Gaining a Sustainable Future Through ASR, IPR, Conservation and Acquisition of Renewable Sources in the Colorado Front Range Area

Donala Water and Sanitation District’s (DWSD) primary source of water supply is from the Denver Ground Water Basin Aquifers.  The Denver Ground Water Basin includes four bedrock aquifers and is a 6,700 square mile area beneath the Denver Metro Area.  Most wells that tap the resource range from 500 to 2000 feet deep (Topper, 2007).  DWSD recognizes that as water levels decline in the Denver Basin aquifers, the well yield will also decline.  DWSD is actively seeking renewable sources to augment the Denver Basin ground water.  We have estimated that with increased growth to the north of DWSD the current supplies may not meet demands as early as 2020.  In an effort to move toward more renewable resources, DWSD has purchased surface water rights from the Arkansas River Basin; instituted a voluntary conservation program that has reduced their demand by 12%; conducted a nine-week ASR feasibility pilot study; conducted an indirect potable reuse feasibility study; and has changed their rate structure.  To complicate matters, DWSD happens to be located in area that is the furthest location in Colorado from renewable water sources.  Through successful implementation of these activities, we estimate that the projected supply shortfall will move out to approximately 2040.