CPW, Denver Water partnering to improve aquatic habitat on Kemp-Breeze section of Williams Fork, anglers advised about construction

PARSHALL, Colo. - Beginning Oct. 1, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Denver Water will begin collaborating on a month-long project to improve fish habitat within a popular stretch of the Williams Fork River near the town of Parshall. Located in CPW's Kemp-Breeze State Wildlife Area, the section of river to be improved will not close during construction; however, the agencies advise anglers to consider fishing in alternative waters while the work is ongoing.

CPW and Denver Water officials say although they understand October is a prime fishing period along this stretch of the Williams Fork, work would not be possible until streamflow below the Williams Fork Dam slowed to approximately 75 cubic feet per second or less, expected to occur the first week of October.

"Unfortunately, this will affect some fishing trips to this area but anglers should know that the long-term improvements will be worth the temporary inconvenience," said Jon Ewert, area aquatic biologist with CPW. "This project will turn a very good trout fishery into a great one, so we ask anglers for a little patience."

"Habitat improvement is one of the most beneficial things we can do to help conserve our natural resources," said Ben Gallowich, the Kemp-Breeze SWA technician for CPW. "The fish will benefit, the anglers will benefit and this state wildlife area will become an even more attractive place to spend the day outdoors catching trout."

Ewert says the most significant, short-term impact caused by construction will be visible sediment in the water.

"Due to the type of habitat work that will occur, there will be periods of significant turbidity in this stretch and downstream beyond the confluence with Colorado River," he said. "And of course there will be heavy equipment throughout the area so it won't be aesthetically ideal. If anglers choose to fish here they are welcome to do so, but they should avoid machines and construction areas."

The improvements will include reshaping the channel to enhance habitat diversity for all life-stages of trout. Currently, the river has an overabundance of long riffles. In addition, pools that provided excellent trout holding areas have filled-in with sediment. The habitat project will address these shortcomings.

Completed in 1959, Williams Fork Dam and its power plant sends water and electricity to the West Slope when Denver diverts water. The dam backs up a reservoir of nearly 97,000 acre-feet of water, creating the second-largest water body in Grand County.

For more information and details about the project, contact Denver Water at 303-628-6700.

For more information about the Kemp-Breeze SWA, contact CPW's Hot Sulphur Springs office at 970-725-6200.

For more information about fishing in Colorado, including alternative fishing areas, visit the CPW website.