Best Practices for Ecological Reclamation of Gravel Mines

Restoring Riparian Habitat

Though they cover only a small fraction of the landscape, riparian habitats support an outsized proportion of Colorado’s biodiversity. Over 80% of the region’s mammals, 90% of its bird species, and three-quarters of its reptiles and amphibians depend on riparian areas at some point in their lives. These green ribbons along the river provide essential food, water, shelter and migration pathways in an otherwise arid environment.

Yet as these habitats vanish, our baseline of what constitutes a 'healthy' river corridor is shifting. What was once considered standard for ecological function a hundred years ago—ecologically diverse self-sustaining floodplains and wetlands—has been markedly altered by many influences, including population increases, land use changes and more. Today, many see channelized waterways with limited vegetation as the norm. This creeping loss of ecological richness risks becoming permanent. However, we have an opportunity to purposefully work to halt, or even reverse, the trend.

Gravel mining plays a significant role in shaping the Middle Colorado watershed, and while it is an economic necessity, its impact on riparian habitats can be managed differently for better outcomes. Current reclamation efforts often fall short of restoring the ecosystem functions. Stabilizing a site post-mining is a great start. Now, we have an opportunity to design for ecological uplift—bringing back lost functions, improving water quality and creating habitat corridors that support a full range of native species.

To support these efforts, the Best Practices for Ecological Reclamation of Gravel Mines guide has been published by Middle Colorado Watershed Council and its partners, Lotic Hydrological, the Colorado Water Conservation Board and Pitkin County Healthy Rivers. The guide provides non-regulatory, science-based recommendations for mine operators, local governments and restoration practitioners looking to enhance reclamation outcomes. It highlights ways to incorporate modern ecological principles into both mine planning and site rehabilitation. As part of this initiative, the Middle Colorado Watershed Council is also offering a complimentary concept design for a past or current gravel pit operator interested in exploring ecological improvements at their site. Get in touch to learn more about this opportunity, or to request a copy of the best management practices guide to be mailed to you.

Our perceptions of what a healthy river system looks like are shaped by what we see today—but we can redefine the possibilities for riparian restoration.