Bill would transfer Crystal Reservoir land to City of Ouray for free

Q: What does it cost, and who pays?

The city must pay for any land surveys needed to complete the transfer, while the federal government covers other transfer costs; the city also takes on all future maintenance and repair expenses for the dam and infrastructure.

Passed one chamberS. 2754Latest action Oct 5, 2026

Sponsor: Michael F. Bennet · Senator · CO

AIDecoded by AI · checked against the record

Read the official text

Official title: Crystal Reservoir Conveyance Act

119th Congress

Topics: Environment & energy

Introduced: September 10, 2025

Read the official bill on Congress.gov

In plain words

The plain-language version comes first. The official text is always the reference.

The bill gives the City of Ouray free ownership of Crystal Reservoir and 45 acres, with permanent public access required.

50-second read · 5 questions answered below

What does this do?

The bill transfers Crystal Reservoir, Full Moon Dam, and about 45 surrounding acres in Ouray County, Colorado, from the U.S. Forest Service to the City of Ouray at no cost. The city must keep the land open forever for free public recreation, cannot add commercial development beyond dam maintenance, and takes over all repair and upkeep responsibilities. The Forest Service can take the land back if the city violates these conditions.

Who does it affect?

The City of Ouray and its residents gain control of and responsibility for the reservoir; anglers, hikers, and other recreational users are affected because public access must be preserved permanently.

Why does it matter?

The transfer shifts long-term maintenance costs and liability for the dam and water infrastructure from the federal government to the city.

What does it cost, and who pays?

City pays for land surveys
Federal government covers other costs
City funds future dam upkeep

AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.

Read the official bill on Congress.gov

Make the call

Three steps: where you stand, your script, the call.

Where do you stand?

Where does it stand?

IntroducedSep 10, 2025
Senate committee
Senate vote
HouseYou are here · Oct 5, 2026
The president's desk

Right now: it passed the Senate, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.

Latest action: October 5, 2026 — Held at the desk.

See how a call works

Share on WhatsApp