Little Thompson River Flood Rehabilitation, CO

CLIENT:  Little Thompson Watershed Coalition, TetraTech, Inc., USACE

In-channel deposition and flood debris along the Little Thompson River, CO

In-channel deposition and flood debris along the Little Thompson River, CO

FAST FACTS:

  • Re-established and improved floodplain function, riparian vegetation, and fish passage on the Little Thompson River after a massive flood occurred
  • Partially funded by NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection Program
  • Informed restoration and planting plans
  • Obtained necessary permits for restoration-related impacts to jurisdictional wetlands and waters of the US
Post-flood gravel deposition

Post-flood gravel deposition

In 2013, catastrophic flooding occurred on the Little Thompson River along the Front Range in Larimer County, Colorado, which resulted in riparian vegetation loss, channel migration, and reduced sediment-transport capacity. EMPSi obtained regulatory approval to restore this stream and improve habitat and flood resiliency. We conducted several field studies along the Thompson River to support restoration plans and identify potential biological site constraints, including assessing sensitive species habitat and necessary regulatory approvals. EMPSi developed plant selections for restoration, performed quality assurance review on project drawings, and drafted technical specifications for planting, seeding, weed control, mulching, and irrigation. 

EMPSi obtained regulatory approval for the project from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), who have jurisdiction over wetlands and waters of the US. EMPSi prepared a map of potential jurisdictional features, a summary delineation report, determined impacts on potential jurisdictional features, and provided other supporting documents to obtain project approval under the USACE’s Nationwide Permit program.