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Teller County convenes water meeting after wells run dangerously low; state fast-track permits offered
Summary
Commissioners said recent rains did not eliminate water stress: aquifers remain tens of feet low in places and some residents report failed wells. County leaders convened water districts and the state to coordinate emergency help, including a fast-track state well-permitting process for declared emergencies.
County leaders told residents the recent downpour provided relief but did not resolve longer-term shortages: some aquifers are “about 40 to 50 feet low,” and the county is seeing reports of failed domestic wells.
Chairman Stone described a special meeting that brought together affected water districts, municipalities and the state engineer’s office to coordinate assistance. He said officials have identified potential water sources and that the state has an expedited permit path for failed wells during declared emergencies that can, in some cases, issue a new well permit within 24 hours. Stone urged residents to conserve water immediately and to contact county staff if they need help.
Commissioners asked municipalities to review potential excess supply that could be transferred to struggling systems. County emergency manager John Evans was singled out by commissioners to lead the county’s emergency water plan and coordination with the state. The board indicated more public information, a press release, and resources will be posted and distributed to water districts and residents.
