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The Windy Gap Reservoir, nestled in Grand County, Colorado, has long served as a vital resource for Northern Water’s Municipal Subdistrict. However, the construction of a new dam unleashed a series of challenges for the delicate Colorado River ecosystem. Disrupted natural flows, hindered fish migration, and the proliferation of harmful parasites threatened the river’s health. To address these issues and revitalize the river’s ecosystem, a bold initiative was launched, setting ambitious goals to reconnect the river, promote biodiversity and enhance resilience against climate change impacts.
Innovative Engineering Solutions
Tackling these complex challenges requires a multifaceted approach. The project involved rerouting the Colorado River and constructing a nearly two-mile-long 'connectivity channel' from the confluence of the Fraser River and Colorado River. This channel featured rifles, pools, and glides, aimed to enhance water flow dynamics and restore critical fish habitats. Key interventions included the installation of a new diversion structure, the construction of an embankment to reduce the reservoir's surface area, and elevation adjustments to accommodate the revised landscape. Additionally, the reservoir underwent draining and dredging to optimize functionality and minimize environmental impact.
³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø’s Integral Contribution
³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø partnered with Northern Water’s Municipal Subdistrict to turn their plans into reality. Our Advanced Solutions engineering team went beyond traditional equipment rental and identified creative solutions to address the project's unique challenges. Using twelve 12-inch diesel-engine trash pumps strategically organized into three stations, ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø maintained a robust flow rate of 250 cubic feet per second.Â
Recognizing the importance of efficient water transport, ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø proposed the use of TPU lay-flat hoses as a superior alternative to HDPE piping. Each pump station was equipped with two 16-inch TPU lay-flat hoses, ensuring durability and ease of deployment while significantly reducing installation time and costs.
Milestones Achieved
Each pump station deployed by ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø was operational within an hour, exceeding the target flow rate. As the reservoir pool diminished, in-reservoir work commenced, supported by our ongoing pumping efforts. Throughout setup, the dedicated ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø service team ensured equipment functionality and provided crucial training to project personnel. The channel welcomed its first flows within the anticipated timeline, marking a successful culmination of collaboration and innovation.
Conclusion
³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Colorado River ecosystem. From strategic pump deployment to efficient water transport solutions, our contributions underscore our dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. This transformative work has unlocked new possibilities for the river, ensuring its prosperity and resilience for generations to come.
For more information on how ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø can support your unique equipment rental needs, explore our online rental selection or contact us at (888) 80-RENTS.
