Daily Camera (May 23, 2025)—In an era where climate change and overconsumption threaten our waterways, a remarkable act of generosity and foresight has emerged from the Indian Peaks Wilderness. On August 29, 2024, an anonymous donor gifted water from the Jasper Reservoir to the Colorado Water Trust, marking the largest water donation in Colorado’s history.
This act ensures the protection of 37 miles of Boulder Creek, safeguarding its flow, ecosystems, and recreational value for generations to come. Since 2024, 98 million gallons of water have been restored to the river as part of this donation. A warming climate will continue to put pressure on Boulder Creek, but this source of water will be protected forever.
Over the past 25 years, the Colorado Water Trust has restored 27 billion gallons of water to 814 miles of rivers and streams throughout Colorado.
Here is how it works: Much like a land trust can protect property for future generations, Colorado Water Trust protects water in our rivers. Water in Colorado is not only the lifeblood of our state — the right to use it can also be bought and sold. Colorado Water Trust invests in water. Instead of taking water out of the river, the trust protects that water in the river.
Built in 1896, Jasper Lake is actually a man-made reservoir. It has long been a vital water source for the Boulder Creek watershed. Historically, its water was leased to people for various uses, including agricultural irrigation. However, this new arrangement transforms its role entirely.
The Colorado Water Trust, upon receiving the donation, placed a permanent easement protecting public access to the lake and surrounding trails, and then transferred the reservoir to 37-Mile LLC, managed by the Tiefel family, under strict covenants. The covenants permanently ensure that water releases from the reservoir will bolster streamflows during the driest months, benefiting the environment from the Indian Peaks Wilderness through Boulder Canyon, and downstream agricultural users.
This initiative exemplifies a collaborative, multi-benefit approach to water conservation. By aligning the interests of environmental preservation, community recreation and agricultural sustainability, it sets a precedent for future water-sharing agreements. We live in a state where water is precious and supplies are dwindling. We must share this precious resource if we are to preserve the Colorado values we hold dear, such as a healthy environment and vibrant farmers markets.
The strategic release of water from Jasper Reservoir will support wildlife habitats, enhance stream health and provide recreational opportunities, all while maintaining agricultural viability downstream. For the ecosystem, it is critical to keep more water in the river in late summer and early fall, and that’s why we forged this partnership agreement.
Sometimes we forget that the most important element in healthy rivers and streams is water. Moving, flowing water that nourishes the habitat and life around it. The most important ingredient in stream health is having enough flow and water in the stream.
This project demonstrates that with vision, cooperation and commitment, we can create solutions that honor our natural resources and serve diverse community needs.
Let this be a model throughout the West and the states in the Colorado River Basin, ensuring that our rivers continue to flow, our ecosystems thrive and our communities flourish.
Kate Ryan lives in Boulder and is the Executive Director of the Colorado Water Trust.
Daily Camera
Kate Ryan
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Photo credit: Frankie Spontelli