The Upper San Juan Watershed Enhancement Partnership (WEP) is inviting the public to attend a presentation and Q-and-A of the 60 percent designs of the Pagosa Gateway River Project on Oct. 10 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Ross Aragon Community Center.
The public can also view and make comments on the designs on mypagosa.org.
The Pagosa Gateway Project is a vital restoration endeavor targeting approximately 2 miles of the San Juan River upstream of the Town of Pagosa Springs.
A recent environmental and recreational water supply needs assessment, commissioned by the WEP, identified potentially significant changes in hydrology and limiting conditions for aquatic life in this section of the San Juan River. Assessment results suggest late summer and fall flows may restrict the availability and quality of aquatic habitat for fish and other aquatic species, as well as the number of days in a year when recreational craft can successfully navigate this segment of the San Juan mainstem.
This presentation will highlight a series of interventions of the project, including the creation of low-flow channels, promotion of bank stabilization, riparian vegetation and fish passage, as well as the minimization of hazardous streambank materials to increase the resiliency of the San Juan River and its ability to support aquatic life and diverse water users.
The WEP strives to foster communities by developing cooperative solutions to further the responsible use, management and sustainability of streams within the Upper San Juan River Basin for the benefit of the community and health of the environment.
We hope that you can join us for this important and informative presentation. Light refreshments will be provided.
For more information on the project and WEP, visit UpperSanJuanWep.com.
