American Whitewater has been actively engaged in advocacy on the Northern Integrated Supply Project (NISP), which proposes to divert water from the Cache la Poudre River to fill the planned Glade Reservoir northwest of Fort Collins. Because the proposed diversions would occur just upstream of the popular Filter Plant Run, the project poses significant risks to river health and recreation. By removing a large portion of the spring snowmelt flows that shape the river and sustain boating opportunities, NISP could fundamentally alter the character of the Poudre as it flows from the canyon into Fort Collins. American Whitewater has consistently raised concerns that reducing peak flows would harm the ecological integrity of the river, degrade habitat, and eliminate critical high-flow periods that support whitewater recreation and maintain a healthy river channel.
Through the federal and local permitting processes, American Whitewater has submitted technical comments, collaborated with partners, and worked closely with the City of Fort Collins and local paddling groups to ensure that the voices of river users are represented. Our analysis has documented how the proposed diversions would affect recreation flows, and we have called for mitigation measures that protect boating opportunities and maintain a living river through Fort Collins. Beyond advocacy, American Whitewater has supported on-the-ground improvements such as efforts to enhance fish and boat passage at the Gateway Diversion Dam, making the Poudre River a more connected and accessible waterway.
While the Record of Decision for NISP has been issued, the project continues to evolve, and American Whitewater remains engaged to safeguard the river’s flow regime and recreational values. We will continue to advocate for solutions that protect the river’s natural hydrograph, sustain the recreational experience that defines the Poudre, and uphold the community’s long-standing relationship with its home river.