GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO, Aug. 1, 2008 -- The Denver Metro Water Roundtable awarded South Metro Water Supply Authority (SMWSA) a $100,500 grant to conduct a regional aquifer, storage and recovery study, including conjunctive use of surface and groundwater as well as optimizing aquifer use. The assessment will evaluate the impacts of continued reliance of non-renewable groundwater supplies in the south-metro area, evaluate methods to extend the life of bedrock aquifers and explore a more coordinated regional management of water resources.
"Based on the Statewide Water Supply Initiative study of 2003 and our own Master Plan report of 2007, we know that bedrock aquifers do not have a significant source of natural replenishment. While groundwater is sufficient to meet today's water demands, it's vital that we look at alternatives to extend the life of aquifer supplies," said Rod Kuharich, executive director for SMWSA. "Bedrock aquifers vary significantly in their yield and impacts within the south-metro area. The study will help us understand the local disparities in greater detail so we can better develop groundwater-use plans and other new, renewable sources of water."
The study will compile a common database to report aquifer pumping and groundwater levels, pumping costs, identify aquifer storage and recovery project locations and develop strategies to coordinate their management. The study's main objectives include:
• Developing a better understanding of the aquifer characteristics relevant to well production, artificial recharge and conjunctive use;
• Assessing aquifer drawdown due to pumping;
• Characterizing the cost of producing potable groundwater, including pumping, water treatment, operations and maintenance costs; and
• Identifying potential locations to conduct a regional aquifer storage and recovery demonstration project.
Funded by the State of Colorado under House Bill 1400, SMWSA's study is slated to begin this month.
South Metro Water Supply Authority (SMWSA) is an experienced and knowledgeable regional water entity that plans, develops and sources renewable water for Douglas and Arapahoe Counties in Colorado.
Also see:
-- SMWSA to play advanced role in state water planning & cooperation
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