News

Chimney Hollow Reservoir construction activity is starting to look – and even sound – a little different these days, as work nears completion and various tasks continue winding down.

Crews are making significant progress pushing us closer to seeing water flow into the future reservoir.

Chimney Hollow Reservoir Project managers are investigating strategies to mitigate the presence of mineralized uranium that is anticipated to be present in the first fill of the reservoir.

Beginning in August, crews will start to direct water through the valve house at the base of Chimney Hollow Dam and into the inlet-outlet structure at the bottom of the reservoir.

At its heart, Chimney Hollow Reservoir will do what Coloradans have perfected over nearly 150 years of statehood: retime water from when it is available to when it is needed.

Crews completed a project milestone in late April, placing the final concrete lift on the inlet/outlet tower.

The detailed, high-tech work occurs at the tail end of the reservoir construction project and includes tasks like installing local control panels, as well as finishing touches such as lighting.

After 45 years with Black & Veatch, Project Construction Manager Pete Boysen is well-equipped for his responsibility of administering the Chimney Hollow contract on behalf of Northern Water.

Larimer County officials have published the Chimney Hollow Open Space Adaptive Management Plan, a document that will guide recreation at the new reservoir and adjacent open space for years to come.