Lower Yampa River – Elkhead Reservoir

Background

Rapidly degrading conditions on this lower part of the Yampa River in the summer of 2020 put stress on the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, who were working quickly to boost flows in the Recovery Program’s Critical Habitat Reach.

Tool

Reservoir Releases

Water leased from Elkhead Reservoir was strategically released to the river, boosting flows in the endangered fish reach.

Partners

Bonneville Environmental Foundation, Colorado Water Conservation Board, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, Colorado River District, Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association

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Impact

In 2020, the Lower Yampa River- Elkhead Reservoir project has restored over

162
Million gallons

250
Acre-feet of water to the Yampa River.

Timeline

2020