The Poudre River is a major tributary to the South Platte River. It is located in Larimer and Weld Counties, with a small portion of the drainage basin extending into southern Wyoming. Passing through Fort Collins, the Poudre River corridor provides for stormwater drainage from various contributing city drainage basins. Floodplain restrictions have limited the amount of building in the floodplain, resulting in lower development density. This lower density, combined with sensitivities to the natural environment, has resulted in a high concentration of parks and open space along the river corridor. Portions of the river corridor also contain old industrial sites, reflecting a time when the river was seen as a convenient means of carrying off waste products.

Approximately 3,160 acres of floodplain between Taft Hill Road and I-25 would be inundated by a 100-year flood, damaging approximately 188 structures. Estimates indicate that damages to property, utilities and infrastructure caused by the 100-year flood would total $9.5 million, with expected additional damages due to significant erosion.

Multiple alternatives were evaluated for reducing or eliminating flood damage and for controlling erosion, including: structural improvements such as levees or channel improvements, floodproofing, purchasing flood insurance, or acquiring property. The final solution for a particular site would be determined when the site is targeted for improvement.

The master plan update is currently underway. The goal is to address stormwater quality from rainfall runoff and to identify stream restoration projects that protect the city's watersheds.