Forest Service plans fixes to habitat, erosion

Native Colorado cutthroats aren’t the only things taking a beating on Hermosa Creek. Heavy recreational use along a 1-mile stretch of the creek, from Hotel Draw down to its confluence with the East Fork, has caused erosion and degradation of fish habitat. The San Juan Public Lands Center is working on a proposal to improve fish habitat and rehabilitate erosion along the popular stretch, which is adjacent to the Hermosa Park Road (Forest Road 578).

The project, which would take place in late summer or early fall over the next two years, seeks to deepen the channel along outside bends and create deep, shaded pools where trout can find refuge during low-flow periods. Boulders would also be placed in the channel in random clusters. the work will involve the use of heavy equipment in the stream and along the banks. Any disturbed soils would be reseeded with a native grass mixture.

Is it hoped the end result will improve recreational fishing.

The Forest Service is taking public comment on the plan though June 1. Public input should be sent to Cam Hooley, Columbine Public Lands, P.O. Box 439, Bayfield, CO 81122 or via e-mail at: chooley@fs.fed.us.