Lake Ranch Multi-Use Pilot Project
The Lake Ranch property and associated water rights in Salida, Colorado are owned by the Upper Arkansas Water Conservancy District who works in partnership with a local ranching family for ranch operations. This 160-acre property is one of the most productive alfalfa ranches in the area. The primary purpose for the Lake Ranch Multi-Use Project (LRMUP) was to develop a small-scale multi-use demonstration project that would be inclusive of multiple water uses that would address various local water needs. The project included a feasibility study for the potential of alluvial (underground) aquifer storage and hydropower. Additionally, lease-fallowing will be explored on the property and, through this program, the Upper District hopes to provide an example of how irrigators and municipalities can work together to create alternatives to the permanent "buy and dry" of agricultural lands in the Upper Arkansas River Basin. The District is also in the process of developing educational programming on the Lake Ranch and has designated a one-acre area for future public educational opportunities.
A report of findings in the Lake Ranch Multi-Use Pilot Project was presented by Colorado River Engineering in March 2019. We have summarized these findings below.
Alluvial Aquifer Storage
Concerning the potential for alluvial aquifer storage, the report concluded that the Trout Creek area is better suited for this kind of storage. Higher water tables and the presence of clay lenses on the Lake Ranch do not make it an ideal location for storing water underground.
Low-Impact Hydropower
While power production through low-impact hydropower was determined to be feasible on the Lake Ranch, this component was found to be cost prohibitive.
Lease Fallowing
An analysis of the water rights associated with the Lake Ranch concluded that there could be potential for lease fallowing, though options for operations still need to be investigated. Full fallowing/full irrigation would be the most practical fallowing method and would likely occur in 2-3 year increments, followed by several years of cultivation.
Moving forward the District will continue to investigate possibilities for the Lake Ranch property and we'll be sure to share updates when available.
A report of findings in the Lake Ranch Multi-Use Pilot Project was presented by Colorado River Engineering in March 2019. We have summarized these findings below.
Alluvial Aquifer Storage
Concerning the potential for alluvial aquifer storage, the report concluded that the Trout Creek area is better suited for this kind of storage. Higher water tables and the presence of clay lenses on the Lake Ranch do not make it an ideal location for storing water underground.
Low-Impact Hydropower
While power production through low-impact hydropower was determined to be feasible on the Lake Ranch, this component was found to be cost prohibitive.
Lease Fallowing
An analysis of the water rights associated with the Lake Ranch concluded that there could be potential for lease fallowing, though options for operations still need to be investigated. Full fallowing/full irrigation would be the most practical fallowing method and would likely occur in 2-3 year increments, followed by several years of cultivation.
Moving forward the District will continue to investigate possibilities for the Lake Ranch property and we'll be sure to share updates when available.
