Crystal Reservoir Conveyance Act

The "Crystal Reservoir Conveyance Act" mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer specific federal land and associated water rights to the City of Ouray, Colorado. This conveyance includes the Crystal Reservoir site, approximately 45 acres of surrounding land managed by the Forest Service, Full Moon Dam and its related facilities, and all water rights, notably those for Full Moon Ditch and Reservoir Number 10. The transfer is to be completed by quitclaim deed, generally at no cost to the City, except for survey expenses, with the Secretary covering other associated costs. As a condition of this transfer, the City of Ouray must agree to several key terms. The City is required to grant easements to the Secretary for existing trails and roads and assume full responsibility for the costs of all repairs, operations, and maintenance of Full Moon Dam and related infrastructure. Furthermore, the City must maintain the conveyed land in perpetuity as open space , ensuring full public access for recreational activities , including fishing, without charging any fees. The bill prohibits development, commercial operations, or construction on the land, except for activities necessary for the operation and maintenance of the dam and reservoir, and prevents expansion of the reservoir's footprint that would harm upstream wetlands. If the City fails to comply with these conditions, the Federal land may revert to the United States at the Secretary's discretion. The City will also continue to use the Red Mountain Ditch for water diversion and must manage all water rights in accordance with Colorado state law.