For ten years, Roaring Fork Conservancy's research program has actively collected biological data, tracked streamflow issues and water quality conditions, and identified critical river corridor areas in need of protection. 

In 2003, the research program initiated an exciting new project, the Roaring Fork Watershed Stream Flow Survey Project, to develop a functional GIS tool for local planners, elected officials, and interested citizens to respond to instream flow issues and pursue approaches for achieving sustainable flows.  See links above for more information. 

In 2005, the research program, together with the Colorado Water Trust, also plans to channel its resources into flow issues unique to the Crystal River Basin. Roaring Fork Conservancy has already undertaken a preliminary seepage study and has held discussions with many of the stakeholders regarding the hydrology, health, and usage of the Crystal River. The research program is currently seeking funding for its proposed Crystal River Water Resource Plan. 

Roaring Fork Conservancy and its partners will:

• - prepare GIS/photographic map of the Crystal River basin from the headgate of the Sweet Jessup Canal to the confluence with the Roaring Fork River;
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• - develop a water balance for the lower Crystal River that includes natural water inflow and evapo-transpiration, precipitation, water usage and export, and return flow;

- perform an extensive study of seepage losses and gains along the Crystal River's major ditches;

- identify the critical stream reaches on the Crystal River;

- install one more gage station on the Crystal River between existing gage stations at the CRMS bridge and Avalanche Creek;

- pursue administrative and legal options for loaning or donating "waste" water in the Crystal River basin to the CWCB.