Frequently Asked Questions
We’re here to answer any questions you may have about the Colorado River District. If you don’t find what you need feel free to contact us
- All
- Funding
- General Info
- Operations
- State Water Legislation and Regulation
- Water Education
- Water Leasing
- Wolford Mountain Reservoir
Our main office is are located at 201 Centennial Street, Suite 200 in Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Map
Wolford Mountain Reservoir operations office is located at 27219 U.S. Highway 40, Kremmling, CO 80459
The Colorado River Water Conservation District (River District) was created by the Colorado General Assembly in 1937. The River District provides legal and political representation for Western Colorado water interests. It also develops and assists others with the development of Western Colorado’s water resources. In general, the River District can appropriate water rights, litigate water matters, enter into contracts, operate projects and perform other functions as needed to meet the present and future water needs of the District.
To lead in the protection, conservation, use, and development of the water resources of the Colorado River basin for the welfare of the District, and to safeguard for Colorado all waters of the Colorado River to which the state is entitled.
The River District’s General Fund is funded by a property tax within the 15 Western Colorado counties we serve. Revenues for the River District’s Enterprise activities are primarily based on water sales, lease revenues and investment interest earnings.
Board meeting notices and agendas are posted at least twenty-four hours prior to a meeting and held the third Tuesday of the months of Jan., April, July and Oct.
River District Directors are appointed by the Board of County Commissioners of each county in the district and serve a three year term. Find your county representative.
Construction of the reservoir was completed in May 1995.
Numerous activities are available, such as fishing, ice fishing, hiking, camping and boating.
Yes, both camping spots and RV hook ups are available. In the summer months, reservations are recommended.
Rainbow trout, cutbow trout and splake.
You can find more information about funding here
The minimum amount of contract water is 0.1 acre-foot annually. Please visit lease water for the maximum amount available.
Charges vary depending on the water source (i.e., Colorado River water versus Eagle River water). Visit lease water for current pricing. Standard application fee $400 and $800 if River District is required to file a Statement of Opposition.
We offer Interim contracts for periods of 5 years or less and Full Term contracts for more than 5 years to a maximum of 40 years. Full Term contracts have a right to renew option for an additional 35 years.
The River District sells water from its reserves (developed or previously purchased). The water comes from Eagle Park Reservoir, Ruedi Reservoir and the District’s Wolford Mountain Reservoir. For a summary and description of the water rights held by the River District, please visit lease water.
Visit lease water to access the application and instructions.
Colorado State Statutes may be found at LexisNexis. For current legislative activities concerning Colorado water issues visit Colorado General Assembly.
Legislative Updates
Visit “The Prior Appropriation System”
Our website has many resources internally as well as links to outside water agencies that provide information on key Colorado water issues such as Transmountain Diversions, Water Quality and Colorado Compact issues.