One of the last free flowing rivers in the west, the San Miguel is experiencing increasing threats from the mining industry and potential development. SMA is involved in several conservation efforts along the San Miguel River.

WILD & SCENIC SUITABILITY: See the BLM RMP section for more information on the Wild & Scenic Suitability Recommendations.

INSTREAM FLOW: On September 13th the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) approved an instream flow filing for the lower San Miguel River from Calamity Draw (below Naturita) to the confluence with the Dolores River. These appropriations are based on studies by the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW), Forest Service and BLM scientists to protect several elements of riparian habitat along the lower San Miguel River. “This segment of the San Miguel River has been identified as being an outstanding population of three fish that are species of concern,” according to CDOW. SMA rallied strong support for the initial approval of this filing which was challenged by Montrose County and Southwest Water Conservation District. SMA again rallied support and took legal action to defend the CWCB decision.

WATER RIGHTS: SMA has filed opposition to several Montrose County water rights applications. We feel that these applications are based on the desire of Montrose County to turn the West End of Montrose and San Miguel Counties into an industrial zone severely diminishing the natural flows of the San Miguel River, threatening water quality, endangering the threatened Colorado River Fish and riparian habitat, as well as recreational and agricultural opportunities for the entire region.