Overview
The Farmers Union Canal (FUC) diversion structure and adjacent headgates bifurcate the Rio Grande into its north and south channels downstream of Del Norte, CO. By controlling flows into the North Channel, this important irrigation infrastructure delivers water to the FUC (140 water users) and nine other irrigation ditches, irrigating over 40,000 acres. Crops grown include alfalfa, barley, potatoes, wheat, sorghum, small grains, vegetables such as lettuce, and grass pasture for livestock grazing.
The Farmers Union Canal (FUC) Diversion and Headgate Improvement Project (Project) is a multi-benefit project to replace the FUC diversion dam and headgates with new structures. The upgraded diversion (completed 2026) serves 11 ditches along the Rio Grande's north channel with improved delivery efficiency, fish passage and aquatic habitat, and enhanced diversion safety. Eight headgates were also replaced and automated to improve water delivery and reduce maintenance. The new structures replaced aging infrastructure and will now improve ditch operations, reduce maintenance, and protect the FUC’s full water rights into the future. Finally, the project includes adjacent streambank stabilization to protect the diversion infrastructure, reduce sedimentation in the river, improve water quality for downstream users, and enhance surrounding wildlife habitat.
Riparian revegetation and streambank stabilization work is ongoing to restore habitat and minimize long-term impacts of site construction. Finally, the nearby Rio Grande #1 diversion and headgate structures are planned to be replaced in Fall 2026.
Status - Spring 2026
Construction of the FUC diversion is complete, and eight headgates have been replaced and automated. Riparian revegetation is ongoing. Replacement of the Rio Grande #1 diversion structure and headgate is scheduled for Fall 2026.