BLM acquires Mineral Point Ditch water rights to restore Burrows Creek
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LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Bureau of Land Management completed the purchase of water rights associated with the Mineral Point Ditch, a move that will help restore natural water flows and support environmental cleanup efforts at the Bonita Peak Mining District Superfund Site near Silverton. This acquisition is possible through a partnership with Trout Unlimited.
The Mineral Point Ditch has historically diverted water from the Animas River watershed to the Uncompahgre River Basin. By acquiring these water rights, BLM can now return that water to Burrows Creek, which runs through the Superfund site.
"The Mineral Point Ditch project restores natural water flows, improving a popular recreation area and addressing the remediation of historic mines,” said BLM Colorado State Director Doug Vilsack. “This acquisition is a critical step toward enhancing the environmental and recreational value of this area.”
Returning the historically diverted water to Burrows Creek will improve riparian, wetland, and in-channel habitats along the creek. These habitats provide vital habitat for stream insects and other species. Restoring the water flow will help flush accumulated heavy metals from the creek channel and facilitate remediation of the historic Boston Mine site.
BLM purchased the water rights using funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the agency’s Abandoned Mine Lands program, as well as financial support from Trout Unlimited, including the local Five Rivers Trout Unlimited chapter. BLM has already permanently closed the ditch so that remediation can proceed across the entire Boston Mine site.
This acquisition is an important step in BLM’s ongoing efforts to address historic mining activities in the Bonita Peak area. By restoring natural water flows, the agency is working to improve water quality and support the long-term restoration of this sensitive watershed.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.