HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-02 A Resolution of the Town Council Adopting the Vail Golf Club-Gore Creek Enhancement Plan, an Amendment to the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan1
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DOCUMENTS/VAIL GOLF CLUB GORE CREEK/VGC GORE CREEK PLAN-R122925.DOCX
RESOLUTION NO. 2
SERIES 2026
A RESOLUTION OF THE VAIL TOWN COUNCIL ADOPTING THE VAIL
GOLF CLUB – GORE CREEK ENHANCEMENT PLAN, AN AMENDMENT
TO THE GORE CREEK STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN
WHEREAS, on February 8, 2016, by Resolution 9, Series 2016, the Town Council
adopted the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Town Council finds it in the best interest of the public health, safety
and welfare to adopt certain amendments to the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF VAIL, COLORADO:
Section 1. The Town Council hereby adopts the Vail Golf Club – Gore Creek
Enhancement Plan, an amendment to the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan, as set forth
in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
INTRODUCED, READ, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 3RD DAY OF
FEBRUARY, 2026.
______________________________
Barry Davis, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Stephanie Kauffman, Town Clerk
2
1/27/2026
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DOCUMENTS/VAIL GOLF CLUB GORE CREEK/VGC GORE CREEK PLAN-R122925.DOCX
EXHIBIT A
Vail Golf Club – Gore Creek Enhancement Plan
2026
191-026.070
TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Town of Vail Vail Recreation District Colorado Parks and Wildlife Eagle River Water &
Sanitation District
CONSULTANT TEAM
Wright Water Engineers, Inc. DHM Design Atkinson Design Group GEI Consultants Solitude Lake Management
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Project Overview
Gore Creek is one of Vail’s most cherished natural resources, offering ecological, recreational, and community
benefits throughout the valley. In 2012, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment listed Gore
Creek as an impaired waterway on the State’s 303(d) list due to declining aquatic life. Since then, the Town of
Vail and its partners have invested in restoration, native vegetation plantings, and the adoption of riparian
setbacks and “no-mow” zones. These efforts have improved conditions, yet key challenges remain, particularly
along the reach that flows through the Vail Golf Club where steep, armored banks, altered alignment, and
course design have limited habitat, floodplain connection, and natural function. It is the Town’s goal to have
Gore Creek removed from the 303(d) list by 2029, and this plan supports that endeavor.
The Vail Golf Club – Gore Creek Enhancement Plan, developed by Wright Water Engineers, DHM Design,
Atkinson Design Group, GEI Consultants, and Solitude Lake Managementon behalf of the Town of Vail, provides
a roadmap to restore ecological health while maintaining the golf course’s playability and resilience. It
integrates field evaluations, hydrologicand hydraulic analyses, historical aerial review, and community input to
establish a balanced, science-based framework for enhancement and long-term management.
Project Purpose and Goals
The plan envisions a restored creek corridor with gentler banks, improved floodplain connectivity, healthy
riparian vegetation, and naturalized hydraulics and geomorphology. It builds on the Town’s goal of having Gore
Creek removed from the 303(d) list by 2029 and emphasizes a philosophy of balance, enhancing ecological
integrity while maintaining recreational value.
Primary goals include:
Restore natural stream function through reconnection of the channel and floodplain to reduce erosion
and improve geomorphicstability.
Enhance riparian and pond vegetation to provide shading, habitat, and nutrient filtration, reducing
algae and improving water quality.
Stabilize banks and reduce flooding using nature-based techniques near the 7th Hole, 11th Fairway, and
15th Green.
Adopt sustainable management practices to minimize chemical use, support turf health, and reduce
wildfire fuel loads.
Increase biodiversity by diversifying native vegetation and improving aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Align golf course infrastructure with creek health to ensure resilient, cost-effective long-term
maintenance.
Areas of Greatest Concern
Field evaluations and stakeholder input identified four overlapping priorities:
1.Erosion along the 11th Fairway, threatening both the creek corridor and course infrastructure.
2.Flooding at the 7th Hole during peak runoff events.
3.Proximity of the 15th Green to the two-year flood line, limiting vegetation and increasing erosion risk.
4.Algae proliferation in ponds, driven by nutrient loading, warm shallow water, and limited vegetation
buffers.
Additionally, channel straightening and disconnection from the floodplain have reduced habitat complexity and
increased sediment transport, while steep, sun-exposed banks have constrained riparian growth.
Technical Findings
Hydrologic and hydraulic analyses confirm that Gore Creek through the golf course is shortened, steepened,
and confined, resulting in higher velocities and shear stresses. Much of the 2-year flow remains within the
channel, with limited overbank flooding except at the downstream end near the 7th Hole. The system is also
affected by the diversion structure at Hole 14, along with other man-made grade control structures, which alter
sediment transport, raise temperatures, and restrict aquatic passage. Geomorphic assessment shows that
straightened reaches lack riffle-pool sequences and natural variability, while upstream reaches retain more
complexity and floodplain access.
Vegetation surveys found aging
willow and cottonwood stands
with limited regeneration,
stressed conifers, and
widespread non-native turf and
weeds encroaching on riparian
zones.
Collectively, these conditions
degrade aquatic habitat, limit
macroinvertebrate diversity, and
heighten maintenance needs.
Yet, they also present clear
opportunities for ecological and
recreational improvement
through targeted design.
Aerial View of Vail Golf Club
Recommended Enhancements
The plan proposes a comprehensive suite of restoration measures organized under six themes:
1.Floodplain Reconnection & Channel Enhancement – Realign portions of the creek, regrade steep banks,
and reconnect overbank areas to restore natural hydraulics.
2.Bank Stabilization & Vegetative Buffers – Replace hardened edges with native willow plantings and
bioengineered stabilization.
3.Pond and Water-Quality Improvements – Enhance pond edge vegetation, reduce nutrient inputs, and
increase aeration to control algae.
4.Vegetation & Wildfire Management – Thin overmature spruce, replant diverse native species, and
remove excess fuel loads.
5.Golf Course Adjustments – Modify limited tees, cart paths, and turf edges to allow for restoration while
maintaining playability.
6.Public & Educational Components – Install interpretive signage and develop outreach materials linking
recreation, water quality, and wildlife stewardship.
Conceptual (50%) designs have been developed for critical sites, supported by updated hydraulic mapping and
ecological assessments.
Community Engagement & Next Steps
Stakeholder outreach in 2025 included presentations to the Town Council and the Planning and Environmental
Commission, as well as a well-attended public open house at the golf club. Feedback emphasized maintaining
playability, transparency in pesticide reduction, and support for creek realignment that restores historical flow
paths.
Next steps include advancing design development through surveys and modeling, securing permits,
coordinating interagency approvals, identifying funding, and implementing a monitoring and adaptive
management framework.
Conclusion
The Vail Golf Club – Gore Creek Enhancement Plan represents a collaborative step toward restoring one of
Vail’s defining natural assets. By restoring natural creek geomorphology, increasing channel complexity and
diversity, improving vegetation and pond health, and integrating ecological design into golf course
management, the Town of Vail can achieve meaningful progress toward removing Gore Creek from the 303(d)
list.
Beyond meeting regulatory goals, this effort enhances community resilience, strengthens habitat for fish and
wildlife, and preserves the scenic and recreational values that make Vail unique.
With continued investment, monitoring, and community partnership, the Town can ensure Gore Creek
continues to thrive as a living, resilient centerpiece of Vail’s landscape for generations to come.
Vail Golf Club, Gore Creek, and Interstate 70
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
1.0 Project Approach ...................................................................................................................... 2
2.0 Project Purpose......................................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Campaign Goals............................................................................................................ 3
2.2 Areas of Greatest Concern........................................................................................... 3
2.3 Scope of Work .............................................................................................................. 3
2.3.1 Key Areas of Focus...................................................................................... 3
2.3.2 Deliverables................................................................................................. 4
2.3.3 Next Steps................................................................................................... 4
3.0 Stakeholder Outreach............................................................................................................... 4
4.0 Previous Studies........................................................................................................................ 4
4.1 303(d) List..................................................................................................................... 4
4.2 Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan – Restore the Gore................................................. 5
4.3 Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance........................................................................ 5
4.4 1.5 & 2-Year Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study.............................................................. 5
4.5 Vail Planting Guides...................................................................................................... 5
4.6 Previous Planting Efforts.............................................................................................. 6
4.7 FEMA Flood Insurance Study........................................................................................ 6
4.8 Golf Course Master Plan / History................................................................................ 7
4.9 Frontage Road Widening.............................................................................................. 7
4.10 Vail Nature Center Reach............................................................................................. 7
5.0 Existing Condition Evaluations.................................................................................................. 8
5.1 Site Observations.......................................................................................................... 8
5.2 Historical Aerial Evaluation........................................................................................... 8
5.3 Hydrology...................................................................................................................... 9
5.3.1 Hydrologic Trends.....................................................................................12
5.4 Water Rights and Diversions......................................................................................12
5.4.1 Water Rights..............................................................................................12
5.5 Hydraulics...................................................................................................................13
5.6 Geomorphology..........................................................................................................13
5.6.1 The Gore Creek Valley...............................................................................16
5.6.2 Existing Creek Characteristics...................................................................17
5.6.3 Dimension................................................................................................. 17
5.6.4 Bed Material..............................................................................................18
5.7 Physiochemical...........................................................................................................19
5.8 Biology ........................................................................................................................19
5.8.1 Vegetation................................................................................................. 19
5.8.2 Fishery.......................................................................................................20
5.8.3 Macroinvertebrate Data...........................................................................20
5.8.4 Channelization Effects on Aquatic Species...............................................21
5.8.5 Channelization and Effects on Macroinvertebrates................................. 21
5.8.6 Wildlife.......................................................................................................21
5.9 Other Aspects..............................................................................................................22
5.9.1 Ponds.........................................................................................................22
5.9.2 Golf Course................................................................................................23
5.9.3 Utilities.......................................................................................................23
6.0 Enhancement Recommendations...........................................................................................23
6.1 Vegetative Buffer Enhancement / Creation...............................................................23
6.2 Wetland / Riparian Habitat Creation..........................................................................24
6.3 Vegetation Management............................................................................................24
6.4 Creek Realignment / Enhancement ...........................................................................26
6.5 Point Bar Enhancement..............................................................................................27
6.6 Bank Stabilization........................................................................................................27
6.7 Floodplain Reconnection............................................................................................28
6.8 Feature Boulders/Clusters..........................................................................................28
6.9 Diversion Structure Rehabilitation.............................................................................28
6.10 Ponds...........................................................................................................................29
6.10.1 Pond Edge Vegetation Enhancement.......................................................29
6.11 Tree Replacement.......................................................................................................30
6.12 Golf Course Modifications..........................................................................................30
6.13 Utilities........................................................................................................................30
6.14 Bioswales.....................................................................................................................30
6.15 Wildlife........................................................................................................................30
6.16 Wildfire Mitigation......................................................................................................31
6.16.1 Site Conditions and Risk Overview............................................................31
6.16.2 Wildfire Mitigation Objectives..................................................................31
7.0 50% Designs.............................................................................................................................31
7.1 Erosion Along 11
th Fairway.........................................................................................31
7.2 15
th Green Proximity to Creek....................................................................................32
7.3 7th Hole Flooding.........................................................................................................32
7.4 Algae Proliferation......................................................................................................32
7.5 General Revegetation................................................................................................. 33
8.0 Educational Opportunities......................................................................................................33
9.0 Funding....................................................................................................................................33
10.0 Permitting................................................................................................................................34
11.0 Attachments: Plans, Designs, and Maps.................................................................................35
12.0 Appendices..............................................................................................................................35
13.0 References...............................................................................................................................36
TABLES
Table 1. Design Storm Hydrology at Golf Club for Various Recurrence Intervals................................ 9
Table 2. Average Monthly Flow Rates at Vail Golf Club .....................................................................10
Table 3. Typical Channel Parameters..................................................................................................10
Table 4. Incipient Motion Calculations................................................................................................19
Table 5. Pond Water Quality Summary from May .............................................................................23
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Existing Conditions & Opportunities Map
Attachment B: Planning Zone Maps
Attachment C: Conceptual Designs
Attachment D: Historical Aerial Evaluation
Attachment E: Existing Conditions Photo Maps
Attachment F: Hydraulic Evaluation Maps
Attachment G: Gore Creek Overall Plan and Profile
Attachment H: Geological Map
Attachment I: Relative Elevation Model Map
Attachment J: Utility Map
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Community Outreach Summary
Appendix 2: Vail Planting Guides
Appendix 3: Vail Golf Course – Golf Master Plan
Appendix 4: Drone Aerials
Appendix 5: Hydrology Memorandum
Appendix 6: Water Quality Results for Ponds
Appendix 7: Pond Management Plan
1.0 PROJECT APPROACH
Wright Water Engineers, Inc. (WWE) and our project partners are excited to provide the Vail Golf Club – Gore
Creek Enhancement Plan. The overall intent of this project is to recommend enhancement and restoration
measures along Gore Creek and throughout the Vail Golf Club for a multitude of reasons and benefits to both
people and the environment. The work developed to support this effort is broken down into three major
categories:
Narrative:A narrative has been provided to outline background data reviewed, analysis completed,and
a summary of general recommendations.
Enhancement Plan Maps:A series of maps has been developed to provide a high-level restoration
approach to Gore Creek and the Vail Golf Club.This is likely the most important outcome of the project.
Conceptual Designs: Project areas of greatest concern were developed to a greater level of detail than
the Enhancement Plan Maps to support future design phases.
To meet the project's goals, various levels of analysis were conducted along Gore Creek, throughout the Vail
Golf Club. The outcome of this project not only provides an enhancement plan that mimics a miniature master
plan for Gore Creek, but it also provides conceptual designs for the areas of greatest concern. It should be
understood that this is a living document that can continue to be updated as the Gore Creek Strategic Plan is
implemented. This plan isintended to provide a framework for supporting the removal of Gore Creek from the
303(d) listing.
2.0 PROJECT PURPOSE
Gore Creek is one of Vail’s most treasured natural resources, providing ecological, recreational, and community
value throughout the valley. Yet, in 2012, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment(CDPHE)
listed Gore Creek as an “impaired waterway” due to declining aquatic life and included it on the State’s 303(d)
listing of impaired and threatenedwaters. Previous studies and the Town of Vail’s Gore Creek Strategic Action
Plan (Lotic, 2016) identified chemical-intensive landscaping practices and loss of riparian habitat as major
contributors to this decline. Since then, the Town of Vail and its partners have worked to restore Gore Creek
through extensive native vegetation plantings, education and outreach, the adoption of stream setback
regulations, and the establishment of no-mow zones. It is the Town’s goal to have Gore Creek removed from
the 303(d) listing by 2029, and projects like this are working to make that a reality. While this plan is designed
to improve the health of the creek corridor, not to redesign the golf course, some modifications to golf course
features will be needed to help meet the plan’s goals.
While these previous efforts have improved creek health in many locations, challenges remain along the reach
of Gore Creek that flows through the Vail Golf Club. The steep, rocky streambanks in this section have hindered
the establishment of riparian vegetation, while legacy course design and the construction of the I-70 frontage
road have limited natural floodplain function and effectively ‘locked’ the creek in place. These conditions not
only affect ecological health—reducing shade, habitat, and biodiversity—but also increase risks of floodingand
erosion.
This enhancement plan has been developed to guide a comprehensive approach to riparian and floodplain
management within the Vail Golf Club. The plan envisions a restored creek corridor with gentler bank slopes,
improved floodplain connectivity, healthy native vegetation, and improvedhydraulicsand geomorphologythat
mimic natural conditions. It provides strategies to reduce reliance on landscape chemicals, manage dead
vegetation, and enhance both ecological resilience and the playability of the golf course. By addressing site-
specific concerns—such as erosion along the 11th Fairway, flooding near the 7th Hole, algae proliferation in
ponds, and the creek’s proximity to the 15
th Green—the plan seeks to balance ecological restoration with
recreational use.
Ultimately, the Vail Golf Club - Gore Creek Enhancement Plan represents an opportunity to restore stream
health, protect water quality, reduce long-term management costs, and enhance the overall ecological integrity
and biodiversity of the golf course. It builds on past community investments and provides a framework for the
next phase of Gore Creek restoration, ensuring this vital waterway continues to thrive for future generations.
Most importantly, this plan is about balance. By restoring the creek corridor through the Vail Golf Club, we can
support fish and wildlife, protect clean water, and preserve the beauty of this special place for everyone who
enjoys it; whether you’re playing a round of golf, walking along the trails nearby, or simply appreciating the
natural beauty of Gore Creek.
Figure 1. Beautiful View Looking Downstream on Gore Creek
It should be clear that this plan aims to enhance the creek corridor, rather than serving as a master plan for the
golf course. Modificationsto the golf course, however, will be required to implement the goals of this planand
support a healthier, more resilient Gore Creek.
2.1 Campaign Goals
This enhancement plan is focused on restoring the health of Gore Creek while ensuring the Vail Golf Club
remains resilient, functional, and enjoyable. The goals strike a balance between ecological restoration and
recreational use, recognizing the creek, floodplain, and golf course as part of a single interconnected system.
By improving creek conditions, strengthening riparian habitat, and adopting more sustainable management
practices, this effort will reduce environmental stressors, enhance biodiversity, and create long-term benefits
for both the natural environment and the community.
The following goals provide a framework to guide this plan:
Create a healthier stream by restoring the channel
to function more like a natural creek.
Reconnect the creek with its floodplain, where
possible, to improve hydraulics and reduce
flooding on the golf course during high runoff.
Restore streamside and pond vegetation to
provide shade, enhance habitat, and maintain
cooler water temperatures in the creek and ponds.
Improve pond health by reducing algae growth.
Reduce wildfire risks by managing and removing
dead vegetation that can serve as fuel.
Use fewer chemicals on the landscape to protect
water quality and support ecological health.
Explore design adjustments to better align the
creek and golf course features, enhancing function
and playability.
Boost biodiversity by supporting more diverse
plants, fish, and wildlife along the creek and across
the golf course.
Manage tree shading on course facilities to
improve turf health and reduce the need for
fertilizer.
2.2 Areas of Greatest Concern
Several areas along Gore Creek and within the Vail Golf Club have been identified as priority concerns where
ecological health and course function overlap. These issues highlight the connection betweenstream processes,
water quality, and course infrastructure. Addressing them will be critical to protecting the creek, reducing
maintenance challenges, and ensuring the golf course and creek remainresilient into the future.
The following areas of greatest concern have been identified:
Erosion near the 11th Fairway, where creek-bank
instability threatens both the stream health and course
playability.
Flooding at the 7th Hole impacts course use during
peak runoff events.
The 15th Green’s proximity to the creek creates risks
for both water quality and course infrastructure.
Excessive algae growth in ponds can reduce water
quality and decrease the aesthetic value of the pond.
Simplified stream channels in straightened sections
limit habitat and natural flow processes.
2.3 Scope of Work
The scope is guided by two key themes: (1) enhancing ecological processes and natural habitat and (2)reducing
risks to infrastructure and course management. This scope of work establishes a clear framework for enhancing
both the ecological health of Gore Creek and the long-term sustainability of the Vail Golf Club. The findings and
preliminary designs developed through this process will serve as a foundation for future phases, including
detailed design, permitting, and implementation. By addressing current challenges while planning for long-term
resilience, this project aims to create lasting benefits for the creek, the golf course, and the broader Vail
community.
2.3.1 Key Areas of Focus
Flooding and Hydrology:Improve floodplain connectivity and develop strategies to reduce flooding
during peak runoff, particularly at the 7th Hole and 15
th Green.
Stream and Bank Stability:Stabilize erosion-prone areas such as the 11th Fairway using nature-based
solutions that restore more natural creek function.
Riparian and Pond Health:Restore streamside vegetation to provide shade, improve water quality, and
reduce algae growth in ponds.
Vegetation and Fire Risk:Manage and reduce accumulations of dead vegetation that contribute to
wildfire risk.
Figure 2. Picture of Gore Creek,
Ponds, and Golf Course
Figure 3. Example of Bank
Erosion Along the Golf Course
Sustainable Management Practices:Continue to develop and enhance strategies to minimize the use
of landscape chemicals while maintaining turf quality and playability.
Stream Channel Complexity:Enhance habitat and flow dynamics by introducing greater channel
complexity in straightened reaches and explore opportunities to adjust alignment of creek and course
features.
Biodiversity:Promote greater diversity of plants, fish, and wildlife across the creek corridor and golf
course landscape.
2.3.2 Deliverables
An assessment of existing conditions, documenting stream function, floodplain connectivity, pond
health, vegetation, and course interactions.
Specific recommendations to address flooding, erosion, chemical use, pond management, vegetation,
and riparian restoration.
Preliminary design drawings for floodplain reconnection, bank stabilization, and restoration of more
natural geomorphology for areas of greatest concern.
Strategies for reducing the impacts of landscape chemical use without compromising course quality.
Conceptual alternatives for improving channel complexity and better integrating the creek with golf
course features.
2.3.3 Next Steps
Moving forward, the project will transition from assessment and planning into more detailed design and
ultimately implementation. Key next steps include:
Detailed Design Development:Advancing preliminary concepts into final designs with ground survey,
hydraulic evaluations, and constructability considerations.
Regulatory Permitting: Coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to secure required approvals
for construction.
Stakeholder Engagement:Continuing collaboration with the Town of Vail, golf course management,
community members, and resource agencies to ensure broad support and input.
Funding and Phasing Strategy:Identifying potential funding sources and developing a phased
implementation plan to align restoration actions with available resources.
Monitoring and Adaptive Management:Establishing a framework to track outcomes, measure
ecological improvements, and adjust management strategies over time.
Together, these steps will transform the enhancement plan into tangible on-the-ground improvements,
ensuring that both Gore Creek and the Vail Golf Club thrive for generations to come.
3.0 STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
Stakeholderoutreachhas been key to the success of this enhancement planand
has been completed via multiple venues including discussions, site walks,
interviews, presentations, and ultimately an event at the Vail Golf Club with the
public. Outreach included presentations and meetings with the Town of Vail
Planning and Environmental Commission and Town Council. Included in
Appendix 1 is a complete Community Outreach Summary memorandum that
provides in-depth detail on the completed outreach. The Community Outreach
Summary memorandum details how the project team sought to inform, build
awareness, listen to feedback, and engage stakeholders regarding the Vail Golf
Club - Gore Creek Enhancement Plan. The consultantteamheld regular meetings
in early 2025 to refine goals and create detailed maps and exhibits showing
proposed interventions. Outreach was advertised through the town website,
newsletters, newspapers, and social media, with key audiences including river
recreationists, season pass
holders, property owners,
and the general public.
Events included a July 14, 2025 presentation to the
Planning and Environmental Commission and a July 22,
2025public open house at the golf club, attended by about
60 people. Additional outreach was completed via work
sessions with the Planning and Environmental Commission
along with presentation of the plan to the Town Council.
The feedback received focused on four themes:
maintaining golf playability, strong support for creek re-
routing following the historical alignment, concerns about
project costs, and calls for more public education and
transparency on issues like pesticide use and property
impacts.
4.0 PREVIOUS STUDIES
At the beginning of the project, multiple previous studies were evaluated to support the development of this
enhancement plan. The intent of this plan is to build upon the great work already completed in reviving Gore
Creek.
4.1 303(d) List
In 2012, CDPHE listed Gore Creek as impaired for aquatic life on Colorado’s 303(d) List of
Impaired Waters for “macroinvertebrates (provisional).” The impairment listing was based
on CDPHE’s multi-metric index (MMI), which showed that the benthic macroinvertebrate
community in Gore Creek did not attain established standardsfor the stream type, Class 1
Cold Water Aquatic Life, under Policy 10-1. The “provisional” listing means that the cause
Figure 5. Photo from Public
Outreach at the Vail Golf Club
Figure 4. Taking Feedback
on Maps at Public Outreach
of the impairment is not fully known or directly associated with a specific pollutant. Potential causes of
impairment may include:
Altered stream channel and floodplain connectivity, reducing natural habitat complexity.
Loss of riparian vegetation, which provides shading, habitat, and bank stability.
Fine sediment accumulation and other stressors degrade habitat for aquatic insects and fish.
Urban development impacts such as stormwater runoff that can transport pollutants such as road
sand, fertilizers, pesticides and other pollutants.
This listing has prompted the Town of Vail, the Eagle River Coalition (ERC), Eagle River Water and Sanitation
District (ERWSD), Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), and local partners to develop and implement the Gore
Creek Strategic Plan - Restore the Gore initiative. Efforts focus on improving riparian vegetation, reducing
stormwater impacts, reconnecting the floodplain, and restoring habitat complexity to support a healthy aquatic
community. In summary, Gore Creek’s presence on the 303(d) List highlights the need for ongoing restoration,
management, and community engagement to return the creek to full ecological health.
4.2 Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan – Restore the Gore
In 2016, following the listing of Gore Creek on the 303(d) list, the Town of Vail
developed the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan – Restore the Gore (Lotic, 2016),
which was a framework to “address current water quality impairments and
aquatic health issues affecting Gore Creek and its tributaries.” To address these
issues, the plan outlines a “toolbox” of strategies to ultimatelyremove Gore Creek
from the 303(d) list. This document should be seen as the overall master plan for
Gore Creek and reviewed and relied upon as projects along Gore Creek are
completed.
4.3 Stream Corridor Protection Ordinance
In 2022, the Town of Vail adopted new rules to help
protect Gore Creek and its tributaries for future
generations. These rules create a “no-mow zone”
of about ten feet along the creek, where natural
plants are left in place to keep streambanks strong,
filter runoff, and provide wildlife habitat. Residents
can still remove weeds, clear vegetation for fire
safety, or build a small, permeable path to the
water; otherwise, the area is kept in its natural
state. The 15th Green is currently within 10 feet of
the Two-Year Flood Line (TYFL), which iswhy it is an
area of greatest concern. See Figure 6 showing 2-
year flood line and 10-foot offset in green and 25-
foot building setback in purple.
The ordinance also requires new buildings to stay at least 25 feet back from the creek’s flood line, ensuring that
development does not harm water quality or increase erosion. Existing homes and structures can remain in
place, but any new construction mustadhere to this setback.
Together, these protections ensure Gore Creek and its tributaries remain healthy and resilient. By preserving
natural vegetation near the stream and guiding new development, the community is working to improve water
quality, restore habitats, and preserve the beauty of Vail’s waterways.
4.4 1.5 & 2-Year Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study
In 2022 and 2023, RiverRestoration.org developed a hydrologic and hydraulicstudy of Gore Creek through the
Town of Vail. The report evaluated 1.5-year and 2-year flood flows for Gore Creek and its tributaries in Vail to
help define the Ordinary High Water Line (OHWL) and guide riparian setback regulations. Using U.S. Geological
Survey (USGS) StreamStats, gage data, and mass balance methods, the study determined that 1.5-year and 2-
year flow events represent frequent high-water conditions expected in roughly 67% and 50% of years,
respectively. The 1.5-year and 2-year flows are typically representative of bankfull or channel forming flows
anticipatedto be seen every 1 to 2 years. Differences in water elevation between the two events are generally
small (2–12 inches), especially in steep channels where lateral spread is less than 1 foot. The analysis confirms
that the 2-year flow provides a more conservative and consistent basis for representing OHWL elevations and
ensuring protection of riparian areas (RiverRestoration, 2022). The hydrologic evaluation from this study was
used to support additional hydraulic modeling and design for this plan.
Following the hydrologic study, a hydraulic evaluation of Gore Creek was completed. This report updates the
TYFL and 100-Year Floodplain mapping for Gore Creek and its 11 tributaries within the Town of Vail using 2022
LiDAR, new survey control data, and advanced two-dimensional HEC-RAS hydraulic modeling. The analysis
currently does not replace effective Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood maps but provides
more accurate predictions of flood extents, depths, and velocities for planning purposes. Results show that
previous FEMA one-dimensionalmodels underestimated overbank flooding, whereas the new two-dimensional
approach more accurately represents real conditions and produces detailed GIS shapefiles of flood zones for
planning purposes. These findings strengthen the Town’s ability to manage riparian setbacks, potentially update
FEMA maps, and communicate changing flood risks with improved clarity and precision (RiverRestoration,
2023).
4.5 Vail Planting Guides
An outcome of the Gore Creek Strategic Plan was the development of a series of planting guides: Guide for
Residents and Businesses, Guide for Landscaping Crew, and Landscape Designers Guide (Vail, 2016). These
guides focus on protecting Gore Creek from the harmful effects of urbanization, runoff, fertilizers, and
pesticides. Aimed at both professional landscape designers and local residents or businesses, they highlight how
landscaping choices directly influence water quality, aquatic life, and the broader ecosystem. Both documents
stress practical solutions such as planting native trees and shrubs, using mulch, creating swales and rain gardens,
and replacing impervious surfaces with porous pavements to slow and filter runoff. These documents have
been included in Appendix 2 for reference.
Figure 6. 15th Green: 10 and 25-Foot Setbacks
Central to the documents is
the Three-Zone Buffer System
(Overbank, Transitional, and
Upland zones within 100 feet
of streams), which offers
guidance on preserving native
vegetation, reducing turf and
pesticide use, and creating
natural buffers to protect
water quality. Each guide also
provides detailed plant lists
tailored to the Rocky
Mountain climate, ensuring
biodiversity, habitat value,
and resilience. These plant
lists include recommended
native trees, shrubs, grasses,
forbs, and seed mixes for
different zones, helping
designers, residents, and
businesses select species that
enhance beauty while
strengthening ecological health. Together, these resources empower professionals, residents, and businesses
to enhance the beauty of their landscapes while playing a vital role in preserving Gore Creek’s health and
ecological integrity.
4.6 Previous Planting Efforts
The Town of Vail has planted over 26,000 native trees and shrubs in riparian areas along Gore Creek since
2016. Previous planting efforts along the Vail Golf Club reach of Gore Creek have been hindered by the steep,
sun-exposed banks and poor soil quality.
Figure 8. Before and After of Planting Efforts at Vail Golf Club
4.7 FEMA Flood Insurance Study
The FEMA Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Gore Creek establishes the effective floodplain inundation extents
and base flood elevations through the Vail Golf Club. Gore Creek through the project reach is currently mapped
as a Zone AE floodplain with a floodway. Zone AE floodplains have defined cross sections with established Base
Flood Elevations. The project reach’s floodplain mapping is shown on the effective Flood Insurance Rate Map
(FIRM), map numbers 08037C0488D and 08037C0489D, both of which are based upon modeling developed in
2002 and published with an effective date of December 4, 2007. Floodplain evaluations and permitting will be
required for any projects within the mapped floodplain.
Figure 9. FEMA Effective Floodplain Mapping
Figure 7. Three Zone Buffer Graphic from Town of Vail Planting Guide
4.8 Golf Course Master Plan / History
The golf course was built in 1962 and designed by Ben
Krueger. During the development of the golf course, along
Interstate 70 (I-70) and the frontage road, Gore Creek
underwent considerable alterations. In many locations,
the creek was shortened through the removal of bends
and overflow channels, along with a reduction in the
overall riparian and wetland corridor throughout the
project reach. In 2011, Phelps-Atkinson Golf Course Design
prepared the Vail Golf Club – Golf Course Master Plan
(Phelps-Atkinson, 2011) for the Vail Recreation District.
The master plan outlined a variety of enhancements along
with cost estimates for the work, and since 2011, various
projects from the master plan have been completed. As
planning continuesand additional projects are completed,
the overall setting and proximity of the creek should be evaluated to enable Gore Creek to become a more
valuable amenity for the golf course by exploring win-win solutions that balance recreation and environmental
considerations.The master plan has been provided in Appendix 3 for additional information.
4.9 Frontage Road Widening
As part of other nearby development projects, it is worth noting that there may be a potential need to expand
the South Frontage Road near the Vail Valley Drive bridge. Currently, there are potential plans to develop a
housing project near the Town of Vail Public Works building, on the north side of I-70. To further develop that
area, the frontage road must be expanded by about 25 feet to accommodate turn lanesand potentially require
the redesign and construction of the bridge. This expansion of the turn lanes would encroach significantly on
Gore Creekin an area already significantlyimpacted by the frontage road. Although this project is not currently
scheduled for construction, alternatives evaluating the need for additional roadway were included as part of
this analysis to understand its impact on Gore Creek. Implementation of this project could allow for the
opportunity to completely re-route Gore Creek through the southern ponds following its historical alignment
before the golf course was developed, which caused considerable loss of stream length and reduction in habitat.
Figure 1 . AerialOverviewof Road Expansion (red hatch) Required for
Future Developmentwith Historical Gore Creek Alignment (cyan line)
4.10 Vail Nature Center Reach
Just downstream of the Vail Golf Club reach is
the Vail Nature Center reach of Gore Creek.
Design of the project is underway and
construction is scheduled for late summer
2026. The project shares many of the same
goals and will utilize many of the strategies
being proposed in this plan. Projects
implemented upstream on the Golf Club
reach will need to integrate with this
downstream project.The project proposes to
improve aquatic habitat and recreation
opportunities in an area that has been
“degraded by increased deposition of fine
sediments and a wide, shallow, homogenous
channel morphology” (Trout Unlimited,
2024).
Figure 10. Example from Vail Golf
Club -Golf Course Master Plan
Figure 1 . Proposed Restoration
Measures Developed by CPW
5.0 EXISTING CONDITION EVALUATIONS
The following sections provide background information, site observations, historical aerial evaluation and our
analysisof the hydrology, hydraulics, geomorphology, physicochemical, and biological conditions of Gore Creek
through the Vail Golf Club, following the StreamMechanics’ Stream Functions Pyramid (StreamMechanics,
2012).
Figure 13. StreamMechanics Stream Functions Pyramid
5.1 Site Observations
During the development of this enhancement plan, our
team conducted multiple site visits to evaluate the existing
conditions of Gore Creek. These site visits, along with a
review of the backgroundinformationand development of
a new analysis, provided the basis for this plan. An initial
site visit was performed on November 6, 2024, however,
limited evaluations of the site were conducted due to snow
covering the site. Our team was able to walk the areas of
greatest concern and investigate what was not covered in
the snow. A second, more in-depth site visit was
completed on May 2, 2025, where our team walked the
entire length of Gore Creek through the golf course, along
with ponds and other drainage areas. As part of this site
visit, over 100 GPS points were acquired throughout the
golf course, along with hundreds of photos that document
the condition of the creek, as well as golf course infrastructure, including ponds, ditches, and vegetation. During
this site visit, drone aerial photos were also taken of Gore Creek and the golf course. Included in Attachment E
is an Existing Conditions Photo map of pertinent areas, along with drone aerial imagesof the entire corridor in
Appendix 4. These photos provide a great reference for the current condition of the creek. Furthermore,
Attachment A includes a map that provides a succinct evaluation of existing conditions and opportunities
derived from our site observations. Additional site visits were conducted as this plan progressed to further
evaluate the creek during different times of the year, such as during times of low flows.
5.2 Historical Aerial Evaluation
A historical aerial evaluation was conducted for Gore Creek, extending through the golf course, utilizing maps
from 1955, 1962, 1969, and 2022. The aerials evaluated from 1955 to 1962 provide insight into the area prior
to the construction of I-70 and the golf course. The historical aerial evaluation is a critical component of this
enhancement plan because it provides a long-term record of Gore Creek, its riparian areas, and floodplains that
have changed over time. By reviewing aerial imagery from past decades, we were able to understand the
impacts of the construction of I-70, the frontage road, and the golf course. Prior to the construction of I-70, the
frontage road and the golf course, Gore Creek had a highly diverse and expansivewetland and riparian corridor.
The creek also had considerably more sinuosity and multiple overflow channels, which signify a healthy creek
with considerable variety and ecological health. From review of these aerials, it was determined that the creek
was altered along the interstate corridor from both the construction of the interstate and frontage road, along
with the golf course in the downstream reaches. Assessments of the 1955 and 2022 aerial imagery indicate that
the creek through the Vail Golf Club reach was shortened from approximately 13,000 feet to 11,500 feet,
resulting ina reduction in length of about 1,500 feet. The impacts of construction includedthe removal of many
overflow channels that would become wet during large flow events such as spring runoff and frequent floods.
From the aerial review, it was evident that the creek used to flow through the existing ponds near Vail Valley
Drive, and that realignment by itself constituted a reduction of about 600 feet in overall creek length.It should
be noted that historical aerials prior to the construction of the original Highway 6 do not exist and likely would
have additional impacts. The earliest aerial evaluation is provided on the following page, and a compilation of
all the historical aerial evaluations are provided as Attachment D.
Figure 14. Drone AerialLooking
Upstream on Gore Creek
5.3 Hydrology
Understanding the current and future
hydrology of Gore Creek is crucial for
developing enhancement opportunities
for the creek. An in-depth review of
hydrology was conducted by WWE, the
resulting Hydrology Memorandum is
provided in Appendix 5, with a summary
included herein. The goal of this
evaluation is to understand both high-
flow and low-flow conditions, enabling
restoration designs to create a creek
channel that resists erosion, supports
aquatic habitats, and maintains hydraulic
stability across a widerange of hydrologic
scenarios and throughout the year.
The study area begins downstream of Booth Creek and extends west toward Mill Creek with drainage areas
ranging from 55 to nearly 59 square miles. By defining how Gore Creekresponds to storm events and seasonal
runoff, the analysis provides a foundation for developing a resilient and ecologically balanced stream corridor
through the golf course.
The hydrologic analysis reviewed multiple data sources, including FEMA’s 2007 FIS (FEMA, 2007a),
RiverRestoration’s 2022 evaluation of 1.5-year and 2-year flows (RiverRestoration, 2022). In addition to
reviewing available data, WWE developed data for comparison utilizing USGS StreamStats regression tools
(USGS, 2025)and historic gaging records onGore Creek. WWE developed peak flow estimates utilizing a Bulletin
#17B statistical analysis and low flow estimates utilizing a duration analysis.
Figure 16. USGS Stream Gage Locations
Findings show that flows vary widely depending on the methodutilized, with FEMA values generally higher than
StreamStats predictionsfor the 100-year flows, and USGS Bulletin #17B statistical analysis 2-year flows aligning
closely with RiverRestoration’s previous hydrologic evaluation and hydraulic modeling. Table 1 provides flows
on Gore Creek in the project area under typical recurrence intervals from USGS StreamStats, the FEMA FIS, and
the RiverRestoration study at the Vail Golf Club.
Table 1. Design Storm Hydrology at Golf Club for Various Recurrence Intervals
Annual Exceedance
Probability
(Return Event)
StreamStats FIS River Restoration USGS Stream Gage
Flow Rate (cfs)
90% (1.1-Year) - - - 527
67% (1.5-Year) - - 577 -
50% (2-Year) 479 - 823 881
20% (5-Year) 662 - - 1,232
10% (10-Year) 782 1,420 - 1,477
4% (25-Year) 906 - - 1,724
2% (50-Year) 1,070 1,780 - 2,069
1% (100-Year) 1,180 1,930 - 2,349
0.50% (200-Year) 1,270 - - 2,651
0.20% (500-Year) 1,460 2,130 - 3,092
Figure 15. Gore Creek Drainage Area Extents
Stream gage records confirm that Gore Creek is strongly influenced by snowmelt, with peak discharges typically
occurring in May and June, and the lowest flows in mid-winter. This seasonalpatternhighlights the importance
of considering snowmelt processes when designing creek improvements.
An additional evaluation utilizing HEC-SSP duration analysis was performed to understand the low-flow of the
channel to inform future design. Understanding the low-flow of a channel is important to inform fish passage
capacity, and future hydraulic modeling can inform other aspects of channel design, for example, to ensure the
existing diversion structure elevation is sufficient to continue to divert water.
Table 2utilizes USGS StreamStats and stream gages, with flows adapted to the drainage area of the project area
to understand typical flows during the year.
Table 2. Average Monthly Flow Rates at Vail Golf Club
Monthly Flow
Statistics
StreamStats USGS Stream Gage
No. 09066325
Flow Rate (cfs)
January 11 13
February 10 13
March 12 17
April 29 47
May 147 237
June 241 436
July 88 132
August 37 36
September 24 23
October 21 21
November 16 16
December 12 14
Ultimately, the 1.5-year and 2-year flows from the RiverRestoration study should be used to size bankfull
channel conditions along with the FEMA 100-year flows for floodplain modeling. Previous analyses do not
inform the low-flow evaluation, but an understanding of the low-flow channel is essential to design. WWE
utilized a 95% exceedance during a duration evaluation to determine the ideal baseflow.
Table 3. Typical Channel Parameters
Channel Section Typical Channel Design Flow
Rates (cfs)
Baseflow 10
Bankfull Flow 823
100-Yr Flow Rate 1,840
Broader concerns include climate change, which could alter the timing and intensity of runoff, as well as risks
from potential post-fire flooding and mudflows in the watershed. By consolidating existing hydrologic studies
and developing additional hydrology, the Hydrology Memorandum establishes a technical foundation for this
enhancement plan and future designs, guiding creek restoration, flood management, and ecological
enhancement along this critical reach of Gore Creek.
Figure 17. Historical Aerial Evaluation
5.3.1 Hydrologic Trends
In addition to understandinghydrology from various data sources, it is also necessary to identify potential trends
in hydrology. Climate change could threaten Gore Creek through reduced late-summer flows, increased
extremes of flooding and drought, higher wildfire risks, and declining water quality. These stresses make it
harder to maintain a healthy coldwater ecosystem and resilient watershed.
Gore Creek is likely to experience changes and significant variability in hydrology. This can include extreme
drought conditions, which can lead to low flows and minimal depths causing a reduction in water quality. On
the other end of the spectrum, more frequent heavy rainfall events can lead to extreme flooding, causing
erosion and channel instability. Climate change not only affects the amount of water in the river but also the
timing of flow events, which can significantly affect native plants and animals, as well as infrastructure
protection. As the climate changes, ambient air temperatures are rising, resulting in longer, hotter summers
that increase stream temperatures, stress aquatic organisms, reduce dissolved oxygen, and reduce fish
spawning success. Furthermore, climate change is causing a reduction in snowpack, along with earlier and faster
melting, which results in less cold water flowing in late summer when aquatic ecosystems need it the most.
The change in climate conditions can also increase the risk of wildfires due to warmer and drier summers. This
increased risk translates to a higher likelihood of post-fire mud and debris flows, coupled with more frequent
and intense rainfall. Sediment andash carried by post-fire debris flows can cause extreme degradation to water
quality in Gore Creek and its tributaries. It is also essential to recognize that the loss of riparian and wetland
areas surrounding Gore Creek will exacerbate the impacts of climate change.
5.4 Water Rights and Diversions
The hydrology, hydraulics and geomorphology of Gore
Creek are affected by a large diversion structure near
Hole 14. The diversion is constructed from a series of
grouted stacked bouldersthat act as weir to check water
up to the headgate. This diversion not only physically
removes water from Gore Creek, lowering flows, but
also impactsthe ecosystem's ability to function naturally
by reducing the passage of aquatic organisms, affecting
sediment transport, causing bank erosion, and requiring
maintenance within the active channel. The diversion
has a very rudimentary trash rack to keep leaves and
other floatables from entering the ponds but does not
include a fish screen.
The diversion directs water through the upper golf course
ponds, which is ultimately used as irrigation water via the
ponds. However, the utilization of water for irrigation and its
subsequent use raises concerns. As the water is applied for
irrigation, not allof it will be utilizedby the turf grassbut rather
evaporated or converted to runoff entering Gore Creek. This
runoff carries fertilizers and other nutrients used to enhance
the golf course’s grass, which can be detrimental to the creek's
water quality. Furthermore, water diverted through the ponds
will return to Gore Creek at a higher temperature due to the
shallow depth and lack of shade of the ponds, causing water
temperatures to increase. Also,due to the lack of shade some
of the water entering the pond will evaporate, furthering
losses in the system.
It should be noted that the lower ponds are filled through a drainage ditch that capturesrunoff before it enters
Gore Creek, which doesn’t require diversion of water directly from Gore Creek. However, it does affect inflows
into the creek, increasing water temperature and pollutant
concentrations from urban runoff andfertilizer.
It is our understanding from discussions with golf club staff
that there is an agreement to reduce watering of the golf
course from the range, rough, fairways, approaches, and
greens (sequentially) as flows in Gore Creek decrease. It is also
our understanding that the diversion has a limited ability to
divert water during lower flows. While fish entrainment from
the creek to the ponds through the diversion structure is not
concerning, the ability of fish to move from the ponds back to
the creek may need to be addressed.
5.4.1 Water Rights
All diversions, ditches, and ponds used to convey water for
beneficial use are maintained by the golf course. ERWSD performs water right accounting for the golf course,
which was utilized to support the development of the text in this section.
Water is provided to the golf course via the Vail Golf Course Ditch near the larger diversion structure by Hole
17. Water from the Vail Golf Course Ditch can be delivered to Golf Course Reservoir No. 2 (WDID 3703595;
uppermost ponds) and Golf Course Reservoir No. 1 (WDID 3703594; lower ponds near Vail Valley Drive). The
Vail Golf Course Ditch does not have a water right, but it is an alternate point of diversion for water rights, as
decreed in Case No. 79CW124, and is permitted to divert three cubic feet per second (cfs).
The ponds were decreed in Case Nos. W3606 and W3607 for irrigation, domestic, municipal, and industrial uses.
The upper pond, Golf Course Reservoir No. 2, was decreed for 25 acre-feet, which is absolute for irrigation
purposes pursuant to Case No. 81CW282. Similarly, the lower pond, Golf Course Reservoir No. 1, was decreed
Figure 18. Photo of Drop Structures for Diversion
Figure 19. Photo of Erosion Near Diversion
Figure 20. Photo of Headgate
and Trash Rack
for 5.5 acre-feet, which is absolute for irrigation purposes pursuant to Case No. 81CW282. Currently, the golf
course does not use the lower ponds for irrigation.
5.5 Hydraulics
Hydraulics is the study of how water moves through a riverine corridor, specifically how fast it flows, how deep
it becomes, and how it spreads onto the surrounding land. Understanding this movement is like knowing the
heartbeat of the river. Evaluating the hydraulics associated with Gore Creek is crucial in developing restoration
techniques that support the ecological health of the river, while also complementing the golf course and its
infrastructure. Without a hydraulic understanding, restoration designs risk failure—either by eroding banks
where not desirable, failing to reconnect floodplains in the appropriate places, or limiting improvements to
habitat.
Existing hydraulic models provided by FEMA and RiverRestoration were utilized to understand the hydraulics
associated with the 100-year and 2-year events. The FEMA Effective HEC-RAS Model is a straight, non-
georeferenced, one-dimensional model, whereas the RiverRestoration model is two-dimensional and therefore
more detailed. The FEMA one-dimensional model would need to be used as part of any floodplain development
permits for proposed work; however, the two-dimensional model provides a better platform for evaluating
velocities, depths, and shear stresses(a measure of a stream’s ability to move substrate), which inform channel
design, rock sizing, geomorphic approaches and floodplain connectivity elements. As part of this analysis, the
RiverRestoration two-dimensional HEC-RAS model was used to understand velocity, depth, and shear stress for
the 2-year and 100-year events. The following pages provide a figure comparing the one-dimensional FEMA
Effective 100-year floodplain to the two-dimensional modeled floodplain to understand differences followed
by a figure depicting the 100-year shear stress developed from the two-dimensional mapping. All hydraulic
evaluation maps have been compiled and are provided as Attachment F.
Gore Creek continues to face several interrelated deficiencies
that limit its ecological health and resiliencedue to unnaturalor
inadequate hydraulics. Due to how the course was constructed
in the 1960s and 1970s there are major hydraulic impacts on
the creek through the golf course. As discussed previously, due
to the development of the golf course, frontage road, and I-70,
much of the creek that runs through the golf course has been
alteredsignificantly. Overall, the creek has been shortened, and
its overflow channels and floodplains have been disconnected,
resulting in increased areas of velocity and shear stress and
reduction in floodplain connectivity and bedform diversity.
Increased velocity and shear stress can in turn increase erosion
and lead to channel incision, or downcutting. The increase in
velocity also affects bedform and channel diversity. A channel with limited bedform diversity lacks riffles and
pools, which are important to aquatic life and to stream stability. These channels also typically contain overly
wide sections with limited depth. This is especially true through the extremely straight reach of Gore Creek near
Holes 8, 9, and 10. Tocompensate for this reduction in slope, several drop structures(grade control structures)
were built during the original course construction, which negatively impact hydraulics and aquatic connectivity.
Many of these drop structures have failed due to the fact they were potentially designedincorrectly or installed
unsuccessfully. Without the ability for the creek to adjust its planform(alignment),the problem is compounded.
As seen in the hydraulic maps, the 2-year event is mainly contained within the channel banks, with the only
area where water actually spreads across the landscape being towards the end of the project reach, where the
floodplain is better connected to the creek. Additionally, the creek is impacted by various infrastructure,
including parallel and crossing utilities and bridges over the creek, which negatively affect the system's
hydraulics. All of these impacts on the hydraulic system ultimately affect the geomorphology of Gore Creek.
5.6 Geomorphology
Geomorphology is the study of how rivers form, change, and interact with their surrounding landscapes. It
focuses on the natural processes that shape river channels and floodplains over time, including bank erosion,
sediment transport, gravel or sand deposition, and changes in flow patterns.The geomorphology of Gore Creek
is directly affected by the golf course and other infrastructure surrounding the creek. Typically, a channel would
naturally evolve in response to changes in flows over time. However, current infrastructure prevents Gore Creek
from naturally adjusting its planform. Because Gore Creek is disconnected from the floodplain in the project
reach, the profile and the cross section of the stream evolve unnaturally, producing unwanted outcomes, and
limiting the creek's ability to function in a healthy and resilient manner.
Based on geomorphic characteristics and adjacent land use impacts, Gore Creek within the Vail Golf Club has
been divided into three distinct reaches. Each reach exhibits varying degrees of alteration and geomorphic
function. Included as Attachment G is a figure showing the overall plan and profile of Gore Creek, with reach
distinctions and other key features.
Figure 22. Reach Breaks Map
Figure 21. Representative Photo of
Straightened Reach with Limited Diversity
Figure 23. Comparison of FEMA Effective Floodplain to Two-Dimensional Modeled 100-Year Event
Figure 24. 100-Year Shear Stress Hydraulic Evaluation
Reach 1 – Downstream Segment: This reach has experienced the most
significant modification due to adjacent development. Historically, Gore
Creek meandered through what is now a series of ponds, with
significant floodplain connections and overflow channels through
healthy,vibrant riparian and wetland corridors. The construction of Vail
Valley Drive and the golf course led to the realignment of the creek
along its northern boundary, resulting in a straightened, highly altered
channel. This upper portion of the reach is incised, with limited
floodplain connectivity, and composed of very steep banks on the north
side of the creek without ample
riparian or overstory cover. The upper portion of the reach has greater
inner-channel sinuositydue to the formation of point bars from material
transported downstream. Furthermore, multiple grade control and
bank stabilization structures have been installed, which have also
altered the creek’s natural geomorphic function to compensate for the
reduction in length and resulting excessive velocities. This has increased
incision and caused excessive transport of sediment downstream to
more natural reaches, where it aggrades, causing over-widening of the
creek. While some boulders associated with these man-made structures
have been displaced or flanked, no major signs of instability were
observed. This section is also impacted by the Vail Valley Drive Bridge,
further reducing floodplain connection and causing exacerbated scour,
Reach 2 – Mid-Reach Segment: This reach has also
been realigned from its historical path and is very
constricted. Prior to the development of the golf
course, this reach of the creek had an expansive
floodplain, greater sinuosity, and a robust riparian
corridor.The presence of golf course infrastructure,
including paths, ponds, and Hole 11, restricts the
creek’s ability to meander and connect with its
historical floodplain. The grade control structure
associated with the diversion, as well as two golf
cart bridges, further constrain the creek’s natural
function. Without any floodplain connection
through this reach, compounded with high
velocities and scour due to the substantial drop,
bank erosion is evident on both sides of the creek,
affecting the surrounding infrastructure, causing
steep banks with limited hydraulic connection to
the creek, resulting in a reduction in vegetation,
habitat, and overstory.
Reach 3 – Upstream Segment:This reachis the least disturbed of the
three segments. Apart from localized realignment near the three golf
cart bridges, the creek generally follows its historical alignment. This
reach features minimal man-made in-stream structures. Some
eroding is evident near the infrastructure due to localized increases
in velocity and scour, but the erosion is not of great concern except
where a cart path bridge crosses near Hole 12 and a buried sanitary
sewer line has become exposed due to increased scour. Natural
features such as beaver dams contribute to channel complexity and
support higher geomorphic function compared to the downstream
reaches.
5.6.1 The Gore Creek Valley
The Gore Creek valley was shaped primarily by glacial processes, with landslide deposits influencing the valley
margins. Prior to human development, including the construction of I-70, the golf course, and adjacent
roadways, the creek’s alignment was naturally defined by these geologic features. In contrast, the fill associated
with I-70 and the golf course has further confined the Gore Creek valley artificially through the Vail Golf Club.
The current valley extents have been evaluated through the review ofgeologic mapping and an analysis of the
existing topography.
5.6.1.1 Geologic Mapping
USGS geologic mapping from 1977 and 2003 (USGS, 1977; USGS, 2003) suggests that Gore Creek, before the
development of I-70 and the golf course, consisted of a wide natural geologic floodplain. As stated in the
supporting text of the 2003 mapping, the natural features, often apparent in glacial till, such as closed
depressions and small ponds, have been altered due to development. The development of I-70 has reduced the
floodplain extents to the north, and the golf course and residential development to the south have further
constrained the floodplain area available to Gore Creek. Geological mapping of Gore Creek through the golf
course has been provided asAttachment H.
5.6.1.2 Existing Topography
To assess current valley constraints, a Relative Elevation Model (REM) was developed using guidance from the
Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB)and provided on the following page and as Attachment I. The REM
illustrates terrain elevation relative to the creek bed and highlights how development has confined Gore Creek
to a narrow corridor.Key findings from the REM analysis include:
The golf course occupies much of the valley floor, limiting the creek’s ability to meander and adjust to
watershed changes.
Remnants of the historical creek alignment are still visible in low-lying areas throughout Reach 1, such
as near the Hole 10 tee and throughout the pond system.The creek has good floodplain connectivity at
the downstream limit of the study area near the 7th Hole(periodic flooding has historically impacted the
playability of 7th Hole during high flow events).
Figure 28. Photo of Reach 3
Figure 2 . Photo of Reach 2
Figure 25. Expansive Riparian Area
Along Previous Creek Alignment
erosion, and downcutting dueto increased velocities,asevidencedby a Figure 2 . Photo of Reach 1buried utility that has become exposed.
Reach 2 is confined with relatively high adjacent grades on either side of the creek. A high point along
the left bank separates the creek from the adjacent ponds through this reach.
Natural areas south of Holes 15 and 16 feature low-lying areas that provide Reach 3 with a relatively
well-connected floodplain compared to other portions of the reach.
5.6.2 Existing Creek Characteristics
The existing planform (alignment), profile (slope), dimension (cross-section), and bed material were evaluated
to further outline the geomorphic context of Gore Creek.
5.6.2.1 Planform
As previously discussed, the construction of I-70 and the golf course hasseverely impacted the natural planform
of Gore Creek. Historical aerial imagery from 1955, 1962, and 1969 was reviewed to map the progression of the
Gore Creek alignment over time. The 1955 and 1962 aerials reflect a Gore Creek valley that is largely unaffected
by human development. Natural variability in creek alignment is visible between the two images, indicative of
a meandering system. The golf course and I-70 were constructed between 1962 and 1969, and the latter aerial
reflects the significant impacts of the development. Much of Gore Creek was converted from a meandering
system to a straightened channel with minimal natural variability. It is estimated that the realignment (which
encompasses the project reach)reduced the total creek length by more than ten percent.
5.6.2.2 Profile
It is likely that the straightening of Gore Creek has not only
reduced the total creek length but also steepened its gradient.
Generally, an artificially steepened creek will tend towards
erosion and incision. The man-made grade control structures
along the straightened Reach 1 and Reach 2werelikely installed
to reduce the gradient between the structures and mitigate the
heightened risk of erosion associated with the realignment.
Similarly, the majority of the observed bank stabilization
measures have been installed along Reach 1 and Reach 2 to
artificially protect against erosion using large boulders and log
revetments.
In addition to increasing the gradient of Gore Creek, the
straightening has likely reduced its bedform diversity. Where
Gore Creek maintains a naturally meandering planform, it
features a riffle-pool sequence, whereas the straight reach
features a predominantly plane bed with localized scour pools
downstream of the man-made grade control structures.
While the slope only varies slightly from reach to reach, the
average slope of Gore Creek through the golf course is
approximately 0.8%. Reach 1 has an approximate slope of
0.87% and Reach 2 has an approximate slope of 0.85%.
While Reach 3 has an overall slope of about 0.77%, the
uppermost section of that reach has a slope as great at
1.58% through an area of multiple grade control structures.
Again, while the overall slope of each reach is relatively the
same this slope is balanced by artificial structures within the
creek and along its banks taking large vertical drops that
would typically be spread throughout a longer reach.
The man-made grade control structures, especially in Reach
2 and Reach 3, manipulate the slope in these reaches,
although the observed existing failures of some of these
structures (such as dislodged boulders) could increase the slope and risk of erosion and incision. These grade-
control structures help balance disruptive hydraulics that could cause erosion, scour, and incision, but remove
the creek's ability to function naturally and develop more riffles and pools. The slope through Reach 2 is
significantly influenced by the roughly 5-foot grade-control structure associated with the diversion, which has
also disrupted the natural riffle-pool bedform pattern, producing a step-pool configuration not natural to this
area of Gore Creek. The slope of Reach 3 is also highly manipulated by approximately six grade control
structures.
5.6.3 Dimension
There is relatively little variability in the section dimension
(width and depth) of Gore Creek through the golf course.
Reaches 1 and 2, downstream of the diversion, are more
confined than Reach 3 upstream. Aside from small,
intermittent point bars, low flows within Gore Creek extend
from bank to bank in the lower reaches. The confined reaches
correlate with those that were found to have the greatest
impacts from adjacent development, as described in a previous
section. The most downstream portion of Reach 1 does
provide some floodplain connectivity along the left bank where
high flows can flood the golf course. Conversely, larger point
bars have formed upstream of Reach 3, where the bankfull
width is variable but generally less confined than in the
downstream reaches. Unconfined reaches, such as those observed in Reach 3, typically have a greater width-
to-depth ratio, which improves the stability and natural geomorphic and ecological variability of the creek and
adjacent wetland and riparian areas.
Figure 29. Example of Artificial Riprap Bank
Protection
Figure 30. Example of Bank Erosion Caused by
Grade Control Structures
Figure 31. Point Bar Formation and
Channel Complexity Along Reach 3
5.6.4
Figure 32. Relative Elevation Model Mapping
Bed Material
As observed in the Town of Vail upstream and downstream of the project reach, Gore Creek through the Vail
Golf Club is a cobble-bed system with median rock diameters of about 4 inches. The bed material is relatively
homogeneous throughout the golf course, except for the large boulders from which the man-made bank
stabilization and grade control structures are made.
WWE completed a Wolman pebble count analysis for a recent project upstream of the golf course to
characterize the size of material on the streambed. The 16th percentile grain size (D16) is 1.7 inches; the median
grain size (D50) is 4.2 inches; and the 84th percentile grain size (D84) is 9.1 inches. Qualitatively, the D16, D50,
and D84 are described as very coarse gravel, large cobbles, and small boulders, respectively. Because of practical
limitations in measuring large boulders, grain-size estimates may be artificially low.
5.6.4.1 Shear Stress Analysis
An evaluation was performed using the RiverRestoration two-dimensional HEC-RAS model to assess the erosion
potential of various rock sizes throughout the project reach. The 2-year shear stresses of Gore Creek through
the golf course range from 0.5 pound per square foot (lb/ft2) to 2 lb/ft2, with localized hot spots at the grade
control structures up to 10 lb/ft2. The 100-year shear stresses of Gore Creek through the golf course range from
2 lb/ft2 to 3 lb/ft2, with localized hot spots at the grade control structures up to 15 lb/ft2. The Shields Equation
(Julien, 1995) utilizes shear stress to calculate the force required to move sediment(or rock)ofa given diameter.
The equation uses the Shields parameter (0.045), the specific weight of the particle material (165 lb/ft3), the
specific weight of water, and the particle diameter to calculate the critical shear stress required to initiate
particle motion (incipient motion). This helps to understand why some of the grade control structures failed
and supports the fact this is a ‘transport’ reach of Gore Creek in which sediment is moved downstream below
the golf course where it aggrades. Furthermore, due to the larger diversion structure the sediment continuity
between upstream and downstream is lost and therefore, flows below the diversion structure are ‘sediment
hungry’ and further causing incision and bank erosion.WWE developed critical shear stress for various standard
rock sizesto support future design efforts. The calculated critical shear stress for each rock size can be seen in
the following table.
Table 4. Incipient Motion Calculations
Material Size
Size Range
(ft)
Critical Shear Stress
(lb/ft2)
Max Min Max Min
72-inch 6.0 5.0 27.7 23.1
48-inch 4.0 3.0 18.5 13.9
36-inch 3.0 2.0 13.9 9.2
24-inch 2.0 1.5 9.2 6.9
18-inch 1.5 1.0 6.9 4.6
12-inch 1.0 0.5 4.6 2.3
5.7 Physiochemical
The physicochemical factors of a river include temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and nutrients to describe
water quality. Gore Creek is a coldwater stream, with temperatures that approach 0°C (32°F) in the winter.
Available temperature data indicate that Gore Creek meets the temperature criteria established by CDPHE,
indicating that the current temperature regime can support healthy coldwater fish and macroinvertebrate
populations. Dissolved oxygen data were not available for the project reach. Still, the presence of sensitive
coldwater fishes such as brook trout and sensitive macroinvertebrates such as stoneflies suggest that dissolved
oxygen levels are adequate.
Although current temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels can support robust fish and macroinvertebrate
populations, climate change may increase stream temperatures. This would likely decrease dissolved oxygen
concentrations in Gore Creek, because warmer water holds less oxygen. These changes can harm aquatic life;
however, a healthy riparian plant community can provide shade and regulate stream temperatures (among
numerous other benefits) instreams such as Gore Creek. Multiplestudies have shown that a stream with a well-
connected floodplain is more resistant to temperature increases. Therefore, restoration of the riparian plant
community and the floodplain in the project reachwould provide a buffer against climate change.
Nonpoint source pollution from the surrounding lands and developed areas can include nutrients, pesticides,
and other harmful compounds that enter the stream from roads. These pollutants have affected Gore Creek in
the past and continue to do so, but efforts stemming from the Restore the Gore initiative have resulted in
improved water quality in Gore Creek.
5.8 Biology
5.8.1 Vegetation
The riparian and floodplain corridor along Gore Creek at the Vail Golf Club supports a mosaic of vegetation types
that vary in structure, quality, and ecological function. While portions of the corridor retain strong native
community composition, much of the system reflects disturbance from hydrologic modifications, recreation,
and management practices associated with the golf course. The following summarizes the primary vegetation
communities observed within the project reach and golf course:
Willow Shrublands:Dense stands of native willows are present along
several streambank segments, particularly in areas with shallow
groundwater tables and natural benching. These thickets provide
critical shading for Gore Creek, stabilize eroding banks, and support
bird nesting and cover. However, several willow stands exhibit age-
class imbalance, with limited evidence of young recruitment. This
condition leaves them vulnerable to future decline if active
regeneration strategies are not pursued.Figure 33. Willow Shrublands
Emergent Wetland Vegetation:Low-lying areas adjacent to Gore
Creek and golf course ponds support emergent species including
sedges and rushes. These wetlands provide valuable nutrient
filtration and habitat for amphibians. However, some areas show
signs of encroachment by invasive reed canary grass, which can
outcompete native sedge/rush assemblages and reduce habitat
diversity.
Cottonwood Forest:Limited pockets of mature narrowleaf
cottonwood occur intermittently. These large trees provide
structural diversity and habitat for cavity-nesting birds and other
wildlife. Many individuals are in mid- to late-successional stages, with few saplings observed. Invasive
understory vegetation has further reduced opportunities for natural regeneration. Without
intervention, cottonwood canopy cover may gradually diminish, affecting both habitat structure and
shading.
Conifer Forest:A significant number of spruce, primarily blue spruce
with bristlecone pine, occur within upland transition zones and along
select riparian margins. Additionally, Douglas fir, lodgepole pine,
Engleman spruce, and white fir are present within the planning area.
Blue spruce is dominant throughout, with a significant number of
planted individuals occurring along the periphery of Gore Creek.
These conifers contribute to scenic character, microclimate shading,
and limited wildlife use. Most spruce are mature to overmature, with
limited regeneration observed. Crown thinning, needle discoloration,
and minor dieback in upper branches indicate stress, likely linked to
soil compaction, altered hydrology, and competition with adjacent
vegetation
Upland / Disturbed Grasslands:Beyond the immediate riparian corridor, large areas transition quickly
into managed turf associated with the golf course. In some disturbed floodplain pockets, non-native
upland grasses dominate, including Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome. These areas provide
minimal habitat function and contribute little to riparian resiliency. Expansion of turf into riparian
benches also reduces the effective width of functional stream buffers.
Noxious Weeds and Invasive Species: Despite existing efforts,
scattered infestations of noxious weeds, including Canada thistle
and yellow toadflax, are present in disturbed margins. These species
compete with native vegetation, limit biodiversity, and increase
long-term maintenance needs. Without coordinated control,
invasive populations are likely to expand, further reducing ecological
integrity.
5.8.2 Fishery
The cold water in Gore Creek supports several fish species, many of
which are sought after by anglers. While angling typically does not
occur in the project areawhen the course is opendue to the proximity
of active golfers, fishery improvements to Gore Creek within the Vail
Golf Club will provide benefits to upstream and downstream reaches.
Fish surveys by CPW show that brook trout, rainbow trout, and brown
trout are common in this reach. Cutthroat trout (Colorado’s only
native trout) and white sucker (an undesirable fish) were also caught
in small numbers. White Sucker are undesirable because they
hybridize with rare native suckers that inhabit the Colorado River
Drainage and threaten their persistence. The proportion of
large/quality trout (fish greater than 8 to 13 inches in length,
depending on species) was low in all surveys. Only brown trout were
large enough to be considered quality fish (9 to 11 inches in length),
and the percentage of large/quality individuals ranged from 0 to 13
percent in the four surveys. Between 40% and 65% of the fish caught
during each survey were sculpin. Sculpins are a native species that is
unique to Colorado; however, this species prefers riffles and fast-
water habitat to pools, and the high proportion of sculpin (i.e.,
compared to trout) is probably due to lack of pool habitat in the study
area.
5.8.3 Macroinvertebrate Data
Macroinvertebrates are important to streams because they perform essential functions such as breaking down
leaves deposited in the stream and providing high-quality food for fish. The status of the Gore Creek
macroinvertebrate populations in the vicinity of the Vail Golf Club was evaluated using data and graphs provided
by Timberline Aquatics, Inc. (Timberline, 2023).
In 2023, sites on either side of the project reach supported
macroinvertebrate communities comprised of mayflies, stoneflies,
beetles, caddisflies, true flies, water mites, flatworms, and aquatic
segmented worms. True flies and caddisflies were the most common
groups collected. Stoneflies and mayflies, which can be more sensitive to
disturbance and pollution, were also present.
Timberline also included MMI scores, which are a measure of
macroinvertebrate community health developed by CDPHE. Scores were
summarized from data collected between 2009 and 2023. The MMI
scores at the Gore Creek sites show that the macroinvertebrate
community health improved between 2009 and 2023, with values
between 2017 and 2023 being higher than in previous years. The location of these sites in the vicinity of the
Town of Vail and adjacent to I-70 suggests that lower MMI scores may be due to non-point source pollution
Figure 37. Fish of Gore Creek
Figure 34. Typical Emergent
Wetland Vegetation
Figure 38. Representative
Photo of a Mayfly
Figure 35. Conifer Forest Along
Vail Golf Club
Figure 36. Examples of Noxious
Weeds and Invasive Species
associated with road and turf management. In addition to its impacts on water quality, stream channelization
throughout the project reach may affect the macroinvertebrate community, as discussed in previous sections.
However, the improvement in scores over time suggests that efforts associated with the Restore the Gore
initiative are having a beneficial effect.
5.8.4 Channelization Effects onAquatic Species
The small sizes of trout and the high relative abundance of sculpin (see Section 5.8.2) suggest a stream
morphology dominated by shallow, fast-water habitats, such as riffles and runs. The monotonous nature of the
instream habitat is evident in aerial photography and was confirmed during a site visit on November 6, 2024.
Even though snow was present on the ground, the stream was still visible and relatively free of surface ice and
shelf ice. The stream was visited at several locations within the project reach. The substrate primarily consisted
of cobble and gravel, with low proportions of sand and/or silt. However, the habitat lacks diversitythroughout
the channelized reach, and the streambed lacks the pool-riffle morphology that would have been present
before Gore Creek was straightened (i.e., Montgomery and Buffington 1997). Further, the stream is
disconnected from its floodplain throughout most of the project reach, and the diversion structure that services
the irrigation ponds near the upstream end of the golf course is either a full or partial barrier to upstream trout
movement and a full barrier to upstream movement of sculpin.
Channelization results in substantial habitat loss for aquatic
species, as well as potential geomorphological instability
(Thorne, Hey, and Newson, eds., 1997; Chapman and
Knudsen, 1980). The response of the fish community to
channelization is usually negative. For example, emergency
channelization in coldwater Colorado streams (in response
to catastrophic flood damage) has immediate effects on fish
density that are far more detrimental than the floods, with
some channelized sites supporting no fish (Richer et al.
2015). Changes to aquatic habitat in channelized streams
include loss of critical features for salmonids, such as pools,
with no evidence of stream adjustment towards better
habitat over decadal time scales (Lennox and Rasmussen
2016). Therefore, active restoration is necessary in
channelized stream reaches to enhance aquatic habitats.
5.8.5 Channelization and Effects on Macroinvertebrates
Channelization has resulted in a homogeneous habitat consisting mostly of fast-water types, such as riffles and
runs, with a cobble-and-gravel substrate. While many macroinvertebrates prefer riffle habitat and these
substrate sizes, the lack of habitat and substrate diversity would also be expected to limit macroinvertebrate
community diversity. Additionally, the stream in these reaches is disconnected from the floodplain, and riparian
vegetation is sparse in some areas. The riparian corridor width is also limited by the adjacent golf course and
roads.
Gwiazda et al. (2023) noted that the uniform widths and depths created by channelization resulted in reduced
density and diversity of macroinvertebrate taxa, while
modifications to the streambanks resulted in changes in
functional feeding group distributions. Kennedy and Turner
(2011) also observed a nearly 50 percent reduction in
macroinvertebrate densities in channelized reaches compared
to more natural reaches. The authors attributed this reduction
in macroinvertebrate diversity to the lack of connection
between the stream and floodplain in channelized reaches.
Furthermore, the absence of pool or backwater habitats in the
channelized reaches results in a lack of flow refugia for
macroinvertebrates during flooding or runoff. Because some
groups lack specialized adaptations to remain in place during floods, the lack of refugia could result in significant
displacement of these groups during floods. Riparian vegetation reduces bank erosion, provides important
materials for the stream food web (such as leaf litter and terrestrial insects), and captures sediment, nutrients,
and other pollutants that would otherwise enter Gore Creek during flooding or runoff (Wentzel and Hull, 2021;
Ahmednur et al., 2024). Ahmednur et al. (2024) compared macroinvertebrate metrics between channelized
and un-channelized reaches, noting decreases in multiple macroinvertebrate community metrics, includingthe
number of scraper and predator taxa. The MMI metrics describing the abundance of scrapers and the number
of predator taxa were lower at the Ford Park sitecompared to the East Vail site (see Section 5.8.3). Whilealtered
water quality is another potential cause of this difference, differences between the macroinvertebrate
communities may also be attributable to channelization. For example, thenumber of shredder taxa were lower
at the Ford Park sitethan at the East Vail site; this difference could be related to the reduced inputand retention
of leaves and detritus upon which shredders feed.
5.8.6 Wildlife
The Gore Creek corridor through the Vail Golf Club provides critical habitat for a diverse array of wildlife species.
Riparian vegetation provides nesting, foraging, and cover, while the creek serves as a movement corridor for
both terrestrial and aquatic organisms. Songbirds, small mammals, and amphibians are frequent within riparian
thickets and wetland zones. Mature cottonwoods and willows provide nesting cavities and cover, while
emergent wetlands provide breeding habitat for amphibians and support insect populations that serve as an
important food base. Habitat quality, however, is uneven across the corridor due to fragmentation, invasive
vegetation, and turf encroachment.
Figure 39. Example of Limited
Channel Complexity
Figure 40. Representative Photo
of Caddisfly
Ponds and emergent wetlands within the golf course attract a variety of waterfowl, including mallards,teal, and
Canada geese. These species rely on wetland vegetation for cover, brood rearing, and forage. Emergent
wetlands dominated by rushes and sedges provide the most functional habitat. Waterfowl use is currently
constrained in areas where wetland edges are narrow, fragmented, or dominated by invasive reed canary grass,
which offers reduced structural diversity.
Beavers are present within portions of the Gore Creek
corridor, though activity is intermittent and localized.
Evidence of past lodge construction and tree cutting has been
observed near willow stands and in the ponds around Holes 9
and 1. Beavers provide important ecological functions,
including creating ponds, diversifying habitats, and retaining
water; however, their foraging on willow and cottonwood can
stress already limited recruitment of these key riparian
species. In managed settings such as golf courses, balancing
beaver activity with vegetation-regeneration goals is a critical
consideration.
5.9 Other Aspects
5.9.1 Ponds
The Vail Golf Club has 11 ponds throughout the course. Six of these ponds are located upstream, fed by the
large diversion from Gore Creek, and are used to irrigate the golf course. The remaining five ponds are farther
downstream and lie alongthe originalalignment of Gore Creek prior to the development of the golf course and
I-70. These lower ponds are fed from a ditch that captures runoff from the south.
All of the ponds have various degrees of concern with algae proliferation. The algal growth in the ponds is not
only aesthetically unpleasing, but also significantly reduces water quality through eutrophication.
Eutrophication is the process by which a pond becomes
overly enriched with nutrients such as nitrogen and
phosphorous, leading to excessive growth of algae and
other aquatic plants. Excessive nutrients can come from
runoff carrying fertilizer from the golf course, pet waste,
and goose droppings. As algae bloom and die, it consumes
considerable oxygen in the water body, creating hypoxic
(low-oxygen) conditions that can harm fish, insects, and
other aquaticlife.
It should be noted that during the spring and early summer
months, the ponds have limited algae concerns as water is
abundant and temperatures are cooler. Algal growth
increases significantly in late summer as ambient air and
water temperatures rise and water flows decrease, leading
to reduced water depth and stagnation. This affects all ponds throughout the course but is of greater concern
at the lower ponds near Vail Valley Drive, where they are shallower and narrower. The ponds have limited shade
cover, which increasesalgaeproduction due to exposure to direct sunlight. Headgates control the flow between
the ponds, but due to current conditions, they limit effective control. Most of the headgates are located near
the surface of the ponds limiting the ability to circulate water from lower portions of the pond or drain them.
None of the ponds have aeration or pond management plans to limit algae growth.
Another issue associated with the ponds is the
presence of geese in and around them, which
contributesto water quality concerns. Their fecal
matter contains excess nutrients that enter the
pond, promoting algae growth and reducing
dissolved oxygen. Their droppings are unsanitary
for humans and also aesthetically unpleasing.
Geese can damage the ecosystem and the golf
course by overgrazing and destroying sensitive
wetland and riparian plants that provide
ecological uplift to Gore Creek and the ponds. The
openness of the golf course, along with the
limited vegetationsurrounding the ponds, makes the upper ponds a preferred location for geese.
Solitude Lake Management, along with the Town of Vail, collected water quality samples from five ponds, four
at the upstream location and oneat the
downstream location, once in the early
spring (May 28, 2025) and again in
September. The full analytical results of
those tests are provided in Appendix 6.
The water quality results from the May
sampling event are summarized below,
showing undesirable levels of Total
Phosphorus, Alkalinity, Hardness, Total
Nitrogen, and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen,
leading to conditions for prime algal
growth.
Figure 41. Channel Spanning
Beaver Dam in Upstream Reach
Figure 44. AlgaeGrowth in Lower Ponds
Figure 43. Geese Near Upper Ponds
Figure 42. Lower Ponds in October
Figure 45. Pond Sampling Locations
Table 5. Pond Water Quality Summary from May
Test Pond 1 Pond 2 Pond 3 Pond 4 Pond 5
pH Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy
Total Phosphorus Borderline Borderline Borderline Borderline Borderline
Orthophosphate Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy
Conductivity Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy
Alkalinity Low Low Low Low Borderline
Turbidity Health Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy
Hardness Borderline Low Low Borderline Borderline
Total Nitrogen Low Healthy Low Low Healthy
Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen Low Healthy Low Low Healthy
Nitrates/Nitrites Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy
Chlorophyll A Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy Healthy
5.9.2 Golf Course
As discussed throughout this report, the golf course plays a role in the hydraulic, ecological, and
geomorphological condition of Gore Creek. The golf course and other infrastructure limit the creek’s ability to
naturally shift, change, and evolve, effectively ‘locking it in place.’ There are many locations where there is little
to no buffer between golf course features and water bodies, limiting the development of wetland and riparian
areas. Due to the proximity of the golf course to the creek, there is limited floodplain connectivity and reduced
overall channel sinuosity, especially in the lower reach. Several cart path bridges also cross the creek, affecting
normal hydraulics and geomorphology. Vail Golf Club remains a valuable community recreation asset and the
evaluation and recommendations assume continued operation of the golf course.
The golf course's existing configuration, in many areas, limits the ability to provide ecological uplift and
ultimately remove Gore Creek from the 303(d) list. Modificationsto the golf course can benefit both the course
and the creek.
Nutrient runoff is a major impact of all golf courses, but especially those situated in a context like Vail. Due to
its high elevation, the Vail Golf Club must apply additional fertilizers to ensure playability during the short golf
season. Since fertilizers are applied to most irrigated turf areas, managing this nutrient runoff becomes critical
to the overall health of Gore Creek.
5.9.3 Utilities
The Town of Vail, ERWSD, and Xcel Energy
provided information on existing utilities. As
is typical in many creek corridors, numerous
utilities are located near the creek or cross it
at multiple locations. Of utmost significance
is a high-pressure gas line that parallels the
creek's downstream reach for
approximately 4,600 linear feet. There is
also a water line that crosses under Gore
Creek near the Vail Valley bridge and a
sanitary pipe near the cart path after Hole
12, both of which are currently exposed and
not protected. Additionally, extensive
irrigation lines are located throughout the
golf course and near the creek. Along with utilities, five cart path bridges cross over Gore Creek. Included as
Attachment J is a map of the various utilities throughout the area.
6.0 ENHANCEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
The following sections provide a discussion of each recommendation
presented in the Planning Zone Maps in Attachment B. Included as
Attachment B is a composite ‘roll map’ that shows the entire course
and recommended improvements, along with individual planning
zones. Also included in the maps are potential alternatives to address
deficienciesnear the Vail Valley Drive bridge and potential realignment
of the creek required for housing north of I-70 through various
alternatives. These recommendations can be used individually or in
combination. This section providesa general overview of these features
and their benefits. In-depth hydrologic and hydraulic evaluations
should be completed before implementing some of these aspects.
6.1 Vegetative Buffer Enhancement / Creation
The Vail Golf Club occupies a prominent reach of the Gore Creek
corridor and plays a critical role in maintaining the ecological integrity
of the upper Eagle River watershed. Historical modifications to the stream channel, combined with intensive
turf management and limited buffer width, have reduced the riparian zone's natural filtration and habitat
functions. Enhancing and expanding vegetative buffers along Gore Creek and associated water features will
improve water quality, stabilize streambanks, and strengthen ecological resilience while maintaining the
course's aesthetic and recreational values.
The creation of wider, structurally diverse riparian and upland vegetative buffers at the Vail Golf Club will
produce immediate and long-term benefits for the Gore Creek ecosystem and the broader community. By
Figure 46. Exposed Sanitary Line Near Hole 12
Figure 47. Example of Wetland /
Riparian Habitat
combining native plantings, hydrologic improvements, and adaptive management, this initiative will help meet
local watershed goals, support wildlife, and demonstrate environmental leadership within the Town of Vail.
Site-specific opportunities for vegetation enhancement, creation, and preservation are shown in Attachment
A. The following page provides a typical section representing various planting zones that could be utilized as
part of enhancement applications.
6.2 Wetland / Riparian Habitat Creation
The riparian buffer should be expanded to a minimum of 25–50 feet where feasible, depending on site
geometry and course layout. Buffer zones should include three structural layers:
Emergent and Herbaceous Layer:Sedges, rushes, and bulrushes planted along lower benches to
stabilize banks and enhance filtration.
Shrub Layer:Willows, red-osier dogwood, and alder to provide structure, shading, and root stabilization.
Understory and Groundcover:Native grasses and forbs tolerant of moist soils, such as tufted hairgrass,
blue wildrye, and yarrow, to fill interspaces and prevent erosion.
Tree canopy: Management of spruce trees, including selective removal,should be considered along the
riparian zone. Planting a a diverse assortment of tree speciesthroughout will benefit the ecosystem and
provide shading and wildlife habitat.
Live staking, container planting, and direct seeding are all appropriate establishment methods. Willow and
dogwood stakes should be installed along the channel toe and bank slopes, while containerized shrubs and
sedge plugs should be used on mid- and upper benches to ensure rapid coverage. Trees should be planted on
top of the bank. Supplemental irrigation and browse protection may be necessary during the establishment
period.
Before planting, invasive species (e.g., Canada thistle, reed canary grass) should be removed using a
combination of mechanical and spot-treatment methods. Where slopes are steep or compacted, minor
regrading may be required to create gentle benches or microtopography conducive to moisture retention.
Topsoil should be loosened or amended with organic matter to support root establishment. Installation should
occur in late spring or early fall, when moisture conditions are favorable.
Figure 48. Example of Wetland Riparian Habitat Creation at Nearby Golf Course
6.3 Vegetation Management
A five-year maintenance period is recommended to ensure establishment success. Activities for consideration
include supplemental irrigation during the first two growing seasons (optional), targeted weed control, and
replacement of failed plantings. Annual monitoring should document plant survival, species composition, and
percent cover. Adjustments to species selection, density, or hydrologic conditions should be made adaptively
based on observed performance.
Figure 49. Riparian Vegetation Section
Figure 50. Potential Planting Matrices for Enhancement
6.4 Creek Realignment / Enhancement
The straightening of Gore Creek through the Vail Golf Club has resulted in significant adverse impacts. This plan
offers opportunities to increase channel sinuosity, modify the creek cross-section, and, in some locations, mimic
the historical alignment. There are also opportunities to modify the actual cross-section of Gore Creek to
provide greater benefit to the ecosystem. Throughout the planning zone maps, multiple areas are proposed for
creek realignment or enhancement. Some of these locations recommend complete realignment, while others
focus more on simply modifying the low flow and bankfull channel alignment by incorporating the
enhancement measures presented in this section.
While a full realignment of the creek to pre-anthropogenic conditions is not feasible, significant realignment is
possible in some areas, and additional realignment options may become available through future projects. As
discussed, certain areas of the golf course could be modified slightly to provide more space for the creek and
its riparian corridors. In these areas, the creek could be completely realigned as such to provide additional
sinuosity and riffle pool complexes, or the simple placement of point bars could be utilized to add additional
inner-channel sinuosity as well. Again, these approaches would help reduce bankfull channel width and increase
bankfull channel depth, while providing space for flood flows to spread. The mapped historical alignments
provide a good reference for a functional creek planform, as does the largely undisturbed reach of Gore Creek
from the eastern end of Booth Creek Drive to the East Vail exit ramp from I-70. Where opportunities exist to
restore the creek alignment, riffle lengths, pool spacing, and other geomorphic parameters, they should be
based on this reference data.
During any projects along Gore Creek, the alignment
and the cross-section of the creek should be
modified to provide better ecological benefits.
Modification of the cross-section of Gore Creek
could be implemented without altering the creek's
alignment. Due to the existing hydraulic and
geomorphology of Gore Creek through the golf
course, the current cross-section of the creek lacks
the complexity of a natural stream cross section.
Developing a typical terraced channel configuration
with a low-flow and bankfull section would allow for
the development of an inner channel with some sinuosity, without substantial realignment that could affect
golf course playability. Included with the conceptual designs for Hole 11 are typical creek cross-sections that
could be implemented.
There may be aneed to realign the creek near the intersection of Vail Valley Drive and the South Frontage Road
in the future. Future development of residential housing on the north side of I-70, near the public works
building, may require a turn lane, necessitatingthe widening of the South Frontage Road corridor at Vail Valley
Drive. This widening would affect the existing creek alignment under the bridge, necessitating realignment of
the creek and relocation of the bridge. If this is the case, the creek could be realigned along its historical
alignment through the nearby existing ponds to increase length and sinuosity, allowing for the full
reconstruction of the creek with a bankfull channel and terraced floodplain, while still permitting high flows to
pass through the existing bridge.
Figure 51. Example of Typical Channel Section
Figure 52. Example of a Simple Realignment
Figure 53. Example of Complete Realignment
Restoring the meander pattern of Gore Creek will also reduce the overall slope of the creek, improving its
natural function and mitigating the risk of erosion and instabilities. In addition to the reduction in overall slope,
adding sinuosity back into the system could support the development of a more natural riffle-pool bedform.
Where possible, future grade control structures should avoid a vertical drop in grade and instead mimic a
natural riffle bedform gradient. Retrofitting the existing grade-control structures to a gentler riffle slope will
enhance the creek's function, particularly downstream of the existing diversion. Pools should be integrated into
constructed riffles to kick-start the development of a sustainable,diverse bedform morphology.
Any work within Gore Creek should maintain the continuity of the bed material gradation. Except where larger
material, such as boulders, is warranted to hold grade in critical locations (e.g., the diversion crest), natural
cobble substrate should be maintained throughout the corridor.
6.5 Point Bar Enhancement
Point bars are the sandy or gravelly areas that form on the inside of
river bends. They help keep rivers healthy by balancing erosion,
creating shallow areas where fish and insects can thrive, and
providing space for new plants to grow along the banks. Over time,
these features also support floodplains, store water, and filter out
pollutants, making rivers more stable, cleaner, and better for both
wildlife and people.Point bars could be developed along many of the
golf club's reaches. Point bars can help narrow the riverine corridor
and increase depth and channel complexity in straightened reaches ,
and can increase inner-channel sinuosity where full channel
realignment might not be possible.
6.6 Bank Stabilization
While not all bank erosion is bad, in the case of
Gore Creek through the Vail Golf Club, bank
erosion and de-stabilization must be monitored
and managed due to the course's proximity to
the creek, along with utilities and infrastructure
such as gas lines and roadways. Bank
stabilization can take many forms, from hard-
lined structures such as boulder walls and log
cribbing to laid-back slopes and vegetative soil
lifts. The key to bank stabilization is resiliency.
Either the bank stabilization must be designed
to resist erosive velocitiesor developed in a way
that can ‘bounce back’ after a large flow event.
The use of vegetation in all bank stabilization
approaches is paramount, as the roots act like
‘glue’, stabilizing the banks and providing
ecological benefits.
Figure 54. Example of Point
Bars Along Gore Creek
Figure 55. Existing Log Cribbing AlongGore Creek
Figure 56. Example of Bank Stabilization Using a Combination of Hard and Soft Approaches
6.7 Floodplain Reconnection
Floodplain reconnection offers significant ecological and
community benefits by allowing rivers to naturally spread
into their adjacent low-lying areas during high flows. This
process reduces flood risks downstream by storing and
slowly releasing waterwhile also improving water quality by
filtering out sediments, nutrients, and pollutants in the
floodplain. Reconnected floodplains support diverse
riparian vegetation and provide vital habitat for wildlife,
creating essential refuges and nursery habitats for fish and
other aquatic species. Over time, these areas enhance
groundwater recharge, increase resilience to drought,
reduce water temperatures, and restore the natural
dynamics of rivers, making them healthier and more
sustainable for both people and ecosystems.
In a system like Gore Creek, which is bounded by the golf
course and other infrastructure along its length, floodplain
reconnection must be carefully evaluated. Prior to the
development of the golf course and the construction of I-70, the Gore Creek floodplain through this area was
quite extensive. While this plan aims to promote ecological restoration, it should be noted that reconnecting
the creek to its historic floodplain is undesirable due to its impact on the course's playability. Instead of
reconnecting the floodplain to the golf course, inner channel berms and terraces can be developed, allowing a
portion of the land abutting the creek tobe lowered and reconnected during more frequent events. While this
may not fully reconnect the floodplain, the substantial benefits of any floodplain reconnection cannot be
overstated.
6.8 Feature Boulders/Clusters
Feature boulders and boulder clusters provide important benefits in river restoration by enhancing both habitat
and channel stability. Strategically placed boulders create
variations in flow, producing pools, riffles, and eddies that
increase hydraulic complexity and oxygenate the water—
conditions that are critical for fish and aquatic insects. Boulder
clusters also help dissipate stream energy, reducing bank
erosion and stabilizing the channel bed, while encouraging
natural sediment sorting. Ecologically, they provide shelter and
resting spots for fish, improve spawning habitat, and create
diverse niches for macroinvertebrates. Over time, these
structures mimic natural river features, contributing to a more
resilient and self-sustaining stream system. Feature boulders
and boulder clusters could be implemented throughout Gore
Creek to provide additional channel complexity. They can also
narrow the width of Gore Creek, thereby increasing depths,
providing cover, and reducing water temperatures.
6.9 Diversion StructureRehabilitation
The diversion structure near Hole 14 could be modified to support ecological uplift and improved stream
hydraulics, while also enabling greater water diversion capacity and better control of those diversions. It is
recommended that the crest be initially raised slightly to improve water diversion during periods of low flow.
The diversion could also be upgraded with flow-monitoring telemetry and automated headgate actuators to
improve control of the diverted water. The modification of the diversion itself should be coupled with the
redevelopment of the grade downstream of the diversion crest. The grade downstream of the diversion
structure could be adjusted to mimic a series of typical riffle-pool sequences, thereby replicating the natural
character of Gore Creek. The intentwould be to modify the slope of the structure to spreadthe drop associated
with the diversion structure over a longer distance. This would enable development of additional aquatic
habitat and reduce bank erosion in the vicinity of the structure.
Figure 58. Example of Feature
Boulder/Clusters
Figure 57. Floodplain Reconnection
without Impacting Golf Playability
6.10 Ponds
Ponds act as the catchment basin in any flowing water system. With that
comes the accumulation of sediment and, inevitably,nutrients. In terms
of algae growth, the primary nutrients of concern are phosphorus and
nitrogen. To manage the ponds and mitigate algae growth, our
approach focuses on water quality and sediment monitoring, nutrient
remediation, and the installation of aeration equipment. Nuisance algae
species, specifically the mat-forming subset that covers the surface of
ponds, prefer stagnant wateras it allowstheir cells to form connections.
Aeration equipment will help reduce the algae cells' abilityto form these
connectionsandhelps to circulate the water column in the hot summer
months, allowing cool water from the bottom to mix with the warmer
top layer. This ensures there is oxygen at the pond bottom and prevents
a thermocline from forming. This is important for fish health, as ponds
with a thermocline can suddenly turn over, rapidly mixing low- and high-
oxygen waters, causing stress to fish and potentially leading to fish kills. Aeration can be achieved through
fountains that provide aesthetic value.
The sediment layer in ponds, especially organic sediment, is a common source of internal nutrient loading. With
twice-yearly water quality and sediment monitoring, the Town of Vail will be able to track and address excess
nutrient buildup and organic material accumulation. These potential issues can be addressed with a variety of
products, including the preferred approach of using calcium peroxide-based tools. These products have been
shown to reduce up to 12 inches of soft sediment in a single year and to significantly reduce free-reactive
phosphorus in water and sediment. In addition to the calcium peroxide applications, the recommended bi-
weekly maintenance services will apply beneficial bacteria to boost microorganisms that naturally digest
phosphorus and nitrogen. Additional mechanical removal of sediment or deepening of the ponds might be
suggested based on a bathymetric survey of the ponds.
The ponds throughout the Vail Golf Club are connected via ditches and pipes that are controlled by headgates
at the pond's surface. The existing headgates are relatively dilapidated and limit the ability to control flows
between the ponds as water levels decrease. New headgates that allow for the lowering of the pond’s water
surface elevation would be beneficial to increasingflow through the ponds, limiting algae production. Utilization
of an Agri-Drain style headgate, which could allow a pond to be completely drained, would benefit the ecology
of ponds as well as provide flexibility in operations. This could work in concert in converting some of the ponds
to wetland and riparian areas with bankfull channels to act as sacrificial ponds when flows decrease without
being unsightly or unhealthy. All these headgates could also be connected via telemetry and actuators to allow
for automated and remote controlor trash racks and fish screens to limit movement of debris or fish from pond
to pond.
6.10.1 Pond Edge VegetationEnhancement
The ponds at the Vail Golf Club are a defining feature of the
landscape, offering both functional water storage and visual
interest. However, their margins are currently constrained by
narrow bands of turf grass and limited wetland vegetation, reducing
their ability to filter runoff, provide habitat, and stabilize shorelines.
Expanding the emergent wetland buffer around these ponds
presents an opportunity to enhance ecological performance while
maintaining the recreational and aesthetic values of the golf course.
The recommended buffer design incorporates a tiered system that
transitions from aquatic emergent vegetation at the water’s edge to riparian shrubs in the mid-slope zone and
native mesic meadow species at the upland interface. This approach not only enhances habitat diversity but
also maximizes the buffer's capacity to filter nutrients, trap sediments, and reduce shoreline erosion. Where
space permits, the buffer should extend 10 to 15 feet from the pond margin, providing sufficient width to deliver
measurable water quality and habitat benefits.
The inner zone along the water’s edge should be planted with emergent species adapted to permanently
saturated soils, including native sedges such as beaked sedge and Nebraska sedge, rushes such as Baltic rush,
and bulrushes like chairmaker's bulrushand hardstem bulrush. These emergent communities will provide dense
root networks that stabilize soils, intercept nutrients, and create valuable habitat for amphibians, aquatic
invertebrates, and waterfowl. Immediately above the emergent zone, a band of riparian shrubs should be
established in saturated but less frequently inundated soils.
Key species include Rocky Mountain and Geyer willows, Bebb’s willow, and red-osier dogwood. The outer buffer
should transition to upland species that blend with the managed turf while maintaining ecological function.
Native shrubs such as golden currant and serviceberry should be paired with seeded mixes of native grasses
and forbs, including tufted hairgrass, blue wildrye, yarrow, and native asters. This transition zone will create a
visually attractive meadow edge that supports pollinators and provides a clear delineation between wetland
buffer and mowed turf areas.
Figure 59. Fountain
Providing Aeration
Figure 60. Ponds with No Buffer
6.11 Tree Replacement
In accordance with the Town of Vail’s vegetation protection and tree
removal policies, compensatory planting will be used to offset any trees
removed during course renovations. Under Vail Code § 14-6-2, grading
and site alteration around retained vegetation must avoid disturbing
critical root zones unless approved by the Design Review Board.
Thus, replacement trees will be planted in designated mitigation zones
that respect existing critical root zones and stream corridors. Species
selection will favor native, site-adapted species consistent with Vail’s
local guidelines (e.g., local aspen, cottonwood, willow, and subalpine
species) with a replacement ratio sufficient to reestablish equivalent
canopy cover and ecological function. All plantings will be supported with
temporary irrigation during establishment and monitored over multiple
growing seasons.
The design of compensatory planting will be submitted for review by the
Design Review Board, ensuring compliance with Vail’s vegetation
removal and grading controls. Old Growth Tree Service has completed a
tree health assessment and maintains an active tree inventory that
includes recommendations for management. This data was reviewed as
part of this plan.
6.12 Golf Course Modifications
To implement some of the measures presented in the enhancement plan,
modifications to the golf course are needed in certain areas. These
modifications are not only beneficial to the river but also to golf course
playability.As projects progress along the river through the Vail Golf Club,
the Vail Golf Course Master Plan should be evaluatedin conjunction with
a golf architect to explore win-win solutions. In general, it would be best
to provide a substantial buffer between the golf course and the creek to
allow for additional vegetation, a riparian buffer, point-bar development,
and inner-channel sinuosity. Many of the proposed golf course
modificationsinvolve relocating tees, fairways, greens, and golf cart paths
away from the river to facilitate bank stabilization, enhance vegetative
buffers, and create and develop wetland and riparian habitats. Larger
efforts, such as rerouting the creek through its historical alignment and
the lower ponds, would also require modifications to the holes, but
would be a great added benefit to Gore Creek. All this work could be
phased to limit impact to golf course playability and available funding.
6.13 Utilities
As with any river corridor, there are numerousutilitiesthat either parallel Gore Creek or cross underneath. Any
utilities in close proximity to the creek that can be relocated should be, but note that this may require
considerable effort and be extremely costly. Therefore, whenever utilities are in proximity to the creek, the
creek’s hydraulics and geomorphology should be evaluated to ensure the utility is not impacted. Utilities that
parallel the river should be encasedif possible. Ifencasement isnot possible, the utility should be protected by
measures such as offset buried riprap revetment and boulder bank stabilization. In cases where utilities cross
beneath the creek, they should be buried to an elevation abovethe anticipated scour depth and protected with
larger stream substrate material to limit scour. They should also beencased in reinforced concrete. The exposed
existing water line could likely be lowered, but hydraulics should be evaluated first. The existing exposed
sanitary line cannot likely be lowered, as it is a gravity utility. Therefore, it should be protected in place with
encasement and boulder-gradecontrols to limit degradation and scour in the vicinity of the utility. In areas with
ample room, floodplain terraces should be developed to reduce erosive velocities.
6.14 Bioswales
Bioswales are shallow, vegetated channels designed to slow and filter
water, making them especially valuable for limiting nutrient runoff
from golf courses. As water flows through a bioswale, grasses, native
plants, and soil microbes trap sediments, absorbexcess fertilizers, and
break down pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus before they
reach nearby streams or ponds. This natural filtration process not only
improves downstream water quality but also reduces harmful algal
growth, protects aquatic habitat, and enhances the aesthetic and
ecological value of the golf course. Additionally, bioswales promote
groundwater recharge and provide pollinator-friendly vegetation,
offering both environmental and community benefits. Bioswales can be implemented in any location where
runoff is concentrated into swales and then conveyed towards the river. Bioswales could also be implemented
along the entire reach of Gore Creek through the Golf Course to capture nonpoint runoff. Bioswales can also be
implemented at the end of drainage culverts conveying runoff to Gore Creek. These bioswales can have a
minimal impact on the overall playability of the course and, in most instances, are unnoticeable.
6.15 Wildlife
As with most golf courses that feature creeks and ponds within their boundaries, there is likely to be conflict
with wildlife. As previously discussed, concerns exist regarding the proliferation of geese on the course and near
the ponds that require attention. The geese throughout the course cause water quality concerns, wasting entire
ponds and creeks. There are also concerns with beavers throughout the corridor affecting golf course
infrastructure. Beavers have been known to build dams across Gore Creek, causing flooding of the golf course,
and to burrow under greens, resulting in considerable damage to infrastructure.
Addressing both concerns in an ethical, ecosystem-enhancement-minded way is challenging. While geese may
not provide a direct benefit to the ecosystem, acceptably removing them is challengingand could be illegal. The
Migratory Bird Treaty Act, originally enacted in 1918, implements treaties between the U.S. and other nations,
Figure 61. Overcrowding of Trees
of Same Class and Species
Figure 62. Example of Simple Golf
Course Modification to Provide
Buffer
Figure 63. Example of Bioswale
such as Canada,to protect migratory birds. It makes it illegal to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell migratory
birds, as well as their nests or eggs, unless authorized by permit. Canada geese (as well as snow geese and many
other goose species) are explicitly protected under the Act. Beavers, on the other hand, provide considerable
benefits to the ecosystem and are known as nature's engineers. It is understood that the Golf Club typically
breaks large beaver dams that cause flooding around the golf course; however, measures such as the ‘Beaver
Deceiver’ could be utilized, allowing the dam to stay in place while providing a mechanism to drain the
impounded water through a caged culvert. Furthermore, large boulder walls and logs could be emplaced
around sensitive golf infrastructure to limit beavers' ability to burrow under critical infrastructure that is
expensive to repair. The last measure that should be utilized is the actual relocation of beavers away from the
course, this should be limited to only when absolutely necessary, as it is possible that beavers will return, and
translocated beavers experience high mortality rates. It is likely that neither of these species can be addressed
fully and should be monitored as issues arise.
6.16 Wildfire Mitigation
The Vail Golf Clublies within a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zone where
developed landscapes meet natural forest and shrubland habitats. Under
the Vail Community Wildfire Protection Plan (Vail, 2020)property owners
are required to implement vegetation management and structural
hardening measures to reduce wildfire risk. The Eagle County Community
Wildfire Protection Plan (2023) further outlines regional priorities for fuel
reduction, defensible space, and landscape resilience.
Vail Fire Department serves as the local fire authority and provides
technical guidance for wildfire mitigation within the Town of Vail.
Implementation of this Wildfire Mitigation Plan will align the Vail Golf Club
with county and regional goals, improving fire resilience for the course,
adjacent neighborhoods, and the Gore Creek watershed.
6.16.1 Site Conditions and Risk Overview
Vegetation and Fuels:Areas surrounding the course include mixed conifer and aspen stands with dense
understory vegetation and shrub thickets along property edges. These zones present moderate fuel
continuity and potential for ladder fuels.
Topography:Slopes on the southern and eastern margins promote upslope fire spread under prevailing
wind conditions.
Structures and Infrastructure:The clubhouse, maintenance facilities, and rest stations are located near
vegetated areas that could transmit radiant heat or embers.
Community Interface:The golf course borders residential properties and open spaces, serving as a
transition zone where consistent mitigation is essential to community safety.
6.16.2 Wildfire Mitigation Objectives
Reduce fuel continuity between wildland vegetation and built environments.
Enhance defensible space around all structures and critical facilities.
Create fire-resistant landscapes using appropriate native andlow-flammability species.
Increase preparedness through staff training, maintenance protocols, and interagency coordination.
Protect ecological values by integrating wildfire mitigation with riparian and habitat restoration projects.
7.0 50% DESIGNS
As part of this plan, conceptual designs were developed to address the four areas of greatest concern: erosion
along the 11th Fairway, flooding near the 7th Hole, the proximity of the 15th Green to Gore Creek, and algae
proliferation in the ponds. The designs developed, included in Attachment C, are conceptual in nature and will
require refinement in future phases. The designs are based solely on aerial imagery and LiDAR. Included as
Attachment G are a series of plansand profile drawings, along with potential details for each area.
7.1 Erosion Along 11
th Fairway
Erosion along the 11th Fairway, as well as the banks on the opposite side of the river, is concerning. While this
is not the only area where the creek is incised, it is one of the main areas with contiguous erosion occurring
along both banks. The area lacks a riparian corridor due to existing instability, steep banks, limited shade,
exposure to sun, and limited soil media. High flows in this area are confined, leading to significant erosion along
the banks. Currently, erosion and vertical banks along the river's right (north) bank, where the 11th Fairway is
located, are unsightly but are not affecting the playability of the course. Ifleft unattended, erosion could begin
to affect the fairway atthis location. The erosion and vertical banks along the left (south) side have the potential
to propagate and affect golf course infrastructure, including irrigation systems and maintenance access paths,
and may raise concerns aboutthe banks of the nearby ponds. The benefit of this location is that the 11th Fairway
is quite wide, and there are opportunities to reduce its width while improving the course's playability. At this
location, it is proposed to reduce the fairway width and realign the channel centerfurther to the north, allowing
for the inclusion of a bankfull channel with floodplain terraces on both sides of the riverandbanks at a reduced
slope. These terraces will also provide opportunities for vegetative buffersand riparian enhancement. This work
could also be combined with reducing the vertical drop at the existing diversion structure by installing a series
of riffles and pools to provide channel complexity. At the same time, the diversion crest could be adjusted to
enhance the ability to divert during periods of low creek flow.
Figure 64. Wildfire Ready
Figure 65. Example of Bank Erosion on 11th Hole
7.2 15
th Green Proximity to Creek
To address the 15
th Green’s proximity to Gore Creek, the green must be relocated away from the creek.
Currently, portions of the 15th green fall within 10 feet of the TYFL of Gore Creek, and the edge of the green’s
fringe is only one foot away from the TYFL. The goal would be to relocate the green as far away from the TYFL
as possibleto limit mowing and establishment of natural riparian vegetation. The relocation of the green would
increase the vegetative buffer, providing ecological benefits and improved water quality by reducing nutrient
runoff. Relocating a green can be quite expensive, fortunately opportunities exist to use a nearby ‘practice
green’ as the 15th Green or to expandthe existing green into the ‘practice green’.
Figure 66. Green Within 'No Mow' Area
7.3 7
th Hole Flooding
It is understood that the 7th and portions of the 8th Hole flood during more frequent runoff events associated
with large spring runoff and the 2-year event. The flooding of these areas affects the playability of the course
and limits the opening of these holes until the water recedes. It should also be noted that some of this flooding
is associated with high groundwater levels, given the creek's proximity to the water surface. Flooding of these
areas could be reduced by incorporating a floodplain terrace along both the 7th and 8th Holes, but it would be a
considerable undertaking. Also, adding a considerable amount of fill to both holes is counterproductive to
stream health and exceedingly difficult to permit. To address flooding concerns and minimize its impact on
these holes, the following measures are recommended: raising the 7th front tees, incorporating a low-lying area
between the front tees and the fairway, and installing a boardwalk over the low-lying area. This would allow
the creek to remain connected to its historical floodplain, while also providing golfers access to the area as the
waters recede. Incorporation of a lower terrace along the river near the 7th Fairway and green is also
recommended, with a boulder or log wall to catch grade and stabilize the banks. The hardline feature of the
wall would also limit beavers' ability to dig under the green,which cancause substantial damage
Figure 67. Flooding Along 7th Hole
7.4 Algae Proliferation
Our team recommends a two-pronged approach to address the issue of algae, combining conventional pond
management techniques with innovative solutions that modify pond operations, topography, or diversions. Our
initial approach, and the more feasible solution, examined typical pond management practices that could be
used to reduce algae growth in the pond. As part of this project, Solitude Lake Management conducted an
evaluation of several ponds along the golf course and has provided a recommended pond managementplanin
Appendix 7.
Another approach developed was to look for opportunities to keep fresh water flowing through the ponds. This
is a viable option, but it would require modifying diversion infrastructure to allow water to be diverted when
the creek is low since the upper ponds are limited by the crest of the diversion structure and the lower ponds
are limited by natural runoff in the upper basin. This approach would include modifying the crest of the
diversion for the upper ponds and the pipeline to maintain a continuous flow of water through the ponds. It
should be noted that while this diversion would be limited, it would reduce the flow in the creek between the
point where water is diverted out of the creek and the point where it returns.
Another option presented as part of this plan is to modify the ponds to use more open-channel conveyance
mechanisms that mimic a riparian corridor. This would likely only be feasiblefor the lower ponds near Vail Valley
Drive. It would still divert water to some level of beneficial use but limit the need for extra water during low-
flow times of the year. A defined stream channel section would be developed with a riparian corridor with low-
growth plants to provide ecological uplift and shading. Whether the ponds are converted to more open
channels, vegetative buffers should be included around the ponds to provide additional ecological benefits,
such as shade and food sources for aquatic organisms. This could include riparian vegetation around the pond
andthe planting of trees.
Figure 68. Algae in Ponds
7.5 General Revegetation
The Vail Golf Club’s Gore Creek corridor supports diverse but degraded vegetation, including willows, sedges,
cottonwoods, and conifers, many of which show limited regeneration and stress from hydrologic alteration,
turf encroachment, and invasive species. While these plant communities provide key habitat and water-quality
benefits, fragmentation and weed infestation have reduced ecological function. Moderate wildfire risk from
accumulated fuels and dense conifer understory further threatens the site. The enhancement plan
recommends expanding 25–50-foot native vegetative buffers, restoring multi-layered riparian habitats,
managing invasives, and implementing a five-year adaptive maintenance program. Coordinated wildfire
mitigationthrough fuel reduction, defensible space, and alignment with the Vail Community Wildfire Protection
Plan will improve safety, habitat resilience, and long-term watershed health while demonstrating sustainable
management at the Vail Golf Club. See Figure 50for a typical planting section.
8.0 EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
As with all restoration projects, numerous
educational opportunities exist. It is key to
the success of these restoration efforts to
inform the individuals maintaining the area,
as well as the public, about why certain
actions are being taken. Developing a
signage program throughout the golf course
and along the surrounding trails can
educate and inform people about the
benefits of the work being completed,
helping them appreciate the project and
support future endeavors. The utilization of
before-and-after pictures of restoration is a
great way to convey the benefits of the work
being completed. A program could be
developed that builds upon the various
techniques employed throughout the golf course, such as floodplain reconnection, riparian enhancement,
vegetation management, and addressing wildlife concerns, among others. Educating the public is also a great
aspect to include in potential grant funding applications.
Interpretive and informational signs should communicate the purpose of restoration activities, promote
stewardship, and enhance visitors’ understanding of the creek ecosystem and golf course improvements. The
intent is to create a cohesive signage system that informs users while harmonizing with the golf course's natural
and recreational character. Interpretive and educational signs should be located near restoration features, cart
paths, and walking areas to engage both golfers and the public. Key topics may include:
Gore Creek Restoration Story:Overview of the creek’s ecological importance, restoration goals, and
the community’s effort to improve water quality.
Riparian Vegetation and Habitat:Role of native plants in stabilizing banks, improving habitat, and
filtering runoff.
Water Quality and Pond Management:Explanation of stormwater treatment, nutrient control, and
aquatic habitat improvements.
Wildlife and Biodiversity:Information on fish, birds, and pollinators found along the creek and their role
in a healthy ecosystem.
Sustainable Course Maintenance:Highlight the golf course’s commitment to environmentally
responsible turf management and reduced chemical use.
Climate Resilience and Floodplain Health:Describe how restoration supports long-term adaptation to
changing hydrologic conditions.
9.0 FUNDING
As part of any project, we need to evaluate the funding options for the proposed work. The benefit of water
and ecosystem-centric projects is that numerous federal, state, local, and nonprofit grants are available to
support this kind of work.
One of the best federal grants available for these types of projects is the U.S. Bureau
of Reclamation Water Smart Grant, which provides cost-shared funding for water-
related projects that enhance conservation, sustainability, and resiliency across the
Western United States and U.S. territories. The proposed restoration measures
could fall under a couple of the various categories provided by the Water Smart
Grant. One option is Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects which support more
modest, localized improvements identified via prior planning, such as flow
measurement, canal lining to reduce seepage, automation upgrades, or efficient
landscape irrigation systems. These are projects with funding up to $100,000 and a
cost share of 50%. Another option is Environmental Water Resources Projects, which support projects that
deliver ecological benefits such as watershed restoration, water infrastructure improvements that benefit
ecosystems, or conservation that advances ecological values. These are projectswith funding of up to $2 million Figure 69. Signage Example from Project on Crystal River
and a 50% cost share. It is worth noting that state, local, and nonprofit grants can be used towardthe 50% cost
share.
We are fortunate to live in a state that truly values its water resources. The CWCB,
along with CPW, offers grants that can be utilized to support projects like these.
Utilization of Colorado Water Plan Grant Program, managed by the CWCB, funds
projects that advance the core goals of the state's Water Plan focusing on resilient,
sustainable water use across communities, agriculture, ecosystems, and planning. The
projects presented herein would be eligible for the Watershed Health and Recreation
funding category, which funds approximately $10 million in projects a year and
requires a 50% match for all construction projects and a minimum 25% match for all
plans or studies. CPW also offers the Fishing is Fun Grant, which
provides up to $700,000 annually in matching grants to improve
angling opportunities in Colorado. Great Outdoors Colorado Grants,
funded by lottery revenue, could also be used to support the
development of these plans.
There are other grants supported by a consortium of groups, including federal and state agencies and non-profit
organizations, that could be used to further develop these projects. Such grants as the RESTOR Colorado grant
program, which funds at-scale habitat restoration and stewardship projects on public and private conservation
lands in Colorado that have the greatest benefit for wildlife and local communities, including watershed
resiliency projects aimed at enhancing wetland and riparian areas. Furthermore, grants are available specifically
for golf courses to enhance water conservation, drought resilience, habitat conservation, development, and
water education. There are many other grants available to support these types of projects with varying
submittal requirements and application timeframes.
10.0 PERMITTING
As with all projects, especially those involving water resources, numerous permits
must be obtained before construction begins. Any work within the Effective FEMA
floodplain will require a floodplain development permit and, depending on the
work, may require an official letter of map revision to update the floodplain once
the project is completed. It should also be understood that a permit from the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers will be required for any potential impacts to wetlands and
stream courses. As part of both permits, an evaluation of the potential impact on
threatened and endangered species will be required. A majority of the creek along
the frontage road is also within the Colorado Department of
Transportation's right-of-way; therefore, a Special Use Permit will be required. Multiple
state and local permits are typically required for any construction project, including a
grading permit, a dewatering permit, and a construction stormwater discharge permit. If
federal funds are used for the project, additional permitting may be required to comply
with the National Environmental Policy Act. Additional requirements could include an
Environmental Assessment or a Categorical Exclusion, as well as cultural resource
surveys. It should also be noted that since Gore Creek is considered a Gold Medal Water
by CPW, construction within the active channel can only be completed during specific times of the year to
minimize impacts on spawning areas.
11.0 ATTACHMENTS: PLANS, DESIGNS, AND MAPS
A. Existing Conditions and Opportunities Map
B. Planning Zone Maps
C. Conceptual Designs
D. Historical Aerial Evaluation
E. Existing Conditions Photo Maps
F. Hydraulic Evaluation Maps
G. Gore Creek: Overall Plan and Profile
H. Geological Mapping
I. Relative Elevation Model Map
J. Utility Map
12.0 APPENDICES
1. Community Outreach Summary
2. Vail Planting Guides
3. Vail Golf Course – Golf Master Plan
4. Drone Aerials
5. Hydrology Memorandum
6. Pond Water Quality Data
7. Pond Management Plan
13.0 REFERENCES
Ahmednur, M., R. Sabir, D. Lenjissa, and A. Ambelu. 2024. Effects of channelization on macroinvertebrate
assemblages in a small stream: the case of Awetu in Jimma City, Ethiopia. Heliyon 10(23). Accessed at:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11652918/
American Legal Publishing Corporation. 2024. Town of Vail Municipal Code.Sections §5-14-5 (Vegetation
Protection and Tree Removal) and §14-6-2 (Grading and Site Alteration). Retrieved from
https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/vailco
Chapman and Knudsen 1980. Channelization and livestock impacts on salmonid habitat and biomass in
Western Washington. Transactions of the American Fisheries Society 109(4):357-363.
Colorado Department of Natural Resources (CDNR). 2022. Colorado Noxious Weed Management Plan.
Division of Parks and Wildlife, Denver, CO.
Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB). Colorado Fluvial Hazard Zone Delineation Protocol, Appendix C:
Relative Elevation Model (REM) Generation Tool Guidance Version 4.0. August 2020.
Eagle County. 2023. Eagle County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).Eagle County Government,
Colorado.
Eagle River Fire Protection District (ERFPD). 2024. Wildfire Mitigation Standards and Best Practices.
Eagle River Watershed Council. 2024. Gore Creek Water Quality and Habitat Health Summary.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 2007a. Flood Insurance Study, Eagle County, Colorado and
Incorporated Areas. December 4, 2007
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 2007b. Flood Insurance Rate Map 08037C0468D. December
4, 2007.
Gwiazda, E.S., D. Ciszewski, and A. Kownacki. 2023. The effects of channelization with low in-stream barriers
on macroinvertebrate communities of mountain rivers. Water 2023(15): 1059.
HEC-SSP. 2019. Version 2.3. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Julien, P.Y. 1995. Erosion and Sedimentation. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Accessed at:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/CBO9781139174107
Kellog K.S., et al. 2003. Geologic map of the Vail East Quadrangle, Eagle County, Colorado. USGS,
Miscellaneous Field Studies Map MF-2375, 1 sheet, scale 1:24,000. Accessed at:
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Kennedy, T.L, and T.F. Turner. 2011. River channelization reduces nutrient flow and macroinvertebrate
diversity at the aquatic terrestrial transition zone. Ecosphere 2(3). Accessed at:
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Lennox, P. A. and J. Rasmussen. 2016. Long-term effects of channelization on a cold-water stream community.
Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences doi:10.1139/cjfas-2015-0561.
Lotic Hydrological, LLC. 2016. Restore the Gore – Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan.Town of Vail.
Montgomery, D. R. and J. M. Buffington. 1997. Channel-reach morphology in mountain drainage basins.
Geological Society of America Bulletin 109(5):596-611
Phelps-Atkinson. 2011. Vail Golf Course – GolfCourse Master Plan. April 1, 2011. Phelps-Atkinson – Golf
Course Design. Vail Recreation District.
Richer, E. E., M. C. Kondratieff, and B. D. Swigle. 2015. Post-flood recovery assessment and stream restoration
guidelines for the Colorado Front Range. Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Fort Collins, Colorado.
River Restoration. 2022. Hydrologic Evaluation of 1.5 yr and 2 yr Flood Rates in Vail, CO.
River Restoration. 2023. Town of Vail | TYFL & 100-yr Hydrologic Modeling and Mapping update | Exhibit 3.
StreamMechanics. 2021. A Function-Based Framework for Stream Assessment and Restoration Projects.
Environmental Protection Agency. May 2012.
Thorne, C. R., R. D. Hey, and M. D. Newson. 1997. Applied Fluvial Geomorphology for River Engineering and
Management. John Wiley and Sons, West Sussex, England.
Town of Vail. 2016. Planting Guide for Residents and Businesses.Town of Vail Environmental Sustainability
Department.
Town of Vail. 2016. Planting Guide for Landscaping Crews.Town of Vail Environmental Sustainability
Department.
Town of Vail. 2016. Landscape Designers' Guide.Town of Vail Environmental Sustainability Department.
Town of Vail. 2020. Vail Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Town of Vail Community Development.
Tweto, Ogden, et al. 1977. Geology of the Minturn 15-Minute Quadrangle, Eagle and Summit Counties,
Colorado. USGS, Professional Paper 956, scale 1:48,000. Accessed
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Trout Unlimited.2024. Request for Proposal: Design-Build Services; Gore Creek Habitat Enhancement Project.
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U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 2018. Riparian Forest Buffers:
Conservation Practice Standard (Code 391).U.S. Department of Agriculture.
U.S. Forest Service. 2019. Wildland-Urban Interface Best Practices for Fuel Reduction and Vegetation
Management.U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
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U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 1981. Guidelines for Determining Flood Flow Frequency, Bulletin #17B of the
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U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 2009. Regional Regression Equations for Estimation of Natural Streamflow
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Frames [Aerial image].https://earthexplorer.usgs.gov/. Accessed March 10, 2025.
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6, 2025.
Vail Recreation District. 2025. Public Outreach Report: Gore Creek Enhancement Plan Community Engagement
Summary.
Wentzel, J. and C. Hull. 2021. An overview of riparian systems and potential problems. Oregon State
University Extension Service.
2026
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