Crystal River Conveyance Act Introduced to Transfer Ownership of Reservoir and Dam to City of Ouray

Strategic Insights -

The introduction of the Crystal River Conveyance Act by U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet aims to transfer ownership of the Crystal Reservoir and associated dam and water infrastructure from the U.S. Forest Service to the city of Ouray. This move is expected to boost outdoor recreation and provide much-needed water storage to fight extreme drought and better manage wildfires.

Key Takeaways:

  • The bill would transfer approximately 45 acres of federal land, including the Crystal Reservoir, Full Moon Dam, and Full Moon Ditch, to the city of Ouray without any cost to the city.
  • The city would assume responsibility for the operations, maintenance, and repairs of the Full Moon Dam and Full Moon Ditch, and would be prohibited from developing on the property.
  • The city has agreed to assume the cost and liability of repairing and maintaining the dam so the reservoir can be refilled.
  • The reservoir serves as a popular recreation spot, a vital water source for fighting wildfires, and a critical water supply for the city, local hot springs, and downstream farms.
  • Long-term stewardship of natural resources, especially water supply, is critical for local communities experiencing drought conditions and reduced precipitation.
  • The legislation is supported by the City of Ouray, Ouray and San Juan Counties, Ouray County Sheriff, Ouray County Department of Emergency Management, and other organizations and businesses in the region.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 45 acres of federal land would be transferred to the city of Ouray through the bill.
  • The city would assume responsibility for the operations, maintenance, and repairs of the Full Moon Dam and Full Moon Ditch.
  • The reservoir serves as a popular recreation spot, with millions of visitors annually.
  • The reservoir is a vital water source for fighting wildfires, with a critical role in regaining control of fires such as the Snowshed Fire in the Ironton-Red Mountain area.
  • The reservoir has a significant economic impact on the local economy, with the image of the Red Mountains reflected in Crystal Lake being one of Ouray County's top tourist destinations.

Sources:

  • Office of the Senator John Hickenlooper
  • Senator Michael Bennet
  • U.S. Forest Service
  • City of Ouray
  • Ouray and San Juan Counties
  • Ouray County Sheriff's Department
  • Ouray County Department of Emergency Management
  • Colorado River District
  • Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership
  • Hydrowest Inc.
  • The Trust for Land Restoration
  • Ouray and San County Historical Societies
  • Red Mountain Project
  • Ouray Trail Group
  • Ridgway Ouray Community Council
  • Ouray and Ridgway Area Chambers of Commerce
  • Great Old Broads for Wilderness
  • RIGS Fly Shop Guide Service
  • Six Basins Project.