Grand Junction to Drain Juniata Reservoir for Dam Upgrades

Public fish salvage order in effect as reservoir is drained for modernization project

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Grand Junction is set to drain Juniata Reservoir starting in November 2023 to allow for upgrades and repairs to the dam's outlet structure. Colorado Parks and Wildlife will implement a public fish salvage order at the reservoir beginning on February 23, 2026 to help mitigate fish loss during the draining process.

Why it matters

The draining of Juniata Reservoir is necessary to allow the city to make critical infrastructure improvements to the dam, but it will have significant impacts on the local fishery. The public fish salvage order aims to allow anglers to remove as many fish as possible before the reservoir is completely drained.

The details

Colorado Parks and Wildlife will lift all bag and possession limits for fish species in Juniata Reservoir during the salvage order, and will also allow the use of any legal fishing methods, including the use of live bait which is typically prohibited. Anglers 16 and older will need a valid Colorado fishing license to participate in the salvage. The city has prohibited any water contact activities like swimming, wading, or boating during the draining process.

  • The public fish salvage order will go into effect on February 23, 2026.
  • The City of Grand Junction is expected to begin draining Juniata Reservoir in November 2023.
  • The reservoir is anticipated to be completely drained by September 2027.

The players

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

The state wildlife agency that manages Colorado's natural resources, including fisheries.

City of Grand Junction

The local government entity that owns and operates the Juniata Reservoir, and is overseeing the dam upgrade project.

Laura Clellan

The acting director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife who approved the fish salvage order.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Once the dam upgrades are complete and the reservoir regains enough water, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will create a plan to restock the fishery.

The takeaway

The draining of Juniata Reservoir is a necessary step to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of the dam, but it will have significant impacts on the local fishery. The public fish salvage order is an effort by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to allow anglers to remove as many fish as possible before the reservoir is completely drained.