BOCC expresses gratitude for river district’s efforts – Garfield County, Colorado
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Shoshone Dam on Colorado River in Glenwood Canyon diverting water for the oldest hydroelectric plant in Colorado.

BOCC expresses gratitude for river district’s efforts

Garfield County has committed $3 million toward the Shoshone water rights

PRESS RELEASE
December 9, 2025

Garfield County has written a letter recognizing the Colorado River Water Conservation District (CRD) for its efforts to secure in-stream water rights associated with the Shoshone Hydroelectric Plant in Glenwood Canyon. Once approved, the two nonconsumptive water rights keep 1,408 cubic feet per second (CFS) of water in the Colorado River.

Garfield County has committed $3 million toward the purchase and permanent protection of the water rights, which cost $99 million, from Xcel Energy. The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) recently approved the sale, clearing yet another hurdle in the process.

“This agreement represents more than the protection of water rights, it reflects a long-standing vision to preserve the health, stability, and resilience of our river system for current and future generations,” the Board of County Commissioners’ (BOCC) letter notes. “Your team’s willingness to engage in extensive collaboration, problem-solving, and community-centered stewardship has set an example of what effective water leadership looks like in Colorado. We understand this is the first step in the process of securing the water rights.”

The county’s letter thanked the CRD and focused on its hard work and diligence in pushing this historic agreement to the finish line.

“We care deeply about our river, our communities, and the legacy we leave behind, and we want to acknowledge the countless hours, expertise, and passion you invested in this effort,” the letter read.

Garfield County Commissioner Perry Will said that the agreement creates a legacy of caring for rivers and communities in Garfield County and the entire Western Slope.

“We’re extending our gratitude and thanks for the dedication, leadership, and persistence on the in-stream flow agreement for the Shoshone water rights,” Will said. “With the recent approval by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, this is truly a historic milestone for the Colorado River and Garfield County. This wouldn’t have been possible without the river district’s commitment.”

The letter was supported by the board unanimously, 3-0.