21-03-2025
Solar-powered security cameras installed at Denver's Cheesman Park after tree fires
DENVER (KDVR) — As spring begins, Denver's parks will soon see bigger can be a concern especially after tree fires were reported at Cheesman Park this year.
Denver has the largest parks system in the United States, with more than 200 urban outdoor recreation areas. Fire danger remains high due to dry conditions and warm weather.
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The fire at the beginning of 2025 burned two decades-old trees near the Botanic Gardens and the park's pavilion, which is used by many for classes, outdoor fitness training and family gatherings.
'I grew up coming to Cheesman Park; I'm going to get married in the pavilion,' visitor Sean Kenney told FOX31.
One of the burned trees, a Rocky Mountain Juniper, had to be removed by forestry crews.
'That's ridiculous; we need cameras for sure,' said one park visitor.
The Denver Parks and Recreation Department has added extra security, which includes solar-powered cameras mounted near the pavilion.
'I'm a 1,000% for the cameras,' said one park visitor.
Not everyone is comfortable with more cameras in parks.
'To be honest, the cameras make me a little nervous. I would rather rely on fellow people in the park to call if they see an issue, smoke rather than feeling like cameras are watching,' said Kenney.
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Kenney emphasized that he supports any effort to protect parks and maintain a healthy outdoor space everyone can enjoy.
'This place means a lot to me and it's about how can we as a community take care of our public spaces,' said Kenney.
The Parks and Recreation Department told FOX31 that open fires, cooking fires, and fireworks are strictly prohibited except in designated areas.
Denver Fire told FOX31 that the investigation into the tree fires is labeled as inactive. Suspicious activity should be reported to the police. Smoke or other signs of fire should be reported to the Denver Fire Department.
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