The Dolores River Anglers chapter of Trout Unlimited proudly announces the successful completion of a vital restoration project on the West Fork of the Dolores River. This project marks a significant achievement in their ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance trout habitats in the greater Four Corners area.

The West Fork: A Vital Tributary

Rising in the Navajo Lake basin near Lizard Head Pass, the West Fork of the Dolores River travels approximately 37 miles through diverse landscapes, including forests, ranches, farms, and residential areas, before joining the main stem of the Dolores River. This tributary is essential not only for its length and size but also for its role in delivering supplemental water to McPhee Reservoir and supporting a complex network of water rights and allocations. 

The Challenge

Historically, the West Fork has been a haven for all four species of trout, offering extensive habitats and recreational opportunities. However, human activities and climate change have taken a toll, particularly in the lower reaches, leading to a decline in trout populations. The lower river has suffered from "structural starvation," lacking the diverse features necessary for healthy trout habitats, and "trophic starvation," with an insufficient food chain base to support robust populations. 

The Solution: Process-Based Restoration

To address these issues, Dolores River Anglers implemented a process-based restoration (PBR) approach, which emphasizes working with natural river processes to achieve sustainable outcomes. The project focused on a 500-foot section of degraded riverbank and trout habitat along a meander of the West Fork. 

Restoration Techniques and Success

Using natural channel design techniques, the project team regraded riverbanks to a stable slope, reconstructed the channel width, and enhanced trout habitats with boulder structures and logs. Specifically, they installed three j-hook vanes, nine large-rock clusters, and partially embedded Large Woody Debris. Additionally, the banks were revegetated with willows, shrubs, and grass seed to stabilize the soil. These efforts have successfully recreated diverse trout habitats, including pool-riffle sequences and overhanging vegetation, ensuring a thriving environment for trout. 

Looking Ahead

The successful completion of this project stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the Dolores River Anglers chapter. By restoring the structural complexity and food chain base of the West Fork, they have made significant strides in preserving this critical waterway for future generations of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

As this win is celebrated, Dolores River Anglers remain committed to ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring that the Dolores River and its tributaries continue to provide essential habitats for trout and other wildlife.