Restore the Poudre River in Greeley, Colorado

From 1950 to 2019, the length of the Poudre River within Greeley city limits decreased by 15% (about two miles). This change increased speeds and sediment flow, caused downstream flooding, led to severe bank erosion, a loss of aquatic life, and a reduction in important riparian habitats like wetlands.

The Poudre River Restoration Initiative seeks to develop a master plan to:

Develop the Poudre River as a community anchor and economic driver for the City

Increase recreational opportunities so that everyone feels invited, welcome and safe

Enhance multimodal circulation to and along the Poudre River

Protect the City’s infrastructure and reconnect the river to its historic floodplains

Reestablish river meanders, lengthening the river channel and recreating pool/riffle sequences

Create habitat features like spawning beds, wetland ponds, boulder clusters, and gravel bars.

These initiatives will create a plan to enhance the daily lives of Greeley residents and restore the ecological balance of our river.

How You Can Shape This Plan

The City of Greeley and the consulting team of Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates (MVVA) and Inter-Fluve will develop a plan over the next 12 months. To help us get started, share your ideas for fun along the river using our engagement tools below.

The Poudre River Restoration Initiative seeks to develop a master plan to:

Develop the Poudre River as a community anchor and economic driver for the City

Increase recreational opportunities so that everyone feels invited, welcome and safe

Enhance multimodal circulation to and along the Poudre River

Protect the City’s infrastructure and reconnect the river to its historic floodplains

Reestablish river meanders, lengthening the river channel and recreating pool/riffle sequences

Create habitat features like spawning beds, wetland ponds, boulder clusters, and gravel bars.

These initiatives will create a plan to enhance the daily lives of Greeley residents and restore the ecological balance of our river.

How You Can Shape This Plan

Exploring the River's Future: Where the Water Flows

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The Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed recently hosted an educational day at Signature Bluffs Natural Area along the Poudre River called "Where the Water Flows." The event allowed attendees to explore the unique river ecosystem and learn about upcoming restoration projects to preserve critical natural resources. Participants could learn more about local restoration plans, prescribed fire efforts, and the Poudre River Restoration Initiative.
The event included guided river and wetland walks for all ages, educational booths, and a chance to connect with residents about the PRRI project. It was a crisp autumn morning, and the scenery provided a beautiful backdrop for conversations about Greeley's Poudre River and natural resources.
Thank you to the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed, City of Greeley Natural Areas and Trails, Voices of the Land, and the University of Northern Colorado for joining us at this event!
Collaborative Insights: Exploring the Poudre River for a Successful Restoration

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In September, a team of geomorphologists and engineers from Inter-Fluve studied the Poudre River's shape, the structures that control water flow, and the bridges that cross it. After collecting this information, MVVA and other staff members from different parts of the organization visited two spots along the river to see their findings.
They examined the river’s flow, water quality, plants, and sounds. Seeing these areas together helped everyone understand the different features and influences along the river.
Working together and walking the site taught us more about the river and strengthened our team. Each department has a unique viewpoint that’s important to the planning process. Teamwork—both inside and outside the organization—is key to making this project successful.
Exploring the Poudre River's Future: Engaging the Community at WeldWalls Mural Festival

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The PRRI project team was thrilled to chat with residents and visitors to Greeley for the inaugural WeldWalls Mural Festival at WeldWorks Brewing. Folks who stopped by could put stickers on photos representing various ways to interact with the river, from kayaking to fishing and community spaces.
Festival goers viewed idea boards and placed water droplet stickers to "vote" for concepts on the river, such as:
What water activities would you like to see on the river?
What forms of mobility will be available?
How do you want to interact with the river?
It was a fun and energetic crowd to interact with and we appreciate everyone who stopped by to learn more about the project and provide feedback.
Exploring the Poudre River's Future: Engaging the Community at the Farmer's Market

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Nestled amidst the vibrant booths of Greeley's farmer's market, the Poudre River Restoration Initiative invited community members to answer some questions about this cherished natural resource.
Marketgoers viewed idea boards and placed water droplet stickers to "vote" for concepts on the river, such as:
What water activities would you like to see on the river?
What forms of mobility will be available?
How do you want to interact with the river?
Dangling from the tent were large blue water drops with questions to get people thinking about the Poudre River's broad impacts on Greeley. Questions like:
Have you been impacted by Poudre River flooding?
What are your fondest memories of the Poudre River?
Do you think of Greeley as a river city?
Do you have safety concerns in the vicinity of the Poudre River?
What is your favorite view of the Poudre River?
What specific needs/issues do you think the project should address?
What natural, cultural or historic features along the Poudre River are important to you?
What recreational activities are missing or need improvement along the Poudre River?
How could an improved Poudre River boost the local economy?
People could write their answers on a notecard, which were collected for the project team to read and review later. Feedback gathered from this project will influence the master plan.
This was the first of several pop-up events the project team plans to attend and engage with the community to better understand the community understanding and needs of the Poudre River. Follow the City of Greeley on social media for details on the next pop-up event where you can provide your feedback on this project.