Jasper Lake

Project Description

The 2013 Flood caused the Big Thompson River to change alignment due to channel widening and sediment deposition from the high flows. The purpose of the Jasper Lake project was to protect vulnerable infrastructure located within the river corridor from future flood damage while repairing and enhancing aquatic and riparian habitat. The Jasper Lake project provides improved capacity to the channel and attempts to reduce the river’s erosive energy during high water events. During the late summer and early fall when flows are typically low, the low-flow channel was constructed to provide refuge for fish and aquatic organisms. Revegetation work in this reach included seeding, mulching, and planting native, locally-adapted riparian plants.  Native riparian vegetation provides critical habitat, shade, streambank stability, and water quality improvements.

The Jasper Lake project was designed with community and partner input in 2016 and was constructed from March to June 2017.

Fun Fact

Jasper Lake was ranked as one of the highest priority areas for river improvements in the Big Thompson River Restoration Master Plan which was completed after the 2013 floods. You can view this project in person at the County owned Narrows Park near the Cherry Store!

Project Photos

Moodie Before

Before

The Jasper Lake project used large wood from tree trunks to stabilize banks at risk of erosion .

Jasper Lake During Construction

During

Moodie after construction

After

Upon completion, the bank is better stabilized for future high water events, and the wood also provides more nutrients and cover to enhance habitat.

Jasper Lake Today

Jasper Lake Today

Installed native vegetation has established providing quality riparian habitat and helping to ensure the banks remain stable.
Jasper Lake

Project Accomplishments

project length: 2,600 linear feet

10 landowners participated

33 in-stream structures installed

430 linear feet of bioengineered banks

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