South Canal tunnels (1 of 3)
Montrose, Colorado and the Uncompahgre Valley have water because of the Gunnison Tunnel which originates at the Gunnison River at the bottom of the Black Canyon. Water is brought by that tunnel to a point just east of Montrose where city water is treated and irrigation water distributed. Much of that water flows into the South Canal which carries water south several miles where in flows into the Uncompahgre River for irrigation in southern Montrose County. To reach its destination the water passes through a series of short tunnels under the adobe hills. Many locals are unaware of these tunnels but they are accessible via a few dirt maintenance roads through the adobe hills....if gates are not closed. Here are some views.
South Canal tunnels (1 of 3)
Montrose, Colorado and the Uncompahgre Valley have water because of the Gunnison Tunnel which originates at the Gunnison River at the bottom of the Black Canyon. Water is brought by that tunnel to a point just east of Montrose where city water is treated and irrigation water distributed. Much of that water flows into the South Canal which carries water south several miles where in flows into the Uncompahgre River for irrigation in southern Montrose County. To reach its destination the water passes through a series of short tunnels under the adobe hills. Many locals are unaware of these tunnels but they are accessible via a few dirt maintenance roads through the adobe hills....if gates are not closed. Here are some views.