Boulder County, Colo. – Boulder County Parks and Open Space is soliciting design submittals for original sculptures to be placed at the entry to Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat.

The artwork shall include sculptures and a sign indicating “Walden Ponds Wildlife Habitat” to be installed on stone pedestals. See the sketch and photo for details on the entry monument concept. Artists are to submit up to three drawings of their proposed artwork including material specifications. Only original work will be considered.

Inspiration for the artwork should be drawn from the plants and animals on the site. Some species particular to the site include: Willow, Cattails, Cottonwood, Belted Kingfisher, Redwing Blackbird, Western Meadowlark and Blue Heron.

The project budget is limited to $3,500, including design, fabrication, transportation and delivery. Boulder County will handle installation with direction from the artist if necessary. Proposals are due by Friday, July 15 and shall be submitted to Emily Greenwood at egreenwood@bouldercounty.org. Contact Greenwood at 303-678-6369 or via email for more information.

The Walden Ponds site functioned as a gravel mine from 1958 until 1974, when Boulder County began converting the pits into a series of ponds. The shores were planted with native plants and the ponds were allowed to fill with groundwater and stocked with fish. The site has since become an excellent wildlife habitat and one of the best riparian bird watching areas in Boulder County.