The Rio Grande Headwaters Restoration Project admitted responsibility for a significant fish die-off along a 7.2-mile section of the Rio Grande near Del Norte, Colorado.

This event was triggered during upgrades to the Farmers Union Canal Diversion and Headgate, which aim to improve habitats and modernize local irrigation.

Due to a tight construction schedule and unpredictable weather, river flows were reduced, unintentionally drying out stretches of the river and causing extensive fish mortality.

Biologists from Colorado Parks and Wildlife estimate fish recovery could take three to five years.

Both brown and rainbow trout of varying ages, as well as other aquatic life, were severely affected.

Restoration efforts are underway, with agencies collaborating to return flows to the Rio Grande.

Supported by a $1.27 million federal grant, the ongoing project is set to finish in early April and promises long-term ecological and agricultural improvements despite this setback.

Valley Meat Market Wholesale & Retail

Location: 808 West Ave, Alamosa, CO 81101
Phone: (719) 589-6328
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Closed Sunday

A true cornerstone of the Alamosa community, Valley Meat Market Wholesale & Retail  is known for its fresh, high-quality cuts and friendly, knowledgeable service. Whether you're firing up the grill, planning a family dinner, or stocking up for a large gathering, this locally owned butcher shop delivers exceptional beef and pork, custom-cut to your preference.

Highlights include house-made sausages, wholesale meat options, and custom processing services — including trusted game processing during hunting season. For generations, Valley Meat Market has proudly served the San Luis Valley with quality products and small-town hospitality that keeps customers coming back.

In the San Luis Valley, intense blowing dust can quickly cause a sudden “brownout,” dropping visibility to near zero, especially by open fields on dry, windy days.  

These dust storms are dangerous because drivers may not see stopped vehicles ahead, risking multi-car pileups.  

If you encounter heavy dust, avoid stopping in the travel lane—carefully slow down, turn on headlights (but not high beams), and move your vehicle entirely off the road if you can’t see.  

Once safely off the road, turn off your lights and take your foot off the brake so others don’t follow your taillights by mistake.  

Stay put until visibility improves—dust clouds can pass quickly, but only re-enter traffic when conditions are clear.  

Locals should check wind advisories and watch for dust ahead, particularly near farmland or recently tilled areas.  

Above all, stay calm and never stop in the lane to keep yourself and others safe.

Hours: Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Ski-Hi Complex, Monte Vista, Colorado

Admission: Free and open to the public

The annual Arts & Crafts Fair in Monte Vista is a vibrant indoor marketplace showcasing talented local and regional artisans. Visitors can browse a wide variety of handcrafted goods including jewelry, fiber arts, pottery, photography, woodwork, home décor, specialty foods, and unique gift items. It’s the perfect opportunity to support small businesses while discovering one-of-a-kind creations you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you're shopping for handmade treasures, meeting local makers, or simply enjoying the creative energy of the San Luis Valley, the Arts & Crafts Fair offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and a great way to spend the weekend.

San Luis Valley 7-day forecast

Fort Garland sits at the boundary of the Sangre de Cristo mountains along Highway 160, embodying both the beauty and deep-rooted history of the San Luis Valley.

The town grew from the original U.S. Army post founded in the late 1850s, with Kit Carson among its storied figures during the 1860s.

Today, this resilient community blends generations-old traditions with a welcoming spirit for newcomers drawn by the peaceful landscape and panoramic views toward Blanca Peak.

Fort Garland remains a tranquil stop for travelers, offering access to scenic trailheads and wide open spaces.

Don’t miss the historic fort, now a museum and cultural center, which brings the area’s frontier past to life against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain scenery.

Q: How was Fort Garland established?

A: It was established in 1858 to protect settlers in the San Luis Valley.

Q: What was the purpose of Fort Garland?

A: It served as a military outpost to protect against raids from Native American tribes.

Q: Is Fort Garland open to the public?

A: Yes, it is now a museum and historic site that is open for visitors to explore.

A new AutoZone store is coming soon to 43 N. Broadway Street, the former site of Charizma Salon & Spa.

This location, perched at the busy crossroad of U.S. Highway 285 and U.S. Highway 160, will offer significant visibility to both Monte Vista locals and travelers.

Construction plans call for a freestanding building with ample parking and easy highway access.

AutoZone typically completes these projects swiftly, so residents may see doors open within a few months of groundbreaking.

The store’s arrival introduces new competition for established businesses like NAPA Auto Parts, likely expanding choices and driving competitive pricing.

For Monte Vista, this investment signals growing commercial momentum at one of its most pivotal intersections—an encouraging sign for local jobs and services.

Explore the sand dunes at the Great Sand Dunes National Park for a fun and unique experience in the San Luis Valley.

Locally owned and trusted throughout the San Luis Valley, Automotive Concepts in Alamosa is your go-to destination for reliable auto repair and maintenance. From routine oil changes and brake service to complex diagnostics and engine work, their experienced technicians are committed to honest service and quality craftsmanship. Known for their friendly customer care and transparent pricing, Automotive Concepts  takes pride in helping drivers stay safe and confident behind the wheel. Whether you’re commuting across town or heading out for a Colorado road trip, this hometown shop keeps your vehicle running at its best.

Construction of the new Dollar General in Monte Vista is advancing, with the steel framing now prominently in place at the site.

This visible milestone signals a major step forward, as work on the roof and exterior walls is set to begin soon.

Known for rapid build times, Dollar General could open its doors within two to three months after this stage, though that depends on weather and inspections.

While an official opening date hasn’t been announced, steady progress suggests shoppers won’t have long to wait.

The store is poised to expand both shopping options and employment opportunities in Monte Vista, adding to the city’s commercial growth.

Residents can look forward to more choices and local jobs as construction moves ahead.

Smoked Elk Round Roast

Light smoke + green chile + mountain herbs — tender, sliceable, and Valley-approved.

COMMUNITY TIP LINE

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