Major Water Rights Acquisition
Pitkin County completed a significant $6.5 million purchase of water rights on April 2 from Twin Lakes Reservoir and Canal Company and Fountain Mutual Ditch Company.[1][2] The agreement includes 60 shares from Twin Lakes Reservoir and Canal Company and 34 shares from Fountain Mutual Ditch Company, providing approximately 71 acre-feet of water, with about 45 acre-feet originating from the Western Slope.
The water will be used to restore flows in the Roaring Fork River, particularly during irrigation seasons when demand is high. Funding for the deal comes from the county's Healthy Rivers Fund, supported by a 0.1% sales tax, along with general fund allocations and bonds. This government-related contract highlights ongoing efforts to manage and enhance local water resources.
Twin Lakes Reservoir and Canal Company and Fountain Mutual Ditch Company, established water management entities, benefit directly from the proceeds of this transaction, bolstering their financial positions. No official websites, partners pages, or careers pages were identified for these companies in public records.
In the near term, Pitkin County intends to implement strategic releases of the acquired water to improve river health. This development may pave the way for additional water-focused initiatives and partnerships to address regional environmental needs.[3]
The content of this article was computed by analyzing available sources.