The Pathfinder project is a local community-based group, convened in the Spring of 2000, to identify instream flow needs for the surface waters of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests (GMUG). The group strives to integrate local interests, science-based analysis, and Forest Service management objectives, to explore ways of maintaining adequate streamflows in the GMUG forests. The Pathfinder goal is to strike a balance between healthy stream environments and human water needs.

The Pathfinder Project Steering Committee is comprised of local stakeholders representing a broad range of interests. Participants include federal agencies, state water management and fish and wildlife agencies, local landowners, irrigation companies, conservationists, recreational interests, and others.