Larimer County officials are taking significant steps to address water conservation and drought planning in response to ongoing challenges faced by the region. During a recent Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) work session, the focus was on the progress of the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan, particularly regarding the incentivization of regional water conservation.

Heidi, a representative from the county's water action team, highlighted the need for a collaborative framework to tackle water shortages and drought planning. While individual municipalities have their own water shortage plans, there is currently no cohesive regional strategy to address these issues collectively. This gap has become increasingly critical as Larimer County has been designated a disaster area due to severe drought conditions for the past eight years.

The water action team, which includes various stakeholders such as municipal water providers and agricultural representatives, aims to enhance disaster planning for long-term droughts and better understand the impacts of climate variability on water resources. The team is also exploring how these factors intersect with land use planning and the needs of residents.

Commissioner Shanna McMillan raised important questions about defining adequate water for development and the role of watersheds in water conservation efforts. She emphasized the need for a clear understanding of water supply as the county continues to grow. The team is considering inviting watershed groups to participate in discussions to ensure a comprehensive approach to water management.

Additionally, the county is looking into accessing state resources and incentives for transitioning to water-wise landscaping, which could further support conservation efforts. The ongoing collaboration with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs is seen as timely and essential for developing effective regional strategies.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners expressed their commitment to addressing the nexus between water conservation and housing affordability, recognizing that water management directly impacts the cost of living in the area. The water action team's work is expected to continue over the next year or two, with updates on their progress anticipated in future sessions.

In summary, Larimer County is actively working to enhance its water conservation strategies and drought planning, with a focus on collaboration among various stakeholders to ensure sustainable water management for the community's future.