Blue River Watershed Group
Who we are
We are the Blue River Watershed Group, a non-profit organization based in Summit County, Colorado since 2004. Join us in our mission to promote, protect, and restore the Blue River Watershed. Get involved with river restoration projects, stream connectivity work, water quality monitoring, river cleanups and more.
Make a difference in the health of the Blue River and its tributaries today!
Promote
Protect
Restore
The Blue River Watershed Group is a local environmental nonprofit that leads and supports science and research-based river restoration projects across the Blue River watershed, addressing the impacts that development, recreation, and historic mining have had on our ecosystems, fisheries, rivers, and communities. Our work improves stream health, aquatic habitat, and water quality in Summit County, Colorado and has positive impacts throughout the Colorado River basin.
Key focus areas include:
River and stream restoration in Summit County including stream connectivity projects
Community-led aquatic habitat and sustainable fisheries projects
Water quality monitoring and data collection
Mitigation of the effects of wildfire and post-fire flooding on water resources
Abandoned mine impact assessment and reclamation work
Community engagement, volunteer opportunities, and educational presentations
What we do
Community Education- Partnering with organizations throughout Summit County, we create programming and hold presentations to increase community knowledge around issues facing our watershed. We focus on local issues and water management throughout the Colorado River basin.
Watershed Stewardship- Through scientifically backed methods, BRWG ensures the Blue River will remain a valuable and enjoyable resource for our community and a haven for wildlife. We engage the community to become a part of these stewardship initiatives through community science programs including water quality monitoring, River Clean-Up Festivals, and other volunteer opportunities.
River Restoration- Summit county's long and varied mining history has left abandoned mines scattered throughout our watershed. Our projects include restoration and stabilization of these mines which leach and drain contaminants into the Blue River and disconnect sections of rivers through large tailings piles which occlude the waterway.
This vital work restores stream connectivity, protects the watershed from leaching mines, and works to revegetate and revitalize these areas. Peru Creek, 10 Mile Creek, and the Swan River Restoration are all drainages which have benefited from these projects.
Watershed Planning- BRWG and partnering organizations prepare guidelines based on research and environmental studies which serve as roadmaps to ensure our work stays focused on the most important issues facing the Blue River watershed. These management plans span time and cover vast areas of the watershed, creating a comprehensive plan for restoring and protecting the Blue River and its tributaries.
Read more about our organization here.
How you can help
Your contribution makes it possible for us to continue our important work in the watershed.
Thank you for helping us achieve our mission!
