Bill > HR5911

This bill directs the Secretary of Agriculture to convey the Crystal Reservoir and approximately 45 acres of surrounding land in Ouray County, Colorado, to the City of Ouray, including all associated water rights and infrastructure such as Full Moon Dam, Full Moon Ditch, and Reservoir Number 10. The conveyance will be made by quitclaim deed at no cost to the city, except for survey expenses, and is subject to several key conditions: the city must maintain the land as open public space with free recreational access, cannot develop or commercially operate the area beyond necessary infrastructure maintenance, and cannot expand the reservoir's footprint in a way that would harm upstream wetlands. The city will assume responsibility for all repairs and maintenance of the dam and related infrastructure, and will be granted an easement for existing trails and roads. The land includes a specific reversionary clause allowing the federal government to reclaim the property if the city fails to comply with the specified terms. Additionally, the bill ensures the city can continue to use the Red Mountain Ditch and manage water rights according to Colorado state law, with the understanding that the reservoir can be used for water storage and release for augmentation and other beneficial purposes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5911/all-info