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Posted by Mark McCaffrey on July 10, 19100 at 10:24:00:
In Reply to: Level of water in Boulder Creek posted by Cathy Griffin on June 29, 19100 at 22:07:25:
: Is there a minimum level of water allowable in Boulder Creek? Especially, in light of the recent changes with Barker Reservoir (one of the sources), is there a chance it will almost be dry for a period?
: Also, do you have any recommendations for an efficient way to stay aware of changes that may affect the creek in Boulder Canyon? Such as kayaker activity, non-motorized boating in Barker Reservoir, etc.
: Thanks for your help. Cathy
Cathy:
There is what is known as "minimum" or instream flow for Boulder Creek now-- a small amount of I believe ten cubic feet per second in the dry (usually winter) months to keep some water in the creek. The city of Boulder helped pioneer instream flow in the state of Coloradousing some of their water rights to insure that the creek doesn't go dry.
However, my understanding is that this water comes down North Boulder Creek and into Middle Boulder Creek by Boulder Falls....the stretch from Barker Dam to the confluence with North Boulder Creek can be virtually bone dry at certain times of year because Public Service Company who runs the dam doesn't contribute to instream flow.
I've heard the city of Boulder will be considering issues such as instream flow as they continue to negotiate with Public Service Company about the purchase of the Barker Dam/Reservoir.
A good person to talk to about instream flow issues is Joanna Tisdale of the city of Boulder: TisdaleJ@ci.boulder.co.us