Colorado to pay 75% of counties’ share for watershed recovery work
The commitment covers eligible projects tied to the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain fires in Ouray, Pueblo and Custer counties, leaving local sponsors responsible for 6.25% of eligible construction costs under the federal-state cost split.
Colorado pledged to cover 75% of the local cost share for eligible watershed-recovery projects tied to the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain fires, reducing the amount counties would pay for work aimed at flood risks.
Gov. Jared Polis announced the commitment Oct. 2, offering the support to Ouray, Pueblo and Custer counties, the Governor’s Office announcement says.
The federal Natural Resources Conservation Service generally covers 75% of eligible construction costs through its Emergency Watershed Protection program, leaving local sponsors to pay 25%. With Colorado covering 75% of that local share, the state would pay 18.75% of eligible construction costs and counties would pay 6.25%.
The Emergency Watershed Protection program helps communities respond to imminent threats to life and property after disasters. Eligible work can include clearing debris from waterways and culverts, stabilizing eroded streambanks and repairing damaged drainage facilities. Local sponsors, such as counties, work with the federal agency on projects.
The state announcement did not identify specific projects or give a total state contribution.