HomeMy WebLinkAboutLand Use Case.Thomas Parcel.25A-86Rit d o"fow.
f6a&m-t� � /�,q
T
NO. .25446
r.i,vaL suru4ARz SnRz
City of Aspen
DATE kECE IV ED :
DATE RECEIVED COMP4ETE : ,
PROJECT NAME - Y�ciYAM
c
APPL ICANT:
Applicant Addres /Phone: ('
RE PR ES EN TAT IV E :
Representative Address/Phone:
Type of Application:
I. GMP/Subdivision/PUD
1. Conceptual Submission
2. Preliminary Plat
3. Final Plat
II. Subdivision/PUD
I. Conceptual Submission
2. Preliminary Plat
3. Final Plat
III. All "Two Step" Applications
IV. All "One Step" Applications
V. Referral Fees - Environmental
Health, Housing Office
1. Minor Applications
20
12
6
14
9
6
11
5
2
$2,730.00
1,640 .00
820 .00
$1,900.00
1,220.00
820 .00
$1,490.00
$ 680 .00
$ 50 .00
2. Major Applications
5
$ 125.00
Referral Fees -
Engineering
Minor Applications
80.00
Major Applications
200.00
P&Z CC MEETING DATE:
PUBLIC HEARING:
YES NO
DATE REFERRED:
INITIALS:
REFERRALS:
City Atty
Aspen
Consol. S. D.
School District
City Engineer
Mtn.
Bell
Rocky Mtn. Nat. Gas
Housing Dir.
Parks
Dept.
State Hwy Dept (Glenwd)
Aspen Water
Holy
Cross Electric
StatetiwyDept (Gr.Jtn)
City Electric
Fire
Marshall
Bldg: Zoning/Inspectn
Envir. I11th.
Fire
Chief
Other:
Roaring
Fork Transit
Roaring Fork Energy Center
--------------------
FINAL ROUTING:
DATE ROUTED: �� `�IN ITIAL':.�
City Atty
City
Engineer _�� _
Building Dept.
Ot-h er :
FILE STATUS AN!) LOCA`i' ION
Other :
viewed by: T, S4 p 1, z City counci
I , "V
41Y
, I I A !,1 d ! U). I --� I -
I
City Council
0 0
MEMORANDUM
TO: Aspen City Council
THRU : Ron Mitchell, Acting City Manager
FROM: Steve Burstein, Planning Office
RE: Biodome Proposed on Thomas Parcel
DATE: June 17, 1986
LOCATION: On Thomas Parcel, southeast of the Community Garden
and next to the nursery.
ZONING: C - Conservation
APPLICANTS' REQUEST: Patty Carlson, organizer of the Eagle Nest
Foundation is requesting approval from the City to use a portion
of the City -owned Thomas Parcel for a Biodome. A three-year
pilot program is proposed using the Biodome for agricultural
production and associated educational and social service func-
tions.
The proposed biodome would be a 3/8th sphere, 50 feet in dia-
meter, cover 1812 square feet of land, and stand 20 feet high.
The dome would be covered by a double layer plastic with heat
mirror.
BACKGROUND: City Council was approached on March 24th and April
28, 1986, to consider Ms. Carlson's request. A motion was passed
on April 28 to table action until the Planning and Zoning
Commission would give a recommendation on the request.
APPLICABLE SECTION OF THE CODE: Section 24-3.2 of the Municipal
Code lists the permitted uses in the Conservation Zone District
including:
"Crop production, orchards, nurseries, flower produc-
tion and forest land; pastures and grazing land; dairy,
fishery; animal production; husbandry services (not
including commercial feed lots) and the farm and
agricultural uses "
The biodome use appears to fit into these categories of permitted
uses. In addition, it appears that the structure is not addres-
sed by the provisions of the Growth Management Quota System,
Section 24-11.9 and would be exempt from GMP according to Section
24-11 .1 (i) . No land use application process is required to
develope the biodome.
0 •
PROBLEM DISCUSSION: The Thomas Parcel is at this time City -owned
open space used for a variety of functions including the com-
munity garden, city nursery, nordic trails in the winter; hang
glider landing and some storage. In the Aspen Area Comprehensive
Plan: Parks/Recreation/Open Space/Trails Element, the implementa-
tion action for the Marol t-Thomas parcel is stated as follows:
Marolt-Thomas - The site consists of approximately 82 acres
at the west entrance to Aspen. Marolt-Thomas is currently
the City of Aspen's most underutilized parcel. The parcel
could convey an important image to all those entering the
community due to its location at the entrance to town and
directly across State highway 82 from the golf course.
Action - Marolt-Thomas should be developed as a passive open
space parcel divided into several large open space areas
separated with landscape material (trees and landforms) in
accordance with the attached concept plan as depicted on
Figures 3 and 4. The Marolt-Thomas parcel will serve as a
part of a larger open space corridor; and function as one of
the foci of the trail system. The actual shape of the
Marol t-Thomas parcel will be affected by the ultimate
alignment of State Highway 82. Included within this Plan
are two alternatives concepts for Marolt-Thomas depending
upon the ultimate alignment of State Highway 82 (see Figure
3 and 4) . Additionally, both concept plans for the Marol t-
Thomas site should be submitted to the Colorado Department
of Highways as considerations in the development of the
supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for State
Highway 82 which will be initiated in the fall of 1985.
Attached are Conceptual Plan Alternatives A and B for the h7arolt-
Thomas proposal. We feel that the biodome does not conflict with
present open space uses. It is not strictly compatible with the
passive open space concept, however, the biodome use can be
looked at as a sort of agricultural/educational use providing
beneficial services to the community and not in derogation of the
open space. Additionally, the dome should be viewed primarily as
a temporary function. Visual impacts will not be unacceptable
from either Highway 82 or Castle Creek Road given the setback
amongst existing, proposed trees and the height.
Craig Ward of the Nordic Council was contacted and asked if
winter access to the dome would conflict with the nordic trail
loops. It was stated on June 5, 1986 that a foot trail would not
be a problem.
The Engineering Department has determined that the parking lot
should be adequate for biodome use. Pointed out in Elyse
Elliott's memorandum of 6/5/86, are the needs to further address
trash storage and removal, drainage water disposal, and repair to
the access road.
The Eagle Nest Foundation will need to take responsibility for
water, electricity, maintenance of parking and access road,
provisions for a sanitary toilet facility, and planting some ten
(10) trees as shown on the site plan submitted. The Eagle Nest
Foundation marketing plan, defining the limited extent of the
dome's commercial operation, should be reviewed to the satisfac-
tion of the City Attorney. In addition, the Eagle Nest Founda-
tion should present a guarantee for removal of the structure and
foundation.
ADVISORY COMMITTEE VOTE: On June 10, 1986, the Planning Commis-
sion reviewed the biodome request. The Commission expressed
concern about compromising the passive open space concept of the
Marolt-Thomas parcel through placement of the biodome or any
other structure on the property.
The following motion was unanimously passed:
"The Planning Commission has reservations about placing the
biodome on the Thomas Property because of prior City Council
and P&Z discussions regarding buildings on open space
property. If the City decides to enter a contractual
arrangement with Eagles Nest Foundation because of the
beneficial aspects of the proposal, the following items
should be contained in the contract:►
Y4o,� 1. Eagle Nest Foundation shall have a three year renewable
lease for such use of the portion of the Thomas
property. The lease may be terminated,, at any time for
Y any reason by either party .004yc1Rujo
2. The biodome shall be operated and products marketed
according to an operation and marketing plan to be
filed as part of the contract.
3. An organic composting sanitary toilet facility shall be
placed just east of the biodome site (where it will not
be visible) .
4. Winter access to
the
biodome site shall be
limited to
pedestrian and skier access
so as not to interfere with
the nordic trail
which
would be crossed.
5. A minimum of ten
(10)
deciduous trees shall
be planted
as shown on the
site
plan by no later than October,
1986 to screen
the biodome,
and especially
the white
portion of the
dome,
from the viewplane
of State
Highway 82.
6. Eagle Nest Foundation shall be responsible for water,
undergrounded electricity and maintenance of the
�r L parking area and access road.
7. An arrangement for trash storage and removal shall be
made to the satisfaction of the Leisure Services
Agency and so stated in the contract.
8. Water tank design and method of drainage water disposal
shall be presented to the satisfaction of the Engineer-
ing Department and Environmental Health Department.
9. Proposed repairs to the access road leading to the
Community Garden shall be done to the satisfaction of
the City Engineer and represented in the contract.
10. The Eagle Nest Foundation shall submit an improvements
agreement and guarantee satisfactory to the City
Attorney sufficient to cover removal of the structure
and foundation, clean-up and revegetation of the
disturbed area after the biodome is dismantled.
The Commission is furthermore f-orwardina their concern about the
road cut and storage of utility equipment on the Thomas property.
The Commission questions the appropriateness of allowing active
uses without going through P&Z review.
RECOMMENDATION: The Planning Office agrees with the Planning
Commission that there are still questions as to the propriety of
allowing the biodome on the Thomas property. However, we believe
that the use is largely in keeping with the existing uses of the
site and should pose no serious risk due to it's limited time
frame. We recommend approval of the biodome concept and creation
of a contract with the Eagles Nest Foundation including the above
ten items.
SB .55
L I
MAROLT-THOMAS
CONCEPT PLAN
9
J June 1?56
Gear Aspen City COunci1,
As former Head Gardener and now Land Frogram Coordinator of
The Windstar Foundation, I am writing to &;;pre=-s my support of
Fatty Carl son's Si odc•;r•e project in A=pen. At the Wi ndstar
Foundation, we feel strongly about local food prOdL!Ction and the
support of our CC-,munity's businesses. I have been recently r
informed ty Carlson that mrny Aspen reStaLkrants have pledged to
buy the fresh produce from the pending Bi c-dorr.e. I vented to cc-1 1
to your attention the ex i ster.ce of our Roaring Fork Vel 1 ey
Organic Gror:ers Co-op which presently r,-:arl.ets the sLIT„-.er produce
of four local Src:-�Ers to F.Aspen end S-,ov.7,ass. At this time, we
market May through October. The pro, esed Bi cdc!a,e, toSether with
Windstar's mew Fi odorr,e, wOul d great 1 aur,:-:Ent the Suppl y of
fresh, gLlal lty p0 od,+Ce to 10Ca1 rtStcL(r_cnts and groceries, and
make it a:vci 1 E-bl e yeas-t- L,rd.
I E-71 t. you for y c•ur t i ,74e,
Cr et c �,en H Wi 1 1
Wind=_tar La.,d Frc -eT. Coard3 :-tor and
Fc,arina ForE:: Ve11ei Crc•�nic Grc.: rs Cc-c�F Haad
THE WINDSTAR FOUNDATION BOX 286, SNOWMASS, COLORADO 81654 303-927-4777
June 5, 1986
RE: Recommendation, Patty Carlson
Biodome Project
To Whom It May Concern:
My wife and I have known Patty Carlson in both a professional and personal way
for the past four years. She is a hardworking, sincere, caring individual who
is dedicated to improving the quality and capacity of people's lives around her.
She is equally concerned with environmental protection and in instructing people
how to live in harmony with their surroundings.
Recently, Patty has requested the use of a piece of property from Aspen and
Pitkin County. This property is located near the community gardens between
Highway 82 and Castle Creek Road. The purpose behind the request is to build
a biodome to grow food to benefit the city and county and to instruct children
and adults in gardening techniques harmonious with the environment.
We think that this is a worthy goal and a worthwhile project and urge the city
and county to help in whatever measures they possibly can. We, as individuals,
support this project, and we look forward to the instruction our four children
will receive as they become involved in this endeavor. Our children are already
working with Patty in a gardening project at the community gardens and are
excited about the progress that has been made.
We thank the community officials in advance for their support and approval of
this beneficial program. We will not soon forget your consideration and
decision.
Thank You!
Sincerely,
c C—
Jam s E. Jarm n
Box 4129
Aspen, CO 81612
TO:
FROM:
RE:
DATE:
Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission
Steve Burstein, Planning Office
Biodome Proposed on Thomas Parcel
June 5, 1986
LOCATION: On Thomas Parcel, southeast of the Community Garden
and next to the nursery.
ZONING: C - Conservation
APPLICANTS' REQUEST: Patty Carlson, organizer of the Eagle Nest
Foundation is requesting approval from the City to use a portion
of the City -owned Thomas Parcel for a Biodome. A three-year
pilot program is proposed using the Biodome for agricultural
production and associated educational and social service func-
tions.
The proposed biodome would be a 3/8th sphere, 50 feet in dia-
meter, cover 1812 square feet of land, and stand 20 feet high.
The dome would be covered by a double layer plastic with heat
mirror.
BACKGROUND: City Council was approach on March 24th and April
28, 1986, to consider Ms. Carlson's request. A motion was passed
on April 28 to table action until the Planning and Zoning
Commission would give a recommendation on the request.
APPLICABLE SECTION OF THE CODE: Section 24-3.2 of the Municipal
Code lists the permitted uses in the Conservation Zone District
including:
"Crop production, orchards, nurseries, flower produc-
tion and forest land; pastures and grazing land; dairy,
fishery; animal production; husbandry services (not
including commercial feed lots) and the farm and
agricultural uses . . . "
The biodome use appears to fit into these categories of permitted
uses. In addition, it appears that the structure is not addres-
sed by the provisions of the Growth Management Quota System,
Section 24-11.9 and would be exempt from GMP according to Section
24-11.1(i). No land use application process has been identified
for the biodome.
PROBLEM DISCUSSION: The Thomas Parcel is at this time City -owned
open space used for a variety of functions including the com-
munity garden, city nursery, nordic trails in the winter, hang
glider landing and some storage. In the Aspen Area Comprehensive
Plan: Parks/Recreation/Open Space/Trails Element, the implementa-
tion action for the Marolt-Thomas parcel is stated as follows:
Marolt-Thomas - The site consists of approximately 82 acres
at the west entrance to Aspen. Marolt-Thomas is currently
the City of Aspen's most underutilized parcel. The parcel
could convey an important image to all those entering the
community due to its location at the entrance to town and
directly across State Highway 82 from the golf course.
Action - Marolt-Thomas should be developed as a passive open
space parcel divided into several large open space areas
separated with landscape material (trees and landforms) in
accordance with the attached concept plan as depicted on
Figures 3 and 4. The Marolt-Thomas parcel will serve as a
part of a larger open space corridor; and function as one of
the foci of the trail system. The actual shape of the
Marolt-Thomas parcel will be affected by the ultimate
alignment of State Highway 82. Included within this Plan
are two alternatives concepts for Marolt-Thomas depending
upon the ultimate alignment of State Highway 82 (see Figure
3 and 4). Additionally, both concept plans for the Marolt-
Thomas site should be submitted to the Colorado Department
of Highways as considerations in the development of the
supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for State
Highway 82 which will be initiated in the fall of 1985.:
Attached are Conceptual Plan Alternatives A and B for the Marolt-
Thomas proposal. We feel that the biodome does not conflict with
present open space uses or the future open space concepts,
especially as a temporary function. visual impacts will not be
unacceptable from either Highway 82 or Castle Creek Road given
the setback amongst existing and proposed trees and the height.
Craig Ward of the Nordic Council was contacted and asked if
winter access to the dome would conflict with the nordic trail
loops. It was stated on June 5, 1986, that a foot trail would
not be a problem.
The Engineering Department has determined that the parking lot
should be adequate for biodome use. Pointed out in Elyse
Elliott's memorandum of 6/5/86, are the needs to further address
trash storage and removal, drainage water disposal, and repair to
the access road.
The Eagle Nest Foundation will need to take responsibility for
water, electricity, maintenance of parking and access road,
provisions for a "porta-potty" facility, and planting some ten
(10) trees as shown on the site plan submitted. The Eagle Nest
Foundation marketing plan, defining the limited extent of the
dome's commercial operation, should be reviewed to the satisfac-
tion of the City Attorney. We believe that the Eagle Nest
•
•
Foundation should present a guarantee for removal of the struc-
ture and foundation.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: "Move to recommend to Council to approve a
contract with the Eagle Nest Foundation (or Patty Carlson)
allowing construction and operation of a biodome on the Thomas
Parcel including the following items within the contract:
1. Eagle Nest Foundation shall have a three year renewable
lease for such use of the portion of the Thomas property.
In the event that a new State Highway 82 alignment is
decided and would conflict with the biodome siting, the
lease may be terminated.
2. The biodome shall be operated and products marketed accord-
ing to an operation and marketing plan to be filed as part
of the contract.
3. A "porta-potty" or similar sanitary toilet facility shall be
placed just east of the biodome site (where is will not be
visible).
4. Winter access to the biodome site shall be limited to
pedestrian and skier access so as not to interfere with the
nordic trail which would be crossed.
5. A minimum of ten (10) trees shall be planted as shown on the
site plan by no later than October, 1986.
6. Eagle Nest Foundation shall be responsible for water,
electricity and maintenance of the parking area and access
road.
7. An arrangement for trash storage and removal shall be made
to the satisfaction of the City Engineering Department and
so stated in the contract.
8. Drainage water from the tank shall be disposed of in a way
satisfactory to the Engineering Department and Environmental
Health Department. The method of wastewater disposal shall
be clarified prior to the City Council meeting and stated in
the contract.
9. Proposed repairs to the access road leading to the Community
Garden shall be done to the satisfaction of the City
Engineer and represented in the contract.
10. The Eagle Nest Foundation shall place a sum of money in
escrow sufficient to cover removal of the structure and
foundation, clean-up and revegetation of the disturbed area
after the biodome is dismantled.
SB.55
•
MEMORANDUM
TO: Steve Burstein, Planning Department
FROM: Elyse Elliott, Engineering Department
DATE: 6/5/86
RE: Eagles Nest Foundation Biodome
The Engineering Department has the following comments on the
proposed project:
UTILITIES
Service lines for both the water and electricity need to be
brought to the Biodome sight. The Foundation should bear the
expense for this.
The application does not state whether or not there will be need
for sanitary or storm sewer services. Will bathroom facilities
be provided in the Biodome? The tank in the Biodome has a 28,000
gallon capacity. If this is to be emptied and refilled regularly,
the applicant must address the water drainage.
We need the applicant to provide us with more information on what
would be the potential trash generated from this project. We
would be specifically interested in where it would be stored and
how it would be removed.
There are presently about 24 parking spaces available for the
activity in this area (community gardens, hangliders and Biodome).
Fourteen spaces are located in the parking lot on the road to the
community gardens and about ten are located across Castle Creek
Road. This amount should be adequate providing that the Biodome
does not use more than the 7 spaces per day as noted in their
application.
The Foundation should be responsible for clearing the parking lot
in the winter.
ROADS
The application states that the Foundation will make repairs to
the road to the Community Gardens. We need more specific inform-
ation on the type of repairs that they intend to make. The
Foundation should be responsible for maintaining a winter access
0
Page Two
Eagles Nest Foundation Biodome
6/5/86
to the Biodome.
11SY01 Vfi -y11
We suggest that the Foundation put money in escrow to assure that
the site will be returned to its original condition after the
Biodome is disassembled.
EE/co/Biodome
WINDSTAR BIODOME PROJECT
SPECIFICATIONS FOR 3/8ths SPHERE. 50 FT. DIAMETER DOME
LAND AREA OCCUPIED: 1812 ft.sq.
TOTAL FLOOR AREA: 2387 ft.sq.
TOTAL GROWING AREA: 1624 ft.sq.
AQUACULTURE TANK VOLUME: 28.000 gal.
SURFACE AREA: 2600 ft.sq. t
GROWING LEVELS: ground level + two platforms
ESTIMATED DAILY ELECTRICAL LOAD: 5 to 10 KWH ($.30 to .60)
ESTIMATED DAILY WATER CONSUMPTION: 168 gal.
ESTIMATED OPERATIONAL LABOR: 5 people hrs. per day
GLAZING TYPE: double layer inflated plastic with Heat Mirror
ESTIMATED GLAZING REPLACEMENT INTERVAL: 10 yrs.
ESTIMATED HARVEST:'fruit + vegetables = 4000 lbs.. fish = 500 lbs.
ESTIMATED COST EXCLUDING ASSEMBLY LABOR: $30.000
TO: Aspen City Council
THRU: Hal Schilling, City Manage IP
I
FROM: Steve Burstein, Planning Office
DATE: April 23, 1986
SUBJECT: BIODOME PROPOSAL ON THE THOMAS PARCEL
The Planning Office received the attached material from Patty Carlson,
organizer of the Eagle Nest Foundation, on April 23, 1986. We have not
had sufficient time to review this information in order to make a reco-
mendation to you regarding the appropriateness of the biodome, and we
recommend that the item be tabled.
U
0
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
April, 15, 1986
As Aspen's juvenile officer, it is my opinion that the
proposed Bio Dome project would be beneficial for Aspen's youth,
especially juvenile offenders assigned to community service.
There are several benefits associated with this kind of labor,
including a sense of gratification from working with one's hands,
the opportunity to put something back into the community, and
having a few good role models around to work with, i.e., the
other community members already involved.
Other youth would be able to earn money working at the dome,
involvement in this kind of project can only add to the mental
"and emotional growth of the children of Aspen, as well as anyone
else involved.
Thank you for your time, and consideration of this project.
Respectfully submitted,
=�6� 0,��J,�
Brad Onsgard
it
The Biodome Project
AM23M
The Biodome will stand approximately 20 feet high. The
structure will be barely visible, if at all visible, entering
the City of Aspen on Highway 82 due to the tall cottonwood
trees. The Foundation will plant more trees along the water
irrigation ditch and the barbed wire fence so the structure will
be hidden from view leaving the City of Aspen on Highway 82.
(Pictures # I)
The Foundation desires to build the Biodome on the piece of
land adjacent to the nursery.
(Pictures # II, III, IV, V)
The current road to the Community Garden will need improve-
ment in two different locations. The Foundation will repair the
road.
(Pictures # VI, VII)
The existing parking for the community garden will be
sufficient for the volunteers and staff. All visitors will be
encouraged to use the public transportation system. Parking
for the foundation will require a permit. Seven permits will be
available each day.
(Pictures # VIII, IX)
Electricity for the community garden pump lies 150 feet
from the center of the Biodome sight.
(Pictures # XI)
I have been informed by Jim Markalunas that a yard pump
for water is located on the Marolt property close to the Biodome
sight. Jim suggested that a plastic pipe system attatched to
this pump would easily accomodate the water needs of the Biodome
throughout the winter and would avoid tap into the main line. I
will be receiving a letter to this effect on Thursday, April 24th
to be included with this packet.
The Foundation intends to build the Biodome as a portable
structure. To accomplish this we will need to place twenty
cylindrical foundations of concrete approximately four feet deep
to keep the structure in place. These foundations can be removed
with a backhoe.
Details of the dimensions of the Biodome structure have
been included in this packet. John Katzenburger assures me the
structure will meet all Building Codes.
The Foundation is studying the existing Cheyenne Community
Solar Greenhouse project and its effect upon their community.
Included is a copy of their 1984 Summary of Services.
0 0
The Foundation is building this project as an experiment
to provide an alternative social service program involving
seniors and children; to provide educational research and
development in solar energy, hydroponics, and agriculture;
to develop economic stability research for cities; to develop
national security in cas--of emergency (War, Earthquakes, Natural
Disasters). The Foundation defines National Security, in part,
as the ability to feed all people under all possible situations.
This experiment may determine the Biodome to be economically
logical for sustaining social services while providing an
alternative system of life support should that become necessary.
ti s bmitted-,-
Carlson
gle's Nest Foundation
•
April, 15, 1986
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
As Aspen's juvenile officer, it is my opinion that the
proposed Bio Dome project would be beneficial for Aspen's youth,
especially juvenile offenders assigned to community service.
There are several benefits associated with this kind of labor,
including a sense of gratification from working with one's hands,
the opportunity to put something back into the community, and
having a few good role models around to work with, i.e., the
other community members already involved.
Other youth would be able to earn money working at the dome,
involvement in this kind of project can only add to the mental
and emotional growth of the children of Aspen, as well as anyone
else involved.
Thank you for your time, and consideration of this project.
Respectfully submitted,
Brad Onsgard
,heyenne community
solar greenhouse
ti
C11Y ri;ICE
061 l
Ck!rr /
(Cn 5�/�L �+c, t 1 ire 1,-✓, ll hc? I { Cw/ �-o��Cl .'�i �:-�� 1 .., � - // 1
�v V,!'+n/ /2C��
Ljf 11Cori r,,,� f�
/
�2�-4"G[� /cl Jk, CN/SlO�.' C,/,i,RS11/ + C✓ hire ltL%
1
3714 whitney road Cheyenne wyoming 82001 307 835-9340
sponsored by community action of faramie county. Inc.
Steve Burstein
April 8, 1986
Dear Steve,
In answering your questions of concern in relationship to
the Biodome project on the Thomas property, I have the following
information;
The Biodome will stand approximately twenty feet high with
the cottonwoods standing behind the structure. Visual impact
would be diminished by placing trees between the community
garden and the biodome.
The current road to the community garden will need
improvement to bring equipment in to the building sight.
The parking for the community garden will be adequate for our
needs.
Electricity to the dome is estimated at $.50 per day which
could be determined by a separate meter attached to the existing
current used for the community garden.
I have no desire to use the land sight for concert production.
This project is coley concerned with agriculture, social studies,
education and providing a unique facility of advanced technology
to our community.
We intend to build the Biodome as a portable structure.
To accomplish this we will need to place twenty cylindrical
foundations of concreteapproximately four feet deep to keep
the structure in place. These foundations can be removed with
a backhoe.
I have been assured by John Katzenburger that the structure
will meet all codes of the building department for this type
of structure.
We desire to build the dome for a three year experiment.
Building will begin approximately June 15th and will be operational
in October. We will be designing many educational workshops for
members of the community to participate in the program.
The only problem we can forsee concerns the water needs
through the winter. According to John, the Biodome will need
168 gallons of water per day, maximum, to replenish the fish
tank. This will require the City's permission and I would ask
the City to help us in whatever way they are able so that we may
go ahead with the Biodome project. I will have th water line
reports to you by Friday, April 11th as as j t cently
told of this problem.
Cooperative Extension Service
Colorado State University, Pitkin County Extension Office
0100 Lone Pine Road, Suite 6 Aspen, Colorado 81611
(303)925-5185
MEMORANDUM
TOs Patty Carlson
Aspen City Council
FROMs Mary Sue Kennington
CSU/Pitkin County Cooperative Extension
DATES March 24, 11 6
to
REs Proposed Bio Dome Project
As a community educator, I see the Bio Dome project as a
potential tool for teaching youth and adults independent living
skills and competencies.
Several cooperative educational opportunities could exist
between the leaders of the Bio Dome project, CSU/Pitkin County
Cooperative Extension and the community. CSU/Pitkin County
Cooperative Extension is willing to cooperate with the Bio Dome
Project by developing and coordinating 4-H youth programs in the
areas of horticulture, food and nutrition, and self care
education.
4-H "learn by doing" horticulture projects would help youth
and adults acquire knowledge and skills related to horticultural
production, marketing and management. The projects would also
help youth better understand how horticulture has a role in the
agricultural economy of our nation.
If a children's Latch -Key program is developed as an
offshoot of the Bio Dome project, Cooperative Extension could
coordinate a training team to teach a series of self -education
courses for children in the fourth through eighth grades and
their parents.
Besides offering assistance with program development, the
Cooperative Extension Office offers the research and publication
resources of the land grant university and the U.S. Department of
Agriculture.
nm
duColorado State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture and Pitkin County Cooperating
�,,@MOWIE �
I
APR 2 31986
To: The Aspen City Council
From: Patty Carlson; The Eagle's Nest Foundation
Subject: Request for the use of the Marolt/Thomas property
in relation to the Biodome project for the time period of
June, 1986 through September, 1989
The objective of the Eagle's Nest Foundation is to
research and develop the most advanced methods of education
currently realized and to provide these methods of education
to benefit the greatest amount of people in our nation;
Further to develop advanced sociological systems which will
provide greater economic stability for the people of our nation
Further to promote ecological ethics for the future inheritors
of this country; Further to develop advanced methods of organic
food production throughout this country to assist the support
of all people in need; Further to unite the elders of our
society in a working relationship with the young; Further
to support all solar energy research.
The pilot project is a three year program which is to begin
in June of 1986. The project will use the structure known as
the Biodome as the central facility for coordination of all
programs.
A program director will be hired to a full time position
to coordinate all educational classes of said facility.
Requirements for this program director will be a backround in
horticulture and education. This person will set up assistant
coordinators for all volunteer networks.
Educational classes will be held throughout the summer
and early fall three to five hours per day for children six
years of age or older. These classes will be free for enrollment
• 0
ASPEN CITY COUNCIL
March 24, 1986 pg.2
if the parents of the children are working during those hours.
Part-time salaried positions will be offered to senior citizens
and parents with small children to assist the instructors and
the volunteers in the development of the land surrounding the
biodome for agricultural use. Sections of the land will be
designed to experiment with crops known to flourish at this
altitude.. This will include root crops which will be stored
throughout the winter in root cellars.
If we are able to begin construction of the biodome in
June of 1986, the biodome will be in full operation by October
of 1986. We will offer classes to community members and
high school students on the actual building of this structure.
The building of this structure will be supervised by John
Katzenberger of the Windstar Foundation.
Food which is grown in the biodome will be divided into
categories of community need, including supplemental contribution
to the social services senior food program, the hospital, and
the jail house. hAportion of the food grown will be sold directly
to the community to assist financ* support of the programs and
to provide fresh organic food to the community on a year round
schedule.
The structure of the biodome will be designed to facilitate
the handicapped, the seniors and the children. The biodome
structure will be designed with the Planning department
to insure compliance with all zoning codes and to diminish any
visual impact.
Current access to the community garden appears to be adequate
for all needs of the biodome project. Access to the biodome
throughout the winter will be maintained by the foundation.
ASPEN CITY COUNCIL
March 24 1986 pg.3
We request to place a rest room facility close to the
structure for the people's convenience. Greg Anderson from
the Prince of Peace Church has offered the chapel facility to
the children and volunteers should the weather change and they
need shelter.
All insurance needs will be met and presented to City Council
prior to the programs official date of activity with the public.
In September of 1986, programs will be coordinated with the
public school system. The Foundation will provide funding for
specialized educational classes after school. These classes
will be free for the children of working parents and will offer
a wide variety of subjects including the use of the biodome
within its curriculum. Alternate methods of advanced education
will be studied while providing supervision for children whose
parents are obliged to work until six p.m. Again, a part-time
salaried position will be offered to Seniors for assistance in
any class provided for these children.
Enclosed, please find specific details of the structure
of the biodome; also please find letters of recomendation from
Jim Burkes, Marty Ames, Mary Sue Kennington and several
volunteers.
We are requesting the cooperation of the City Council for
the use of this land sight due to the easy accessability for
the entire community.
Funding for this project will be provided by the Eagle's
Nest which will coordinate public and private donations towards
the educational research of this program. Should the City find
the programs to be of substantial benefit to the community, any
funding from state or Federal resources will be applied to the
degree the City Council feels they are able to support this
0 0
ASPEN CITY COUNCIL
March 24, 1986 pg.4
project.
The Eagle's Nest is currently legalizing all documents for
the non-profit status. The Board of Directors are Patty Carlson,
with Mr. and Mrs. James A. San Vito. The Board of Advisors
are Hal Schilling, John Katzenberger and Hunter Lovins.
Respel full submitted,
Patty rlson for
The agle's Nest Foundation
Is
J
15T12ICT James W. Burks, Superintendent
March 21, 1986
Ms Patty Carlson
P.O. Box 7741
Aspen, CO 81612
Dear Ms Carlson,
The school district encourages you to continue your effort to develop
a biodome project for the community of Aspen. We have reviewed your
plan with the Board of Education and at a meeting of teachers and
administrators. All feel it would be beneficial.
The school district would probably make use of a biodome project in
the following ways:
1) To footnote our curriculum to include activities using
the biodome to support scientific and sociological
concepts.
2) For scheduling occasional field trips to the facility, as
an outgrowth of the instructional program.
3) To develop specific lessons in classes such as home
economics where food production concepts can be reinforced
with biodome assistance.
The school district would probably develop a cooperative program,
once ti a biodome _s co;,struc;.cl and
Again, we wish you success in your effort.
Sincerely,
'W '
�rks
District Superintendent
JB:mw
Post Office Box 300 • Aspen, Colorado 81612 • 303/925-3460
U
u
MEMORANDUM
TO: Patty Carlson
FROM: Marty Ames Senior Coordinator
DATE: March 6,1986
SUBJECT: Support for Biodome Project
There are several points I'd like to mention in favor of your
Biodome project;
1. Emplopent for Seniors. As you have indicated, Seniors could
be paid Ito work in the Biodome either with the children or just
gardening. Some Seniors would probably prefer to work as valunteers,
but the availability of wages would serve a need for supplementary
income for many as well as challenging work for volunteers.In our
society, respect for work is indicated by compensation given.
2. Benefits to the Children. The educational possibilities for the
children in this project are many and obvious. I think that one
or two child care experts should be consulted to determine the
minimum age of children who would really benefit from this type
of experience, and,who have an adequate attention span for it.
In terms of prividing free day care alternatives, I think the pro-
ject had possibilities. However, again I feel that thought must
go into it since State regulations are strict.
Eight or nine hours, which is the normal working day for the parents,
is a long time for young children and might require the avail-
ability of facilities such as kitchen, restoom, napping room, clean
eating ares, etc. However, coordinating the Biodome programs with
a license care facility or some other method like a half -day pro-
gram or"day camp" might work. Educational camps do seem to be pop-
ular now.
In addition, ther are proven social and emotional benefits to
both parties when Seniors and children work together.
3. Additional Thoughts.
A. Both the Senoirs and the children could take home fresh -pro-
duce to supplement the family diet in a healthy way.
B. The cook at the Senior Nutrition program prefers to serve
fresh salad every day, however the cost is -prohibitive according to
our funding source. Donations of fresh vegetables from the gardens
would enhance the quality of the meals, while helping us keep costs
down to insure continuation of the program.
C. The 4-H Program is alreadyin existence in Aspen through the
Extension Service under Mary Sue Kennington. Perhaps 4-H projects
could be done in the Biodome on a year-round basis. Also, they
have specialists whose input might bebefit the entire project I
have not talked with her myself about this, but it seems like a poss-
ibility.
D. Once e::ta.blished, the Biodome project might serve additional
community needs,.
is
To: The Aspen City Council
Re: Patty Carlson, The Biodome Project
From: The Aspen Digger
It has come to my attention that Patty Carlson is
attempting to build a Biodome for our community on the
Thomas property. As a contribution to this project, we
will. donate the backhoe labor needed for the construction of the
dome. We will also contribute the removal of the foundation
tubes should the City decide to relocate the project.
The biodome project could be a great asset to the people
of our community. We are encouraging you to allow this facility
on the Thomas property by our active participation in this
project.
$? ncerely,
The Aspen Digger
Jinx Stone
C1
40
To: The Aspen City Council
From: Patty Carlson, Biodome Project
The following Establishments encourage the Biodome
project by purchasing a. percentage of the food grown in
the dome for their /service to the public.
r
U µ�
Go�i�o N s
E
0
U
C ry
av
� v co
o
0,
4 E
Ln U M
0
a W r_)
C a a
j o
—o
ti
M
v
U
P-
�T
01
79366\��F \
Ng N q P N
MATCH TO SHEET — O NANO Y� cy,"�doom ro
N A981 EDGE MATCH T0�
791519.
. 1925.5 \
1\
79 6.\
7g30
I
I' 7927:
II
' a7925. I I
a 79202
N
7925A ■ _ E�FG�-Q�C 1
iC �N� Sc.4P/N y Sc�¢E2'N/
tP-N
Gum✓ERT
1
9.5
Soo RSEa �� -,
y �°P! Giry NURS /�'
7948
.79442 i•
79 \ �i
R g
AR INC,
.7900.5
. .0 .7941A �
7940
1
t9athwir ;;; ;�Ap
Rnol
1 f
f' offte q�Or
FIRST FLOOR
—
IOW '-G&M F"t
n
Ra nde Fbuppi rt
ARCHITECT
late C.r.• 4.00" / Cbte"w. wHs"M @tN,
•
SECOND FLOOR
guLt : '/w • 1'
no soLtt FsT
BASEMENT Rande Fbuppirt
1° �'� MT ARCHITECT
Z tA!• Cwe7 A•*s" / C►ayaasa. Wyea"A 820*1
(N1) 1fA-AIAA
•
NORTH ELEVATION
0
BAST ELEVATION
* ttz,^" n wLq4
e e
Pop
rServ\'// L� Lease \Its _
t
MAROLT/THOMAS
OPEN SPACE PARCEL
—Legend—
Paved Roadways
.— == Dirt Driveways
—---- Fences
Lease Boundaries
• -' Marolt Property Boundaries
1� Castle Creek
Tree Nursery Boundary
CA
I=
Main
200 100 0 200 400 600 feet
Scale 1:2400
r�
U
0
•
E
r�\�G � 6�VVN-
o
N N
H O EDGE MATCH TO SHEET J-10 0A90'150
�T913.43 Q P PT N T,916.6 a.
.7 9.6 /
T909.T a I 79143
aT911J a T91 '
a 911.5 197.0
791 .5.
//pp��--r� 7aft. I
„��,to
NONNI,, lkll
------------
/--1 *',N,+G��� 11 1 / / 1 I \ / Il H r 7 \ �� h 1-�\\ \\\\\\\\ /U3�1`�����1N1��\ \ \ \ )
496
/I„ 97'+O`
avll0
•
•
Eagle's Nest Foundation
Biodome Site Plan
.t
496Y-
SCALE : I"= 1001
496.E
100 50 0 100 200
CONTOUR INTERVAL 2 FEET
COMPOSITE FROM 111=50'
TOPO
H 495j5�
Cifp of Aspen
ASPEN, COLORADO
SHEET H-IIOO
856-23
Iv
FDX ~0700
"Ibe 35mm Specialist'
r'.1
�
• r(♦ .i�
t�1, ��,��
! t
•��.....
-
'— ,' _+jr-
�.. -
'a
1
��».
M ��
i c\" �'( f 1,��`� : �
t •"" mot!
' '.,
y
`,
l� ',
,�
� �•
*��
� �
._
p `�' �
•+ R
IT
All
-
a �✓ ����'. - \`_- ' .fie:: �:�
We'.4 -t owkzac sell �,�� $z..
Y
w ok:
? L- r�r N-,� L-S�,
s
4-f jTt�-F-$ PLAO-11,3>
r
�$Y
r �
r\ •
9
'000
0 -P, � -Im
lit
tir t*.st'
k
yr
M
I ♦ ` ///
P3I) 0
C1
Gam, L critic--
1' l
t
„`... .-.mot
\\i
uu C Pt L e_
`� , � l��N ♦}-. yam`-# + � � , •' • #�i
R
�� C:-Cu.R � ��
� vt
r--rAm
T
w
I �
•
PRO
CCT
Windstar's Biodome is a solar heated dome structure that provides an
environment for high yield food production integrating horticulture and
aquaculture. When the Biodome is combined with traditional agricultural
methods it provides a year round local supply of fresh food. Project
research is exploring a family of designs to adapt the Biodome to different
climates. At Windstar, prototype Biodome designs are producing fish
and vegetables in a cold mountain climate. Backyard gardeners, small family
farmers, community groups, and specialty commercial growers can adapt
the Biodome design to meet their food growing needs.
Project Director: John Katzenberger
Project Coordinator: Hensley Spain
Editors: Barbara Reid, Hensley Spain
Brochure Design: Collen/Rose Design Associates
Photography: Doug Rinehart
I know that technologically
Humanity now has the oppor
unity for the first time in all.
o operate our planet b
a manner as to support
d accommodate all humani
a substantially more ad
iced s
Sw
d of living tI?4
umans have ever expert
iced and sustain that stanuat
living
vs of
KMINSTER FULLER
the fordwar',
This independent power option widens the range
of potential locations for a Biodome.
The semi -closed environment and the small land
area used by the Biodome allow it to be placed in
different climates and in a variety of rural and
urban settings. It has great potential to increase
food production in marginal growing areas. The
Biodome can function by itself or be integrated
with outdoor agriculture.
14 Jan Francoeur
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE
Today there are a number of problems facing
agriculture. Among these are the erosion of our
topsoil, extensive use of pesticides, the declining
rural economy, the dependence on fossil fuel,
the depletion of our aquifers, and the disappear-
ance of the small family farmer. The Biodome is
part of the work in sustainable agriculture that
addresses these fundamental problems. The
Biodome concept demonstrates a practical
method of producing fresh food locally that
conserves water, land and energy.
HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE
Windstar welcomes your comments and ideas
on the Biodome Project. You are invited to
attend workshops and lectures to learn more
about the Project. Each summer, internships and
apprenticeships are offered at Windstar on the
Biodome Project.
Windstar's projects are supported by tax
deductible contributions. Your financial gift is
one important way to participate in the Biodome
Project.
Harvest from the Biodome
can be planned on a year
round basis enhancing the
productivity of outdoor food
production. The extremes of
weather are moderated by
the Biodome, creating more
resiliency in a food system.
u'indstar is a non-profit education, research
and demonstration center co-founded by John
Denver and Thomas Crum. It is located on 985
acres high in the Rocky Mountains. Windstar's
purpose is to find workable approaches for a
sustainable future. A major focus of Windstar is
to create viable alternatives in energy and food
production and to demonstrate the interrelation-
ships within these systems.
Windstar would like to express its gratitude to
all the people who have contributed their ideas,
time, energy and funds toward the success of the
Project. We would also like to thank the
following sponsors that have made the early
stages of the Biodome Project possible.
David Dulaney, MD Southwall Corporation
The William H. and iM Corporation
Mattie Wattis Harris Ted Goudvis
Foundation Energy Savers Imports
The Vidor Foundation Anne Cooke
For more information write to
The Biodome Project
Windstar Foundation
Box 286
Snowmass, Colorado 81654
THE BIODOME STRUCTURE
The Biodome design utilizes the concept of
the "basket weave" (deresonated tensegrity)
dome developed by Buckminster Fuller. This
type of dome requires less structural material
than a conventional geodesic dome. Windstar
developed the innovative connecting hardware
which makes it possible to use standard pipe as
the main structural component. An inflated
plastic double layer skin is attached to the
structure creating a durable and effective
greenhouse glazing. Dome structures enclose
the most volume with the least amount of surface
area. By filling the volume of space with planting
systems rather than just utilizing the ground floor
area, a very high density of food production can
be achieved.
The double layer inflated "pillows" are made
of new, long lasting plastic materials. The outer
skin of the pillow is made of a polyester film
coated for high light transmission. The inside
layer of the pillow is made of a polyester film
with a metallic coating (AgriFilm SS, Southwall
Corporation). The inflated pillows allow the
sun's energy in while reflecting heat back into
the dome. These plastic materials optimize
performance factors such as insulating value,
light transmission and durability. The pillows
have an expected lifetime of 12 years.
The skin of the Biodome can be altered to
operate in a wide range of climates. The structure
itself will withstand high winds and extreme
snowloads. The Biodome can be assembled with
hand tools. Each of its structural members weigh
less than 20 lbs. and can be positioned by hand.
The Biodome has great potential as an efficient,
cost effective greenhouse kit structure.
Solar radiation passes
through an inflated pillow
system providing light for
photosynthesis and passively
heating fish ponds. The
inflated pillow system has a
heat mirroring surface which
reduces heat loss at night.
THE SOLAR GREENHOUSE
Traditional greenhouses require fuel based
energy inputs for heating and cooling. The
Biodome looks to the sun to provide passive solar
heating and cooling. By integrating aquaculture
into the greenhouse system energy is stored in a
unique passive solar design.
Growing beds on different levels within the
dome are combined with the fish ponds to put
more area in food production than the land area
occupied by the dome. Pond water serves as
thermal mass as well as a growing medium for fish
and aquatic plants. The pond is also a source of
nutrient rich water which is used to irrigate the
Biodome's hydroponic system. Plant wastes are
composted and recycled in the dome. Integrated
pest management is used to control insects.
Different microclimates within the Biodome
provide environments for a diversity of species.
For regions without electricity, power can be
provided with a photovoltaic panel system which
converts the sun's energy to electricity and then
stores it in batteries. Although the electrical uses
are small they are important to support a high
density of food production. The electrical functions
of the dome includes fans for ventilation and
pumps for water circulation and pond aeration.
LJ
0
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
SNOWMASS
COLO.
PERMIT NO. 1