Will pine beetles bring more water to Lake Dillon

If the forests surrounding Summit County avoid fire during the pine beetle infestation, the end result could be more water flowing into Lake Dillon. Speaking with the Mountain Pine Beetle task force, Colorado State Forester Ron Cousineau, explained that standing dead trees would not require the same amount of water as live trees resulting in a greater watershed for the area. Without a large fire creating a disturbance to the ground cover and destroying root systems the resulting  flows to Green Mountain Reservoir and Lake Dillon could be significant. The increase water flow could also be a benefit for wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.

Denver Water Board representatives Marc Waage and Don Kennedy would welcome the increased water flow. Waage and Kennedy are still focused on supporting fire abatement projects in the mountain areas. After experiencing the enormous floods caused by ground disturbance after the Buffalo Creek fire, the Denver Water Board wants to avoid a repeat of that event. The sediment collected in the Platte River reservoirs, is still preventing the efficient use of those facilities. The water board has been active in providing funding for local fire abatement projects, even on property that they do not own. They work closely with the Colorado Forest Service to fund projects, hire additional personnel and actively pursue additional sources of grants to help with fire abatement projects.

Mr. Cousineau also reported that the pine beetle infestation has exploded far beyond expectations with Grand County suffering enormous devastation. The number of trees being hit is astounding, with the infestation spreading to many smaller lodgepoles and even ponderosa pines as well.  Ron was asked about what has caused such a destructive infestation. He answered that  the single stand, single species lodge pole forest weakened by age and drought, has provided an environment for the bugs to thrive. Cousineau recommended that we consider a reforestation plan and management program that could help prevent future occurrences of severe infestation.

The infestation also seems to be moving back down into the front range as well, reports Clear County representative Ted Brown. He can see the infestation along the Chicago Creek  and Clear Creek areas, voicing his concern for the health of the water supply in his county and the effects that sediment runoffs might cause to the county micro filter water plant.

The next task force breakfast will take place on November 2 at 7:30 am at the Lake Dillon Best Western Lodge. Meetings are open and the public is encouraged to attend.