Work began Monday on the Yampa River aquatic habitat improvement project at the upper Chuck Lewis State Wildlife Area. 

The wildlife area will stay open to the public for the duration of the project but the section of the Yampa River within construction boundaries will be closed. The closure is expected to run through the end of September though no specific date has been announced. 

The two-phase improvement project will restore pieces of original work in the area done in the early 2000s to prevent further degradation. The work will include building several rock structures to direct the stream’s energy away from banks, re-shaping the channel bed to appropriate dimensions and adding bankfull bench features. 

Anglers looking to cast in the area will have the ability to walk along the river banks as long as they remain clear of construction work. Temporary signs have been posted in the area parking lots to alert anglers of the closure.

“We want to thank our anglers for their support and patience while working on this crucial habitat project,” said CPW Steamboat Springs Area Aquatic Biologist, Bill Atkinson. “Once complete, this project will allow the river to function in a more natural state, through improved riparian habitat connectivity and aquatic habitat features. Overall recreational amenities will be improved.”

Colorado Parks and Wildlife warns anglers that water quality will be poor downstream, and alternate fishing locations are advised. Other location options can be found by viewing the agency’s 2024 Fishing Brochure or by calling CPW’s Steamboat Springs Area Office at 970-870-2197.