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<br />4. Physical Characteristics of an Appropriate Stream Reach for an RICD <br />In order for the applicant and the CWCB to assess the appropriateness of a proposed <br />RICD stream reach, the CWCB recommends a minimum average slope of 0.5'Yo for a <br />destination-oriented RICD stream reach based on hydraulic fundamentals and <br />engineering considerations. This suggestion is also based on stream channel information <br />from existing boating courses in Colorado. It is certainly possible that a recreational <br />facility could be constructed on a stream having an average slope of less than 0.5'Yo, <br />depending on the intended use. <br /> <br />The designer may choose to incorporate physical features to increase the localized <br />slope and enhance the experience within the RICD stream reach. Such features, <br />however, should not create adverse impacts and should avoid increased flooding <br />conditions as discussed above. Natural stream reaches with inadequate slope can <br />present challenging design considerations for destination-oriented boating facilities, as <br />stream power is an important factor in determining the success of a destination- <br />oriented boating experience. <br /> <br />As an alternative to the suggested minimum slope, the applicant may choose to evaluate <br />the appropriateness of the RICD reach by computing a Performance Index (PI). A <br />Performance Index of less than 75 may suggest an inappropriate stream reach for a <br />destination-oriented RICD (see Appendix for details related to Performance Index). In <br />the event that the applicant is seeking an RICD for a recreational experience other than <br />a destination-oriented boating course, the application will be reviewed accordingly. <br />Sample computations are included in the Appendix of this report. <br /> <br />The CWCB also suggests a boating course length of approximately 700 to 1000 feet for <br />destination-oriented courses. This is based on information collected from existing <br />courses in Colorado and around the world, and has been suggested by boating course <br />design experts. <br /> <br />The CWCB will review RICD applications on a case-by-case basis and will consider <br />factors and circumstances brought forth by the applicant as part of the assessment to <br />determine the appropriateness of the reach of a requested RICD water right. <br /> <br />5. Flow Rate Guidelines for an RICD <br />The CWCB recommends that an RICD Flow Rate appropriate for a particular <br />recreational facility should be based upon more general characteristics of the stream <br />reach, site, intended use, and efficient use of the flow. The CWCB recommends that <br />Applicants follow these guidelines: <br /> <br />3 <br />