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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include a large island at the upper end of the reach and numerous boulders, drop features,
and deflectors throughout the reach. Currently the upper drop structure, known as
"Smelter", creates a significant drop feature at most flows but only creates a surfing
attraction at flows at or above rougWy 3000 cfs (1). The second drop structure of interest is
"Corner Pocket" featured at the downstream end of the park's dogleg. This feature is largely
unusable in its current configuration, but has historically provided a play feature at varying
levels. Downstream from the Corner Pocket the channel widens and is characterized by its
eddies, mid-stream features, and separated flow. The downstream end of the park is
approximately 1675 feet upstream of the ALP project.

Just adjacent to the existing park is the City's sewer treatment plant. The City has asked that
any improvements not affect the treatment plant's intake at the upstream end of the existing
in-stream improvements. Additionally, any improvements at this site are not expected to
affect current or future operations at the plant.

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There is adequate drop and flow in this area to meet all requirements and needs for a boating
park and to meet the CWCB's power index requirements. Additionally, the slope in this
reach is greater than 0.5%.

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There are many advantages to developing this site including historical use, significant
physical characteristics, and the significant amount of investment that has already been made
into the site. Improvements made at this site will augment the current improvements,
prevent further erosion, and create a signature play feature that would establish the park's
reputation as a freestyle destination. These improvements will also be designed to enhance
the shoulder season/winter season paddling experience to provide for local development
and training.

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Geomorphic conditions at Durango Boating Park

Human impact on the floodplain in the Animas River watershed has been significant,
particularly in the modern active flood plains. It is estimated from the geomorphic mapping

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