Urgent: 102-Year-Old Flume Collapses, Causes Landslide Near Cascade Creek
UPDATE: A 102-year-old wooden flume near Cascade Creek has collapsed, triggering significant landslides and leading to forest closures. The incident, which occurred in June, has raised urgent concerns about environmental safety and infrastructure integrity in the area.
Cleanup efforts are reportedly in progress as authorities scramble to address the aftermath of the collapse. The flume, one of the last two wooden structures still in use for hydroelectric power, runs between Durango and Silverton, located just north of Purgatory Resort along U.S. Highway 550. Water escaping from the damaged flume has caused erosion, further destabilizing the structure and threatening nearby power line supports.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Forest Service confirmed a closure for a 51-acre section of national forest, effective since June 13, 2023. “The recent failure of the flume resulted in infrastructure damage and a landslide that has destabilized the described area,” stated the San Juan office in an official release. They noted serious public safety concerns, including loose debris, ongoing flume degradation, falling trees, and potential impacts on the adjacent LPEA power transmission line.
This area closure is set to remain in effect until November 2026, unless lifted earlier. Fortunately, thanks to Electra Lake water reserves, power delivery to nearby homes has not been disrupted as of late July. However, residents fear that debris could impact water flow to properties below the flume damage site.
“They’re always working on the flume,” said Carolyn Strong, a resident overlooking Electra Lake. “There’s always something going on over there.” Strong reported no noticeable effects on water levels or power supply in her home.
Another resident, Benedict Stoddard, indicated that the flume now requires complete replacement to restore water flow back to Electra Lake, emphasizing its critical role in local hydroelectric generation. The water path associated with the broken flume is also vital for generating hydroelectric power at the Tacoma Generating Station along the Animas River.
The Purgatory Resort, which relies on water from Xcel for snowmaking, stated in a June 18 email that Xcel is “working closely with the USFS and FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) to repair the flume and restore water flow to Electra Lake as soon as possible.” They acknowledged that the flume has “met the end of its useful life” given its extensive operational history.
The flume, with its historical significance, is eligible for a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, according to the U.S. Forest Service. While it has suffered previous leaks and damages, none have been as severe as this latest incident.
As of late July, Xcel Energy has not provided comments regarding the situation. The urgency surrounding the flume’s collapse continues to escalate, prompting residents and officials alike to closely monitor developments as they unfold.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story, as authorities work to ensure public safety and restore essential services in the impacted area.
