What is a watershed study?
A watershed study is intended to be a comprehensive analysis of a watershed that establishes existing conditions and identifies an array of problems and opportunities in the form of a watershed management plan. A watershed study is not intended to develop or analyze alternatives for subsequent implementation (e.g., construction projects). The primary goal of a watershed study is to develop the study from a regional perspective in which all participating governments benefit by "spinning off" projects under other authorities to address flood control, erosion, sedimentation and environmental restoration problems.

What is the Army Corps of Engineers (ACE)?
Please visit the Army Corps of Engineers Web site to learn more:
www.usace.army.mil/who.html


What are the objectives of the ACE Watershed Study?
The key objectives of the study include:

Incorporating public input and involvement
Assessing watershed characteristics and conditions
Outlining watershed issues/concerns with erosion/sedimentation as a key component
Analyzing watershed issues/concerns (using GIS when possible)
Developing, evaluating and prioritizing conceptual alternatives including both structural and non-structural measures
Spinning off projects under other authorities as appropriate throughout the study
Completing the watershed plan and final report

What are the major tasks of the study?
First, the study will define and evaluate existing conditions in the watershed. This will be accomplished primarily through comprehensive hydrologic, hydraulic, and geomorphic modeling. Additionally, environmental studies will be performed in order to characterize the basin, and to develop the baseline data for any potential NEPA processes associated with future projects done in the watershed. Other work will consist of a preliminary economic evaluation, geotechnical sampling to support the sediment evaluation, analysis of existing data, preliminary identification of utilities, infrastructure, and other constraints, real estate evaluation, and public involvement. The use of GIS mapping and analysis will be an important tool in these work activities, subject to the availability of information and required level of effort.  Possible areas for GIS mapping/analysis include: soils, geology, channel stability/instability, sediment generation/deposition, flood hazards, infrastructure/buildings/property, habitat, wetlands, land use, corridor vegetation, etc. 

Second, once existing conditions are analyzed, the study will attempt to identify, and prioritize remedial projects, both structural and non-structural, which address flood control, erosion, sedimentation, and environmental restoration in the basin. The non-structural measures will include those that may enhance overall water quality or reduce water quality impacts. These projects will be developed to a conceptual level of detail so that preliminary cost estimates can be determined in order to establish priorities. Potential projects will also be evaluated as to their eligibility for Federal involvement. It will be the goal of the study team to identify viable projects early, so that they can be pursued via other authorities.

Who is involved in this study?
This study will be a cooperative effort between the Corps of Engineers and the City of Colorado Springs as the lead sponsor, along with 10 other local governments in the watershed, the Colorado Water Conservation Board, and the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. 

How is this study funded?
As the lead sponsor, the City of Colorado Springs will be the signatory to the Feasibility Cost Sharing Agreement.  The City, in turn, will enter into cost-sharing agreements with the other participating entities in the watershed.  


For more information, please contact Rich Muzzy, PPACG Environmental Planning Program Manager, at (719) 471-7080 x109 or at rmuzzy@ppacg.org.