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Pitkin County advances first reading of Crystal River IGA opposing new dams and transbasin diversions
Summary
An intergovernmental agreement with Gunnison County, Marble, Colorado River Water Conservation District and West Divide District would commit signatories to oppose new dams or transbasin diversions on the Crystal River; the IGA is revocable and preserves county 1041 authority, prompting mixed reaction and a second reading set for a later hearing.
Pitkin County’s deputy county attorney introduced an intergovernmental agreement intended to formalize regional opposition to new dams and new transbasin diversions on the Crystal River. Anorie McY told the board the agreement grew from the ongoing process to pursue wild-and-scenic designation and that the IGA’s core terms are a mutual pledge not to support new dams or transbasin diversions on the main stem of the Crystal River.
"Anorie McY: The agreement is pretty short and sweet — no new dams, no new transbasin diversions," McY said, summarizing the principal commitments.
McY also emphasized the IGA is revocable by any party and does not supplant the county’s authority under the state’s 1041 statute; the IGA language includes a carve-out preserving the county’s rights to act under state law. Commissioner Greg noted critics view the agreement as weak and said he looked forward to public input at the second reading. Commissioner Francancy described the IGA as a gesture signaling commitment to river protection and said it could help other jurisdictions move toward designation.
The board approved a motion to advance the IGA to a second reading and public hearing.
