From Denver Post Opinion The impacts of Moffat/Gross Reservoir expansion are hardly “minimal.” Between the existing Moffat project and the expanded Gross Reservoir project, Denver Water will take nearly 80 percent of the Fraser River to the Front Range. This is a major, not minimal, impact.

The Denver Post editorial board’s trust that Denver Water and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will take care of the streams is, so far, misguided. The Corps’ environmental analysis doesn’t look at the impacts from reducing the river to 20 percent of its native flows. Denver Water has made no commitment of funds for mitigation of these impacts. Even if funds are finally committed, they would do little to save the river. The river needs water, not dollars.

Denverites have done a good job in reducing use, but much of Denver’s water supply goes to thirsty lawns. Other cities have drastically cut outdoor water waste and Denver should follow their lead. There is too much at stake.

Ken Neubecker, Carbondale

The writer is president of Colorado Trout Unlimited.