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001053 ENCAMPMENT RIVER U.S. FOREST SERVICE, COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Summary of Findings The 191:, miles of the Encampment River, including the Main and West Fork, tributaries and headwaters from their sources to the Colorado-Wyoming boundary / is eligible for designation as a Wild River in the National Wild and Scenic River System. The entire study reach is on National Forest land, and no public lands are involved. Costs The initial cost of adding the river to the system is estimated to be $11/500. Of this, $10,000 would be needed to prepare the required management plan and $1,500 would be needed for visitor information services such as signing and brochures. Annual administration and management costs are estimated to be $2,800. Description The elevation of the study segment varies from 11,400 feet, about 400 feet above timberline, to 8/350 feet. The Main Fork flows about 12 miles, and the West Fork flows about 7 miles to their confluence, and thence about 1:, mile to the end of the study segment. The Main Fork rises from a meadow on the Continental Divide. The first 4 miles have a relatively low gradient passing through meadows and forest. The Main Fork then enters a 5.5-mile high-gradient segment. The remaining 2.5 miles to its confluence with the West Fork is a gentle stretch through open rolling meadows. The West Fork rises from West Fork Lake. After a 1.5 mile high gradient stretch, the West Fork enters a broad U-shaped gorge emerging in West Fork Meadows. The West Fork is on a gentle grade from West Fork Meadows to its confluence with the Main Fork and thence to the state line. Values The river is completely free flowing. Water quality is high. The fish and wildlife values associated with the river were judged to be outstandingly remarkable. Issues None. 29