Projects & Programs

The Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership has many ongoing projects with annual activities that make progress toward accomplishing our mission and goals. The following are current projects and ongoing programs.

 
PROJECTS that improve understanding of watershed health and evaluate changes through time by monitoring and analyzing conditions in the watershed (Strategic Plan Objective #1)

• Colorado River Watch water quality sampling
• TMDL* review and community outreach
• Uncompahgre Multibenefit Project monitoring
• Crystal Reservoir Fen Monitoring

*TMDL: Total maximum daily loads are assessments that identify the reductions of nonpoint and point source pollution that must occur to meet the applicable water quality standard, plus a margin of safety, in a given waterbody.

PROJECTS that preserve and restore ecosystem function, water quality, and water quantity necessary for high-quality waterbodies and overall watershed health (Strategic Plan Objective #2)

• Ongoing technical review and responses about water-related development and management
• Cleanups and riparian restoration volunteer events like Love Your Gorge at Ouray Ice Park
• South Ouray Erosion Control Project
• Supporting development of mine reclamation projects throughout the watershed
• Governor Basin Restoration Project
• Ironton wetland restoration

PROJECTS that ensure ongoing stewardship of the watershed and its many uses by providing robust education about science, watershed conditions, and best practices (Strategic Plan Objective #3)

• Rocky Mountain Mining & Reclamation Conference
• General education programs & public field trips in the community and schools
• Ridgway RiverFest