More Restrictions, Rescues on Colorado Waterways

Colorado’s waterways aren’t done yet.

While a few rivers and creeks might have peaked, a lot are still churning—and in many cases it’s the lower elevations (you, know, where people live) that are seeing problems from the roiling runoff up higher.

New Restrictions on the Lower Arkansas

Today (6/10), the Pueblo City Fire Department, the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced restricted use of the Arkansas River from the Pueblo Dam to the Pueblo County/Otero County line due to the dangerously fast flowing and high water on the river.

The dam is located on the Arkansas River in Pueblo County about 6 miles upstream and west of the city of Pueblo. The dam’s crest elevation is 4,925 feet.

"Activities now prohibited on the river include whitewater canoeing, kayaking, recreational swimming (including with a life vest), and use of any single-chambered air-inflated devices," said a statement. "The list includes inner tubes, inflatable mattresses and inflatable rafts and any multiple chamber inflatables."

Violators will be cited.

“Water awareness and safety is extremely important this time of year in our community,” said Chief of the Pueblo Fire Department Barb Huber. “The Arkansas River is experiencing high volume at this time because of the time of year and the increased rainfall, so we ask everyone to be aware of restrictions, closures and safety hazards as we update the public about announcements.”

Trails along the river are still open to pedestrian and bicycle traffic, however, those using the trails are warned that they are doing so at their own risk.

The restrictions will become effective Tuesday, June 11.

As of today (6/10), the Arkansas River’s levels are at the highest they’ve been in ten years.

So, if way downstream in Pueblo there are restrictions on waterplay, think for a moment how dangerous it likely is up in the popular rafting areas around Buena Vista and Salida. Just something to ponder. And I hope you do.

Rescue in Basalt

Meanwhile, to the west near Basalt, two boaters were rescued on Saturday by emergency management personnel.

According to the Pitkin County Sheriff’s office, “two boats capsized and the two occupants were floating downriver.”

I drive along this stretch of the river every day, and I can vouch for its speed and volume right now.

Personnel from Roaring Fork Fire and Rescue, Aspen Fire Department, Pitkin County Sheriff's Office, Basalt Police Department, Eagle County Sheriff's Office, Pitkin County Open Space, and CPW responded.

“Rescue crews searched the Roaring Fork River from the 7-Eleven bridge to Willits Lane,” said a statement from the Sheriff. “The rafters were spotted and pulled from the river near the intersection of West Two Rivers Road and Colorado State Highway 82. One rafter, a 61-year-old male, was treated on scene for minor injuries. The second rafter, a 74-year-old male, was transported to Valley View Hospital with life-threatening injuries.”

Thus far in 2024, CPW calculates 16 water-related deaths across the state. There were 32 water-related deaths in 2023 and a 42 water-related deaths in 2022—a record. I really don't wanna see a new one.

Having nearly drowned twice while rafting in Colorado, here are a few thoughts:

1. Don’t go in or near the water.

2. Wear a personal floatation device.

3. Don’t go in or near the water.

4. Dress appropriately for extremely cold water (including a helmet).

5. Don’t go in or near the water.

6. Follow all restrictions and closures and, of course, don’t go in or near the water.

CPW has more tips here .

Here are a few more recent pics of rivers:

This is what Clear Creek looks like above Georgetown (6/8). I don't think many (any?) descend this stretch of water, but it gives you some idea of what one of Colorado's smaller rivers looks like right now: