Summary
On November 20, 2023, the town of Lyons, Colorado adopted a Rights-of-Nature like resolution to protect the St. Vrain Creek watersheds and their associated ecosystems. The resolution states: “The Town Board resolves that the St. Vrain Creek watersheds, including the plants, animals, and associated ecosystems, should be considered in all decisions that could impact them. The Town Board recognizes that the St. Vrain Creeks should possess, at minimum, the following fundamental conditions:
a. A flow sufficient in quantity to support and maintain ecosystem health;
b. A functioning channel and floodplain riverine ecosystem, including horizontal and longitudinal connectivity, areas for infiltration of precipitation and groundwater recharge, moving and depositing sediments, and the natural habitats for native plants and animals;
c. That the watersheds feed and be fed by rainfall, snowmelt, and aquifers;
d. That biodiversity is maintained; and
e. That the predominantly free-flowing nature of the South St. Vrain Creek is maintained.”
The resolution emphasizes the interdependency between the health and well-being of the St. Vrain Creeks and Town residents, and states that it is “the Town’s responsibility to act as a steward of nature and of these watersheds.” The resolution was unanimously supported by the Town Board.