Water Consortium prioritizes community engagement and data transparency for resource management

The Colorado Produced Water Consortium convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the management and utilization of produced water in the state. The meeting focused on data transparency, community engagement, and prioritization of objectives to enhance the use of produced water while minimizing the reliance on fresh water in oilfield operations.

The session began with discussions on the functionality and verification of data related to Form 40 eights, which are linked to water credits. Participants expressed the need for clarity on the data being collected and its implications for community benefits. Concerns were raised about the lack of community input regarding the credit system, emphasizing the importance of understanding how these systems could benefit local populations.

Clay, a representative from Natural Resource Advisors, highlighted that storage limitations are a significant barrier to increasing the utilization of produced water. He suggested that the consortium should focus on a few key priorities that could yield the most immediate impact on reducing fresh water use in oilfield operations. This sentiment was echoed by other members, who agreed on the necessity of identifying top priorities to streamline efforts.

Barbara raised a point about the integration of data transparency with the rollout of the Environmental Credit Management Committee (ECMC) processes, suggesting that understanding the data collected could lead to actionable recommendations. However, she noted that the credit rating system might not be among the top five priorities for immediate action.

Tessa emphasized the importance of community engagement, particularly for disproportionately impacted communities. She advocated for holding space for these communities to voice their concerns and understand the implications of the consortium's decisions. This call for engagement was supported by other members, who recognized the need for inclusive discussions that consider the perspectives of all stakeholders.

As the meeting progressed, participants began to group various topics, including data transparency, community engagement, and environmental impacts, into cohesive categories for further exploration. The group acknowledged the necessity of addressing the DIC prohibition barrier and the importance of proactive engagement with local and tribal governments.

The consortium concluded with a commitment to prioritize the identified key areas while ensuring that community voices are heard in the decision-making process. The next steps involve further refining these priorities and developing a timeline for implementation, with a focus on enhancing the overall management of produced water in Colorado.