Background
Tomichi Creek experiences localized dry ups, which negatively impact river connectivity and present barriers to fish migration. A partnership between the Peterson Ranch and Colorado Water Trust was created to share use of water for both the irrigation of hay meadows and pasture grass and the improvement of river connectivity and fish migration.
Tool
Loans & Leases
This Temporary Instream Flow Lease creates a partnership with a water user to use the water right for irrigation, but also to cease diversions in times of low flows to protect up to 5 miles in 5 out of 10 years. The Instream Flow lease can also be renewed twice, allowing environmental releases to bolster flows in Tomichi Creek for up to 15 out of 30 years if needed, which provided certainty of project benefit for the Petersons.
Partners
The Peterson Ranch and Colorado Water Conservation Board