Upper Eagle 1: Rex Flats to Cross Creek

Current and Historical Drivers of Degradation

Aquatic insect communities near Minturn meet state standards but show increasing levels of stress/impact compared to upstream communities, potentially a result of Eagle Mine discharges and urban runoff from Minturn. Sensitive fish taxa like rainbow trout and sculpin are largely absent from the reach. Metals seasonally exceed relevant water quality standards, resulting in a 303(d) impairment listing. Some aquatic life standards on this reach are less stringent than nearby streams due to irreversible impacts from the mine. This reach is also impacted by historical channel modification and in-channel habitat simplification.

Flows are altered on this reach by upstream reservoirs and transmountain diversions. The frequency of years where flows are sufficient to mobilized bed sediments has declined by approximate 30% when compared to natural historic conditions..The frequency of peak flows equivalent to the natural 1-in-4 year flood has declined more than 80% due to water use and management. Peak flows during typical and dry years have declined 31-38% respectively. Total annual flow volumes in dry years have declined 38%.

Report Card