Why it is a Conservation Priority
Currently, the river channel below Magic Dam has only marginal flows for much of the year. During the spring/summer irrigation season, the Big Wood Canal Company releases water from the reservoir into the river for diversion into the Richfield Canal system. Once the irrigation season ends, no water is released. With the exception of runoff and groundwater seepage, water recharge to the lower Big Wood River is non-existent for much of the year. The minimal flows during spring and fall spawning and hatching periods preclude successful reproduction in the river below the dam. The lack of recharge to the river outside of irrigation season also has negative impacts on survival of wild rainbow and brown trout populations, particularly during drought years.
What To Do And See:
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Visiting Water Below Magic Dam Project:
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Restoration & Education Goals:
The Land Trust is working with the canal company to find innovative ways to conserve water in the irrigation system below Magic Reservoir. In exchange for our participation in this process, we hope to acquire “shares” of water to bank in the reservoir and release into the river during times of low flow, creating sufficient year-round flows for fish and the river ecosystem. The conserved water will provide mutual benefits to the fishery and agricultural users. Currently, we are conducting a study of stream flows in this section of the Big Wood River to provide a clear picture of how much water needs to be conserved in order to accomplish our fishery enhancement goals.
Water Below Magic Dam Project Media Links:
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