Project Description

RELIEF DITCH

Feasibility and Reconstruction

Reconstructed Relief Ditch

Feasibility Study Cost: $25,000
Construction Cost: $923,000

Heading

The feasibility study (2004) and reconstruction (2012) of a gravel push-up irrigation diversion to a sustainable diversion that delivers a full decree of irrigation water and protects a senior water right while eliminating a fish barrier and safety hazard in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area.

Clients

Feasibility Study: Bureau of Land Management, Karen Tucker

Construction: Gunnison Gorge Anglers, George Osborn

Before Construction of Relief Ditch

Before construction of the diversion, the channel was bulldozed to divert water and contained dangerous obstacles for boaters.

Reconstructed Relief Ditch

After construction, the low-head rock diversion provides a full decree of water while leaving the channel undisturbed and providing safe passage for boats.

“Jeff came on board to provide technical assistance and oversight of a riverbank stabilization project. Even though this project was being completed with federal funding, he said, “It’s simple.” and with him on board, the project was in fact simple. He had a clear vision from start to finish that he helped the contractor to successfully execute in less than one month. If you want someone who will get the job done and make sure that it’s done right the first time, I recommend Crane Associates without hesitation.”

Alyssa Shomion, Agriculture Disaster Recovery Grants Program Grant Technician, Colorado Department of Local Affairs