Colorado Waters Falling Victim to Drought

USSFN:  4/27/03 - Some of us might enjoy a mild winter, but for Colorado reservoirs, "mild" might as well be spelled F-A-T-A-L.  A series of milder than normal winters, in terms of snowfall, translates to a below average runoff from ice melting.  Several lakes and reservoirs in are likely to dry up this year as a result.  To make matters worse, water is being shut off to the Great Plains Lakes by suppliers that are concerned about irrigational issues.

In southeastern Colorado, official began a fish salvage operation in Two Buttes Reservoir.  This popular fishing area will more than likely dry up this year.  Charlie Bennett, chief aquatic biologist for the Colorado Division of Wildlife's southeast region, spearheaded an operation to preserve the fish at Two Buttes.  Starting in February, fish are being seined and dip netted, then trucked to other areas where the Division of Wildlife can assure water levels.

On April 14th, the Colorado Division of Wildlife authorized a public fish salvage at Two Buttes due to the low water levels and expected fish kill.  Fish may be taken by any normal method but limits are still in effect.  Two Buttes Reservoir is located in Baca County approximately 20 miles north of Springfield, CO.