In 2013, CROA members reported more than 461,252 total commercial user days; up from 412,394 in 2012. While 2012 was plagued by drought and wildfires across the state, the 2013 conditions were positive in areas that were not affected by wildfires. In fact, areas that remained unaffected saw near-record user days – the Cache La Poudre River, which was closed in 2012 due to the High Park Fire, saw a return to 2011 user levels in 2013.
“In 2013, Colorado had great late season moisture, which helped buoy the rafting season across the state,” said CROA Executive Director David Costlow. “While many areas were again affected by wildfires, Colorado’s rafting industry overall saw a return to a near normal season.”
The outlook for 2014 is positive, with an increase in consumer spending, the stock market at near record levels and dropping unemployment numbers. Colorado’s recent late-season, Mother’s Day snowfall gives the state’s rafting industry high hopes for a successful season. Snowpack is above normal levels in many river drainages – and though it is not the only variable in determining water flow levels across the state, it is a good indicator for a healthy and strong rafting season.
The cool spring and additional precipitation has aided projections for this summer. Customers should experience very good water flows. Unlike the past two years, family runs and the more advance runs will have extended seasons this year, with many rivers flowing into September. For several outfitters, bookings are running ahead of the 2013 season.
The complete Commercial River Use Report can be downloaded via www.croa.org.
