Severe flooding across southwest Colorado has forced Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to close offices, restrict access to state properties and deploy rescue personnel as rivers reach historic levels. The flooding has impacted communities throughout the region, with major damage reported at Navajo State Park and the Durango Fish Hatchery.
CPW announced the closures on November 2, warning that conditions remain extremely dangerous and continue to change rapidly. Power, internet and cell service outages have also left CPW offices in Durango and at Navajo State Park unable to answer phones.
Navajo State Park and Durango Fish Hatchery Hit Hard
At Navajo State Park, the San Juan and Piedra rivers reached historic highs, sending as much as 45,000 cubic feet per second into the reservoir. The reservoir has risen 51 feet since September 18, creating significant impacts across the 35-mile-long body of water.
All Piedra River access and the Sambrito Wetlands area are closed. Park access is limited to Highway 151 from the west, while the northern approach between Chimney Rock and Arboles is completely cut off. Several campsites remain available for residents displaced by evacuations.
The Durango Fish Hatchery has also experienced catastrophic flooding from the Animas River and Junction Creek. The Animas River reached 13,000 cubic feet per second, its second-highest level on record and highest since the 1911 flood. Hatchery employees are working around the clock to protect the property and fish.
Hunting Areas and Wildlife Properties Affected
CPW is strongly discouraging travel to Game Management Units 74, 741, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80 and 81. Hunters with certain licenses can receive refunds and have preference points restored if they return their licenses before their season begins.
OTC bull elk hunters are particularly advised against hunting these units during the third rifle season, which begins November 7. Five State Wildlife Areas are currently closed, including Devil Creek, Higel, Hot Creek, Rio Grande and Shriver-Wright.
Floodwaters Pose Additional Health Risks
CPW also warned that floodwaters across the region may be contaminated following multiple sewage treatment plant spills and failures. Residents and visitors should avoid contact with floodwater whenever possible and thoroughly wash any exposed skin with soap and water.
CPW has deployed its swiftwater rescue team to Archuleta County and continues working with local agencies as the region responds to the disaster.