Stormwater management is an important component of the Metro District’s public works services. Stormwater is collected through pipe systems from streets and then conveyed through the open space drainage ways. These drainage ways provide flood control and water quality enhancement of stormwater. These open space corridors are home to wildlife and are the backbone of our open space trail system. In light of these multiple uses, the corridors must be protected from the effects of increased storm flows, erosion, pollution and other impacts of urbanization. The Metro District’s Public Works staff takes a proactive approach to stormwater management by balancing these various demands.

The Metro District is a non-standard stormwater permit holder with CDPHE, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. The permit was renewed in 2021 with a five-year term. The permit outlines the requirements that the Metro District is obligated to fulfill to comply with Phase 2 of the Clean Water Act as a Non-Standard Permit Holder. Copies of the permit are available for review through the Metro District Public Works department.

The Metro District is a member of the Colorado Stormwater Council, a state-wide organization of permittees, and is a member of CLEAR, the Douglas County stormwater group. The CLEAR organization also cooperates and shares resources to meet permit requirements.

The Metro District has a master plan for restoring and improving the drainageways in the open spaces in Highlands Ranch. This work is done in conjunction with Mile High Flood District, who participates in funding and managing these projects.

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Current Project Updates

West Fork Trail Bridge

Construction is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2024 on a new bridge at the Dad Clark Gulch crossing along the West Fork Trail. This trail is located in the West Fork Disc Golf Course. Mile High Flood District, a partner of the Metro District, will cover all costs of the project beyond the design and purchase of the bridge. The new bridge will make it easier for trail and disc golf course users to cross the gulch between the seventh and eighth holes. 

Dad Clark Gulch Channel Stabilization

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2024 on the stabilization of Dad Clark Gulch from the bridge below Toepfer Park to Highlands Ranch Parkway. The Highlands Ranch Metro District, in conjunction with Mile High Flood District, has designed improvements in Dad Clark Gulch as part of the Metro District Stormwater Master Plan. The goals of this plan are to restore, stabilize, improve, and protect the drainage ways in our open space. 

Click here to read more details about this project. 

Related Links

• CLEAR
• Douglas County
• Mile High Flood District
• Colorado Stormwater Council
• Federal Emergency Management Agency
• USCOE
• Environmental Protection Agency Stormwater

Stormwater Management Frequently Asked Questions

Updated 9/2023