Upper Gore Creek: Black Gore to Vail WWTP

Current and Historical Drivers of Degradation

The section of Gore Creek above Vail is included on Colorado’s 303(d) list of impaired waterways. Water quality degradation manifests in low aquatic macroinvertebrate heath index scores. Identified sources of degradation include stormwater runoff from urban surfaces, riparian degradation, pesticide/herbicide application, and transportation infrastructure runoff.

Significant alteration of stream channels occurred during the development of roads, golf courses, and commercial and residential areas along the creek. Extensive bank armoring, channel straightening, and habitat simplification exist along the Vail Golf Course and downstream through Vail Village and Lionshead Village.

Significant alteration to continuity, lateral extent, and structure of riparian forest communities exists throughout due to town development, residential development, road infrastructure, or the golf course.

Water storage and operations of Black Lakes produce modest impacts to the flow regime. Peak flows in dry years have declined 21% relative to natural conditions.

A trends analysis shows significant declines in late summer streamflows between 1996-2020.

Report Card