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:. Mr. Dan Merriman Stream and Lake Protection Program Colorado Water Conservation Board 1331 Sherman St, Rm 721 Denver, CO 80203 ReCEIVED DEe 1 8 _ ~~~8"'!!"; December 14,2006 Re: Proposed instream flows on the South Fork of Big Creek, Indian Creek and the North Fork of the North Platte. . Dear Mr. Merriman: I am writing in opposition to the Colorado Water Conservation Board's proposed instream flow appropriations in Jackson County. I am a landowner and water right holder of the North Fork of the North Platte. In my opinion, instream flows are not going to promote the welfare of the Jackson County populus. Also, there is a strong possibility,that this may injure existing and or future water rights for irrigation. Without irrigation agriculture in Jackson County is doomed. All you have to do is observe what has happened in South Park after water was sold to Aurora. It is not a pleasant site. The ranchers of North Park are good stewards of the land and water and if they weren't they would only be harming themselves. It would have been very helpful if the U.S. Bureau of Land Management had notified the land and water right owners of this proposed instream flows either throught the local paper or by individual mailings. As to fish in the North Fork of the North Platte, they have done exceedingly well for many years, so I find it difficult to assess how this is going to be beneficial. I have fished this stream for years. There was mention of recharging the aquifer. Irrigation is by far one of the most important aspects in recharging the aquifer. You, of course, know about the Ogallala aquifer, which is recharged by playas. Irrigation water spread over miles is functioning just as playas do with the Ogallala aquifer. Thank you for the opportunity in allowing me to express my opinion and concern and for your time and consideration. Sjf;;t. i'Zh~/ Martin P. Dumr 3370 S. Locust St. Denver, CO 80222 Hell Creek Ranch, Jackson County, CO . cc. Kent Holsinger and Jackson County Water Conservancy District