The Animas River

The Spaniards named it El Rio de las Animas Perdidas - River of Lost Souls.

At it's beginning, the Animas River is a swirling torrent. It comes hurtling out of the peaks above Silverton, Colorado, and plunges over 2,000 feet in the next 30 miles.

By the time it reaches Farmington, the Animas is tame. Dropping only about five feet per mile, the river welcomes open canoes and novice rafters.

Hydropower—The Animas River plant is New Mexico's oldest operating hydroelectric system. It is located on the Animas River in Farmington New Mexico. The facility has a generating capacity of 200 kilowatts. The plant has operated since its construction in 1902 and was refurbished in 1981. It is owned and operated by the City of Farmington.