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.
Light refreshments will be provided.
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.
This initiative aims to strengthen the river’s resiliency, reinforce riverbanks, minimize stream bank hazards, safeguard aquatic habitats and enrich recreational opportunities amid challenges posed by dwindling water flows and escalating temperatures.
The project is overseen by the WEP, a Pagosa Springs 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
In early 2024, the WEP conducted a rigorous procurement process and selected FlyWater Inc. to design, permit and build the project. Construction of the project is expected to be completed by late 2025.
The project consists of a series of river corridor improvements, including channel enhancements, riparian area revitalization, habitat improvements tailored to support the local fishery, and stream bank protection.
To the extent possible, stream bank features that currently pose a risk to boaters and other river users will attempt to be minimized.
The collaboration of 18 dedicated landowners amplifies the project’s impact, ensuring benefits extend both upstream and downstream of the project area.
By enhancing stream connectivity, diversifying habitats and bolstering the river’s resilience to drought and low-flow conditions, the project aims to foster healthy fish populations and riparian habitat throughout the region.
For more information on the project and the WEP, visit UpperSanJuanWep.com.
Expected benefits
• Strengthen river’s resiliency for improved ecological health and recreation.
• Safeguard aquatic habitats and recreational opportunities in the face of changing climate conditions.
• Address hydrological shifts impacting aquatic and riparian life, and recreational activities, including the creation of low-flow channels to allow greater connectivity during late summer low-flow periods.
• Establish riffle and pool habitats to benefit native and recreational fish populations.
• Reestablish riparian vegetation to provide shade and therefore reduce summertime stream temperature.
• Reinforce river banks by promoting native vegetation to mitigate erosion.
• To the extent feasible, minimize stream bank hazards, enhancing safety for recreation.
• Support Pagosa Springs’ tourism-based economy linked to the river’s well-being.
• Enhance the aesthetic, ecological and recreational values of the San Juan River.
