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CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
September 02, 2014
4:00 PM, City Council Chambers
MEETING AGENDA
I. Council Goals Update
II. Storm Water Plan Update
City Council Top Ten Goals
2014-15
DRAFT
1. Create a list of concepts by May 1st 2015 that can be used as “test
projects” to illustrate what a Initiate and complete a “walkable city plan”
in the downtown area might look like by May 1st, 2015. (public spaces and
rights-of-way) that prioritizes pedestrian access and safety; and
emphasizes the overall enjoyment and well-being for residents and guests
alike.
(Scott Miller, Chris Bendon, Randy Ready, Jeff Woods, Mitzi Rapkin,
Richard Pryor, Barry Crook, and Karen Harrington)
2. In conjunction with Pitkin County and the APCHA Board of Directors,
complete a review of the Housing Guidelines as they pertain to the
following areas:
a. Asset/Income Limits – what counts as income, what is discounted as
“not really disposable income”
b. Ability to qualify for more bedrooms than you can currently – so you
can “grow in place” as your family grows
c. AirBNB – short-term rentals as an option for deed-restricted
owners/renters
d. Product mix – what are we building and for whom?
(Barry Crook, Don Taylor, Jim True)
3. Re-do of the Malls: (Randy Ready, Jeff Woods, Chris Bendon, Mitzi Rapkin,
Dave Hornbacher, Scott Miller)
a. Design – use of the malls, how much outdoor dining, utilities, brick
pavers, drainage, features, furniture, lighting, water ditches, etc.
b. Public Outreach
c. Construction and timing
Proposed for
Postponement
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I.
4. Develop policies and procedures by March 1st that would reduce the
duration and intensity of construction impacts in residential areas and the
downtown.
(Scott Miller, Chris Bendon, CJ Oliver)
5. Implement Propose creative additions to the economic fabric of the
community by May 1st, including (a) new or enhanced uses on the North
Mill property and a redefinition of the SCI zone; and (b) the development
of a framework for an “uphill economy”.
(Chris Bendon, Barry Crook, Karen Harrington, Don Taylor)
6. Create a financial plan for Wheeler RETT revenues, determine the
available funding level for a Community Investment Fund, and decide on a
methodology for a community discussion and decision about repurposing
and extending the Wheeler RETT.
(Randy Ready, Steve Barwick, Jim True, Don Taylor)
7. Complete a review of HHS funding that identifies the purpose of the city’s
involvement in funding of HHS services, how we will participate in that
funding effort, and the amount and source of the city contribution.
(Steve Barwick, Barry Crook, Karen Harrington, Don Taylor)
8. Achieve direction from city council on a solution for the loss of downtown
Police and municipal office spaces.
(Scott Miller, Randy Ready, Barry Crook, Don Taylor, Alissa Farrell, Richard
Pryor, Mitzi Rapkin, Ashley Perl)
9. By July 1, 2015 identify carbon reduction opportunities in transportation
and lay out a pathway that in fuses appropriate and forward thinking
technologies into the Aspen community.
(Ashley Perl, Randy Ready, Steve Barwick, Dave Hornbacher)
10. Engage the community in the creation of a resiliency plan that identifies
Aspen's climate related vulnerabilities and establishes a plan for reducing
those risks and monitoring progress. The resiliency plan will focus on
energy, water, recreation, ecosystems, health, and infrastructure.
(Ashley Perl, CJ Oliver, Dave Hornbacher, Karen Harrington)
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Page 1 of 3
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: April Long, P.E. – Stormwater Manager
THRU: Trish Aragon, P.E. – City Engineer
Scott Miller – Capital Asset Director
DATE OF MEMO: August 28, 2014
MEETING DATE: September 2, 2014
RE: Update of Master Plan Models and Detention Analysis
REQUEST OF COUNCIL: Staff requests that Council provide direction on detention
requirements for private development, the capital improvements plan for the stormwater program
and the development of water quality treatment goals for the City.
BACKGROUND: In May of this year, Council approved a contract with Wright Water
Engineers for $31,000 to update the models used in the existing Surface Drainage Master Plan
(Master Plan) that was developed in 2001 and to analyze the extent of detention required on
private developments given the available capacity and goals for our existing stormwater system.
The 2001 Master Plan was developed to identify major surface drainage systems in the City that
convey runoff from the mountain and urbanized portions of the City via storm drains, pipes, and
streets to the Roaring Fork River. It also analyzed the stormwater system to determine its condition
and the portions of the system that would be overwhelmed during certain storm events. For
example, most of the stormwater system in Garmisch would flood in an event as small as the 2-yr
storm, which has a fifty-percent chance of occurring in any given year. From this Master Plan, the
City developed a capital projects list to address flooding concerns, and developed regulations for
detention and conveyance for developing and redeveloping properties in the basin. The City’s goal
is to have a stormwater system that can carry the 10-year storm (ten-percent chance of occurring in
any given year) through the piping network without flooding streets or properties.
DISCUSSION: With the increasing costs of designing and installing detention and water quality
facilities on each private property, and the frustration from our customers over the time needed for
engineering department review of these designs, staff felt it was important to evaluate ways to
streamline the design and review processes.
Therefore, one goal for this project was to determine if the City can and would like to assign a
standard detention volume and release rate that could be applicable to every property within a certain
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Page 2 of 3
basin. The other goal of the project was to determine if water quality treatment requirements are
lessening the demand on our stormwater system, and therefore, providing more allowable capacity in
the system than was calculated in 2001.
During the analysis required for the project staff discovered that NOAA – the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration – recently released new hydrology (rainfall records) for the Aspen area.
Staff requested that WWE review the new data and compare it to our existing data. The previous
data available for the Aspen area was based on NOAA Atlas 2 which included a period of record
from 1948-1973 (roughly 25 years). The new NOAA Atlas 14 provides data for this area through
2010 – 40 more years of rainfall record that wasn’t previously available to us. This new data shows
smaller rainfall events than in the previous Atlas, and describes return storms as smaller events than
in the previous Atlas.
Design Storm Event URMP/NOAA Atlas 2
Depth (inches)
NOAA Atlas 14
Depth (inches)
Percent Change
10-yr, 1-hour storm 1.20 0.77 35%
100-yr, 1-hour storm 1.69 1.23 28%
Per the Urban Runoff Management Plan, development and redevelopment projects must design
detention to meet the historic runoff rates (i.e. sites cannot discharge runoff at rates higher than what
was discharged when the area wasn’t a city). WWE analyzed existing runoff rates and historic
runoff rates for all of the sub-basins in the Aspen Mountain Drainage Basin. WWE then modeled
scenarios of providing detention to the historic rate for every development within a sub-basin to
determine the effects this might have on the pipe network downstream of that basin. It was
determined that the upland portion of the watershed, which includes practically all of Aspen
Mountain, produces much greater flows than those detained here in town. So, providing detention
for the relatively small developed area here in the City had fairly insignificant impacts on decreasing
the demand on the stormwater system, especially during the 10 year storm. Additionally, changing
the timing of the flow with detention does not gain any decreased chance of flooding in the river.
WWE also analyzed the effects of implementing water quality treatments (infiltration and green
infrastructure) in each basin at different levels of implementation – 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. At
100% implementation, the first quarter-inch of runoff from all impervious surfaces in the basin
would be infiltrated into the ground. This analysis showed significant effect during small storm
events (up to the 10-year event) on decreasing the demands on our system. Infiltration and green
infrastructure also have the added benefit of recharging groundwater, therefore delivering more
water to the river in the months after the “rainy season,” which is when the river is at its lowest flow
levels for the year.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Staff is requesting direction from Council regarding:
1. Adoption of the new NOAA Atlas 14 hydrology (which would guide drainage design)
2. Adoption of decreased detention requirements, especially for those properties that discharge
directly into the City’s stormwater system
Adoption of this new information will require changes to the URMP that could be approved by
Resolution in the September 22 Council Meeting.
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Page 3 of 3
NEXT STEPS: Staff plans to return to Council in work session to present recommendations for
a reprioritized capital improvements plans for regional detention projects, pipe upgrades and
replacement (including updated estimates in 2014 dollars), and a water quality project
implementation plan by basin.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
ATTACHMENTS:
None.
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Clean River Initiative
2008
City of Aspen
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Clean River Initiative
2008 – 2012 Summary
August 2014
City of Aspen Engineering Department
130 S Galena St.
Aspen, Colorado 81611
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
1
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Program Inception and Goals
In 2005 and 2006, two local studies were released that identified a strong technical basis for
concern about the adverse effects of Aspen’s urbanization on the quality of the Roaring Fork River
(Roaring Fork Conservancy State of the Watershed Report, 2005 and Roaring Fork Stre
Initiative, 2006). It is generally understood
areas contribute significant amounts of pollutants to receiving waters
Aspen is no different. The adverse effect
riparian vegetation as a result of development and channelization of the riparian areas along the Roaring
Fork River (the River). The reduced river flows due to diversions upstream further comp
problem.
Additionally, in 2001 the City completed a Surface Drainage Master Plan
Aspen Mountain Basin that showed that the majority of the stormwater system in the downtown area
was not capable of carrying even minor storm
Master Plan also identified risks associated with a mud flow from Aspen Mountain, showing mud
accumulating more than 2 feet deep in several areas of town.
In response to these reports and the loom
municipalities across the nation, citizens and staff became concerned that the City of Aspen needed a
more aggressive approach to river protection and restoration
and City Council, through an extensive planning process, developed a Stormwater Business Plan (AMEC,
2007) that recommended the development and implementation of a moderate stormwater program.
The Stormwater Business Plan provided guidelines for a
quality improvements for the Roaring Fork River and stormwater system improvements over a 15
period.
The primary objective of the Clean River Initiative
and mitigate the impacts of urbanization on the Roaring Fork River.
following goals have been identified, either at program inception or as we have learned more about the
City’s impacts to the River.
• Develop a stormwater management
year-to-year
• Generate funding that is adequate, stable, equitable and dedicated solely to the
• Coordinate stormwater-related responsibilities from a unified front
• Protect human health, safety and
• Improve and maintain watershed functions in the Roaring Fork Valley, including water quality,
riparian habitat, and hydrology
• Involve stakeholders in the protection, maintenance and restoration of the Aspen watershed
• Practice stormwater management techniques that mimic natural hydrology
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
oals
local studies were released that identified a strong technical basis for
concern about the adverse effects of Aspen’s urbanization on the quality of the Roaring Fork River
(Roaring Fork Conservancy State of the Watershed Report, 2005 and Roaring Fork Stre
Initiative, 2006). It is generally understood across the nation that stormwater discharges from urban
areas contribute significant amounts of pollutants to receiving waters, and these reports found that
Aspen is no different. The adverse effects of these polluted discharges are exacerbated by the loss of
riparian vegetation as a result of development and channelization of the riparian areas along the Roaring
Fork River (the River). The reduced river flows due to diversions upstream further comp
Additionally, in 2001 the City completed a Surface Drainage Master Plan (Master Plan)
Aspen Mountain Basin that showed that the majority of the stormwater system in the downtown area
was not capable of carrying even minor storm events without flooding properties and buildings. This
Master Plan also identified risks associated with a mud flow from Aspen Mountain, showing mud
accumulating more than 2 feet deep in several areas of town.
In response to these reports and the looming federal and state standards placed on
municipalities across the nation, citizens and staff became concerned that the City of Aspen needed a
river protection and restoration. A Citizens Review Committee, City staff,
Council, through an extensive planning process, developed a Stormwater Business Plan (AMEC,
2007) that recommended the development and implementation of a moderate stormwater program.
The Stormwater Business Plan provided guidelines for a Clean River Initiative that would focus on water
quality improvements for the Roaring Fork River and stormwater system improvements over a 15
ary objective of the Clean River Initiative for the City of Aspen is to prevent, reduce,
ization on the Roaring Fork River. To accomplish this objective, the
following goals have been identified, either at program inception or as we have learned more about the
management program that is comprehensive, cohesive, and consistent
Generate funding that is adequate, stable, equitable and dedicated solely to the
related responsibilities from a unified front
Protect human health, safety and property by reducing stormwater impacts
Improve and maintain watershed functions in the Roaring Fork Valley, including water quality,
riparian habitat, and hydrology
Involve stakeholders in the protection, maintenance and restoration of the Aspen watershed
Practice stormwater management techniques that mimic natural hydrology
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
2
local studies were released that identified a strong technical basis for
concern about the adverse effects of Aspen’s urbanization on the quality of the Roaring Fork River
am Health
that stormwater discharges from urban
and these reports found that
s of these polluted discharges are exacerbated by the loss of
riparian vegetation as a result of development and channelization of the riparian areas along the Roaring
Fork River (the River). The reduced river flows due to diversions upstream further compounds the
(Master Plan) for the
Aspen Mountain Basin that showed that the majority of the stormwater system in the downtown area
events without flooding properties and buildings. This
Master Plan also identified risks associated with a mud flow from Aspen Mountain, showing mud
ing federal and state standards placed on
municipalities across the nation, citizens and staff became concerned that the City of Aspen needed a
. A Citizens Review Committee, City staff,
Council, through an extensive planning process, developed a Stormwater Business Plan (AMEC,
2007) that recommended the development and implementation of a moderate stormwater program.
that would focus on water
quality improvements for the Roaring Fork River and stormwater system improvements over a 15-year
for the City of Aspen is to prevent, reduce,
To accomplish this objective, the
following goals have been identified, either at program inception or as we have learned more about the
gram that is comprehensive, cohesive, and consistent
Generate funding that is adequate, stable, equitable and dedicated solely to the C
Improve and maintain watershed functions in the Roaring Fork Valley, including water quality,
Involve stakeholders in the protection, maintenance and restoration of the Aspen watershed
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
• Reduce the amount of pollutants that have the potential to enter the
tributaries via stormwater runoff
• Reduce impervious surfaces
groundwater
• Reduce the demand on the City’s storm system and the cost of cons
systems
• Increase urban green space and areas for stormwater infiltration
• Foster positive connections between people an
• Address requirements of federal and state regulations to protect
protect watershed health
Funding
In 2007, the citizens of Aspen voted to tax themselves to provide a dedicated funding source for
the creation and operation of a stormwater program. The tax, a 0.65 mill levy on property ta
limited by TABOR restrictions. Between 2008 and 2012
the operation of the stormwater program.
It was the intention of the citizens and Council at the inception of the stormwater program that
the operating costs be funded by the tax
community. Therefore, in 2007, Council approved a System Development
for new or redeveloped impervious areas. 2007 was the height of the economy and, based on
development rates at the time, this fee was anticipated to bring in $1.2 million annually for the
stormwater program, generating $19 million and providing
stormwater improvements over a 15 year period.
about $800,000 annually.
In 2010, amidst the recession and facing significant pressure from the development communit
Council decided to withdraw the System Development Fee, replacing it with a
providing on-site detention. The Fee
owners that cannot or do not want to provide d
of providing detention and is discounted to recognize the economy of scale the City has in providing
regional detention and conveyance
approximately $215, 802 average annually to the stormwater program.
In July of 2011, the City’s Community Developm
supplement the costs of development review, began
collected by the Engineering Department for reviews and inspections is allocated to the stormwater
program. In 2011, this fee contributed $14,623 to the stormwater program.
contributed $126,898 to the stormwater program.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
educe the amount of pollutants that have the potential to enter the Roaring Fork River and its
via stormwater runoff
s so stormwater can infiltrate to remove pollutants and recharge
Reduce the demand on the City’s storm system and the cost of constructing expensive pipe
Increase urban green space and areas for stormwater infiltration
tions between people and stormwater
Address requirements of federal and state regulations to protect the public and resto
In 2007, the citizens of Aspen voted to tax themselves to provide a dedicated funding source for
ration of a stormwater program. The tax, a 0.65 mill levy on property ta
Between 2008 and 2012, this provided $830,000 on average annually
the operation of the stormwater program.
citizens and Council at the inception of the stormwater program that
the operating costs be funded by the tax-payers and the capital costs be funded by the development
community. Therefore, in 2007, Council approved a System Development Fee of $2.88 per s
new or redeveloped impervious areas. 2007 was the height of the economy and, based on
development rates at the time, this fee was anticipated to bring in $1.2 million annually for the
, generating $19 million and providing the ability to pay for the recommended
stormwater improvements over a 15 year period. Between 2008 and 2010, the fee actual
In 2010, amidst the recession and facing significant pressure from the development communit
the System Development Fee, replacing it with a voluntary
detention. The Fee-in-Lieu of Detention is an optional fee that is offered to property
owners that cannot or do not want to provide detention on their own property. It is based on the cost
of providing detention and is discounted to recognize the economy of scale the City has in providing
regional detention and conveyance on the owner’s behalf. From 2011 - 2012, this fee
annually to the stormwater program.
, the City’s Community Development and Engineering Departments, in an effort to
supplement the costs of development review, began charging for its services. Ten percent of
collected by the Engineering Department for reviews and inspections is allocated to the stormwater
In 2011, this fee contributed $14,623 to the stormwater program. In 2012, this fee
to the stormwater program.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
3
Roaring Fork River and its
utants and recharge
tructing expensive pipe
and restore and
In 2007, the citizens of Aspen voted to tax themselves to provide a dedicated funding source for
ration of a stormwater program. The tax, a 0.65 mill levy on property tax, is not
0,000 on average annually for
citizens and Council at the inception of the stormwater program that
the development
Fee of $2.88 per square foot
new or redeveloped impervious areas. 2007 was the height of the economy and, based on
development rates at the time, this fee was anticipated to bring in $1.2 million annually for the
the ability to pay for the recommended
Between 2008 and 2010, the fee actually brought in
In 2010, amidst the recession and facing significant pressure from the development community,
voluntary fee-in-lieu of
fee that is offered to property
It is based on the cost
of providing detention and is discounted to recognize the economy of scale the City has in providing
contributed
ent and Engineering Departments, in an effort to
charging for its services. Ten percent of the fees
collected by the Engineering Department for reviews and inspections is allocated to the stormwater
In 2012, this fee
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Another small source of revenue for the stormwater program is received from returns on
investments.
Revenue Source 2008
Property Tax $797,535
Investment Interest $49,853
Development Fees $700,831
Permit Review Fees $0
Total $ 1,550,227
Budget and Expenses
Prior to establishment of the
minimal, were costing the City’s General Fund approximately $336,000 each year. A stormwater
manager was hired in May of 2008, with the stormwater program really beginning shortly after
From 2009 through 2012, the stormwater program has
In addition the program has provided
Operating expenses include staff salaries,
of the stormwater system, upkeep to equipme
stormwater system, plans review, construction inspections, system inspections, water quality
monitoring, and general administration costs.
Set-Up
The program is set up as if the City were regulated by t
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit.
Municipalities regulated by these permits must have a program with six minimum control measures:
1. Public Education and Outreach
2. Public Participation and Involvement
3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
4. Construction Site Runoff Control
5. Post-Construction (Permanent) Runoff Control
6. Pollution Prevention from Municipal Activity (Good Housekeeping)
Each year, staff work to accompl
goals of the stormwater program
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
ther small source of revenue for the stormwater program is received from returns on
Table 1. Revenues 2008 - 2012
2009 2010 2011
$797,535 $812,297 $824,296 $884,217
$49,853 $74,951 $35,299 $22,410
$700,831 $440,847 $511,805 $324,651
$0 $0 $0 $14,623
1,550,227 $ 1,330,104 $ 1,373,410 $ 1,247,912 $ 1,099,448
Prior to establishment of the Clean River Initiative, stormwater-related services
were costing the City’s General Fund approximately $336,000 each year. A stormwater
manager was hired in May of 2008, with the stormwater program really beginning shortly after
, the stormwater program has operated with approximately $513
In addition the program has provided approximately $1.4 million in capital projects.
Operating expenses include staff salaries, staff training, public education, routine maintenance
upkeep to equipment (such as street sweepers), small repairs to the
stormwater system, plans review, construction inspections, system inspections, water quality
monitoring, and general administration costs.
The program is set up as if the City were regulated by the State with a National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit.
Municipalities regulated by these permits must have a program with six minimum control measures:
Public Education and Outreach
Public Participation and Involvement
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
Construction Site Runoff Control
Construction (Permanent) Runoff Control
Pollution Prevention from Municipal Activity (Good Housekeeping)
Each year, staff work to accomplish tasks related to these minimum measures and the overall
goals of the stormwater program.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
4
ther small source of revenue for the stormwater program is received from returns on
2012 Averages
$834,700 $830,609
$28,885 $42,280
$106,953 $417,017
$126,898 $28,304
1,099,448 $1,320,220
related services, which were
were costing the City’s General Fund approximately $336,000 each year. A stormwater
manager was hired in May of 2008, with the stormwater program really beginning shortly after that.
ximately $513,000 annually.
routine maintenance
nt (such as street sweepers), small repairs to the
stormwater system, plans review, construction inspections, system inspections, water quality
he State with a National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit.
Municipalities regulated by these permits must have a program with six minimum control measures:
inimum measures and the overall
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Operations Overview
The Clean River Initiative and the majority of its operations are housed in the Engineering Department,
with the following staff members dedi
Stormwater Manager: Dedicated
Manager ensures the successful achievement
stormwater staff members, capital projects, the
the stormwater system. The Stormwater Manager researches advancements in the stormwater industry
and in stormwater technology, stays abreast of change
monitors the effectiveness of the Clean River Initiative
procedures, guidelines and educational materials, and
for both the public and City employees.
Development Engineer: The D
in the City for compliance with City Code, the URMP, and the Engineering Design Standards. His review
includes grading and drainage, excavation and stabilization, public improvements, geologic hazards, and
site functionality. Additionally, he reviews as
ensure that what is built in the field meets the intent of the approve
the long term. He writes policy and assists in writing technical guidelines and education materials. He
meets regularly with the development community to provide education and training.
Civil Engineer I: This position
reviewing civil plans and plats. She also assists the Engineering Department wit
projects from site design to computer programming.
Project Managers: There are multiple st
managed in-house. While the Stormwater Manager manages most design and planning projects, other
project managers in the Engineering Department manage the construction component of the project.
Stormwater Inspector: Through regular education, inspection and enforcement, t
Stormwater Inspector ensures that impacts from construction on stormwater runoff are minimized and
mitigated. The inspector checks construction sites in the City for the proper planning, i
maintenance of BMPs to keep sediment and
investigates drainage complaints and illegal discharges to the stormwater system.
Stormwater Intern: Each year, the stormwater program hires an intern for the summer months
with the main responsibility to gather samples during storm events for the stormwater monitoring
program. The intern compiles information gathered from lab tests and analyzes the in
identify trends. The intern also performs research, writes papers and reports, prepares educational
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
and the majority of its operations are housed in the Engineering Department,
with the following staff members dedicated completely or in some part to its success:
Dedicated completely to the Clean River Initiative, the Stormwater
achievement of the Clean River Initiative’s goals. She m
stormwater staff members, capital projects, the 160 Fund budget, and maintenance and operation of
The Stormwater Manager researches advancements in the stormwater industry
and in stormwater technology, stays abreast of changes to federal and state rules and regulations, and
the Clean River Initiative. She writes policy and ordinances, plans and
procedures, guidelines and educational materials, and also conducts educational projects
both the public and City employees.
The Development Engineer reviews the civil plans for all developments
in the City for compliance with City Code, the URMP, and the Engineering Design Standards. His review
nd drainage, excavation and stabilization, public improvements, geologic hazards, and
site functionality. Additionally, he reviews as-built drawings and stormwater maintenance plans to
ensure that what is built in the field meets the intent of the approved design and can be maintained in
the long term. He writes policy and assists in writing technical guidelines and education materials. He
meets regularly with the development community to provide education and training.
This position was added in 2013 to assist the development engineer in
reviewing civil plans and plats. She also assists the Engineering Department with a wide range of
projects from site design to computer programming.
There are multiple stormwater capital projects each year, all of which are
. While the Stormwater Manager manages most design and planning projects, other
project managers in the Engineering Department manage the construction component of the project.
Through regular education, inspection and enforcement, t
nspector ensures that impacts from construction on stormwater runoff are minimized and
mitigated. The inspector checks construction sites in the City for the proper planning, i
to keep sediment and other pollutants on site. He also responds to and
investigates drainage complaints and illegal discharges to the stormwater system.
Each year, the stormwater program hires an intern for the summer months
with the main responsibility to gather samples during storm events for the stormwater monitoring
The intern compiles information gathered from lab tests and analyzes the in
identify trends. The intern also performs research, writes papers and reports, prepares educational
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
5
and the majority of its operations are housed in the Engineering Department,
, the Stormwater
She manages
maintenance and operation of
The Stormwater Manager researches advancements in the stormwater industry
s to federal and state rules and regulations, and
. She writes policy and ordinances, plans and
projects and training
ngineer reviews the civil plans for all developments
in the City for compliance with City Code, the URMP, and the Engineering Design Standards. His review
nd drainage, excavation and stabilization, public improvements, geologic hazards, and
built drawings and stormwater maintenance plans to
d design and can be maintained in
the long term. He writes policy and assists in writing technical guidelines and education materials. He
was added in 2013 to assist the development engineer in
h a wide range of
, all of which are
. While the Stormwater Manager manages most design and planning projects, other
project managers in the Engineering Department manage the construction component of the project.
Through regular education, inspection and enforcement, the
nspector ensures that impacts from construction on stormwater runoff are minimized and
mitigated. The inspector checks construction sites in the City for the proper planning, installation, and
pollutants on site. He also responds to and
Each year, the stormwater program hires an intern for the summer months
with the main responsibility to gather samples during storm events for the stormwater monitoring
The intern compiles information gathered from lab tests and analyzes the information to
identify trends. The intern also performs research, writes papers and reports, prepares educational
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
materials, and participates in education
understanding of the stormwater program.
The stormwater program also has staff in the Parks and Streets Department. The responsibilities of
these staff members involves maintenance and operation of the stormwater system
well with the purposes of those departments.
Parks Department: The Parks department manages local parks including the various biological
(planted) stormwater treatment sites we have around town. T
of the maintenance of the open stormwater system
through swales and other above ground facilities
general upkeep involved with engineered natural treatment parks, maintenance of inlets, outlets and
ditches. The City of Aspen Parks Department has a landscape
crew, and a construction department that does a
facilities including some of our more extensive biological BMP installments.
these BMPs, Parks staff also provide interpretative signage and tours
usefulness to aquatic ecosystems.
Streets Department: Plowing streets and street sweeping are the regular responsibilities of the
streets department. There is also regular maintenance that must be conducted on the storm sewer
system, such as inlet cleaning and replacement of damaged inlets or manhole lids,
done by the Streets Department.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
educational programs to increase the public’s awareness and
understanding of the stormwater program.
mwater program also has staff in the Parks and Streets Department. The responsibilities of
staff members involves maintenance and operation of the stormwater system –
well with the purposes of those departments.
he Parks department manages local parks including the various biological
ent sites we have around town. The parks department is in charge of much
stormwater system – the system that is NOT in pipes, but is carried
through swales and other above ground facilities. This involves the cleaning of the sedimentation vaults,
general upkeep involved with engineered natural treatment parks, maintenance of inlets, outlets and
epartment has a landscape architect, a landscape crew, a restoration
construction department that does a majority of the design and construction of Parks
including some of our more extensive biological BMP installments. After the installment of
these BMPs, Parks staff also provide interpretative signage and tours to highlight the functions and
Plowing streets and street sweeping are the regular responsibilities of the
ts department. There is also regular maintenance that must be conducted on the storm sewer
, such as inlet cleaning and replacement of damaged inlets or manhole lids, some of
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
6
al programs to increase the public’s awareness and
mwater program also has staff in the Parks and Streets Department. The responsibilities of
tasks that align
he Parks department manages local parks including the various biological
he parks department is in charge of much
, but is carried
. This involves the cleaning of the sedimentation vaults,
general upkeep involved with engineered natural treatment parks, maintenance of inlets, outlets and
architect, a landscape crew, a restoration
majority of the design and construction of Parks
installment of
to highlight the functions and
Plowing streets and street sweeping are the regular responsibilities of the
ts department. There is also regular maintenance that must be conducted on the storm sewer
some of which is
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The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
2008-2012 Highlights
The years of 2008 – 2012 provided for really interesting
Initiative. 2008 was an epic water year, with one of the largest snow
has ever seen. Both 2009 and 2010 were fairly average y
huge bringing us very near flood levels but holding off with a long runoff season.
saw one of the worst droughts on record.
Economically, 2008 was the end of
began in 2009, with construction decreasing to
recovery in 2012.
Other accomplishments of the program during that time
Program and Funding Established.
five years of existence. The program
and an additional yet small funding source via review fees
hired and the stormwater program was established. The program resides in the Engineering
Department and coordinates stormwater
Departments, and at times works with Environmenta
aspects of stormwater management. Because the program is set up
State permit, it is a comprehensive stormwater program that is consistently managed and expanding
each year.
Stormwater Added to Municipal Code.
Municipal Code to house stormwater
“Therefore, the City of Aspen establishes this set of stormwater
reasonable guidance for the regulation of stormwater runoff for the purpose of protecting local
water resources from degradation. It is determined that the regulation of stormwater runoff
discharges from construction and deve
control and minimize increases in stormwater runoff rates and volumes, soil erosion, stream channel
erosion, and nonpoint source pollution associated with stormwater runoff is in the public i
will prevent threats to public health and safety.
Construction Site Impacts Inspected
Construction Mitigation Program in 2007
noise, parking, dust, and excavations, were controlled and minimized. In 2008, Construction
Mitigation Officers (CMOs) began to also inspect and enforce the proper use of erosion prevention
and sediment control (EPSC) measures to prevent sediment from leaving the dirt
during storms and snowmelt. The CMOs also inspect for tracking onto City’s roads from
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
provided for really interesting and educational times in the Clean River
. 2008 was an epic water year, with one of the largest snow season and runoff season Aspen
and 2010 were fairly average years in hydrology terms, but 2011 was
huge bringing us very near flood levels but holding off with a long runoff season. Then, in 2012 the city
saw one of the worst droughts on record.
2008 was the end of a boom and development in Aspen was skyrocketing.
with construction decreasing to minimal levels. The City began to see evidence of
Other accomplishments of the program during that time:
tablished. The Stormwater Program has accomplished a lot in the
five years of existence. The program secured one stable funding source via the dedicated property tax
and an additional yet small funding source via review fees. In May of 2008, a Stormwater Manager was
hired and the stormwater program was established. The program resides in the Engineering
Department and coordinates stormwater-related efforts between the Engineering, Parks and Streets
Departments, and at times works with Environmental Initiatives and Community Development for other
aspects of stormwater management. Because the program is set up as if the City were regulated by a
State permit, it is a comprehensive stormwater program that is consistently managed and expanding
Stormwater Added to Municipal Code. In 2010, the City created a separate section of the
Municipal Code to house stormwater-related regulations. Title 28, states the following purpose:
Therefore, the City of Aspen establishes this set of stormwater management policies to provide
reasonable guidance for the regulation of stormwater runoff for the purpose of protecting local
water resources from degradation. It is determined that the regulation of stormwater runoff
discharges from construction and development activities and other construction activities in order to
control and minimize increases in stormwater runoff rates and volumes, soil erosion, stream channel
erosion, and nonpoint source pollution associated with stormwater runoff is in the public i
will prevent threats to public health and safety.”
Construction Site Impacts Inspected. The City’s Engineering Department began a
igation Program in 2007 to ensure that impacts from construction sites, such as
dust, and excavations, were controlled and minimized. In 2008, Construction
Mitigation Officers (CMOs) began to also inspect and enforce the proper use of erosion prevention
ment control (EPSC) measures to prevent sediment from leaving the dirt-exposed sites
during storms and snowmelt. The CMOs also inspect for tracking onto City’s roads from
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
7
Clean River
season and runoff season Aspen
2011 was again
Then, in 2012 the city
boom and development in Aspen was skyrocketing. The Recession
The City began to see evidence of
The Stormwater Program has accomplished a lot in the first
stable funding source via the dedicated property tax
rmwater Manager was
hired and the stormwater program was established. The program resides in the Engineering
related efforts between the Engineering, Parks and Streets
l Initiatives and Community Development for other
as if the City were regulated by a
State permit, it is a comprehensive stormwater program that is consistently managed and expanding
the City created a separate section of the
states the following purpose:
management policies to provide
reasonable guidance for the regulation of stormwater runoff for the purpose of protecting local
water resources from degradation. It is determined that the regulation of stormwater runoff
lopment activities and other construction activities in order to
control and minimize increases in stormwater runoff rates and volumes, soil erosion, stream channel
erosion, and nonpoint source pollution associated with stormwater runoff is in the public interest and
The City’s Engineering Department began a
to ensure that impacts from construction sites, such as
dust, and excavations, were controlled and minimized. In 2008, Construction
Mitigation Officers (CMOs) began to also inspect and enforce the proper use of erosion prevention
exposed sites
during storms and snowmelt. The CMOs also inspect for tracking onto City’s roads from
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II.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
construction site equipment, proper storage and disposal of materials such as concre
stabilization and revegetation at project completion.
URMP Updated, Water Quality Standards Adopted.
regulations, and requirements for each new and re
own stormwater runoff before releasing from their prope
the River. The updated URMP provides principles for Low Impact Development and a menu of Best
Management Practices to meet the City’s new water quality standards.
across the state and is referenced by other mountain towns.
Development Review Improved
program, the City had already begun to ramp up the review of new development and re
development plans to ensure proper
adoption of the updated URMP and the transfer of the Development Review Engineer into the
Engineering Department and under the supervision of the Stormwater Manager, development
review has really improved. And therefore, c
has increased and impacts to the City’s stormwater system and the River
2013, one additional FTE was added with focus on assisting
which should result in a reduced backlog of project reviews and quicker review times.
As-Builts and Maintenance Plans
management requirements during design, construction and post
that many sites were not actually installing stormwater facilities as designed. In some cases,
stormwater facilities were completely eliminated after the owner had received a Certificate of
Occupancy (e.g. detention ponds were filled to provide more parking on the property
the Engineering Department developed requirements for the submission of As
completed at the end of construction and stamped by an engineer to ensure that the site was built
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
construction site equipment, proper storage and disposal of materials such as concre
stabilization and revegetation at project completion.
URMP Updated, Water Quality Standards Adopted. In 1973, very much so ahead of its
time, Aspen adopted the Urban Runoff
Management Plan (URMP) which
established regulations and guideline
stormwater management from all new
development in effort to reduce the impacts
on the Roaring Fork River. Unfortunately
this document was rarely used or enforced.
In 2009, City staff working with a team of
consultants, updated the URMP to include
new hydrology based on Aspen
data, more explanation and guidance for
meeting stormwater management
regulations, and requirements for each new and re-development to remove pollutants from their
own stormwater runoff before releasing from their property into the City’s stormwater system or
the River. The updated URMP provides principles for Low Impact Development and a menu of Best
Management Practices to meet the City’s new water quality standards. The URMP is well
erenced by other mountain towns.
Improved. Even before the establishment of the stormwater
program, the City had already begun to ramp up the review of new development and re
development plans to ensure proper drainage and stormwater management techniques
adoption of the updated URMP and the transfer of the Development Review Engineer into the
Engineering Department and under the supervision of the Stormwater Manager, development
review has really improved. And therefore, compliance with stormwater management regulations
impacts to the City’s stormwater system and the River have been reduced. In
2013, one additional FTE was added with focus on assisting the Development Review Engineer,
in a reduced backlog of project reviews and quicker review times.
Builts and Maintenance Plans Required. While sites were meeting stormwater
management requirements during design, construction and post-construction inspections showed
re not actually installing stormwater facilities as designed. In some cases,
stormwater facilities were completely eliminated after the owner had received a Certificate of
Occupancy (e.g. detention ponds were filled to provide more parking on the property
the Engineering Department developed requirements for the submission of As-Builts
completed at the end of construction and stamped by an engineer to ensure that the site was built
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
8
construction site equipment, proper storage and disposal of materials such as concrete, and site
In 1973, very much so ahead of its
time, Aspen adopted the Urban Runoff
Management Plan (URMP) which
established regulations and guidelines for
stormwater management from all new
development in effort to reduce the impacts
on the Roaring Fork River. Unfortunately
this document was rarely used or enforced.
In 2009, City staff working with a team of
consultants, updated the URMP to include
ew hydrology based on Aspen-specific
data, more explanation and guidance for
meeting stormwater management
development to remove pollutants from their
rty into the City’s stormwater system or
the River. The updated URMP provides principles for Low Impact Development and a menu of Best
The URMP is well-known
Even before the establishment of the stormwater
program, the City had already begun to ramp up the review of new development and re-
management techniques. With the
adoption of the updated URMP and the transfer of the Development Review Engineer into the
Engineering Department and under the supervision of the Stormwater Manager, development
management regulations
have been reduced. In
the Development Review Engineer,
in a reduced backlog of project reviews and quicker review times.
While sites were meeting stormwater
construction inspections showed
re not actually installing stormwater facilities as designed. In some cases,
stormwater facilities were completely eliminated after the owner had received a Certificate of
Occupancy (e.g. detention ponds were filled to provide more parking on the property). Therefore,
Builts - surveys
completed at the end of construction and stamped by an engineer to ensure that the site was built
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II.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
and will function as intended by the design
legally binding documents that follow the deed of the property stating that a stormwater
management facility(s) is located on the property and that it will be properly operated and
maintained per the Maintenance Plan.
Agreements, as well as site stabilization, are required before the Engineering Department will sign
off on a Certificate of Occupancy.
Jenny Adair Wetlands Constructed
Although this project was completed
the inception of the stormwater program,
is one of the most successful components of
Aspen’s stormwater program and is an
award-winning stormwater management
facility. The wetlands were completed in
2007. The entire project encompasses three
underground vaults that remove large
particles and debris, oil and grease
engineered wetlands that join together
before entering a water quality settling
that discharges through a controlling orifice
plate into the Roaring Fork River. Almost the
and 7th, drains to this regional stormwater facility. On average,
removed from the vaults each year. It is estimated that the wetlands and water quality pond
remove an additional 10.8 tons of sediment annually, resulting
each year. Over the period from 2007
being prevented from reaching the River.
Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado’s highest award.
It was determined that the Jenny Adair wetland and eastern vault were built with extra capacity for
stormwater runoff. Therefore, in 2011, a diversion was installed in the Mill Street stormwater pipe
near the intersection of Mill Street and Puppy Smith Road to
Street system into the Jenny Adair wetlands for treatment.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
and will function as intended by the design – and Operations and Maintenance Agreements
legally binding documents that follow the deed of the property stating that a stormwater
management facility(s) is located on the property and that it will be properly operated and
maintained per the Maintenance Plan. As-builts, Maintenance Plans, and Maintenance
Agreements, as well as site stabilization, are required before the Engineering Department will sign
off on a Certificate of Occupancy.
Constructed.
Although this project was completed before
ption of the stormwater program, it
is one of the most successful components of
Aspen’s stormwater program and is an
winning stormwater management
facility. The wetlands were completed in
2007. The entire project encompasses three
nderground vaults that remove large
particles and debris, oil and grease; two
engineered wetlands that join together
before entering a water quality settling pond
controlling orifice
plate into the Roaring Fork River. Almost the entire western side of the City, between Mill Street
drains to this regional stormwater facility. On average, 13.4 tons of sediment and debris are
removed from the vaults each year. It is estimated that the wetlands and water quality pond
of sediment annually, resulting in an average removal
2007 – 2012 that equates to approximately 145.2 tons
being prevented from reaching the River. This project received the President’s Award which is the
Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado’s highest award.
enny Adair wetland and eastern vault were built with extra capacity for
stormwater runoff. Therefore, in 2011, a diversion was installed in the Mill Street stormwater pipe
near the intersection of Mill Street and Puppy Smith Road to divert 4 cfs of runoff from the Mill
Street system into the Jenny Adair wetlands for treatment.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
9
perations and Maintenance Agreements –
legally binding documents that follow the deed of the property stating that a stormwater
management facility(s) is located on the property and that it will be properly operated and
uilts, Maintenance Plans, and Maintenance
Agreements, as well as site stabilization, are required before the Engineering Department will sign
entire western side of the City, between Mill Street
tons of sediment and debris are
removed from the vaults each year. It is estimated that the wetlands and water quality pond
in an average removal of 24.2 tons
that equates to approximately 145.2 tons of sediment
This project received the President’s Award which is the
enny Adair wetland and eastern vault were built with extra capacity for
stormwater runoff. Therefore, in 2011, a diversion was installed in the Mill Street stormwater pipe
from the Mill
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II.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Rio Grande Park Improved.
project for the entire stormwater program. O
another major pipe network – the Mill Street system
represents 30% of the City’s runoff
began to redevelop. Recognizing the opportunity and the
area once, Parks and Engineering worked together to quickly design an integrated stormwater
management facility that met the needs of the stormwater program while at the same time
improved the park for its wide variety of users.
Through a grant in 2006, a vault similar to those at Jenny Adair was installed at the end of the pipe
system that drains most of the eastern portion of downtown, before the pipe daylighted into Rio
Grande Park. This vault is located in the Rio Grande Recycle Center.
Improvements, completed in 2012,
under-utilized stormwater ponds into a state
of Parks and the stormwater program was to create a facility that appeared to naturally fit into
these settings – land adjacent to a ri
public and nature. The result is a large forebay that directs a constant base flow through the park,
with an engineered wetland on one side and a sand infiltration area that mimics a river sand b
the other side. These two areas are inundated during storm events to infiltrate runoff and remove
pollutants. They combine into one small pond before
tent. Beyond this bridge is Phase 2 of the project, t
will divert another large portion of flow from the Mill Street stormwater system into the western
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Rio Grande Park Improved. The Rio Grande Park area was identified as the highest priority
project for the entire stormwater program. One major pipe network discharges into this
the Mill Street system – runs adjacent to this park. Together this
’s runoff. In 2012, Theater Aspen, located within the heart of the park,
began to redevelop. Recognizing the opportunity and the decreased impact of only disturbing this
area once, Parks and Engineering worked together to quickly design an integrated stormwater
anagement facility that met the needs of the stormwater program while at the same time
improved the park for its wide variety of users.
a vault similar to those at Jenny Adair was installed at the end of the pipe
ins most of the eastern portion of downtown, before the pipe daylighted into Rio
Grande Park. This vault is located in the Rio Grande Recycle Center. Phase 1 of the Rio Grande Park
, completed in 2012, started from this daylight point and worked to redesign two
utilized stormwater ponds into a state-of-the-art stormwater facility. Two of the major goals
of Parks and the stormwater program was to create a facility that appeared to naturally fit into
land adjacent to a river – and one that would allow for close interaction of the
public and nature. The result is a large forebay that directs a constant base flow through the park,
with an engineered wetland on one side and a sand infiltration area that mimics a river sand b
the other side. These two areas are inundated during storm events to infiltrate runoff and remove
pollutants. They combine into one small pond before passing under a bridge to the Theater Aspen
tent. Beyond this bridge is Phase 2 of the project, to be completed in 2014. Phase 3 of the project
will divert another large portion of flow from the Mill Street stormwater system into the western
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
10
The Rio Grande Park area was identified as the highest priority
into this park and
Together this
. In 2012, Theater Aspen, located within the heart of the park,
of only disturbing this
area once, Parks and Engineering worked together to quickly design an integrated stormwater
anagement facility that met the needs of the stormwater program while at the same time
a vault similar to those at Jenny Adair was installed at the end of the pipe
ins most of the eastern portion of downtown, before the pipe daylighted into Rio
Phase 1 of the Rio Grande Park
ked to redesign two
art stormwater facility. Two of the major goals
of Parks and the stormwater program was to create a facility that appeared to naturally fit into
and one that would allow for close interaction of the
public and nature. The result is a large forebay that directs a constant base flow through the park,
with an engineered wetland on one side and a sand infiltration area that mimics a river sand bar on
the other side. These two areas are inundated during storm events to infiltrate runoff and remove
passing under a bridge to the Theater Aspen
o be completed in 2014. Phase 3 of the project
will divert another large portion of flow from the Mill Street stormwater system into the western
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II.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
side of the Rio Grande Park. All three phases join together before discharging into the Roaring Fork
River just downstream of the pedestrian bridge near John Denver Sanctuary.
Based on the design, these stormwater improvements have the ability to remove between 90% and
99% of all particulates larger than 60 microns. The eastern portion of the park, Phase 1, ca
19 cfs (larger flows are bypassed directly to the River). The western side of the park, Phase 3, can
carry 9 cfs. In brief, 30% of the City’s most polluted stormwater runoff will be directed through
facility, pollutants will be removed, and a muc
the river.
Water Quality Demonstration Projects.
demonstration projects are in the design phase. In addition to those designed and
City, private developments have designed and installed best management practices, such as green
roofs and paver systems that combined with snowmelt, that City staff will be watching as well.
Inspected Entire Roaring Fork and
Engineering Department and supporting staff have walked a section of river that flows through
town, including the Roaring Fork River, Castle Creek, and Maroon Creek. Staff inspect the river for
illegal pipes, discharges, intakes, or
diversions; dry weather flows; algae
blooms and other unusual
circumstances; streambank erosion;
unnatural sediment build up; trash and
debris; manmade bank stabilization;
and bridge scour. Staff has noticed the
health of the river change depending
on the proximity to development and
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
side of the Rio Grande Park. All three phases join together before discharging into the Roaring Fork
st downstream of the pedestrian bridge near John Denver Sanctuary.
Based on the design, these stormwater improvements have the ability to remove between 90% and
99% of all particulates larger than 60 microns. The eastern portion of the park, Phase 1, ca
19 cfs (larger flows are bypassed directly to the River). The western side of the park, Phase 3, can
carry 9 cfs. In brief, 30% of the City’s most polluted stormwater runoff will be directed through
facility, pollutants will be removed, and a much cleaner stormwater runoff will be discharged into
Water Quality Demonstration Projects. In addition to the large facilities mentioned above,
several water quality demonstration projects
have been installed in the City to test the
methods for pollutant removal ability and to
demonstrate for private developments the
options available for stormwater treatment.
Demonstration projects include rain gardens,
biofiltration areas, and permeable paver
systems. Much was learned during the design
and installation of the projects that will guide
future installations. These installments will be
monitored for effectiveness and durability in
the coming years. Several other
demonstration projects are in the design phase. In addition to those designed and
City, private developments have designed and installed best management practices, such as green
roofs and paver systems that combined with snowmelt, that City staff will be watching as well.
Inspected Entire Roaring Fork and its Tributaries. Each year for the past four years, the
Engineering Department and supporting staff have walked a section of river that flows through
town, including the Roaring Fork River, Castle Creek, and Maroon Creek. Staff inspect the river for
pipes, discharges, intakes, or
diversions; dry weather flows; algae
circumstances; streambank erosion;
unnatural sediment build up; trash and
debris; manmade bank stabilization;
and bridge scour. Staff has noticed the
the river change depending
on the proximity to development and
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
11
side of the Rio Grande Park. All three phases join together before discharging into the Roaring Fork
Based on the design, these stormwater improvements have the ability to remove between 90% and
99% of all particulates larger than 60 microns. The eastern portion of the park, Phase 1, can carry
19 cfs (larger flows are bypassed directly to the River). The western side of the park, Phase 3, can
carry 9 cfs. In brief, 30% of the City’s most polluted stormwater runoff will be directed through
h cleaner stormwater runoff will be discharged into
In addition to the large facilities mentioned above,
several water quality demonstration projects
have been installed in the City to test the
pollutant removal ability and to
demonstrate for private developments the
options available for stormwater treatment.
Demonstration projects include rain gardens,
biofiltration areas, and permeable paver
systems. Much was learned during the design
nstallation of the projects that will guide
future installations. These installments will be
monitored for effectiveness and durability in
the coming years. Several other
demonstration projects are in the design phase. In addition to those designed and installed by the
City, private developments have designed and installed best management practices, such as green
roofs and paver systems that combined with snowmelt, that City staff will be watching as well.
Each year for the past four years, the
Engineering Department and supporting staff have walked a section of river that flows through
town, including the Roaring Fork River, Castle Creek, and Maroon Creek. Staff inspect the river for
P16
II.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
the presence of a healthy riparian buffer. Staff has removed trash and debris ranging from bottles
and cans and construction materials to bicycles and rubber duckies.
Roaring Fork Listed on 303d List.
Health and Environment (CDPHE) issues two comprehensive lists of the state of water in Colorado.
The two lists, 305b and 303d, give detailed analysis of the major waterbodies and their individua
compliance with water quality standards. According to the CDPHE Division of Water Resources the
designated uses for the Roaring Fork River are Primary Contact Recreation, Water Supply, Aquatic
Commission is to protect waterways and return them to a measure of health that supports their
designated uses. An antidegradation rule has been adopted in Colorado to maintain and protect
water quality levels. This law states that waters should not be allowed to deteriorate below existing
or anticipated uses.
Staff will continue investigating the listing of the Roaring Fork in Aspen. However, it is expected
that a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) will be issued that
with.
Goals for 2013 - 2017
• Secure stable funding to replace the deficit created by the removal of the system development
fee.
• Define and begin a long-term monitoring plan to continue to measure the health of the river
the effectiveness of the stormwater program.
1 The 303 (d) List of Impaired Water can be found in Appendix D of the
Assessment Report prepared by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
the presence of a healthy riparian buffer. Staff has removed trash and debris ranging from bottles
and construction materials to bicycles and rubber duckies.
303d List. Every two years the Colorado Department of Public
Health and Environment (CDPHE) issues two comprehensive lists of the state of water in Colorado.
The two lists, 305b and 303d, give detailed analysis of the major waterbodies and their individua
compliance with water quality standards. According to the CDPHE Division of Water Resources the
designated uses for the Roaring Fork River are Primary Contact Recreation, Water Supply, Aquatic
Life (cold), and Agriculture. Sections along
the Roaring Fork River, along with a
handful of its tributaries, have been
placed on the 2012 Colorado Section
303(D) List of Impaired Waters
first time river stretches along the Roaring
Fork have been listed. The impairments in
river stretches pertaining to
listed as aquatic life (provisional). This
means that the standards set for healthy
aquatic life are not met in these reaches.
One goal of the Water Quality Control
Commission is to protect waterways and return them to a measure of health that supports their
designated uses. An antidegradation rule has been adopted in Colorado to maintain and protect
w states that waters should not be allowed to deteriorate below existing
Staff will continue investigating the listing of the Roaring Fork in Aspen. However, it is expected
that a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) will be issued that the City of Aspen will have to comply
Secure stable funding to replace the deficit created by the removal of the system development
term monitoring plan to continue to measure the health of the river
the effectiveness of the stormwater program.
The 303 (d) List of Impaired Water can be found in Appendix D of the 2012 Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and
Assessment Report prepared by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
12
the presence of a healthy riparian buffer. Staff has removed trash and debris ranging from bottles
Every two years the Colorado Department of Public
Health and Environment (CDPHE) issues two comprehensive lists of the state of water in Colorado.
The two lists, 305b and 303d, give detailed analysis of the major waterbodies and their individual
compliance with water quality standards. According to the CDPHE Division of Water Resources the
designated uses for the Roaring Fork River are Primary Contact Recreation, Water Supply, Aquatic
Life (cold), and Agriculture. Sections along
River, along with a
handful of its tributaries, have been
placed on the 2012 Colorado Section
303(D) List of Impaired Waters1. This is the
first time river stretches along the Roaring
Fork have been listed. The impairments in
river stretches pertaining to Aspen are
listed as aquatic life (provisional). This
means that the standards set for healthy
aquatic life are not met in these reaches.
One goal of the Water Quality Control
Commission is to protect waterways and return them to a measure of health that supports their
designated uses. An antidegradation rule has been adopted in Colorado to maintain and protect
w states that waters should not be allowed to deteriorate below existing
Staff will continue investigating the listing of the Roaring Fork in Aspen. However, it is expected
the City of Aspen will have to comply
Secure stable funding to replace the deficit created by the removal of the system development
term monitoring plan to continue to measure the health of the river and
Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and
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II.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
• Complete master planning for the remainder of the City’s large basins
implementation strategy for each basin
• Identify and construct water quality improvement projects to treat other large contributing
basins.
• Monitor existing and install other demonstration BMPs to improve runoff from City
properties/facilities and to provide better support and guidance for private developments.
• Research and create a program(s) to
degraded riparian areas along the River in the City limits.
• Improve the collection systems leading to Jenny Adair wetlands and Rio Grande Park.
• Improve understanding and comp
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative
Complete master planning for the remainder of the City’s large basins and develop and
implementation strategy for each basin.
water quality improvement projects to treat other large contributing
Monitor existing and install other demonstration BMPs to improve runoff from City
properties/facilities and to provide better support and guidance for private developments.
rch and create a program(s) to protect existing riparian areas and to improve the
degraded riparian areas along the River in the City limits.
Improve the collection systems leading to Jenny Adair wetlands and Rio Grande Park.
Improve understanding and compliance with the URMP and the EPSC requirements.
The City of Aspen Clean River Initiative 2008-
2012
13
and develop and
water quality improvement projects to treat other large contributing
Monitor existing and install other demonstration BMPs to improve runoff from City
properties/facilities and to provide better support and guidance for private developments.
improve the
Improve the collection systems leading to Jenny Adair wetlands and Rio Grande Park.
liance with the URMP and the EPSC requirements.
P18
II.