Eagle River Inventory and Assessment ‎(2)‎

• Document ID: hr_0003b
• County: Eagle
• County: Pitkin
• Stream Name: Eagle River
• Basin: Colorado Mainstem
• Sub-Basin: Eagle 14010003
• Water Division: 5
• Title: Eagle River Inventory and Assessment - Executive Summary
• Date: 8/1/2005
• Prepared For: Eagle River Watershed Council
• Prepared By: Colorado State University
• Watershed Pro - Doc Type: Planning Report

Eagle River ~°_
Watershed Council
August 2005
Dear Stakeholder:
On behalf of the Eagle River Watershed Council, we are proud to present the results of
the Eagle River Inventory and Assessment. It is our hope that you find this report informative,
interesting and a useful tool for future management decisions in the Eagle River watershed.
Conclusions drawn in previous studies have been incorporated with new information gathered in
2003-4 to provide a comprehensive, up-to-date look at the river system and the many uses it
supports. Most people will find what they need in the Executive Summary, but readers looking
for more specific information can benefit from the full report and appendices.
The project coalesced in 2002, when evidence dictated a clear need to develop a
scientifically-based inventory detailing the condition of the Eagle River to assist with decisions
regarding river restoration, conservation, and access. After reviewing the goals of the Eagle
River Watershed Plan developed in 1996, and meeting with many people who live, work and
play along the river, we decided the Inventory and Assessment should integrate scientific data
with public desires to assist in making more responsible choices for the health and conservation
of the watershed. This cooperative effort involved natural resource agencies, local
governments, outfitters and guides, and citizens interested in land and water resources. A wide
variety of input from across the Eagle Valley, the region and the state contributed to the success
of the project.
The primary objectives sought to create an inclusive, baseline inventory and assessment
of the 110 miles of the main stem and lower tributaries of the Eagle River, as well as develop a
set of recommendations to efficiently guide future river conservation work. The report provides
a prioritized list of restoration and conservation projects, including brief descriptions and cost
estimates. The Inventory and Assessment measures public support for various, prospective
projects and other recommended action throughout the river corridor. From the headwaters to
the Colorado River, the report synthesizes ecological and social benefits to the river and local
communities. This is an essential tool for decision makers to ensure financial resources
are spent in areas of noted ecological priority combined with strong community support.
The success of the process and the report will ultimately be measured by the ability of
the Eagle River Watershed Council to assist local decision-makers, community members, and
regional and national funding partners in selecting projects to pursue for implementation. Also,
we believe that the seven recommendations outlined in the report can function as "management
principles" to ensure the health and conservation of the riverwell into the future.
If you have questions or comments about this report, please contact the Eagle River
Watershed Council at [phone] or email us at infoCc~eagleriverwatershedcouncil.org.
Thanks for your participation, and we'll see you on the river!
Caroline Bradford Joe Macy
Executive Director President, Board of Directors