SALIDA, Colo. – The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (ARHA) is enjoying whitewater flows because of the heavy rains this week, which have further improved rafting and other boating conditions. Rob White, AHRA’s Park Manager, said Friday that whitewater boating and fishing should be in good shape for the rest of the summer on the Arkansas.
“We’re hoping that the monsoon rain pattern will continue in Colorado, and this past week the afternoon rain storms were just what we were looking for,” said White. He said the rains added to the water releases from the Voluntary Flow Management Program (VFMP).
“These flows help ensure that July and August will be a good time to take family and friends rafting on the Arkansas River, where the water levels are perfect for first-time boaters and families,” he said.
In addition, White said that using the services of a commercial outfitter, “the public can be rest assured that the guide and safety equipment utilized will be nothing but the absolute best.” And, he said that everyone should wear a life jacket any time they boat.
Running from the alpine highlands below Leadville to the open prairies above Pueblo, the AHRA encompasses Colorado’s widely diverse geology, topography and history. The breadth of these resources provides vast opportunities for the enjoyment of nature and outdoor recreation, set against a spectacular vista of mountains and open country. The AHRA is one of America’s premier recreation rivers.
The AHRA is managed through a cooperative effort between the Bureau of Land Management and Colorado State Parks. Formed in 1989, this partnership allows agencies to provide visitors with recreation opportunities and care for significant natural resources of the upper Arkansas River valley.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife was created by the merger of Colorado State Parks and the Colorado Division of Wildlife, two nationally recognized leaders in conservation, outdoor recreation and wildlife management. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages 42 state parks, all of Colorado’s wildlife, more than 300 state wildlife areas and a host of recreational programs.
Source: Colorado State Parks