AURORA WATER'S FLOW REDUCTION OUT OF SPINNEY COULD AFFECT FISHING

10/4/2013

AURORA, Colo.-- Aurora Water has reduced the flow coming out of Spinney Mountain Reservoir, and the lower water levels will affect fishing in the South Platte River.

Known as the "Dream Stream," the area between Spinney and Eleven Mile reservoirs is a favorite Park County destination for avid fishermen. Because of the flow reduction, fishing in that area could be less than ideal. Lower flows this time of year may not bring up optimal numbers of lake-run fish from Eleven Mile reservoir.

Aurora Water typically coordinates flow levels with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to ensure they are optimal for fish habitat. However, the recent torrential storms have filled all of Aurora Water’s lower reservoirs, so there is no way to capture the standard level of flow. In addition, in most years, some of the flow is used by other water providers to fill their reservoirs. Right now, however, no one needs the water. If it is not claimed and continues downstream, it will exacerbate flooding conditions in northern Colorado.

"We do all that we can to support fish habitats – and those who enjoy fishing in that area. Unfortunately, in this case, we have no choice but to reduce the flows. The last thing we want to do is create additional problems for residents in northern Colorado who have already suffered tremendous losses," Brian Fitzpatrick, a Water Resources Project Manager at Aurora Water, said.

It’s not clear when the flows will return to normal because it’s dependent on weather forecasts and water consumption.