In April 2026, the Middle Colorado Watershed Council completed a years-long project on Roan Creek. Supported by grant funding from Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Water Conservation Board, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado River District and the Trout and Salmon Foundation, the project represents a win for both conservation and agricultural water efficiency and delivery.
Located in a remote stretch of Roan Creek in western Garfield County, the permanent fish barrier protects one of Colorado’s most unique native fish assemblages, including a rare genetic strain of Colorado River cutthroat trout, as well as bluehead sucker, Paiute sculpin and speckled dace.
The Roan Creek Fish Barrier project also replaced outdated irrigation infrastructure, eliminated a pushup dam and installed a modern concrete diversion with a headgate, fish screen and flow-measuring device, improving efficiency for water users while benefiting stream function and aquatic habitat.
