Hikers & Bikers On Green Mountain Told To Keep An Eye Out For Munitions
LAKEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4) - Colorado Army National Guard crews are working to carefully clean up munitions in Lakewood's William Frederick Hayden Park in the foothills of Green Mountain.
The potentially dangerous items are left over from the 1940s when the area was used for artillery training. Hikers and bikers are being warned to recognize, retreat from, and report any dangerous items.
National Guard crews are combing through 640 acres on the north side of the 2,400-acre park likely through November.
Recently the city of Lakewood warned residents of the activity.
"We have been keeping them updated throughout this process," Stacie Oulton from the City of Lakewood said.
It all started back in 2009 when a grass fire revealed some buried explosives. In 2012, 10 more objects were found and some were detonated.
City officials say as the work continues, homeowners should be alert for more explosions.
"When they come across items that are of concern and they can't be moved, they may be detonating those items," Oulton said. "If it's close to a trail they could say, 'Yes, we are closing this section of the trail for next hour, two hours, or however long it takes them."
Mark Taylor is a weekend morning anchor and reporter with CBS4 news covering a wide variety of stories. Follow him on Twitter @MarkTaylor_TV.