Many are worried that by transforming the entire reservoir area into a riparian habitat, we are losing the native prairie that was once there. The most frightening argument is that the presence of recreational and other water-based activities will destroy the ecosystem that could occupy the lake itself. The fact of the matter is that this accusation is simply not true. We see countless examples of reservoirs that are capable of balancing natural wetlands with boating and other activities. The closest examples are the Boulder Reservoir and Chatfield Reservoir. Both of these allow boating and swimming in reservoirs that hold drinking water for the surrounding areas. Both of these also maintain protected wildlife areas. Chatfield Reservoir even plays host to the Audobon Society's Colorado bird banding site which monitors the migratory patterns of song birds. These reservoirs have both managed to keep very healthy natural habitats while still allowing recreational activities within their area.
