Lower Eagle 4: Gypsum Creek to Colorado River

Current and Historical Drivers of Degradation

Historical modification of floodplains for residential and commercial uses have resulted in filling, grading, and riparian deforestation in the Town of Gypsum river reach. Floodplains and river channels downstream of Gypsum exhibit semi-meandering morphologies. These are somewhat unique to the greater Eagle watersehd, and appear relatively unimpaired by human land use activities. A 2022 wildfire burned large and vibrant cottonwood galleries below Gypsum. Recovery trajectories for riparian vegetation are uncertain. Willows, grasses, and other shrublife is rapidly returning but mortaility in the mature cottonwood forest crown appears high.

Flows are somewhat altered on this reach by upstream water use and management. The frequency of peak flows equivalent to the natural 1-in-4 year flood have declined by 33% compared to the natural historical condition. Peak flows during dry years have declined 22%. Total annual flow volumes in dry years declined 22%. A trends analysis shows significant declines in late summer streamflows between 1996-2020.

Water temperatures in this section of the Eagle River often approach or exceed WQCD and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) thresholds for impairment of aquatic life. Elevated water temperature conditions impact the sport fishery and opportunities for recreational angling. CPW regularly implements summer fishing closures on this reach due to water temperature concerns.

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