Low flows force second Yampa River closure of the summer
Water flows dip below 85 cfs for 2 consecutive days
John F. Russell/Steamboat Pilot & Today
For the second time this summer, the city of Steamboat Springs has shut down commercial use of the Yampa River and is asking the public to voluntarily avoid all recreational activities on the water due to critically low flows, according to a statement released on Thursday.
The restrictions apply to commercial outfitting, as well as tubing, swimming and fishing.
City officials say the closures were triggered after water flows dipped below 85 cubic feet per second for two consecutive days, the minimum threshold established to protect the river’s health and aquatic life.
Notices are posted at notable access points along the Yampa, urging residents and visitors to stay out of the river until conditions improve.
City staff will continue monitoring river flows and temperatures at the 5th Street Bridge in coordination with partner agencies. The closures will remain in effect until further notice.
Support Local Journalism
Support Local Journalism
Readers around Steamboat and Routt County make the Steamboat Pilot & Today’s work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.
Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.
Each donation will be used exclusively for the development and creation of increased news coverage.