Inglewood Bird Sanctuary reopens after 2013 flood damage

The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary finally reopenedto the public Thursdayafter being closed for the past two years because of extensive flood damage from 2013.

A majority of the trails are open ahead of schedule after flooding destroyed sanctuary lands and infrastructure, caused severe erosion and disturbed natural habitat for plants and animals.

The 80-year-old sanctuary is designated asfederally recognized bird sanctuary in an urban setting.

"We're excited to announce that thanks to tireless efforts by employees, contractors and volunteers, a large portion of thesanctuarywill be reopened to the public effective today and ahead of schedule," said Doug Marter, planning and development manager, for city parks in a release.

There were a number of challenges during the cleanup, said Marter. Those included federal requirements thatbirdscould not be nesting or migrating while work was being done, fish habitat wouldn't be disturbed during certain times of the year and ensuring equipment did not disturb plants on both wet and dry ground.

Expansion plans continue at the sanctuary, with the long-term, ongoing project that will encompass green spaces along the Bow River, which will be called Bend in the Bow.