Federal Judge Halts Gross Reservoir Project Temporarily

Construction on the Gross Reservoir dam project, led by Denver Water, has been halted by a federal judge due to significant environmental concerns. Judge Christine M. Arguello ruled that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must reassess environmental permits and documents, citing potential damage from tree destruction and water diversion. The project aimed to triple the reservoir's capacity but faced criticism for irreversible environmental harm. The ruling is a temporary victory for environmental groups like Save the Colorado, which have opposed the expansion since 2018. Denver Water intends to appeal the decision, emphasizing the project's importance for water supply in the Denver and Boulder areas. Further hearings will address how to safely complete the partially built dam.