Aurora secures drought recovery water rights from Arkansas Basin farms

The Lake County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) held a work session on May 13, 2025, focusing on water rights and management strategies within the region. The meeting provided insights into the complexities of water rights, particularly concerning the Twin Lakes system and the Colorado Canal.

The discussion began with an overview of the Twin Lakes system, which was developed by Colorado Canal users. It was noted that Colorado Springs owns the majority of this system, while Lake County holds approximately 27%. The Bureau of Reclamation owns the lakes themselves, which provide firm storage. However, the Colorado Canal's water rights are considered junior, making them less reliable, especially during dry years.

A significant point raised was the comparison of water rights, particularly the junior status of the Colorado Canal's rights established in 1990, which are less dependable than older rights from 1887. This junior status affects water availability, particularly during drought years, as seen in 2002 and 2012.

The meeting also addressed the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) signed in 2003 with various water conservancy districts. This agreement limits Aurora's ability to permanently transfer water rights from the Arkansas Basin but allows for the development of interruptible water supplies. Aurora has invested in agricultural land in Rocky Ford, which enables them to access water during drought conditions while ensuring that the water remains designated for agricultural use.

The commissioners discussed the operational limitations of this arrangement, emphasizing that Aurora can only utilize this water for three years out of every ten, contingent on storage levels falling below 60%. This strategy aims to balance water supply needs with agricultural commitments, ensuring sustainable management of water resources in the region.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and strategies related to water rights management in Lake County, underscoring the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to address water supply issues effectively. The discussions set the stage for future actions and considerations regarding water resource management in the area.