Mesa County is launching a significant wetlands restoration project in the Clifton area, adjacent to the Colorado River. This initiative, situated off 30 and C ½ Road, aims to create the county's first "wetlands bank," a strategic move that local officials say will help manage costs for future public works. Construction is slated to begin this winter, marking a new approach for the county in handling environmental impacts from infrastructure development.
The primary goal of the project is to provide an in-house solution for wetlands mitigation. According to Carrie Slubowski, Regulatory Programs Manager for Mesa County, when the county undertakes road and bridge construction, these projects often impact existing wetlands. Such impacts necessitate mitigation, a process mandated and overseen by the Army Corps of Engineers. By developing and owning this four-acre mitigation site, Mesa County will no longer need to purchase external credits to offset environmental disturbances caused by its future development projects. This will reduce ongoing costs associated with complying with federal environmental regulations.
The parcel, located specifically between the River Trail and the Colorado River, has been under county ownership for over a decade. Currently, the site is characterized as a dried-up pond, a remnant from its past life as part of a gravel pit operation. Slubowski noted that staff within the county's Public Works department have long recognized the potential of this particular site for use as a wetlands mitigation bank.
Upon completion, the site is destined for a significant ecological transformation. It will be restored to a vibrant wetland and riparian habitat. Engineers plan for water to flow naturally in and out from the Colorado River, supporting the new ecosystem. Diverse layers of native vegetation will be planted, designed to create a rich environment for various bird species and other local wildlife. Additionally, a new walking path will be integrated into the design, providing a direct connection from the restored site to the popular River Trail, offering residents an enhanced natural space.
The county is actively soliciting bids for the construction phase of the project, with ground-breaking anticipated this winter. Following initial construction, new vegetation is scheduled to be planted by spring. While the River Trail will remain accessible to the public throughout the construction period, county officials advise residents to anticipate some truck traffic crossing the trail as materials are transported to and from the work site. The overall estimated cost for the project is $1 million. This investment represents Mesa County's inaugural venture into owning its own wetlands bank.
