The Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD), established in 1959 by a vote of local taxpayers, serves as a leader in protecting and managing the water resources of the Upper Gunnison River Basin in south-central Colorado. Encompassing the headwaters of the Gunnison River and its seven tributary watersheds-including Ohio Creek, East River, Taylor River, Tomichi Creek, Cochetopa Creek, and the Lake Fork-the District is dedicated to the responsible conservation, augmentation, and management of water resources. Its mission is to ensure that water is preserved and utilized for the long-term benefit of citizens, the local economy, and the natural environment.

Guided by its Board of Directors, the District upholds strong values in balancing agricultural, municipal, industrial, ecological, and recreational needs while safeguarding water quality and watershed health. The UGRWCD actively opposes out-of-basin water transfers that would threaten local resources, supports adaptive strategies to address climate change and drought, and collaborates with statewide partners to advocate for Western Slope interests. Through leadership, science-based planning, and community partnerships, the District remains committed to protecting the integrity of the Upper Gunnison River Basin for present and future generations.