Interactive Headwaters Map, Click Here

Includes information on: Water Consumption, Recreation and Environmental Conditions, Projects

 

Organizations

Blue River Watershed Group
(http://www.blueriverwatershed.org/)

"We work to restore water quality and enhance riparian habitat throughout the Blue River Watershed, which covers Summit County and portions of Grand County."

Friends of the Lower Blue River
(http://folbr.org/)

"To sustain and protect the traditional agricultural character, promote the safety of the residents, livestock and wildlife, and maintain the environmental integrity of the Lower Blue River Valley through collaboration and community involvement."

Snake River Task Force
(http://snakerivertaskforce.org/)

"To improve water quality in the Snake River watershed. The Task Force will focus in particular on identifying, evaluating, and implementing opportunities to reduce heavy metal concentrations of concern."

Summit Water Quality Committee
http://www.co.summit.co.us/547/Water-Quality-Regulations

The SWQC is the water quality arm of Northwestern Colorado Council of County Governments (NWCCOG), and works in cooperation with Summit County to ensure that water quality standards are met on construction projects in the county, and to ensure that water quality standards are met in the Dillon and Green Mountain reservoirs, as well as in our natural lakes and streams.

Projects

Upper Swan River Restoration Concept Plan
(cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/0/doc/192340/Electronic.aspx?searchid=1f58398c-529b-425a-a132-fc45cf1ea804)

​By: Ecological Resource Consultants for Blue River Watershed Group April 24, 2012.   

Lower Swan River and Wetlands Restoration Project Final Report
(cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/0/doc/192683/Electronic.aspx?searchid=1f58398c-529b-425a-a132-fc45cf1ea804)

By: Ecological Resource Consultants for Blue River Watershed Group, January 31, 2013. 

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Studies 

Listed according to study type: multi-topic, flow recommendation, aquatic biology, riparian biology, water quality, or geomorphology.

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Multi-Topic

Estimated Probabilities and Volumes of Postwildfire Debris Flows, a Prewildfire Evaluation for the Upper Blue River Watershed, Summit County, Colorado
(http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2011/5039/pdf/SIR11-5039.pdf)

By: U.S. Geological Survey, 2011
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: A pre-wildfire study to determine the potential for post-wildfire debris flows in the upper Blue River watershed in Summit County, Colorado, was conducted in 2009 by the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Town of Breckenridge, to provide Breckenridge with a relative measure of which subwatersheds might constitute the most serious debris flow hazards. 

Blue River Water Quality Management Plan
(http://nwccog.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Blue-River-Watershed-2012-208-Plan.pdf)

By: Northwest Colorado Council of Government's Watershed Services Program
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: A management plan for the Blue River Watershed Region, including water quality assessment, issues, and solutions, as well as improvement projects.

Blue River Phase 1 Watershed Assessment
(http://www.jw-associates.org/BBI/Resources/BR_BBI_Report_Final.pdf)

By:  J.W. Associates and JG Management Systems for USDA Forest Service, May 2010
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: This Phase 1 Watershed Assessment is designed to be the first phase of a process to identify and prioritize sixth-level watersheds based upon their hazards of generating flooding, debris flows and increased sediment yields following wildfires that could have impacts on water supplies

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Aquatic Biology

Fish Survey and Management Information (Blue River below Dillon Reservoir)
(http://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Fishery%20Survey%20Summaries/BlueRiverinSilverthorne.pdf )

By: Colorado Parks and Wildlife; Jon Ewert - Aquatic Biologist (Hot Sulphur Springs), 2013
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes: 2010, 2011, and 2012 saw different flow scenarios for this section of the Blue River (2010 traditional spill from Dillon Reservoir, 2011 bottom gate release to manage peak flow and prevent downstream flooding, and drought conditions in 2012).

Evaluation and Interpretation of Multi-Metric Index (MMI) Information on Invertebrate Communities of the Blue River below the Dillon Reservoir Dam, Summit County, Colorado 2012
http://libguides.coloradomesa.edu/ld.php?content_id=24198948

By:  William M. Lewis, Jr and James H. McCutchan, Jr. for Summit Water Quality Committee, July 5, 2013
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes: Posted with permission of the Summit Water Quality Committee. MMI method is an approved method for the determination of the degree to which a site in Colorado supports the aquatic life protection expectations inherent in Colorado and Federal Clean Water Act legislation.

Fish Survey and Management Data (West Tenmile Creek)
(http://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Fishery%20Survey%20Summaries/WestTenmileCreek.pdf)

By: Colorado Division of Wildlife (now CPW); Jon Ewert - Aquatic Biologist (Hot Sulphur Springs), 2011
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes:The creek runs through the base area of Copper Mountain Resort

Effects of Heavy Metals on Benthic Macroinvertebrate Communities in Two High Elevation Streams
(http://snakerivertaskforce.org/Snake_River_Watershed_Task_Force/Bibliography_files/Hurlburt.pdf)​

By: S.C. Hurlbut, School of Mines, June 1990
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes: High metal concentrations are a serious threat to aquatic biota in many areas of Colorado, particularly in the mineral belt where many inactive mines contribute metal-laden drainage.

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Water Quality

Blue River Water-Quality Data 
http://rmgsc.cr.usgs.gov/asp-bin/cwqdr/Blue/index.shtml

By: U.S. Geological Survey
Type: Data Repository
Notes: The Data Repository is constructed to allow users to retrieve water-quality data for the BLW through a web browser. Included are interactive maps for browsing and selecting site locations, and menus for choosing sites, samples, agencies, and water-quality parameters to be used in the data retrieval.

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: Water Quality Control Commission, Colorado's Section 303(D) List of Impaired Waters and Monitoring and Evaluation List  
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/93_2016%2803%29.pdf

          By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 2016
          Type: Water Quality
          Notes: pg 57-59

Analysis of Water Quality in the Blue River Watershed, Colorado, 1984 through 2007,Scientific Investigations Report
http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2013/5129/pdf/sir2013-5129.pdf

By: U.S. Geological Survey 2013
Type: Water Quality
Notes:  The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Summit Water Quality Committee, conducted a study to compile historical water-quality data and assess water-quality conditions in the watershed.

Moffat Collection System Project Request for Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification (Final Report)
(https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/DenverWaterMoffat%20401_06-30-2015_Final.pdf)

By: Denver Water, CDM Smith for Colorado Water Quality Control Division, June 2015
Type: Water Quality
​Notes: The Proposed Action has the potential to impact surface waters in seven major watersheds in the region as a result of changes to the timing and/or volume of water diverted into or out of each watershed. In general, the four impacted watersheds on the west side of the Continental Divide (Fraser River, Williams Fork, Blue River, and Upper Colorado River watersheds) will see an overall increase in water being diverted out of the basin, with flows in the Fraser River and Williams Fork watersheds being the most impacted by the project. 

Total Maximum Daily Load Assessment (Illinois Gulch)
(https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4_2BkAMBRe8azZyS08xalNLUVE/edit)

By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division, July 2011
Type: Water Quality
Notes: Blue River Segment 12, Illinois Gulch, was added to the state's 303(d) list of impaired waterways in 2010 for excessive dissolved cadmium which impairs Aquatic Life Cold 2 classification.The excess concentration of cadmium is mainly due to mining in the watershed since the 1880's; acid mine drainage enters Illinois Gulch from Iron Springs Gulch.

Total Maximum Daily Load Assessment (Illinois Gulch)
(https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/TMDL_UpperColo_COUCBL12_IllinoisGulch_Zn_TMDL_Final_%2009_wCL.pdf)

By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division, December 2009
Type: Water Quality
Notes: Blue River Segment 12, Illinois Gulch, remains on the state's 2008 303(d) list of impaired waterways for excessive dissolved zinc The excess concentration of zinc is mainly due to mining in the watershed since the 1880's; acid mine drainage enters Illinois Gulch from Iron Springs Gulch.

Total Maximum Daily Load Assessment (Snake River and Peru Creek)
(https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4_2BkAMBRe8WDFqa3JBU3picG8/edit)

By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division, August 2008
Type: Water Quality
Notes: This report lists two segments within the Snake River watershed that appear on the 2006 303(d) list of impaired waterways for excessive heavy metals and pH that do not support Aquatic Life Cold 1 classification. The concentration of metals is a combination of the natural geography and anthropogenic causes mainly mining begriming in the 1880's. The hydrology of the Snake River and it's tributaries is that of a typical high mountain stream with low flows in late fall and early spring and an increased flow in May and June associated with snowmelt.

Water and Sediment Study of the Snake River Watershed, Colorado Open-File Report 02-0330 
(http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2002/ofr-02-0330/OFR-02-0330.pdf)

By: U.S. Geological Survey, 2001
Type: Water Quality
Notes: Water and stream-bed sediment samples were collected from the Snake River watershed to assess the effect of past mining activities on the aquatic environment and on water quality in Dillon Reservoir and to assist the U.S. Forest Service in their assessment of Federal lands in the watershed.

Identification of Water-Quality Trends Using Sediment Cores from Dillon Reservoir, Summit County, Colorado
(https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/wri20014022)

​By: Adrienne I. Greve, Norman E. Spahr, Peter C. Van Metre, and Jennifer T. Wilson, USGS, 2001
Type: Water Quality
Notes:  In an effort to assess changes in water quality within the drainage area, sediment cores were collected from Dillon Reservoir in 1997. The sediment cores were analyzed for pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and trace elements. Pesticides, PCBs, and PAHs were used to determine the effects of urban development, and trace elements were used to identify mining contributions.

Sorption of trace metals to an aluminum precipitate in a stream receiving acid rock-drainage; Snake River, Summit County, Colorado
(http://ac.els-cdn.com/S0883292701000981/1-s2.0-S0883292701000981-main.pdf?_tid=2752d186-3ef3-11e6-a274-00000aacb360&acdnat=1467312653_6248a1e93c2a0177d22b87d2b48333db)

By: LeeAnn Munka, Gunter Faurea, Douglas E. Pridea, Jerry M. Bighamb, 2001
Type: Water Quality
Notes: The purpose of this study was to investigate the geochemical processes that occur in one such stream and to determine the fate of the trace metals that are removed from the water. The stream chosen for this purpose was the Snake River, Summit County, Colorado, which is affected by natural acid rockdrainage (ARD) containing SO4, Al, Fe, and various trace elements such as Zn, Cu, Pb, Ni, and others.

Total Maximum Daily Load Assessment (Straight Creek)
(https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4_2BkAMBRe8cllEV3hjUVBnbEU/edit)

By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division, June 2000
Type: Water Quality
Notes: The mainstem of Straight Creek is listed on the 1998 303(d) liist of impaired waterways for impairment by sediment. The sediment has occurred from the wash-off of traction sand and erosion of the cut and fill slopes on the I-70 approach to the Eisenhower Tunnel. 

The Precipitation of Aluminum, Iron, and Manganese at the Junction of Deer Creek with the Snake River in Summit County, Colorado
(http://ac.els-cdn.com/001670376390053X/1-s2.0-001670376390053X-main.pdf?_tid=8358d8ba-3ef1-11e6-b84e-00000aab0f01&acdnat=1467311949_a8a4c0fdca3a956557caa9be1e2cb827)

​By: P. K. Theobald Jr., H. W. Lakin, D.B. Hawkins, USGS, 1962
Type: Water Quality
Notes: The oxidation of disseminated pyrite in relatively acid schists and gneisses of the Snake River drainage basin provides abundant iron sulfate and sulfuric acid to ground and surface water. This acid water dissolves large quantities of many elements, particularly aluminum and surprisingly large quantities of elements, such as magnesium and zinc, not expected to be abundant in the drainage basin. 

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Geomorphology

Geochemical Maps of Stream Sediments in Central Colorado, from New Mexico to Wyoming (Open File Report)
(http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2015/1025/pdf/ofr2015-1025.pdf)​

By: U.S. Geological Survey, 2015
Type: Geomorphology
Notes: The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently completed a series of geologic, mineral resource, and environmental assessment studies in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado, from Leadville eastward to the range front and from New Mexico to the Wyoming border. Regional stream-sediment geochemical maps, useful for assessing mineral resources and environmental effects of historical mining activities, were produced as part of the study. 

 

 

Interactive Headwaters Map, Click Here

Includes information on: Water Consumption, Recreation and Environmental Conditions, Projects

 

Organizations

Eagle River Watershed Council
http://www.erwc.org/

Eagle River Watershed Council advocates for the health and conservation of the Upper Colorado and Eagle River basins through research, education, and projects. The Watershed Council strives to protect and enhance the high-quality natural, scenic and economic values that our rivers and tributaries provide to the citizens, visitors and wildlife of the Eagle River and Colorado River watersheds located in Eagle County.

Upper Colorado River Wild and Scenic Stakeholder Group
http://www.upcowildandscenic.com/

The Upper Colorado River Wild and Scenic Stakeholder Group was formed as an independent, collaborative group in 2007. Our intention is to balance permanent protection of the Outstandingly Remarkable Values, certainty for the stakeholders, water project yield, and flexibility for water users along the Upper Colorado River.

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Projects

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Studies 
Listed according to study type: multi-topic, flow recommendation, aquatic biology, riparian biology, water quality, or geomorphology.

 

Interactive Headwaters Map, Click Here

Includes information on: Water Consumption, Recreation and Environmental Conditions, Projects

 

Organizations

Eagle River Watershed Council
http://www.erwc.org/

Eagle River Watershed Council advocates for the health and conservation of the Upper Colorado and Eagle River basins through research, education, and projects. The Watershed Council strives to protect and enhance the high-quality natural, scenic and economic values that our rivers and tributaries provide to the citizens, visitors and wildlife of the Eagle River and Colorado River watersheds located in Eagle County.

Eagle River Water and Sanitation District
http://www.erwsd.org/​

The Eagle River Water & Sanitation District is a local government that provides efficient, reliable water and wastewater service to its customers from east Vail to Wolcott. 

 

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Projects

Camp Hale/ Eagle River Headwaters Restoration Project
http://www.erwc.org/projects/current-projects/edwards-eagle-river-restoration-project/

Final Report and Final Master Plan, National Forest Foundation, September 2014. 

Eagle River Water-Quality Data
http://rmgsc.cr.usgs.gov/asp-bin/cwqdr/Eagle/index.shtml​

By: U.S. Geological Survey, 2013
Type: Data Repository
Notes: The Data Repository is constructed to allow users to retrieve water-quality data for the BLW through a web browser. Included are interactive maps for browsing and selecting site locations, and menus for choosing sites, samples, agencies, and water-quality parameters to be used in the data retrieval.

Stephens Park Stream Bank Restoration Project (Gore Creek), Vail, CO

Healthy Rivers Fund Grant Final Report, Town of Vail, April 1, 2012. 

Edwards Eagle River Restoration Project in Eagle County, CO
http://www.erwc.org/projects/current-projects/edwards-eagle-river-restoration-project/

2011 Monitoring Report for the Phase 2A and 2B Edwards Eagle River Restoration Project in Eagle County, Colorado, prepared for the US Army Corps of Engineers by the Eagle River Watershed Council and Walsh Engineering, December 2011. 

2010 Monitoring Report for the Phase 1 Edwards Eagle River Restoration Project in Eagle County, Colorado, prepared for the US Army Corps of Engineers by the Eagle River Watershed Council and Walsh Engineering, December 2010. 

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Studies 
Listed according to study type:  multi-topic, flow recommendation/study, aquatic biology, riparian biology, water quality, or geomorphology.

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Interactive Headwaters Map, Click Here

Includes information on: Water Consumption, Recreation and Environmental Conditions, Projects

 

Organizations

Roaring Fork Conservancy
http://www.roaringfork.org/

"As one of the largest watershed organizations in Colorado, Roaring Fork Conservancy serves residents and visitors throughout the Roaring Fork Valley through school and community-based Watershed Education programs and Watershed Action Projects including regional watershed planning, water resource policy initiatives, stream management and restoration."

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Projects

Coal Basin and Crystal River Confluence Area Restoration Project

PowerPoint & Grant Annual Report
By: Roaring Fork Conservancy for the Colorado Water Conservation Board, 2014

Roaring Fork Watershed Water-Quality Data
http://rmgsc.cr.usgs.gov/asp-bin/cwqdr/RoaringFork/index.shtml

By: U.S. Geological Survey 
Type: Data Repository
Notes: The Data Repository is constructed to allow users to retrieve water-quality data for the BLW through a web browser. Included are interactive maps for browsing and selecting site locations, and menus for choosing sites, samples, agencies, and water-quality parameters to be used in the data retrieval.

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Studies 
Listed according to study type: multi-topic, flow recommendation, aquatic biology, riparian biology, water quality, or geomorphology.

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Multi-Topic

Crystal River Management Plan Final Report
(www.roaringfork.org/publications/2016-crystal-river-management-plan/)

By: Lotic Hydrological for Roaring Fork Conservancy, April 2016.
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: The Crystal River Management Plan (CRMP) expresses the results of a collaborative community process that endeavors to alleviate constraints on important ecosystem functions on the Crystal River without injuring local agricultural producers.

Crystal River Management Plan Appendices
Appendix A: An EcoDSS for Balancing Consumptive and Non-Consumptive Water Uses
(www.roaringfork.org/publications/crmp-appendix-a/​)

By: Lotic Hydrological for Roaring Fork Conservancy, March 2016

Appendix B: Erosion, Sediment Sources, and Channel Analysis in the Crystal River
(http://www.roaringfork.org/publications/crmp-appendix-b/) 

By: Watershed by Lee Benda and Sandra (Sam) Litschert, Earth Systems Institute, October 2013.

Appendix C: Crystal River Water Quality Summary
(http://www.roaringfork.org/publications/crmp-appendix-c/)

By: Lotic Hydrological, March 2016 for Roaring Fork Conservancy

Appendix D: FAC Stream Results for the Crystal River
(http://www.roaringfork.org/publications/crmp-appendix-d/)

By: Mark Beardsley and Brad Johnson, December 15, 2014.

Appendix E: Crystal River Hydraulic Modeling Report
(http://www.roaringfork.org/publications/crmp-appendix-e/)

By: RiverRestoration.org for Lotic Hydrological, March 2016

Technical Report Water Rights Allocation and Accounting Model Development for the Lower Crystal River
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/ElectronicFile.aspx?docid=192116&searchid=5db253be-21d0-49ea-81e5-52de220b5233&dbid=0)

By: Lotic Hydrological, Prepared for: the Roaring Fork Conservancy  April 15, 2014.
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: Roaring Fork Conservancy (RFC) requires results from the hydrological simulations compiled in this technical report to determine the impact of various water conservation management scenarios on spatial and temporal patterns of in-channel flows in the lower Crystal River.

Roaring Fork Watershed Plan
http://www.roaringfork.org/documents/roaring-fork-watershed-plan/

By: Ruedi Water and Power Authority and Roaring Fork Conservancy, March 2012
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: The Plan consists of a comprehensive survey of watershed conditions and includes over 200 recommended actions, many of which could be applicable to the entire Colorado Watershed.

A Scientific/Social Framework for Managing Impacts of Water Diversions to Protect Stream Health in Pitkin County, Colorado
 http://www.pitkincounty.com/DocumentCenter/View/1347

By: Espegren, Greg and Rozaklis, Lee, May 2012
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: This report was prepared in response to the Pitkin County Healthy Rivers and Streams (HRS) Board‟s interest in developing a framework that can be used to analyze, evaluate and manage the potential impacts of water diversions to protect the aquatic health of streams in Pitkin County. 

Preliminary Review of City of Aspen’s Proposed Castle Creek Hydroelectric Project
http://www.pitkincounty.com/DocumentCenter/View/1341 

By: AMEC Earth & Environmental, January 2011
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: At the request of Pitkin County, AMEC reviewed the Castle Creek Hydropower Project (the Project) as proposed by the City of Aspen (Aspen) to determine if the Project would be consistent with and would advance the goals of the County’s Healthy Streams Initiative.

Roaring Fork Watershed Plan Phase II Guidance Document: Illuminating the Way Ahead,
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/0/doc/139978/Electronic.aspx?searchid=1f58398c-529b-425a-a132-fc45cf1ea804)

By: G. Moss Driscoll, Esq. Elk Mountain Consulting, LLC for Roaring Fork Conservancy and Reudi Water & Power Authority, February, 2010. 
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: In these precarious times, local governments’ implementation of a “watershed management regime” is as much an economic decision as an environmental one. Watershed management offers local governments an efficient and effective way to plan for growth and to build healthy, sustainable communities.

State of the Roaring Fork Watershed Executive Summary 2008,(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/0/doc/136941/Electronic.aspx?searchid=1f58398c-529b-425a-a132-fc45cf1ea804)

By: The Roaring Fork Conservancy, Prepared for: the Reudi Water & Power Authority, 2008. 
Type: Multi-Purpose
Notes: The purpose of this report is to summarize existing studies and information in order to present a comprehensive understanding of the watershed’s natural and cultural attributes as well as issues and challenges that bear further scrutiny within Phase II of the Watershed Plan process.

The Effect of the Shoshone and Cameo Calls on the Roaring Fork Watershed
(www.riversimulator.org/Resources/Legal/ShoshonePowerPlantCall.pdf)

By: Chrissy Sloan, Legal Fellow for the Roaring Fork Conservancy, December 2004
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: There are two major water rights which affect the stream flow of the Roaring Fork River and its tributaries as they flow through the Roaring Fork Watershed: the Shoshone Hydro Plant in Glenwood Canyon and a group of Grand Junction water rights collectively known as the “Cameo Call.”

Flow Recommendation

Roaring Fork Watershed Streamflow Survey Report, 
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/0/doc/123752/Page1.aspx?searchid=1f58398c-529b-425a-a132-fc45cf1ea804)

By: Sharon Clark, the Roaring Fork Conservancy, June 2008. 
Type: Flow Recommendations
Notes: With the recent recognition of the importance of stream health to the economic and environmental sustainability of the watershed, government officials and stakeholders are more willing to identify and pursue flow regimes that meet biological needs while still providing beneficial consumptive uses 

Roaring Fork Watershed Streamflow Survey Project Data Summary,(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/0/doc/124314/Page1.aspx?searchid=1f58398c-529b-425a-a132-fc45cf1ea804)

By: Sharon Clark, the Roaring Fork Conservancy, December 13, 2004. 
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: Data Summary for the Roaring Fork Streamflow Survey

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Aquatic Biology

Habitat Analysis for the Roaring Fork River near the Town of Carbondale Wastewater Treatment Plant 2012 through 2014
(http://www.carbondalegov.org/vertical/sites/%7BE239F6F5-CCA3-4F3A-8B27-95E8145FD79A%7D/uploads/Roaring_Fork_Habitat_Report_2012_through_2014.pdf)

By: Christopher Ullrich for the Town of Carbondale, 2014
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes:  By examining the water quality and macro invertebrate species upstream and downstream of our effluent, we can determine if the constituents that we contribute, primarily waste water effluent, are having a negative impact on the ecology and quality of the stream.

Fish Management and Survey Information (Fryingpan River)(http://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Fishery%20Survey%20Summaries/FryingpanRiver.pdf)

By: Colorado Parks and Wildlife; Kendall Bakich - Aquatic Biologist Glenwood Springs Service Center, 2013
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes: The Fryingpan River below Ruedi Reservoir empties into Roaring Fork River

Review of City of Aspen’s Castle Creek Hydroelectric Project Aquatic Resource Documents
http://www.pitkincounty.com/DocumentCenter/View/2762

By: Greg Espegren, January 2011
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes: The purpose of this report is to evaluate whether Aspen’s documents, reports, studies and conclusions adequately addressed the potential biologic impacts that may accrue to Maroon Creek and Castle Creek as a result of the proposed hydroelectric operations. 

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Water Quality

Cattle Creek Stream Health Evaluation
http://www.roaringfork.org/media/1374/cattle-creek-2015-stream-health-evaluation-6216.pdf

By: Lotic Hydrological Consulting Services for Roaring Fork Conservancy, June 2016
Type: Water Quality
Notes: This report details the results and initial interpretations of the first year of a multi-year data collection effort, including comparison of chemical parameters to applicable instream standards, site-by-site water quality profiles, macroinvertebrate results, and a high-level analysis of watershed land use characteristics that may impact instream conditions in response to RFC implemented water quality monitoring efforts.
Cattle Creek 2015 Stream Health Evaluation  http://www.roaringfork.org/media/1375/cattle-creek-2015-she-summary-6616.pdf

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: Water Quality Control Commission, Colorado's Section 303(D) List of Impaired Waters and Monitoring and Evaluation List  
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/93_2016%2803%29.pdf​​

By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 2016
​Type: Water Quality
Notes: pg 20-22, 63-65

2014 Brush Creek Stream Health Survey,
(http://www.roaringfork.org/publications/2014-brush-creek-stream-health-survey/)

By: Lotic Hydrological, Prepared for: the Roaring Fork Conservancy, May 2014.
Type: Water Quality
Notes: The Brush Creek Stream Health Survey provides a synopsis of current information regarding stream conditions on Brush Creek and recommends future actions to improve or protect water quality. 

2013 Thompson Divide Supplemental Water Quality Study,
(http://www.roaringfork.org/publications/2013-thompson-divide-supplemental-water-quality-study/)

By: Robert E. Moran, PH.D., Michael-Moran Assoc., LLC, 2013
Type: Water Quality
Notes: This report describes the second phase (2013) of a study to define baseline water quality and flow conditions for both surface waters and springs.

Availability and chemical quality of ground water in the Crystal River and Cattle Creek Drainage Basins near Glenwood Springs, west-central Colorado
https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/wri7670

By: Robert E. Brogden and T.F. Giles, USGS, 1976
Type: Water Quality
Notes: Aquifers in the two drainage basins include: alluvium, basalts, the Mesa Verde Formation, Mancos Shale, Dakota Sandstone, Morrison Formation, Entrada Sandstone, Maroon Formation, Eagle Valley Evaporite, and undifferentiated formations. Except for aquifers in the alluvium, and basalt, well yields are generally low and are less than 25 gallons per minute. Well yields form aquifers in the alluvium and basalt can be as much as several hundred gallons per minute. Water quality is dependent of rock type.

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Geomorphology

Final Letter Report – Geomorphic Assessment of the Roaring Fork River and Impacts of Groundwater Changes on Wetlands, North Star Nature Preserve, Pitkin County, Colorado
http://co-pitkincounty2.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/1339

By: Miller Ecological Consultants, Inc. And Ayres Associates, December 2011
Type: Geomorphology
Notes: The objective of this report was to conduct a geomorphic assessment of the impacts of groundwater changes on the wetlands and grasslands along the valley floor and evaluate the current characteristics of the Roaring Fork River within the North Star Nature Preserve upstream of the City of Aspen, Pitkin County, Colorado

 

Geomorphic Assessment of the Stability of the Roaring Fork River Through the City of Aspen, Pitkin County, Colorado
http://co-pitkincounty2.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/1344​

By: Ayres Associates February 2011
Type: Geomophology
Notes: Through a sub-agreement with Miller Ecological Consultants Inc. (MEC), Pitkin County (County) requested that Ayres Associates Inc. (Ayres) conduct a geomorphic assessment of the stability of the river channel, in-channel structures, and man-made channel modifications along the Roaring Fork River within the City of Aspen, Pitkin County, Colorado.

 

Interactive Headwaters Map, Click Here

Includes information on: Water Consumption, Recreation and Environmental Conditions, Projects

 

Organizations

Middle Colorado Watershed Council

Mission is to evaluate, protect and enhance the health of the middle Colorado River watershed through the cooperative effort of watershed stakeholders. 

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Projects

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Studies 
Listed according to study type: multi-topic, flow recommendation, aquatic biology, riparian biology, water quality, or geomorphology.

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Multi-Topic

Middle Colorado River Watershed Plan
http://www.midcowatershed.org/Documents/Plan/full.pdf

By: Middle Colorado Watershed Council, April 2016
​Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: The purpose of the Middle Colorado River Watershed Plan (Plan) is to establish a framework for protecting and enhancing the health of what is known as the “middle” section of the Colorado River and its tributaries.

Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Roan Plateau Resource Management
Plan Amendment
http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Programs/land_use_planning/rmp/roan_plateau.html

By: Bureau of Land Management, 2016
Type: Multi-topic
Notes: The purpose of amending the existing RMPs for the Roan Plateau Planning Area is to provide an integrated land use plan that guides future site-specific analysis and decisions in accordance with specific goals and objectives based on the direction provided by numerous laws, mandates, policies, and plans. 
Volume 1
Volume 2

Rifle Creek Fish Screen Project - Final Environmental Assessment 
http://www.usbr.gov/uc/envdocs/ea/RifleCreek/Final-EA.pdf

By: Bureau of Reclamation, July 2011
Type: Multi-topic
Notes: Under the Proposed Action, Reclamation will execute a License Agreement to the CDOW to construct and operate a fish screen at one of three locations (upstream location, middle location, or downstream location) on Rifle Creek

​Colorado river: 15-Mile Reach Programmatic Biological Opinion Depletion Accounting Pursuant to Appendix B Report Period 2001-2005 
(​http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/15MRPBODeplAcctReport2005.pdf)

By: Colorado Conservation Board, 2001-1005
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: The PBO addresses impacts related to water depletions that occur above the confluence with the Gunnison River and impact critical habitat from Rifle, Colorado to Lake Powell and the recovery actions designed to offset these impacts.

Survey of Critical Biological Resources Garfield County, Colorado Volume I
http://www.cnhp.colostate.edu/download/documents/2001/1_Garfield_Co_full_report.pdf

By: Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Peggy Lyon, John Sovell,  Joe Rocchio, 2001
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: The goal of this project was to systematically identify the localities of rare, threatened, or endangered species and the locations of significant natural plant communities, and to identify and prioritize Potential Conservation Areas of critical habitat for these species and communities. 

Hydrologic Data from Roan Creek and Parachute Creek Basins, Northwestern Colorado
https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/1983/0859/report.pdf

By: Adams, D.B., Goddard, K.E., Patt, R.O., and Galyean, K.C., USGS, 1986
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: Hydrologic data obtained from a comprehensive study of the Roan Creek and Parachute Creek basins are presented in this report. The purpose of this study was to inventory and appraise the predevelopment hydro!ogic conditions in these basins. 
 

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Flow Recommendation

Beaver Creek - Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/174139/Electronic.aspx?searchid=3359186b-35d5-4044-b812-7e458eb03c17)

By: Colorado Parks & Wildlife, 2014
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: Beaver Creek is approximately 14 miles long and originates on the south flank of North Mamm Peak at an elevation of 10,000 feet. It flows in a northerly direction as it drops to an elevation of 5,500 feet where it joins The Colorado River.

Beaver Dam Creek - Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/174140/Electronic.aspx?searchid=492ffb9f-f42a-4c60-b362-914dd619cbc1)

By: Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: The subject of this report is a segment of Beaver Dam Creek beginning at the either the headwaters of Beaver Dam Creek or the outlet of Beaver Dam Creek Reservoir and extending downstream to the confluence with East Divide Creek. The proposed segment is located in Garfield County southeast of the Town of Silt.

East Divide Creek - Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/174143/Electronic.aspx?searchid=ef065ed6-593b-428f-b5fd-791334484e76)

By: Colorado Parks and Wildlife, December 2013
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: This report addresses instream flow recommendations for two segments of the East Divide Creek an upper segment and a lower segment. The upper segment of East Divide Creek begins at the confluence with Gennings Creek and extends downstream to the confluence with Camp Creek, the lower segment begins at the confluence with Camp Creek and extends downstream to the confluence with June Creek.

East Fork Parachute Creek - Draft Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/WebLink/ElectronicFile.aspx?docid=174144&searchid=1920ba76-2d1a-4d64-a9db-1b84b2722618&dbid=0)

By: Bureau of Land Management, December 2013
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: East Fork Parachute Creek originates on the Roan Plateau approximately seven miles northwest of Rifle, CO and flows into Parachute Creek approximately 10 miles northwest of Parachute. This recommendation covers the stream reach beginning at the confluence with Bull Gulch and extends downstream to the confluence with Ben Good Creek.

Left Fork Carr Creek - Draft Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/174147/Electronic.aspx?searchid=7d7e4e9a-02e7-4ac5-b429-e80c7668156e)

By: Bureau of Land Management, December 2013
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: Left Fork Carr Creek originates between Henderson Ridge and Horse Ridge, approximately 11 miles east of Douglas Pass, and flows into Carr Creek. This recommendation covers the stream reach beginning at headwaters and extends downstream to the headgate of the Franklin No. 2 Ditch, located within the SW ¼, Section 1, T6S R100W.

Meadow Creek - Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/174148/Electronic.aspx?searchid=85770c6d-654d-4ad7-b46a-aac6039edcae)

By: Colorado Parks & Wildlife, December 2013
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: The subject of this report is a segment of Meadow Creek beginning at the outlet of Meadow Creek Reservoir (a facility built and owned by CPW) and extending downstream to the confluence with Main Elk Creek. The proposed segment is in Garfield County north of the Town of New Castle. 

West Divide Creek - Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/174155/Electronic.aspx?searchid=401fde29-d806-4127-a2e6-440c17648322)

By: Colorado Parks & Wildlife, December 2013
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: The subject of this report is a segment of West Divide Creek beginning at the confluence with Little Beaver Creek and extending downstream to the confluence with Mosquito Creek. The proposed segment is in Garfield County southwest of the Town of Silt.

Dry Fork Roan Creek - Draft Instream Flow Recommendation 
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/169632/Electronic.aspx?searchid=49c381f9-61dd-486c-909b-b36e96beb0d4)

By: Bureau of Land Management, April 2012
Type: Flow Recommendation
Notes: Dry Fork Roan Creek originates on the south side of Cow Ridge, approximately 23 miles north of Grand Junction. Dry Fork Roan Creek flows into Roan Creek approximately 11 miles northwest of Debeque. This recommendation covers the stream reach beginning at the confluence of the South Dry Fork and North Fork Dry Fork and extends downstream to the confluence with Roan Creek.

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Aquatic Biology  

Flow Regimes for Restoration and Maintenance of Sufficient Habitat to Recover Endangered Razorback Sucker and Colorado Pikeminnow in the Upper Colorado River: Interim Recommendations for the Palisade-to-Rifle Reach
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/2001Osmundson.pdf)

By: Colorado River Fishery Project; Douglas B. Osmundson
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: Suitable flow regimes are needed to promote recovery of endangered fishes in the upper Colorado River. The Recovery Program seeks to increase the extent of adult habitat by providing passage facilities at diversion structures that have historically prevented access to once occupied reaches. 

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Riparian Biology 

Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Roan Plateau Resource Management Plan Amendment, Chapter 3 Affected Environment
http://www.blm.gov/style/medialib/blm/co/prog...

By: Bureau of Land Management, 2015
Type: Riparian Biology
Notes: The Planning Area includes three primary hydrologic areas: (1) Parachute Creek tributaries atop the plateau and in the western end of the area below the rim; (2) Government Creek tributaries below the rim in the eastern part of the site area; and (3) south-trending ephemeral and intermittent gulches and washes that drain most of the area along and below the rim and flow directly into the Colorado RiverStream discharge (flow) and water quality data are provided in Tables 3.2.3 through 3.2.8, presented at the conclusion of Section 3.2.4.1.

Survey of Critical Biological Resources of Garfield County, Colorado Volume II: Survey of Critical Wetlands and Riparian Areas in Garfield County
http://www.cnhp.colostate.edu/download/documents/2002/Survey_of_Critical_Wetland_%20Resources_of_Garfield_County.pdf

By: Colorado Department of Natural Resources PJoe Rocchio, Peggy Lyon, and Jon Sovell, October 2002 
Type: Riparion Biology
Notes: The goal of the project was to systematically identify the localities of rare, threatened, or endangered species dependent on wetland and riparian areas and the locations of significant natural wetland and riparian plant communities. 

 

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Water Quality

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: Water Quality Control Commission, Colorado's Section 303(D) List of Impaired Waters and Monitoring and Evaluation List  
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/93_2016%2803%29.pdf​​
          By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 2016
          Type: Water Quality
          Notes: pg 21-24, 31

Middle Colorado Watershed Council: Surface Water Quality Data Analysis
http://www.midcowatershed.org/technical_docu....

By: Alpine Environmental Consultants LLC, March 2015
Type: Water Quality
Notes: The Middle Colorado Watershed Council (MCWC) is a nonprofit organization established to protect and enhance the health of the Middle Colorado River Watershed (Watershed) in west central Colorado. The MCWC is currently developing a Watershed Plan to guide future activities in fulfillment of the organization’s mission. This Surface Water Quality Data Analysis (Analysis) is an integral part of the watershed planning process in that it seeks to document, describe, and interpret existing surface water quality conditions throughout the Watershed.

Discharge and water quality of springs in Roan and Parachute Creek basins, northwestern Colorado, 1981-83
http://pubs.usgs.gov/wri/1985/4078/report.pdf

By: D.L. Butler, USGS, 1985
Type: Water Quality
Notes: This report is a compilation and interpretation of discharge, water-quality, and radiochemical data collected at springs in the oil-shale regions of Roan and Parachute Creek Basins, Colorado, from 1981 to 1983.

Waterbody Reports

By: US Environmental Protection Agency
Type: Water Quality

Clear Creek, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good. 

Dry Fork, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is impaired (Aquatic Life Cold Water-Class 1).

Kimball Creek, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Northwater and Trapper Creeks, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Parachute Cree, 2012 

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Parachute Creek, East Fork, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as Not Assessed.

Parachute Creek, East Middle Fork, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Parachute Creek, Middle Fork, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is Not Assessed.

Parachute Creek, West Fork, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is Not Assessed.

Parachute Creek, West, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good

Roan Creek, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Roan Creek mainstem, 2012

Notes: (Waterbody ID Number COLCLC14B_00) The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Roan Creek tributary, 2012

Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Interactive Headwaters Map, Click Here

Includes information on: Water Consumption, Recreation and Environmental Conditions, Projects

 

Organizations

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Projects

 

Ecotype Specific Riparian Restoration Plant Materials Project
Final Report to the Healthy Rivers Grant Fund, prepared by Shannon Hatch, Tamarisk Coalition, May 13, 2011. 

 

Tamarisk Coalition and Desert Rivers Collaborative Restoration Projects
http://www.tamariskcoalition.org/programs/projects-monitoring​

 

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Studies 
Listed according to study type: multi-topic, flow recommendation, aquatic biology, riparian biology, water quality, or geomorphology.

 

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Multi-Topic

Water Supply Alternatives Summary
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/10825SumJan08.pdf)

By: Grand River Consulting Corporation
Topic: Multi-Topic
Notes: The 10825 water supply alternatives must fulfill the obligation of the water providers who divert from the Colorado River (water providers) under Activity 1-A.5.e of the Recovery Implementation Program, Recovery Action Plan. Pursuant to this obligation, the water providers must permanently deliver 10,825 acre-feet of water in the summer and early fall to the 15-mile reach of the Colorado River to benefit the target fish species. 

Grand Valley Regional Water Conservation Plan
(http://www.cliftonwaterdistrict.org/PDFs/News%20Page%2012%20GV%20Regional%20WCP%20Final.pdf)

By: City of Grand Junction, Ute Water Conservancy District, Clifton Water District, 2012
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes: The ultimate goal of creating a regional water conservation effort is to provide unified water education and community outreach programs that will aid the public in developing meaningful water conservation practices

FONSI NO. 2012 - 031 Colorado Water Users' Commitment to Provide 10,825 acre-feet to the 15-Mile Reach of the Upper Colorado River Great Plains Region, Eastern Colorado Area Office 
(https://www.usbr.gov/gp/ecao/10825_final_ea_fonsi.pdf)

By:  Bureau of Reclamation Great Plains Region Eastern Colorado Area Office, March 2012 
Type:  Multi-Topic
Notes: Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) has determined that completing contracting actions that would allow releases of 10,825 acre-feet per year (AF/yr) of water to benefit endangered fish species habitat as part of the east and west slope water users’ commitment in the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program (Recovery Program) will not result in a significant impact to the human environment. 

Plateau Valley Source Water Protection Plan
(http://www.townofcollbran.us/PublicWorks/Plateau_Valley_SWP_Plan.pdf)

By: Colorado Rural Water Association, Colleen Williams, March 2008
Type: Multi-Topic
Notes:  The Source Water Protection Plan (SWPP) is a tool for the Plateau Valley communities to ensure clean and of high quality drinking was sources for current and future generations. http://aquatic biology

Phase 2 Coordinated Facilities Water Availability Study for the Endangered Fish of the Upper Colorado River
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/CFOPS/FinalCFOPS.pdf)

By:  Brown and Caldwell Brownstein, Hyatt & Farber Resource Engineering, Inc. McLaughlin Water Engineers, Ltd. for Colorado Water Conservation Board , September 2003
Type: Multi-topic
Notes: The purpose of this report is to summarize the results of a reconnaissance level investigation of 19 alternatives to supply 20,000 acre-feet of water to the head of the 15-Mile Reach to help recover four species of endangered fish in the Colorado River in Colorado pursuant to the Programmatic Biological Opinion (PBO) for the 15-Mile Reach

Orchard Mesa Wildlife Area Selenium Remediation Project - Final Environmental Assessment
(http://www.usbr.gov/uc/wcao/envprog/pdfs/OrchMesa-fea.pdf)

By:Bureau of Reclamation, October 2000
Type: Multi-topic
Notes:  High concentrations of selenium have been documented to cause reproductive failure and birth defects in fish and waterfowl. There is a need to reduce selenium levels in two backwater areas along the Colorado River within Reclamation’s OMWA. The purpose of the project is to protect local fish and wildlife resources and reduce selenium bio-accumulations in endangered fishes and aquatic birds. 

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Flow Recommendations

Kelso Creek - Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/175349/Electronic.aspx?searchid=79b2e5c0-a4d8-4358-9bba-5f72a761197f)

By: United States Forest Service, February 2014
Type: Flow Recommendations
Notes: The instream flow recommendation contained in this report includes all of Kelso Creek, from the headwaters to its confluence with Escalante Creek. 

East Hawxhurst Creek - Draft Instream Flow Recommendation 
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/197574/Electronic.aspx?searchid=1ca2f1ae-2ed4-4e68-944c-163a5ac2c8c7)

By: Bureau of Land Management, July 2011
Type: Water Quality
Notes:  East Hawxhurst Creek originates on the south flank of Battlement Mesa at an elevation of 10,680 ft. The creek flows in a southerly direction as it drops to an elevation of 8,600 feet where it joins West Hawxhurst Creek to form Hawxhurst Creek, a tributary to Plateau Creek. The proposed reach extends from the outlet of McCurry Reservoir downstream to the confluence with West Hawxhurst Creek.

West Hawxhurst Creek- Draft Instream Flow Recommendation
(http://cwcbweblink.state.co.us/weblink/0/doc/197581/Electronic.aspx?searchid=0b2990b6-4400-4788-ae89-2feb1e6913ef)

By: Bureau Of Land Management, June 2010
Type: Water Recommendation
Notes: This reach is located in Mesa County about 4 miles northeast of Collbran. West Hawxhurst Creek originates on the south flank of Battlement Mesa at an elevation of 10,640 ft. The creek flows in a southerly direction as it drops to an elevation of 8,600 feet where it joins East Hawxhurst Creek to form Hawxhurst Creek, a tributary to Plateau Creek. The proposed reach extends from the headwaters downstream to the confluence with East Hawxhurst Creek. 

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​Aquatic Biology

Removal of Smallmouth Bass in the Upper Colorado River between Price-Stubb Dam near Palisade, Colorado, and Westwater, Utah.
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/work-plan-documents/arpts/2015/nna/126a.pdf)

By: Travis Francis, Fish Biologist, Dale Ryden, Project Leader
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: The purpose of this study is to remove as many nonnative smallmouth bass as possible, of all size-classes, from main channel riverine habitats in two distinct sections of the Colorado River.

Colorado River Recover Program FY 2103 Annual Project Report
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/work-plan-documents/arpts/2013/rsch/130.pdf)

By: Julie Howard, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: Achievement of recovery goals for humpback chub requires monitoring six self-sustaining populations in the upper and lower Colorado River basins. In Cataract Canyon, between 2003 and 2005, three pass mark/recapture sampling was conducted to obtain annual point estimates for adult humpback (Badame 2008) and those estimates ranged from 273–468 humpbacks within the canyon. 

Biologically Defensible Flow Recommendations for the Maintenance and Enhancement of Colorado Squawfish Habitat in the '15-Mile' Reach of the Upper Colorado River During July, August and September
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/Kaeding1989.pdf)

By: Lynn R. Kaeding and Douglas B. Osmundson
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: The intent of the Recover Implementation Program is to bring about the recovery and delisting of the endangered fishes while allowing Colorado and the other upper-basin states to develop their entitled water under the Colorado River Compact.

Flow Regimes for Restoration and Maintenance of Sufficient Habitat to Recover Endangered Razorback Sucker and Colorado Pikeminnow in the Upper Colorado River: Interim Recommendations for the Palisade-to-Rifle Reach
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/2001Osmundson.pdf)

By: Colorado River Fishery Project; Douglas B. Osmundson
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: Suitable flow regimes are needed to promote recovery of endangered fishes in the upper Colorado River. The Recovery Program seeks to increase the extent of adult habitat by providing passage facilities at diversion structures that have historically prevented access to once occupied reaches.

Habitat Selection and Movement of Native Fish in the Colorado River, Colorado
(http://hermes.cde.state.co.us/drupal/islandora/object/co%3A3431/datastream/OBJ/view)

By: Miller Ecological Consultants INC., December 2001
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: The Colorado River near Grand Junction provides habitat for several species of native and nonnative fish. Recent studies have indicated the need for additional information regarding habitat use by native species (Beyers et al. 2001). An investigation of three Colorado River fish species was conducted in order to characterize habitat requirements during periods of low summer flows. These species included the flannelmouth sucker (Catostomus latipinnis), bluehead sucker (Catostomus discobolus), and roundtail chub (Gila robusta). 

Relationships Between Flow and Rare Fish Habitat in the '15-Mile Reach' of the Upper Colorado River
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/OsmundsonNelson1995.pdf)

By: Colorado River Fishery Project; Douglas B. Osmundson, Patrick Nelson, Kathy Fenton, Dale W. Ryden
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: This report presents the results of a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) habitat evaluation study for a 15-mile segment of the Colorado River. Primarily focused on squawfish (Ptychocheilus lucius) and razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus). 
 

Phase 2 Coordinated Facilities Water Availability Study for the Endangered Fishes of the Upper Colorado River Final Report
(http://www.coloradoriverrecovery.org/documents-publications/technical-reports/isf/CFOPS/FinalCFOPS.pdf)

By: Brown and Caldwell Brownstein, Hyatt & Farber Resource Engineering, Inc. McLauglin Water Engineers. Ltd.
Topic: Aquatic Biology
Notes: The purpose of this report is to summarize the results of a reconnaissance level investigation of 19 alternatives to supply 20,000 acre-feet of water to the head of the 15-Mile Reach to help recover four species of endangered fish in the Colorado River in Colorado pursuant to the Programmatic Biological Opinion (PBO) for the 15-Mile Reach.

Highline Lake Fish Management and Survey Information
(http://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Fishery%20Survey%20Summaries/HighlineLake.pdf​)

By: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Type: Aquatic Biology
Notes: Survey Information and assessment of fish at Highline Lake, near Mack/Loma 

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Water Quality

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: Water Quality Control Commission, Colorado's Section 303(D) List of Impaired Waters and Monitoring and Evaluation List  
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/93_2016%2803%29.pdf

By: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, 2016
Type: Water Quality
Notes: pg 10-15, 23-24

2012 Waterbody Report for Indian Wash
iaspub.epa.gov/waters10/attains_waterbody.control?p_list_id=&p_au_id=COLCLC13b_6510&p_cycle=2012&p_state=CO

By: US Environmental Protection Agency, 2012
Type: Water Quality
Notes: The overall status of this waterbody is reported as good.

Selenium Watershed Management Plan Update Lower Gunnison River Basin and Grand Valley, Colorado
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/WQ_nonpoint_source-3rd-Lower-Gunnison-Selenium-Watershed-Plan-Final-2012.pdf​

By: Gunnison Basin and Grand Valley Selenium Task Force 2012
Type: Multi-topic
Notes: The Lower Gunnison Basin and Grand Valley Selenium Watershed Management Plan (SeWMP) was developed by the stakeholders of the Lower Gunnison Basin and Grand Valley for the purpose of having a cooperative, stakeholder driven program and process for reducing selenium concentrations in the lower Uncompahgre, lower Gunnison, and Colorado(below Grand Junction) Rivers. 

 

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Geomorphology

Geomorphology and endangered fish habitats of the upper Colorado River
http://www.geo.oregonstate.edu/classes/geo582/week_6_2_mountain_streams_fish/vansteeter_pitlick_wrr_98.pdf

Final Report: Geomorphology and Hydrology of the Colorado and Gunnison Rivers and Implications for Habitats Used by Endangered Fishes - http://www.colorado.edu/geography/geomorph/usfws_reports/USFWS99.pdf

By: Mark M. Van Steeter and John Pitlick, University of Boulder, CO, February 1998
Type: Geomorphology
Notes: The present paper examines the extent to which changes in streamflow and sediment loads have affected alluvial reaches of the Colorado River near Grand Junction, Colorado.

Hydrologic and Biotic Effects of Grazing vs. Non-Grazing near Grand Junction, Colorado
http://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/3896216.pdf?_=1467819861841

By: Gregg C. Lusby
Type: Geomorphology
Notes: The effect of grazing on the hydrology of salt-desert type rangeland has been studied near Grand Junction, Colorado for the past 14 years. Measurements of precipitation, run- off, erosion, and vegetation have been made in four pairs of watersheds

Influence of Rock Composition on the Geochemistry of Stream and Spring Waters from Mountainous Watersheds in the Gimnison, Uncompahgre, and Grand Mesa National Forests, Colorado
 http://pubs.usgs.gov/pp/1667/report.pdf

By: U.S. Geological Survey, William R. Miller, 2002
Type: Geomorphology
Notes: The purpose of this study is to determine, for different rock composition types, the range of chemical species and other geochemical parameters and to characterize the baseline geochemistry of stream and spring waters in mountainous watersheds in three national forests in western Colorado.