Community Update: Denver Water Reports on Grand County Waterway Conditions
Denver Water has released its latest update on waterway conditions in Grand County—an important piece of news for both locals and visitors who enjoy spending time outdoors. Nearly half of Denver Water’s supply is diverted from the Western Slope, meaning waterways in Grand County play a vital role in providing clean water to the Front Range.
But for locals, these updates aren’t just about water supply—they also affect recreation, fishing, and safety. Here’s what you need to know about the current conditions.
Williams Fork Reservoir: Nearly Full and Flowing Strong
Williams Fork Reservoir, located just outside Parshall, is sitting at 99% full, which is actually slightly above average for this time of year. Outflow is currently 220 cubic feet per second (cfs), with Denver Water anticipating this flow to increase throughout August.
For anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts, these conditions can create excellent opportunities for recreation. However, they also require paying close attention to posted signs and guidelines to ensure safety.
Algae Bloom Advisory
Denver Water has also reported the presence of an algae bloom in the reservoir. At this time, the toxicity levels are unknown, and officials are awaiting further testing results. Until more information is available—or until the bloom subsides naturally—Denver Water is following recommendations from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Visitors should take the following precautions:
Observe all posted signs and warnings at the reservoir.
Avoid direct contact with the algae—this includes keeping pets and children out of the water in affected areas.
Stay updated on testing results and advisories through official channels.
What This Means for the Community
While algae blooms are a natural occurrence, they can pose health risks to both humans and animals if toxins are present. Denver Water’s proactive monitoring is meant to protect the community while still allowing safe recreation.
For now, those heading to Williams Fork Reservoir can still enjoy boating, fishing, and sightseeing—just with an added layer of caution. These conditions also highlight the importance of staying informed when planning outdoor activities in Grand County.
Looking Ahead
As August continues, water flows from Williams Fork Reservoir are expected to rise, which may benefit river health downstream and create better fishing conditions. Denver Water will continue to monitor the algae bloom closely and update the public as more information becomes available.
Grand County residents and visitors are encouraged to stay safe, follow posted guidelines, and enjoy the beauty of the area responsibly.