WSP08481

• File Number: 8220.106.P
• Description: Animas La Plata Project
• State: CO
• Basin: Colorado Mainstem
• Water Division: 5
• Date: 10/9/1996
• Author: State of Colorado
• Title: Opening Statement of the State of Colorado to Participants in the Discussions to Resolve the Issues Surrounding the ALP Project
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Report/Study

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002481

Colorado's Suggestions Concerning
the Process

We recognize that it will be difficult to create a process,
considered fair by all parties, which addresses the relevant issues
in a logical and timely manner. Subject to further discussion and
refinement, the state of Colorado supports the concept that issues
be identified, and working groups established to address those
issues, develop proposals, and report back to the process as a
whole.

Considering the history of the project and the current "realities"
with which we must deal, we suggest the parties to the process
could look at the following alternatives to supply the amount of
water defined under the Settlement Agreement or equivalent
consideration satisfactory to the Tribes, and addressing the
legitimate needs of local water users:

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l
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Developing smaller or alternative configurations of the
Project;

Using lower cost
configurations;

construction

techniques

or

Considering entities
Reclamation, including
planning, construction,

other than
specifically
operation and

the Bureau
the Tribes,
maintenance;

of
for

Using local cost share funds and commitments, including
the State of Colorado'S commitments, to assist in
economic feasibility;

Using Tribal water to meet the needs of local non-Indian
water users, through leasing or other mutually acceptable
arrangements; and

Investigating the role of
repayment, power costs,
(including endangered species
to the Tribes.

CRSP power revenues in
environmental mitigation
recovery) , and compensation

Conclusion

The state of Colorado has a long lasting..-and producti"€l '~orki-ng
partnership with the two Ute Tribes and with southwestern Colorado.
We look forward to working with all of the parties to this process
in this spirit to develop, and implement, a durable resolution to
the controversies that have engulfed the Animas-La Plata Project,
and which have prevented the complete implement of the Settlement
Agreement,

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