Ground Water & Alluvial Storage

In 2000, UAWCD conducted a groundwater study in partnership with USGS that looked at the sustainability of our groundwater resources. This led to more robust studies that looked at the interactions of groundwater and surface water. Following that in 2009, UAWCD implemented phase one of a USGS water balance study to quantify both surface water and groundwater and to characterize the interaction between them and investigate the potential for alluvial storage in the Salida Buena Vista area. In 2016, phase 2 of the study began to include Custer and Western Fremont Counties. The study will provide the tools necessary to manage future water supplies, will offer insight on the potential for alluvial aquifer storage, will provide data that can be used to protect lake and stream levels and help develop management protocols that balance water needs for consumptive and non-consumptive uses.   ​

The Upper Arkansas Water Conservancy District values the collaborative approach of the Water Balance Study that is led by the United States Geological Survey and includes several local partners (Chaffee County, Fremont County, Custer County, City of Salida, City of Canon City, City of Florence, Town of Buena Vista, Town of Poncha Springs, and Round Mountain Water and Sanitation). The UAWCD looks forward to the innovative outcomes that will help address ongoing water needs. To learn more about the water balance study click on the studies below.