Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) today announced the reopening of the Arkansas River above Salida, which had been closed since October to facilitate the removal of a low-head dam located 1.5 miles upstream from CPW’s Mount Shavano State Fish Hatchery.

The dam, constructed in 1956 to divert water for the hatchery, had posed a significant safety hazard to recreationalists on the river. Since 2010, three individuals had tragically lost their lives at the dam. Additionally, the dam obstructed fish migration, limiting access to approximately 85 miles of Gold Medal trout habitat upstream.

CPW partnered with the Chaffee County Board of County Commissioners, who generously contributed $100,000 towards the $1.1 million dam removal project. The removal process involved sealing off the adjacent boat chute, diverting the Arkansas River through the chute, and carefully dismantling the dam structure.

With the dam’s removal, the Arkansas River now flows freely through the area, restoring safe passage for boaters and enhancing fish migration. The project exemplifies CPW’s commitment to collaborative conservation efforts that prioritize both public safety and environmental stewardship.

As crews finalize the cleanup along the riverbanks, CPW invites the public to rediscover the beauty and recreational opportunities of the Arkansas River near Salida.

©️ Rocky Mountain Dispatch 2023