Boulder County Creek Recovery & Restoration Program Update

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Creek Recovery & Restoration Program Update

The Boulder County Transportation Department is continuing the long-term watershed recovery effort by implementing stream restoration projects that are adjacent to road reconstruction projects. After the 2013 floods, we determined that it was essential to design and construct the stream restoration projects in conjunction with the road reconstruction projects, allowing the stream to function naturally, increase flood capacity, and protect nearby transportation infrastructure and homes.

Over the last year, we have made tremendous progress and have now begun or completed seven stream restoration projects. In 2017 we:

  • Excavated over 40,000 cubic yards of sediment
  • Installed 47,465 plants
  • Installed 90 rootwads
  • Used 4,500 tons of Boulders

 

Stream Restoration Video

Watch a short video to learn more about the stream restoration projects and how we are integrating roads and creeks.

What’s Next?

By the end of 2018, we anticipate that all of the Transportation Department’s stream restoration projects will be complete. Over the next few years, we will be performing inspection and maintenance operations to ensure the in-stream structures are functioning properly and that the vegetation is coming back as it should.

Project Current Status Anticipated Completion Date
N. St. Vrain Creek COMPLETE COMPLETE
Left Hand Creek COMPLETE COMPLETE
Lower Fourmile Creek COMPLETE COMPLETE
James Creek Nearly complete - planting on several areas remaining to be done in the spring/summer Summer 2018
Fourmile Canyon Creek Nearly complete - some in-stream work around culverts for the road and planting May 2018
Gold Run Creek More than half complete May 2018
Upper Fourmile Creek Just getting started Fall 2018

Thank You!

Boulder County received federal and state funding from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) for many of the stream restoration projects that we have been implementing. Thank you NRCS and CWCB!

Thank you to the residents and property owners for your patience through the construction process. We couldn’t have achieved these accomplishments without your support!

The Boulder County Parks and Open Space Department is also implementing several stream restoration projects. To learn more, see the flood recovery project list