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Colorado community making efforts to maintain reservoir essential in restraining Alexander Mountain Fire spread

Cedar Spring Reservoir, a key player in extinguishing fires in Larimer County, now faces expensive maintenance issues.

Colorado community, in the aftermath of the Alexander Mountain Fire, is taking measures to preserve...
Colorado community, in the aftermath of the Alexander Mountain Fire, is taking measures to preserve the reservoir instrumental in curbing its spread

Colorado community making efforts to maintain reservoir essential in restraining Alexander Mountain Fire spread

In the heart of Storm Mountain, a small community known for its stunning views, peaceful air, and strong community spirit, lies the Cedar Spring Reservoir. This unsung hero has played a significant role in fighting fires in Larimer County, but now, it's in need of costly repairs.

Retired Denver firefighter Dean Grieve is part of a group working tirelessly to keep the reservoir operational. He's not alone in this mission. A neighbour, Aaron Klee, a wildland firefighter, has also joined the cause. They, along with five other families, have acquired the reservoir and created a non-profit to facilitate repairs and grants.

The hardware that keeps the reservoir filled is over 50 years old, and if it's not fixed, there's a risk of water coming underneath the dam and compromising it. The cost to fix the reservoir's hardware is estimated to be hundreds of thousands of dollars, a hefty sum for a small community.

State Senator Janice Marchman is working with the community to help them apply for grants for the reservoir's repairs. She suggests bringing in the Colorado Water Conservation Board to help with the repairs. Marchman affectionately named the reservoir "The Little Reservoir That Did," due to its significant contributions during the Alexander Mountain fire.

The Alexander Mountain fire threatened both Loveland and Estes Park, burning nearly 10,000 acres and destroying close to 30 homes in July and August of last year. During this time, the Cedar Spring Reservoir took over 200 loads of water a day to help fight the flames. Aaron Klee stated that it's easier for him to do his job as a firefighter not in his backyard.

Chierstin Susel, a reporter for News Colorado, is following the story closely. The organization formed by the seven families on Storm Mountain to preserve Cedar Spring Reservoir and carry out repairs is not explicitly named in the provided search results, but their dedication to the cause is clear.

As the community rallies together, they hope to ensure the Cedar Spring Reservoir continues to serve as a vital resource for years to come. For Dean Grieve, the reservoir is more than just a water source; it's a symbol of the community's resilience and spirit. Klee described it as an "unsung hero" for the community, and with the community's efforts, it's a role the Cedar Spring Reservoir is poised to continue playing.

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