WSP12666

• File Number: 8230.400.30.F
• Description: Durango RICD - Other Reports
• State: CO
• Basin: Colorado Mainstem
• Water Division: 7
• Date: 3/1/2006
• Author: Gary Lacy
• Title: Report on the Design, Functionality, and Physical Characteristics of the Durango Boating Park as it Relates to the RICD Application
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Report/Study

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The project design is specifically tailored to the environmental characteristics of the Animas
River. Communication with local governmental and environmental agencies such as the
Division of Wildlife and the Corps of Engineers is imperative to ensure that this project will
act to build on the existing characteristics of the Animas River.

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V-Structures

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One primary feature for use in flow control and the creation of whitewater features is the U-
structure. U-Structures have been the basis for many Recreational In-Channel Diversions
(RICD) applications and have been the defining structures in many boating parks in
Colorado. These structures have very predictable flow depths, have been proven in water
court, several times, to adequately capture, control and divert the river, and have been
determined to meet all statutory requirements. The design of these in-stream structures is
pertinent to this discussion and explains how the same structure can provide navigable
hydraulic features at lower levels and dynamic whitewater features at higher levels while
controlling and diverting the flow.

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The construction of a portion of one of these structures is shown in Figure 7. This feature is
used to create a river wide "drop" and can be used to constrict lower flows to increase the
velocity and power of the water. By adjusting the gradient of the flow over the U-drop a
wave or hydraulic can be formed. The structure also features elevated wings that are
positioned along both riverbanks. These wings provide an eddy for easy recirculation to the
wave. This structure is also beneficial to the in-stream habitat. The gradient of the drop
keeps a pool below the structure scoured and creates a natural habitat for fish and aquatic
life.

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