Using Multi-Objective Management to Reduce Flood Losses in Your

A M-O-M
Success
Story
In 1969, residents of Littleton, Colorado, were told that the South Platte
River would be channelized to reduce flooding. They were concerned
that the project would destroy a natural area. The residents mounted a
public information campaign and gained the support of local newspapers
and environmental groups.
The residents also initiated and passed a $400,000 bond issue to buy
the land for a park. The city got matching open space acquisition grants from two federal
programs. The Corps of Engineers provided support with funds earmarked for the
channelization project.
A gravel company was allowed to
continue its operations on part of
the site. Seven ponds formed by
gravel excavation were eventually
reworked to be natural ponds and
were stocked with fish. A private
group, Trout Unlimited, helped
restore the habitat.
South Platte Park is now a
625-acre natural area along 2.5
miles of the river. It can absorb
and store flood waters more
efficiently than the channelization
project would have.
South Platte Park is the
largest remaining example of the
South Platte River ecosystem. It is
home to 60 species of plants, six
times the number normally found
in an urban Colorado wetland. It is
now a class I cold-water fishery,
home to wildlife, and a resting
area for migrating birds and bald
eagles. The park has nature trails
and paths that connect to the 45-
mile South Platte Greenway that
runs through the Denver area.
There is a nature center and
educational programs are
conducted by the schools for
students and adults. This flood
loss reduction project has protected
a hazardous area from
development. At the same time,
the community has gained an
invaluable resource for recreation,
education, and fish and wildlife
habitat.
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