Cache la Poudre River – Josh Ames Dam Removal

Background

The Josh Ames Diversion Dam spanned the entirety of the Cache la Poudre River, causing low flows, impeding fish, and inconveniencing recreationists who had to portage around it. Constructed in the 1960s, the dam was unused since the 1970s. This project was a key component of a larger North Shields Ponds Natural Area riparian restoration project developed by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department.

Tool

Permanent Projects

After a year of due diligence, permitting, and fundraising, Colorado Water Trust partnered with the City of Fort Collins to remove the dam. The river now flows freely through this reach of the river, increasing flood resiliency, sediment transport, fish passage, and opportunity for recreation. In 2016, Colorado Water Trust commissioned a bench in memory of one of our founding board members, Leo Eisel, at the site.

Partners

Colorado Water Conservation Board, the South Platte Basin Roundtable, the Metro Roundtable, Odell Brewing Company, New Belgium Brewing Company, Pateros Creek Brewery, and Funkwerks Brewery

Timeline

The Josh Ames Dam was deconstructed in 2013, permanently restoring water to low flowing areas of the Cache La Poudre