What happens when our gravel runs out?
Larimer County is exploring long-term solutions to ensure available aggregate for future road maintenance. Several options are being considered:
The County could buy gravel from commercial sources along the Front Range.
Commercial suppliers often produce gravel that is suitable as a base course material under paved roadways. This material is different from roadway surface gravel.
This option does not ensure a long-term reliable supply. This option would likely lead to long haul distances and increase overall road maintenance costs in the future.
✔ Option 2: Purchasing or leasing private lands
The County could lease or purchase land with natural deposits that could be processed into aggregate, similar to the County's Strang Pit.
After gravel is extracted, the County would reclaim and restore the site according to federal, state, and county regulations.
Finding and securing a suitable location presents challenges such as land availability, property costs, and accessibility to roadways to be maintained. However, this option could be favorable if an appropriate site is identified.
✔ Option 3: Partnering with federal or state agencies
The County could lease public land for new gravel quarries.
After gravel is extracted, the County would reclaim and restore the sites according to federal, state, and county regulations.
This could be a flexible, cost-effective, and sustainable option for future aggregate needs.
Larimer County is looking into these options to keep road maintenance efficient and cost-effective while ensuring a sustainable gravel supply for years to come.
Learn more about current gravel sources.
Learn more about current activities to find new gravel sources.
