the actual study PDF https://assets.bouldercounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Boulder_Final_Biomass_Report_FNL3.pdf)2021 Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Boulder County, CO, a study that utilized a Consumption-Based Emissions Inventory (CBEI) that looks at Scope 3 emissions, which are not generated directed in the local supply chain (ordering things from Amazon…) Website: https://bouldercounty.gov/climate/2021-ghg-inventory/ and here is the actual PDF of the study: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/b84cd2357f9a4a5f9e094309b692a41eUrban Landscape Toolkit https://bouldercounty.gov/news/toolkit-integrating-nature-into-urban-planning-now-available/Grey to Green Fund, Sustainability Tax supports this – impervious to pervious https://bouldercounty.gov/government/grants/grey-to-green-fund/

    50 min
  6. Turning the Pages Together: Boulder Bookstore’s Legacy & Top Books of 2025

    12/18/2025

    Turning the Pages Together: Boulder Bookstore’s Legacy & Top Books of 2025

    What makes an independent bookstore thrive for over 50 years? Step into one of Boulder’s most beloved cultural landmarks. In this episode of Voices of Open Space, host Eva Lark sits down with two longtime stewards of Boulder Bookstore—Manager and Head Buyer Arsen Kashkashian and Marketing & Promotions Manager Stephanie Schindhelm—to explore the magic behind an independent bookstore that has shaped community, creativity, and conversation since 1973. Together, they reflect on their personal journeys, the evolution of Boulder Bookstore over the past five decades, and the vital role bookstores play as a “third place” where ideas, authors, and readers meet. The conversation then turns to an eclectic and thoughtfully curated list of 20 standout book recommendations for 2025, spanning fiction, nonfiction, poetry, children’s books, graphic novels, and local authors—perfect for avid readers, curious explorers, and meaningful gift-givers alike. Whether you love discovering your next great read, find the perfect gift, or simply want to understand why independent bookstores matter more than ever, this episode invites you to turn the page and linger awhile. *** DISCLAIMER:  Boulder County Parks & Open Space does not endorse or promote any businesses. References made in this podcast are solely for the purpose of highlighting shared values and recognizing cultural landmarks within our community. Featured Resources: Boulder Bookstore Website: https://boulderbookstore.netBB Instagram: instagram.com/boulderbookstoreBB Youtube: youtube.com/@BoulderBookstoreDonate to the Literacy Foundation: https://boulderbookstore.net/FoundationUpcoming Reader's Retreat: https://boulderbookstore.net/ReadRetreat Book List (in Order Mentioned): Buffalo Hunter HunterOnce Upon a KwanzaaThe MartiansWorthyEndlingButt or FaceLittle MercyBud Finds Her GiftWanderlustBig Jim Believes1929Tales of PiratesPortrait of BoulderThe Many Misfortunes of Eugenia WangA Complete FictionAwayThe CorrespondentLegendary Frybread Drive InWhat We Can KnowThe Coven TendencyGift: Monopoly 🎧 Subscribe to Voices of Open Space on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen and join us in protecting what makes Boulder County wild, rooted, and resilient. (https://linktr.ee/VoicesofOpenSpace) Original music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    55 min
  7. Tale Feathers: Fall 2025

    12/04/2025

    Tale Feathers: Fall 2025

    Did you know cormorants can dive over 100 feet underwater? Or that the Christmas Bird Count has been going strong for 125+ years? In this second episode of Tale Feathers, Eva Lark is joined by Lauren Szabo from Environment for the Americas for a cozy and curious conversation about backyard birds, the mighty California condor, diving cormorants, and how to prepare for winter birding in Colorado. In This Episode:• Northern Flicker: ground-loving woodpecker• Spark Bird stories 🪶• Tips for birding in the snow ❄️• Christmas Bird Count traditions 🎄• A condor encounter that might just make you cry Featured Resources:Parks and Open Space Foundation: https://preservebouldercounty.org/  Environment for the Americas: https://environmentamericas.org/  San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Condor Work: https://science.sandiegozoo.org/species/california-condor Spark Bird Stories: https://www.spark-bird.org/ Bird species profiles: Northern FlickerSandhill CraneNeotropic CormorantCalifornia CondorChristmas Bird Count: https://www.audubon.org/community-science/christmas-bird-count Parks & Open Space Event Calendar: https://discover.bouldercounty.gov/ Original music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    36 min
  8. Plant Blindness

    11/20/2025

    Plant Blindness

    Have you ever heard of the phenomenon called plant blindness?Most people haven’t—and yet it shapes the way we understand nature, conservation, and even our own backyard. Boulder County is home to more than 1,600 native plant species—half of all native plants found in the entire state of Colorado. Thanks to the dramatic rise of the Rocky Mountains and the steep elevation changes from plains to tundra, our county holds an incredible variety of ecosystems packed into less than 40 miles. But when you picture Boulder County’s open space, what comes to mind? A moose at Caribou Ranch? Tracks in the mud? A bald eagle overhead? We often notice wildlife long before we notice the plants that make their lives—and ours—possible. In this episode, Director Therese Glowacki sits down with three members of the Boulder County Parks & Open Space Plant Ecology Work Group: David Hirt, Senior Plant Ecologist with 28 years of service Carrie Cimo, Plant Ecologist and Volunteer Program Manager of 11 years Brad Winckelmann, Plant Ecologist who has contributed to many major vegetation projects over the past 6 years Together, they explore what “plant blindness” means, why it matters, how it affects conservation, and how we can all learn to see the plants that shape our ecosystems. They break down this concept with clarity, passion, and years of field experience, helping us open our eyes to the extraordinary world of plants all around us. Colorado Natural Heritage Program (https://cnhp.colostate.edu/)iNaturalist (www.inaturalist.org)Colorado Native Plant Society (https://conps.org/)Boulder County Parks and Open Space Volunteer Opportunities (https://bouldercounty.gov/volunteer/parks-and-open-space/)Original music, including the theme song and all transitional pieces, was composed and performed by Tim Ostdiek.

    1h 6m
See All (20)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Boulder County Parks & Open Space Podcast — a storytelling series that explores the heart of our open spaces and the people who care for them. Through conversations with experts, volunteers, staff, authors, and community members, we shine a light on the work of conservation, sustainability, and community stewardship. Each episode brings to life the values, challenges, and triumphs behind preserving and managing our public lands while fostering deeper connections between people and place.

Information

  • Creator
    Boulder County Parks and Open Space
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Boulder County Parks and Open Space
  • Show Website
    Voices of Open Space

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