South Platte River
Coverage of South Platte River in the Nexus archive.
- Low water levels force early boat ramp closure at Barr Lake State Park
Low water levels caused by drought conditions are forcing an early closure of motorized boat ramps at Barr Lake State Park, with the ramps closing Friday at 9 p.m. Park rangers cited the risk of trailers getting stuck in mud as water levels near the sandy bottom. Hand-launched vessels like kayaks and paddleboards remain permitted, and fishing activity remains strong despite the low water.
- Supreme Court will hear Nebraska’s fight over access to Colorado’s South Platte River
The Supreme Court will hear Nebraska's dispute over access to Colorado's South Platte River. Nebraska faces a high burden to prove its claims, according to Colorado's Attorney General Phil Weiser.
- Are less-thirsty crops a solution to Colorado’s growing water problems?
Colorado State University tests drought-tolerant crops like black-eyed peas to address water shortages, as agriculture consumes up to 90% of the state's water. The article explores potential shifts from water-intensive crops (e.g., alfalfa) to less-thirsty alternatives (e.g., rye grass, camelina) to conserve water and ease conflicts over river supplies, but highlights challenges like market demand for traditional crops.