Lower Willow Creek Restoration Project

Category: River & Watershed Restoration
Organization: Lower Willow Creek Restoration Company

The overarching goal for the Lower Willow Creek Restoration Project is to reclaim the Lower Willow Creek Floodplain by restoring the physical, chemical, biological and aesthetic qualities as an integral part of the Creede Community. The end use of this property will be to provide passive open space recreation opportunities for the visitors and residents of Creede alike.

Phase I
Date Approved: September 2009
Basin Funds: $50,000
State Funds: $200,000

Phase I funded the construction of a new channel that reduces creek contact with mine waste and associated heavy metals to improve water quality as Willow Creek passes through the Lower Willow Creek Floodplain. The new channel is more sinuous and includes bank stabilization structures.

Phase II
Date Approved: September 2013
Basin Funds: $55,000
State Funds: $0

Phase II funded improved revegetation outcomes on the Lower Willow Creek Floodplain by importing soil and planting/seeding appropriate species. As the vegetation grows, this will improve biological and aesthetic conditions on the Lower Willow Creek Floodplain.