Union Reservoir

Union Reservoir is much more than a repository for water.  It is a unique natural resource that provides for recreation and wildlife habitat.  It is a feature that is unique to Longmont and it has the potential to attract visitors on their journeys to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Originally called Calkins Lake, the lake was carved out during the last glacial age and is one of a very few natural lakes in Colorado.  In 1903, the Union Ditch Company drilled a tunnel to release water into the St Vrain River and with that project Calkins Lake, because of Colorado Water Law, was classified as a reservoir.  It is the only natural lake on the east side of Boulder County and has served wildlife long before humans inhabited the area.

I encouraged our city council to expand the capacity of the reservoir in a way that is compatible with nature.  I was pleased to see that they decided to expand the reservoir by 13 feet and to do this by inundation.  What does that mean?  It means that the west side of the reservoir will expand naturally and will not use berms or dams. This will create more wetland habitat for the wildlife in the area east of Longmont.  Wildlife can and does attract tourism, which in turn is good for the city.

I am supportive of the city’s efforts to acquire the land west of the reservoir using Water, Storm Drainage and Open Space funds.  This effort will meet a number of our vital needs.  It will expand our available water, will assist in addressing drainage needs in the event of a major 100-year flood and will provide for additional open space and low-impact recreational opportunities.   It will also preserve the bald eagle roosting area and help preserve the ecosystem that supports the bald eagle and other protected migratory birds.

I am looking forward to a revised Union Reservoir Master Plan that supports both our recreational and environmental priorities.