Colorado releases from Ruedi Reservoir raise Fryingpan River flows

Water managers in Colorado are increasing releases from Ruedi Reservoir to ease severe downstream drought conditions. The Colorado Water Trust will begin releasing water from a 4,700‑acre‑foot lease, while the Colorado River Water Conservation District plans to add releases from its 10,500‑acre‑foot pool. Expected river flows on the Fryingpan River during August are 300‑500 cfs, with officials aiming to keep the stream below 700 cfs to avoid flooding, which becomes a concern around 800 cfs.

The higher flows threaten the Fryingpan’s Gold Medal trout fishery, as anglers prefer waters below 300 cfs for safe wading. Aspen Mayor Rachel Richards emphasized the need for notifications to fishermen, and Brendon Langenhuizen, director of technical advocacy for the River District, assured that flooding will be monitored. The Roaring Fork Conservancy and local fishing guide alliances are already alerting the community about the changes.