To restore and conserve the historical functions and vitality of the Rio Grande in Colorado for improved water quality, agricultural water use, riparian health, wildlife and aquatic species habitat, recreation and community safety while meeting the requirements of the Rio Grande Compact.
The Rio Grande watershed in Colorado covers 8,200 square miles. The Rio Grande Headwaters Project area includes the 200 miles of the Rio Grande Corridor in Colorado, including the 20-mile reach of the South Fork of the Rio Grande that orginates near the Continental Divide at Wolf Creek Pass, and Willow Creek, which originates near the Contiental Divide on the north side of the basin.
The Rio Grande enters the San Luis Valley, the largest intermountain basin in Colorado, at the town of South Fork. The San Luis Valley is bounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the east, the San Juan Mountians to the west and south, and the Cochetopa Hills to the north.
Our Vision for the Rio Grande:
- High quality water throughout the Rio Grande in Colorado;
- Sufficient sustainable flow for sediment transport, native riparian vegetation, aquatic and wildlife habitats, and for meeting Rio Grande Compact obligations;
- Supports an existing agricultural lifestyle;
- Contributes to groundwater recharge;
- Enhances and sustains the aesthetic and recreational values for the residents and vistors to the watershed;
- Connects the floodplain with oxbows and is naturally sinuous; and
- Any development is conducted using low impact principles, protecting water quality and the natural function of the floodplain.