Vail, CO
Home LoveVail MenuRestore the Gore
Gore Creek—the clear, rocky mountain stream that runs through the heart of Vail—offers a peaceful respite for residents and visitors, important wildlife habitat, and a water supply for downstream communities.
In 2012, Gore Creek was listed as a 303(d) impaired waterway for low aquatic life by Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Since then, Town of Vail has developed the Gore Creek Strategic Action Plan and begun to implement practices and policies to turn things around.
Learn more about the challenges facing our favorite waterway, then find out how you can play a part in the solution.
Pollution Prevention
Gore Creek is threatened, but there’s plenty we can do about it. Whether you’re a resident, a small business, a property manager, or a landscaper, there are some simple actions you can take.
First, NEVER dump anything down a storm drain. The open grates in our streets flow directly into Gore Creek untreated. Only rain should go down these drains. If you see something dumped or spilled into a storm drain, call our 24-hour hotline to report the spill. 970-476-GORE
Second, reconsider your landscaping. Non-native ornamentals and turf grass require a lot of fertilizer and a lot of water at 8,150 feet above sea level. That is having an impact on Gore Creek. Native plants are adapted to the mountain environment. Check out some of our resources to learn how you can reshape your landscaping and attract hummingbirds and other pollinators in the process .
Finally, GET INVOLVED! Town of Vail and its incredible partners like Eagle River Watershed Council offer volunteer opportunities and educational events all year long. Join a river cleanup, plant some trees, or learn more about the issues impacting your water at one of our educational events.
Gore Creek
The creek that runs through Vail is facing some challenges. Watch this short video to learn what you can do to help.
The Heart of Vail Video
Gore Creek’s importance in the Vail community is hard to overstate. Watch experts weigh in on how development has impacted the creek and what needs to be done to turn things around.
What You Can Do
Gore Creek is threatened, but there’s plenty we can do about it. Whether you’re a resident, a small business, a property manager, or a landscaper, here are some simple actions you can take.
Events & Announcements
Learn about events, activities, and new initiatives the town is pursuing to make Vail even better. View upcoming events here.