In a move designed to protect the natural environment of the Slate River, the state of Colorado has issued a water call on some junior water users in the Crested Butte area. As a result of recent low flows in the Slate River, the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) placed a call on its in-stream flow rights, which were established in 1980. Under the state's current system of water prior appropriation, older, more senior water rights have priority over younger junior rights. As of August 26, the Slate River's flows had dropped to 15 cubic feet per second (cfs), below the state-mandated level of 23 cubic feet per second. The CWCB last issued a similar water call in 2004. During the spring runoff, flows in the Slate River can flirt with 1,000 cubic feet per second.

To view the full story visit the Crested Butte News. For a copy of the original article contact the WIP at (970) 247-1302 or stop by the office at 841 East Second Avenue in Durango.