JOHN MARTIN DAM

A Late Winter Look at John Martin Dam

2012-02-03T13:20:00.001-07:00

Today, 2/3/12, John Martin Reservoir holds 32,551 acre-feet of water. This time last year the dam held around 43,000 acre-feet.

According to Karen Downey, Operations Manager at the Corps of Engineers, the Corps has completed their security fence project and has replaced valves on the pumps inside the dam.

“Going green is always considered when looking at the options we have for each project we do.” said Downey. “The windows in the administration building were replaced by new windows that are much more efficient in conserving heat loss. Insulation was added to several of the out-buildings to help save on energy costs.”

Though this year’s funding is still unknown, Downey wants to remove some overgrown vegetation. “On the top of my list is to rid the dam rip-rap of all the vegetation that has grown up in the past few years.”

With Water 2012 in full swing, the Corps could be a productive connection for local schools to help raise water awareness in the valley. Many southeastern Colorado families are involved in farming and ranching and are thus tightly dependent upon water usage and availability. Their children – and others, have an added opportunity this year to learn and grow in their understanding of the import of water on the high plains. We are fortunate to have a local government leader willing to assist in this education process: “I'll be glad to help whenever I can. I always try to take the opportunity to work with the school systems,” Downey said in a recent interview. If you are a teacher or educational leader in southeast Colorado, take this year’s special and unique opportunity to get involved with your school and a Water 2012 committee. The Corps of Engineers is a pertinent, local contact to assist you with a program related to southeastern Colorado water issues.

Michael Seraphin is the media contact for DOW, (formerly Colorado Division of Wildlife) which is merging with Colorado Parks into a new agency, Colorado Parks and Wildlife. He explained that the legislature and both of those agencies are currently still hammering out complicated financial and administrative issues; their combined direction is toward trimming the two agencies into “…a single mind. Getting policies, finances and personnel rearranged is complicated,” he said. Finances are a tough issue to merge due to complex agency regulations.

Seraphin did not think this merger would affect visitor fees at John Martin, though he reiterated that the merger is still in process with many issues still undergoing legislative review.

Dwayne Nelson, biologist for the Corps, had some positive reviews with last year’s Plover management. “In 2011, we topped the last 3 to 4 years,” Nelson said. “Between John Martin, Blue Lake and a site east of Lamar, 15 birds fledged/ left their nests. Our habitat work/management works,” Nelson said proudly. He said the Tern population seems to be holding their numbers.

Nelson was quick to explain that “…the Tern and Plover habitat management and population productivity are a team effort of vision and sponsorship between the Corps, Parks and Wildlife and my own efforts.”

For further information on John Martin Dam: Corps of Engineers, 719.336.3476; Parks and Wildlife, 719.227.5250.

John Martin Reservoir State Parks Meeting

2011-06-29T16:37:00.007-07:00

This note came from The Valley Grocery in Hasty, Colorado, written by Karen Downey, Operations Manager, Corps of Engineers, John Martin Dam, Hasty, Colorado..

“A meeting will be held on 30 June 2011 between Colorado State Parks, Bent County Commissioners and The Corps of Engineers in an effort to keep areas open and under the control of Colorado State Parks. Also in attendance will be U.S Representative Cory Gardner’s District Representative Doris Morgan. It would be of great help if District Representative Doris Morgan and Commissioner Bill Long understood how local people feel about having the presence of Colorado State Parks at John Martin Reservoir.

Please forward your opinions and concerns to:

Doris Morgan: doris.morgan@mail.house.gov

Bill Long: billlong@centurytel.net”

This meeting will include discussion on the presently closed North Point Campground on the north shore of John Martin Dam, inside the park boundaries.

As I understand it, this particular meeting is closed to public attendance. There may be people here in Bent County as well as surrounding counties that would like to have input into this discussion. Though John Martin Reservoir State Park has not been here that many years, funding cuts and economic pressures seem to cause increasing fees and public restrictions for park usage; senior passes have almost doubled. Will further closures take place? Wouldn't it make sense to lower prices to increase visitor usage or let the Corps run the reservoir as it used to, without fees?
While meeting with Karen Downey today, the Corps Operations Manager, she mentioned that she would like to see the campground re-opened for use again. I found this attitude refreshing and in tune with local opinion I’ve heard throughout the valley.

How do you feel about John Martin State Park? Let your voice be heard. A public/open meeting of southeast Colorado residents with the Corps and Park representatives would allow the public....a stronger say in the management of their Public lands.

Contact Doris Morgan (Representative Cory Gardner) at doris.morgan@mail.house.gov or Bent County Commissioner Bill Long at billlong@centurytel.net and let your voice be heard.

EARLY MORNING MOMENTS: John Martin Dam

2011-01-23T07:40:00.028-07:00

Morning at John Martin Dam.

Waiting for the breaking moment of that light-of-hope over the horizon, it is easy to get caught up in the din from thousands of geese resting on the ice on the open water to the west.

"Just a quick peek at the geese," I tell myself, "then I'll walk back over to the east side of the dam. The rays will take a few minutes to shine over Lake Hasty; I have time."

Suddenly, the din grows several decibels; included is a sound similar to a new, large, long crack in the ice. Turning quickly I see the entire flock of snow geese that had been resting together - only seconds before, all rise up in unison. This is a sound I will never forget, a unique sound, frozen in my memory.

"How can all those little brains unite and synchronize in a split second and carry out the exact same thought?" It freezes my bones; this is a Nature-moment...forever in my soul.

They slowly circle about 10 feet in the air, a flowing, ethereal, perfectly choreographed dance known only to Nature and her insatiable need for beauty.

The light behind me grows.

The ice on Lake Hasty waits as the seconds pass...another stunning, fleeting sunrise presents itself!

John Martin Dam. Once again in the daylight.

A force of Nature, awaiting the 'forces of man' and his/her unending arguments, disputes and regulatory verbiage. To release or not to release...

The amount of water in John Martin Dam, according to the USGS, is 43,800 acre-feet on 1/23/11.

Ice covers most of the reservoir today. Geese - both Canadas and Snows, abound. Gulls are intermittent, in the corners and along the shadows of the rocks and outcroppings along the shores. A lonely Heron sits on the stilling basin ice. During the 3 years I have watched and photographed the stilling basin, a lone Heron consistently sits around the same spot on the north side - ice or water - about in the middle of the basin.

Another morning moment along the banks of Lake Hasty...in southeast Colorado...at John Martin Reservoir State Park.

As always...Nature prevails.

Sunrise Vigil at Red Shin Standing Ground

2010-08-12T09:50:00.037-07:00

August 12, 2010 came alive as the sun climbed slowly over the horizon, while a few clouds diffused the sun rays into variations of golden oranges, rusty yellows and shadowed grays.

CLICK ON PICTURE TO READ

Time seemed to stand quite still as I contemplated the slow creep of the colors above the horizon.
The view atop Red Shin Standing Ground at John Martin Reservoir State Park was particularly stunning this SE Colorado morning.

Some rays crept between the pile of rocks beneath me, others stretching across the low, ground features around the park area.
Morning sounds including laughter and conversation emanated from the campground nearby, to the southeast.

This rock feature is connected with an interesting Native American story.

It seems a young Indian named Red Shin decided he wanted the hand of a certain lovely maiden; unfortunately, he was not the only interested party, and a difference of opinion broke out among many warriors.

As the story goes, Red Shin took his stand against these interlopers of similar intent, behind this large rock feature on a small hill northwest of the now existing Lake Hasty Campground.

According to the legend, following a long and furious standoff, Red Shin emerged the strongest warrior and walked off into the sunset, hand in hand with the aforementioned maiden.

Those many years ago, Red Shin did not have this stunning view of John Martin Dam, though the then-existing grove of tall, old cottonwoods standing along the Arkansas (behind which most likely stood many furious warriors), probably gave him plenty of awe and respect for Nature and her outstanding beauty.

As he pondered his fate, he probably enjoyed the soothing sounds of the moving river water as it fell over rocks and falls on its flow to Kansas. Nature is vividly and pervasively visible from this high view.

No doubt he pondered the bobcats that used dens in the rocks to the west of his position. I'm sure he pondered a lot of this during those hours - including his possible demise!

In the end, his perseverance, strength and prowess gave him the win he so valiantly pursued - and gained.

This summer, 2010, the park installed a small parking lot and a pictured sign explaining this interesting legend of Red Shin. When you venture to John Martin Reservoir State Park, be sure to stop by and take in the interesting rock outcropping Red Shin used for his legendary battle of Love.

Whether you enjoy this visit during the early sunrise or late sunset, Red Shin Standing Ground will await your camera and your admiration, in its position that will most likely forever stand guard over the northeast side of the east face of John Martin Dam...at John Martin Reservoir State Park...on the high plains of southeast Colorado.

All photos are taken by, and are property of Danielle Simone.

A Spring Sunrise at John Martin

2010-04-01T07:09:00.008-07:00

John Martin Dam stood particularly tall and proud into the cool, spring sunrise today. There is something magical, serene and even a bit bone-chilling, about standing on tons of old, solid, man-made concrete, high above the water, while the gentleness, beauty and fragility of Nature wraps around me. In addition, I am standing stock still as the planet under me flies around the sun in vacant space at some unfathomable speed! Hmmm...

The Corps of Engineers began releasing 215 CFS (cubic feet per second), into the Stilling Basin today. While the basin had three large sandbars yesterday, this morning at sunrise, two of them were covered. Harriette Heron stood guard on the third one, waiting for breakfast.

Yesterday, the reservoir held 85,900 acre-feet of water, threatening to gobble up the boat ramps on the north shore and the points of land jutting out on the south side.

Most of the geese have wandered north as the weather warmed here in southeast Colorado. But wildlife prevails through all seasons here at John Martin. A lone Turkey Buzzard flew over me on the dam as my camera checked out the morning sunrise poking through a narrow band of light gray and pinkish clouds on the eastern horizon.

Not as spectacular as some I've enjoyed, but unique and memorable. Shortly after, a sea gull lazily hovered close to the water, followed by two Pelicans who checked out Lake Hasty first and then flew over me to the reservoir. As I passed through the park road, a lone Grebe was diving for his morning snacks.

My sources say 45.5 degree water temperatures prevail at the dam today; spring is here and Nature's wake-up call can be seen in the greening of the trees, the changing of types of wildlife, the warming of the water and air as well as in the slightly northern movement of the sunrise on the horizon.

Deer tracks littered the small gully below Red Shin Standing Ground, giving witness to the unseen park herd that often graze in and around the campground in the early morning or near sunset. Spring is also calling some hardy campers; the Lake Hasty Campground had at least seven of them, taking advantage of brisk, spring breezes off Lake Hasty and beating the early summer rush of tourists to John Martin Reservoir State Park facilities.

As the large, white moon dropped toward the western horizon and the sunrise pale pinks tinged the lacy clouds across the sky, I stood absolutely still for a few moments, absorbing the 'spring' around me; the cool, moist air against my cheeks, the clean smell in my nose, the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the rocks below on the west side of the dam, the distant sound of the seagull...Nature at John Martin Reservoir in the early morning.

The changing of the seasons, one of Nature's yearly marvels, never ceases to overwhelm my humanness with awe and appreciation. Yes, man took millions of dollars, time and effort and numerous materials to create this 118 foot high structure. And humanity's ability to change river flows, fill up valleys with water and cover mountain tops with houses attests to our human power. Yet Nature prevails in the end, and we continue to enjoy her majesty and beauty, particularly at John Martin Dam on the southeast high plains of colorful Colorado.

note: all photos on this blog are copyrighted and available only by permission; daniellesimone0@gmail.com

WINTER SUNRISE AT JOHN MARTIN DAM

2010-01-14T20:11:00.014-07:00

(click on pictures to enlarge view)

Thursday, January 15, 2010, began cold and windless across Red Shin Standing Ground at John Martin Reservoir State Park.

Literally thousands of dark/Canada geese and many times more white/Snow geese littered the main lake of the reservoir as the sun broke through the horizon.

A white flurry of birds hover over the reservoir; a beautiful din of goose song is enjoyable, even at that distance from the shore.

As evidenced by the many signs posted throughout the park and wildlife areas, the shorelines are mostly off limits to everyone during waterfowl season.

Fire danger index registers only at medium today, probably due to the remaining splotches of snow left from our storm last week. But a lot of dry grasses and tall weeds in the area give heed to caution with any use of open flames. The quick, hard winds of the southeast Colorado high plains can kick up in a matter of minutes, creating potential disaster from even a small fire.

Though my little workhorse of a camera gives great shots in the near view, long-range shots are grainy and leave a lot to the imagination. Still, I thought these regal animals, silhouetted on the hill in the sunrise, were memorable and worth sharing. They wanted AWAY from me - even as far as this hill stood in relation to my parked car. This herd of sometimes up to 10 or more animals, call John Martin State Park their home.

At noon, January 15, 2010, water level at John Martin stood at 52,900 acre-feet. No water is being released; the stilling basin is quiet and frozen...mostly.

John Martin Dam stands tall on the high plains, keeping farmers supplied with water during the growing season and keeping southeast Colorado safe from flood-waters.

This reservoir and its surrounding lands offer beauty, recreation and a natural display unlike any other in the area. Nature abounds throughout the seasons offering water, wetlands, hiking trails, birding, boating, swimming, camping, fishing and picnicking, weather and park seasons permitting. Make a point to take your camera...and your spirit, for a treat; visit John Martin Dam, just south of Hasty, Colorado.

Nature prevails.

Echos of Summer in Winter Snow

2009-12-08T11:53:00.026-07:00

(click on photos to enlarge)

The Stilling Basin

I'm fairly sure the ice in the Stilling Basin...means summer is no longer present. But as I drove around John Martin Reservoir State Park today in the falling snow and biting wind, the echoes of Summer spoke up in several places.

"You know Fred, ain't nothin' but catfish bitin' today. Guess I'll call it quits and see what the Missus has for supper."

The Fish Cleaning Station, Lake Hasty Campground

"Shucks, John, that poor catfish ain't worth dirtying your knife for!"

"Never you mind Fred. I gotta bring somethin' home. You want the Missus to think I was out doin' things I'm a thinkin' she might lock me out for?"

"You have a point, John. Keep slicing. And try not to get the end of your finger like you did last time!"

Playground north of Swim Beach

"Jamie, it's my turn! You had the swing last time. You promised!"

"Alright, alright. Come over and go on the slide with me when you're done. I'll walk slowly."

"Jamie, Randy; lunch is ready; hot dogs and ice cream. Hurry up 'for it melts!"

Lake Hasty Campground

"Honey, did we pack the bug spray? These mosquitoes are bad tonight."

"Jack, I watched you put it in the top of the backpack with the sunglasses."

"Mom, I'm hungry. Can we go to McDonalds?"

"No, Nancy, Dad's putting hamburgers on the grill in a bit. Have a glass of juice for now; there's some in the cooler by the tent."

Hasty Lake Swimbeach
"Mary, don't go out too far. Make sure Aaron is nearby you."

"Dad, come on in, the water's warm. I won't splash you, I promise."

"Aaron, you get on the other side of Dad when he gets here and you splash him first; then I'll do it too. He can't get mad at both of us, right?"

Turkey Buzzard Roosting Tree

As I left the swim beach and passed by this tree, I could almost hear the quiet of the Turkey Buzzards as they sleep here in the warm mornings and evenings of their Summer roost.

This sleeping Yucca huddles close to the snow during its Winter sleep, while holding up it's empty seed pods, a token memory for its large, showy, white spring blossoms. All in due time, Nature plans her Spring and Summer shows while her cast awaits her beckon call.

The Dam Road

(CLICK ON PICTURE TO ENLARGE)

The warm, echoes of Summer quickly died as I passed a snowplow on the dam road. As if to reinforce the reality of Winter, flocks of geese hovered over the plow, dancing their Winter flight over a partially frozen reservoir.

The winds of Winter have snuggled into the southeast Colorado high plains, evident this frigid morning at John Martin Reservoir State Park, Hasty Colorado.
NATURE PREVAILS

NOTE: ALL PHOTOS ON THIS BLOG, UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED, ARE TAKEN BY DANIELLE SIMONE AND ARE AVAILABLE FOR USE ONLY WITH PERMISSION. Thank you.

daniellesimone@centurytel.net

Fall Reflections; John Martin Dam

2009-11-02T09:19:00.036-07:00

(click on photos to enlarge)

An awesome moon-set at John Martin Dam, this cool fall morning, as it runs through a cloud before dipping below the horizon.

The quickly following sunrise colors reflect on the water, south of the boat ramps.

Harriette Heron, stands next to a ray of sunrise, as the new day is reflected in the calm waters of the stilling basin, in front of the dam.

Nature is working her wonder at Lake Hasty as well, blending her beauty and majesty among the grasses and across the still waters.

As the sun leads the day out of darkness, the stilling basin reflects the beauty above.

A perfect reflection.

River reflections join in Nature's announcement of her new day.

Nature's reflections from the handicapped pier in John Martin Reservoir State Park.

The calm surface of Lake Hasty reflects the campground foliage.

From the peninsula on Lake Hasty, the handicapped pier sits among the reflections of fall.

Reflections of grandeur above...among the rocks of the shallow stilling basin.

John Martin Dam reaches 118 feet into the air.

It reflects the technological power of humanity and our occasional ability to rearrange Nature. The dam blocks and controls the Arkansas River where once - in the near past, it wandered unobstructed through the cottonwoods, on its way to Kansas.

But Nature still prevails, in the many reflections of the surrounding area in the early morning sunshine of a November day...in southeast Colorado.

NOTE: ALL PHOTOS ON THIS BLOG (UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED) ARE TAKEN BY DANIELLE SIMONE AND ARE AVAILABLE FOR USE ONLY WITH PERMISSION. Thank you.

daniellesimone@centurytel.net

Second Annual Hasty Days Near John Martin Dam

2009-08-30T20:58:00.002-07:00

Mark your calendars everyone; Hasty, Colorado, will put on its annual day-of-days-to-play, exactly four weeks from today! Hasty Days is an all day event not to be missed. The first annual Hasty days, Sept. 6th, 2008, was a roaring success when hundreds of folks filled the small community of Hasty and made memories forever. More events are scheduled this year; your day will be full of choices for fun, food and play.

The Hasty-McClave Volunteer Fire Department will start the activities with a hearty pancake breakfast at the fire house, from 7 to 9 AM, fit for all kinds of appetites. The parade begins at 10 AM; $5 per entry with line-up at 9 AM. Come early; get a good place in line.

The Turner Antique Tractor/Lawnmower Pull begins at 11 AM. Last year, entries from several surrounding counties participated with some beautiful, unique and powerful machines. Pack plenty of water (Colleen will have lots of drinks available at the store). The Lawnmower race follows the Tractor Pull.

“Building the John Martin Reservoir” will show some local history and give a respite from the hard playing going on around town. John Martin Reservoir sits about a mile south of Hasty. A stunning example of Nature’s wonder - molded by humans, the reservoir stores large amounts of water for agriculture while providing all types of recreation for anyone interested in playing on the high prairie of southeastern Colorado.

: John Martin Dam photo by Danielle Simone

If all the action and walking and old time country fun gets your tummy growling, Funnel Cakes will be available all day. A big yard sale will also run most of the day.

Enjoy lunch at Colleen's store, (Valley Grocery); $5/person, $3/8 and younger. You can’t beat that price for Colleen’s famous vittles! Don’t forget to ask for her world-famous chocolate pie!

The Pierce Bar-B-Q, starting at 6:30 PM, is the best in three counties. Trust me on this, I ate way too much of it last year! Cost is $11/person, $8/8 and younger.

The evening will cap off with Freddy Darnell and Country Gold from 8 to 11 PM. Bring your dancing shoes or boots and enjoy the cool breezes and full moon of a beautiful prairie evening in southeast Colorado. You will make unique, forever-memories for you and your family.

For further information contact Colleen at Valley Grocery, 719.829.4810.

The Stilling Basin, June 2009

2009-07-11T10:02:00.003-07:00

John Martin Reservoir water levels fluctuated slightly last month. Beginning May showed over 74,000 acre-feet, mid-May came down to 71,000 and May 31st ended with 74,100. Water level on June 8 at 2:15 pm was 74,000 acre-feet, down 7,700 acre-feet from Apr. 28th.

The corps was releasing 592 cubic-feet-per-second of water into the stilling basin on June 4. May started out with 523 cfs and went as high as over 750 at mid month.

Don Headlee from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at John Martin gave three presentations of ‘Medicine on the Santa Fe Trail’ this month, one in Lamar and two at Boggsville. Headlee is known for his authentic, in-period dress/presentation as Dr. Edward Hempstead, the first doctor at Bent’s Old Fort during 1846 - 47.

The Memorial Day holiday campers used all 213 campsites at John Martin, according to Senior Ranger Heath Kehm. “There were over 250 boat inspections done…no mussels found.” The Corps, parks and DOW are working together to ensure our reservoir remains mussel-free for as long as possible. Brochures for proper personal inspection of your boats prior to launch are available at the parks office or at the DOW office in Lamar. Some of the many online sites available for mussel information include: http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/Profiles/InvasiveSpecies/ZebraandQuaggaMussels.htm, http://100thmeridian.org/News.asp and http://parks.state.co.us/Boating/NewBoatInspection/. Please note: all trailered boats launching into John Martin this year must undergo mandatory aquatic nuisance species inspections – and – must launch from the two boat ramps only. According to Steve Keefer from DOW, “Boats can be inspected from 6 am to 10 pm. No launching is allowed after 10 pm, unless it immediately follows an inspection. Once you are in the water, you can come out anytime.”

All three agencies at the dam are serious and determined to avoid contaminating our reservoir. It may be inevitable that the mussel problem will eventually come downstream from Pueblo reservoir. But in the interim, the longer we are mussel-free here, the higher the chance of a solution being found to eliminate the problem before they reach John Martin. It is in all our best interest to maintain high vigilance with prevention procedures at John Martin in the hope that this solution will occur - before these costly invaders sneak into our lake. Remember the three important steps to combat the mussels from attaching to your boat and transporting to other bodies of water; CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY – before entering the water and after coming out. If you boat only at John Martin, you may obtain a yellow sticker/receipt that will make your launching inspection procedures a bit simpler. For further information, signs are posted as you enter the park from the main road or contact the park at 829.1801.

The only problem at John Martin over the holiday weekend was an overturned sailboat; the occupants were rescued by a passing boater – thanks largely to the life jackets they were wearing. Other waters in our area have not been as fortunate; please be vigilant:

Ø Watch small children closely; it only takes a few minutes for a child to stray into the water.
Ø Keep in mind; life jackets float a lot longer than you do!
Ø Inappropriate alcohol consumption can be a fatal partner with any type of driving – including behind the wheel of a boat.
Ø Southeastern Colorado storms are fast and furious, sometimes becoming lethal in a matter of minutes. Be aware of the predicted weather in your area of boating; always keep an ear and eye to the sky. John Martin waters go far west of the dam - both boat ramps are at the east end.
Ø Respect the boaters around you; give them the same clearance, distance and safety margin you wish for yourself.
Ø Wind on the plains changes quickly; maintain responsible/safe fire procedures with campfires.
Ø Children wake up running; driving slowly with an extra eye around you may save a little life.

Duane Nelson, contract biologist for the corps of engineers said there are six pair of nesting Piping Plovers at John Martin; the first nest hatched June 8th. One Least Tern and one Plover nest are in the silt mitigation area. Though set up primarily as a draining area for the removed silt, a secondary result of this moist area is a safer and more reliable habitat for the endangered Plovers and Terns. “This mitigation area has the potential to be the best thing to happen to long term survival of Piping Plovers and Least Terns since the last wet cycle,” said Nelson. Please respect the closed areas for the plovers and terns through their nesting season, while visiting wildlife areas at the dam.

Keefer said the fishing at John Martin seems to be the steadiest he’s seen in awhile. Mostly boaters are catching channel cat, large mouth bass and some crappie.

Russ from Bud’s Live Bait in Hasty said, “We had some fishermen with a boat come by last Saturday that had a total between them of 56 Crappie.” He’s seen some good-sized wipers and walleye. Russ and Bud have a ‘new look’ in their shop since they remodeled, but their service and inventory are as good as ever; lots of bait and fishing tackle to suit your every whim – and every fish. Hours are 7 am to 6 pm; if the doors are closed, call the # posted for quick service. They are still ‘camera-ready’ if you want a picture of your prize catch.

Don’t forget to carry a Habitat Stamp with you when using wildlife areas around the reservoir. For information; http://wildlife.state.co.us/ShopDOW/AppsAndLicenses/HabitatStamp/, or speak with Keefer at 940.3586 or the DOW office in Lamar at 719.336.6600.

CATCHING FOR CASA, FISHING TOURNAMENT

2009-05-23T13:39:00.001-07:00

For Max Rodriguez, Pete Martinez and Ross Netherton, fishing at John Martin Reservoir on Saturday May 16 filled their wallets as well as their hunger; each received a $200 prize in adult class of the CASA (court appointed special advocates) fishing tournament. Zach Ramsey, Hunter Cowen and Rugger Stocking each pulled in $50 for their prize catches in the children's class.

Prior to the tournament, students in the Elementary and Junior High school in Lamar gathered dollars for CASA. Rugger Stocking gathered $110 and won four tickets to Elitch Gardens Theme Park, two Casa Bonita Restaurant dinner tickets and a free overnight stay in Denver. Bryson Cowen rounded up $69 and Arionna Brandenburg brought in $60; they each won four tickets to Water World plus a free overnight stay.

“Jammin' Jerry”, a talented guitar and Banjo player, entertained the crowd after the fishing festivities. Jerry’s musical history includes entertainers like Waylon Jennings, Johnny Paycheck and Freddy Fender. He received recognition from President Bush for his song “Freedom”.

T-shirts and caps with CASA logos were available. Everyone feasted on hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans, potato salad and drinks. After all, fishing is hard work.

Other community donations, including dollars as well as items-in-kind for door prizes, came from Arkansas Valley Optometry, Mr. D's, Robinson Printing, KLMR and 36 other business throughout the southeast Colorado area. (A special thank you to P. J. Wilson). CASA operates from office space donated by P. J. and Brenda Wilson, Wilson Insurance Services, in Lamar.

A Seattle, Washington judge started CASA in 1977. By 1990, US Congress passed the Victims of Child Abuse Act which supported the expansion of CASA programs. According to the CASA tournament brochure, “...CASA has grown to a network of more than 59,000 volunteers that serve 243,000 abused and neglected children through 900 ‘+’ local program offices nationwide. Our volunteers, also known as court appointed advocates, are appointed by judges and act as officers of the court. Judges rely on the information these trusted advocates present.” More detailed information on this worthy organization will follow later in a more detailed article.

CASA volunteers cover the 15th, 16th and 3rd Judicial Districts which include the following counties: Cheyenne, Kiowa, Prowers, Baca (15th); Crowley, Otero, Bent (16th); Huerfano, Las Animas (3rd).

CAS A needs volunteers. If you can give two to four hours a week helping neglected and abused children find their way to a better life, please call Shelly Tombleson at 719.688.3245, Brianna Bourne at 719.468.3687 or Virginia Solano at 719.468.3688.

John Martin Reservoir CASA Fishing Tournament

2009-05-06T13:18:00.003-07:00

Mark your calendars, all you fishing aficionados; May 16, 2009, John Martin Reservoir at Hasty, Colorado. Tournament registration - 8AM, Poles in the water - 10AM, weigh-in ceremony and fish-fry - 2PM.

Entry fees - $25 (16 +), $15 (juniors). Cash and door prizes. The best part: ALL PROCEEDS HELP ABUSED CHILDREN IN SE COLORADO.

For further info about the tournament - or CASA, call Shelly at 719.688.3245 or John Martin Reservoir State Park at 719.829.1801.

THE STILLING BASIN; monthly column on John Martin Dam

2009-05-02T20:02:00.005-07:00

May 1, 2009

Water level at John Martin Dam was 78,300 acre-feet on 4/28 at noon. The maximum level was 84,400 acre-feet on 4/20. Over 500 cubic feet per second is releasing into the Stilling Basin.

Karen Downey, former Park Ranger at the Corps of Engineers, returned from duty in Afghanistan in early March. She is now Operations Manager for the agency at John Martin Dam. Welcome home and congratulations.

Duane Nelson, biologist for the corps, said he has counted 10 Plovers at John Martin as of 4/24. “We expect the Least Terns around 5/15,” Nelson said. Piping Plovers and Least Terns migrate to John Martin to nest and raise their young. “Piping Plovers were federally listed as threatened in 1986 and added to Colorado's threatened list in 1996,” according to the state park brochure at the following website (also available at the park office at John Martin): http://parks.state.co.us/NR/rdonlyres/0D3AEBE2-2547-428C-9B64-4215ED252405/0/JohnMartinBirdsBro.pdf. The brochure continues, “The Least Tern was federally listed as endangered in 1985 under the Endangered Species Act and listed by Colorado as endangered in 1996.”

The John Martin State Park office has a beautiful and informative display showcasing life-sized Plovers and Terns; spending a few minutes enjoying and educating yourself with this display may come in handy when walking the south side beaches of the reservoir. Since these birds are protected wildlife, there is a large fine/jail time for their accidental or intentional destruction. Please observe wildlife closure signs.

As of 4/24, only about two acres were closed for Plover protection on the south side of the reservoir. Since reservoir water is dropping in elevation, some additional nesting area closures will occur as more birds migrate into the area and more beaches surface. For information on either of these imperiled birds, call the corps, the park or DOW.

Restricted area signs are posted around the silt mitigation area about a mile west of the south end of the dam. The drying silt is similar to quicksand and is as dangerous. Call the corps at 336.3476.

Heath Kehm, Park Ranger for the state park, said boat inspections for Quagga and Zebra Mussels have begun. Please stop at the park office before launching.

These two imported, invasive species of mussels were found last year in Pueblo Reservoir. Tiny and prolific, they have and will continue to cost billions of dollars in damages in many parts of our country. All underwater surfaces are susceptible to their colonizing, such as live wells, intake areas and hulls. If they are on your boat when you launch, they may spread into that body of water. To any industry/operation that uses underwater machinery, these mussels are a formidable enemy. So far, our reservoir does not contain this problem: so far, our dam is safe. Let's do our best to maintain this situation. The park/corps/DOW agencies have available brochures. Several sites online have information including down loadable material for your own use: http://100thmeridian.org, http://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.asp?speciesID=95 and http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/Profiles/InvasiveSpecies/ZebraandQuaggaMussels.htm, are some examples.

“We should be fully staffed with summer seasonal staff by mid-May,” Kehm said. They are in the hiring process for a full-time Administrative person. Barb VanWinkle, park ranger, has transferred to Eleven Mile Reservoir. VanWinkle will be missed for her personality, knowledge and energy. Good luck Barb. Call the park at 829.1801.

According to the DOW website, “The 2009 spring turkey season starts April 11 and continues through May 24, although dates vary in some units. Over-the-counter licenses can be purchased for most units in the state; but some areas are limited so be sure to check the 2009 turkey hunting brochure.” For additional information, call Steve Keefer at 940.3586 or the DOW office in Lamar at 336.6600.

A Snowy Spring Walk Through the Park

2009-03-29T01:48:00.003-07:00

It’s March 27 at John Martin Dam, Hasty, Colorado and March is definitely ‘going out like a lion’! Coloradans out here on the southeast plains awoke to blizzard conditions with white-out, gale-force winds and about a foot of snow. When newcomers to our state ask about the weather they usually hear, “Wait a few hours”! Today was a perfect example. It's 3PM, the sun is out, there's barely a breeze and the park is postcard-perfect for any camera-ready snow bunny. Hard to believe that only days ago the temps were pushing 70. Lilacs are breaking bud, the elms are shedding millions of seeds, robins are happily searching unlucky spring worms and daffodils are strutting their yellows and pale oranges. Snow nestles up against the flood gates of the dam and the Arkansas River flows quietly under a thin sheet of ice.

Continuing west on the park road, we noticed a fisherman braving the 20 degree temps on the edge of Lake Hasty. He later told us trout were biting one after another at about 12 to 14 inches long. He said he had started throwing his line before noon when the blizzard was still lurking. What a picture that would have been!

Continuing west we looked north and caught sight of some white tail deer; they did not seem to appreciate our intrusion, or maybe they were just camera shy.
As we turned south into the Lake Hasty Campground, we glanced at the Red Shin Standing ground rising tall behind us. Red Shin was a Cheyenne warrior in the 1800’s who won the hand of his maiden by fighting off many other warriors from this high butte. We imagined how shocked he would be to stand there now. No longer does the lazy Arkansas River wander through the Cottonwoods as it used to. Now it flows under hundreds of feet of reservoir water to the west of the dam, then quickly changes to a creek-sized wandering waterway, heading east.

We drove by the newly finished handicapped fishing area and involuntarily scared up a large flock of cormorants including a Blue Heron, who were resting calmly on Lake Hasty before our intrusion. For now, a lone picnic table stands quietly on the platform, awaiting spring visitors.

We continued through the campground, stopping to take this nicely framed picture of the stilling basin side of the dam.

Three campers braved the early spring snow in their large, warm RV’s.

Nature keeps southeastern Colorado on her toes. For now, John Martin Reservoir lies quietly under a chilly layer of sparkling snow.

NOTE: ALL PHOTOS ON THIS BLOG (UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED) ARE TAKEN BY DANIELLE SIMONE AND ARE AVAILABLE FOR USE ONLY BY PERMISSION. Thank you.

daniellesimone@centurytel.net