Swan Hereford Ranch

In 2024 Freestone Aquatics was contracted to perform a full spectrum Stream Restoration project on the North Fork of the South Platte River that meanders through Pine Colorado. Services performed were Assessment, Design, Permitting, Construction, and Post Construction Monitoring. This 3-mile stretch of the North Fork was altered by agricultural activities and significantly channelized by Denver Water in the late 1960’s. The project goal was to restore fisheries habitat to over 3- miles of this pristine property. Prior to the restoration efforts angling was limited to a handful of locations across the 3-miles. Post construction angling opportunities were multiplied by a factor of 5, offering diverse habitats and angling opportunities in over 30 locations on the ranch. Treatments and techniques performed included enhancement and creation of riffle habitats, point-bar enhancement and excavation in pool features to allow for optimal cover, holding water and overwintering habitat for resident trout. Primary objective during this restoration effort was to incorporate a multi stage channel geometry to accommodate the dynamic flow stages of the North Fork River Project results were overwhelming and now more fish reside in the newly restored habitats and fishing can occur in flow conditions ranging from base flows to those exceeding 500cfs. Fishing access was also included as part of the restoration allowing for easy casting for those that get the pleasure to enjoy this wonderful fishing amenity.

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