Lake Ranch
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. 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.
