NISP Adaptive Management

Our Commitment to a Healthy Poudre River

Guided by the Northern Integrated Supply Project (NISP) Fish and Wildlife Mitigation and Enhancement Plan (FWMEP), Northern Water and partners are investing in a healthier, more resilient Poudre River for generations to come through the Poudre River Adaptive Management Program (Poudre AMP)—a long-term, collaborative initiative jointly led by Northern Water and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Regional partners include Larimer and Weld counties, cities of Fort Collins and Greeley, towns of Windsor and Timnath, Trout Unlimited, the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed and other stakeholders who may join as the program grows. 

The Poudre AMP focuses on the Poudre River from the Poudre Valley Canal to the confluence with the South Platte River, coordinating actions that support river health in this dynamic and working system. By using a science-based, adaptive approach, the program evaluates conditions over time, adjusts mitigation measures as needed, and develops new physical and ecological improvements that strengthen the river corridor. 

Poudre River

A Collaborative Path Forward

A wide river flowing with mature trees on each side and green grass.

Together, Stakeholders are Building Toward a Unified Vision

An ecologically healthy and resilient Poudre River corridor that naturally sustains key resources given the ‘working aspects’ of the Poudre River.

With Northern Water’s long-term commitment to the Poudre River and regional partnerships, the Poudre AMP provides the framework and resources needed to protect, enhance and celebrate the Poudre River now and into the future. 

Through collaboration and long-term investment, the Poudre AMP will help deliver: 

  • Healthier aquatic ecosystems and improved water quality
  • More resilient wildlife habitat
  • Enhanced recreation opportunities
  • Increased flood resilience
  • A holistic, integrated approach to river management, and
  • Stronger partnerships among communities, agencies and local organizations.

Long-Term Investment in River Health 

Northern Water is committed to supporting the Poudre AMP for decades, including funding for planning, data and on-the-ground improvements: 

  • $50,000 per year for monitoring, studies and maintenance of mitigation actions
  • $1 million for a river-wide master plan or planning tools
  • $5 million for implementing projects identified through planning efforts
    • $1 million of this is dedicated to projects in the Fort Collins Downtown Master Plan and other City of Fort Collins initiatives
NISP Adaptive Management Program Map