DITCH CLEANING PROGRAM

The White River Conservation District Ditch Cleaning Program assists landowners impacted by post-fire debris flows in the Lee and Elk Fire areas. Thanks to support from the Yampa Valley Community Fund and this program, landowners can get financial assistance to remove fire-related sediment, woody debris, and vegetation that continue to clog and damage irrigation ditches throughout the burn scar.

Heavy runoff since the fires has carried large volumes of ash, soil, and debris into local irrigation systems, creating blockages that threaten water delivery, pasture health, and—in some areas—downstream drinking water infrastructure. The WRCD program provides cost-share assistance to help landowners clear and restore their ditches, stabilize water flow, and prepare for future runoff seasons.

Landowners needing Fall/Winter ditch cleaning or wishing to plan for Spring 2026 cleanup are encouraged to contact the White River Conservation District as soon as possible.

For more information or to request assistance, please reach out to the Districts or download the one-page information sheet below.