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2.0 AREA STUDIED 2.1 Scope of Study This Flood Insurance Study covers the incorporated area of the Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado. The area of study is shown on the Vicinity Map (Figure 1). Floods caused by overflow of ~he Big Thompson River, Big Thompson River Overflow Channel No.1, Big Thompson Overflow Channel No.2, Fall River, Fish Creek, and a short reach of Black Canyon Creek near the Municipal Building were studied in detail. Flooding on Black Canyon Creek north of the Municipal Building and shallow flooding caused by ponding of runoff were studied by approximate methods because of a narrow flood plain and lack of development in these areas.. Those areas studied by detailed methods were chosen with consider- ation given to all proposed construction and forecasted development through 1982. 2.2 Community Description The Town of Estes Park is located in the southwest corner of Larimer County, in north-central Colorado. The picturesque setting of the Rocky Mountains enhances the setting of this mountain town, which is situated in upland valley at an elevation of 7500 feet. The high peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park tower to the west. Roosevelt National Forest surrounds the rest of Estes Park. The population was 2147 according to the 1970 census (Reference 1). The average temperature during the summer months is approximately 60oF, dropping to an average of approximately 30'F during the winter. Average annual precipitation is 16 inches, the majority falling as snow (Reference 2). The streams in the Estes Park area have been formed by snowmelt runoff from the high peaks. Stream channels are well defined and generally narrow, with cobble streambeds and heavy vegetation encroaching upon channel banks. Vegetation consists of willow bushes, buffalo grasses, mountain flowers, and a large variety of trees, including pine, spruce, fir, and juniper. Soils are well drained and steep, with rock outcrops on mountain slopes (Reference 3). The economy of the area is largely dependent on the summer tourist industry attracted to Rocky Mountain National Park, located immediately to the west of the community. The town has developed along the Big Thompson River and Fall River, two Rocky Mountain streams whose waters rise each year in May, June, and July, carrying the snowmelt from the high mountain peaks to the west. The town's central business district consists of numerous retail and novelty shops located near the confluence of the Big Thompson and Fall Rivers. Areas along 2