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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ntrod uction Purpose The purpose of this study is to identify and examine short-term and long-term opportunities for canal modernization under the Union Ditch. This work has been compiled through various elements of work with the Union Ditch Company (Union), including several site visits, a f1yover of the canal, and discussions with the Union Ditch Board of Directors. One element of canal modernization that is discussed thoroughly in this study is the concept of secondary supply. The relevance of secondary supply in Colorado is explored in detail in the 2003 "Dual Systems Study," which was funded by the Colorado Water Conservation Board and conducted by Colorado State University1. This study included a comprehensive examination of dual or secondary water supply systems that exist in other states. Within the context of the study, dual systems in Utah, in particular, were deemed to be quite suitable and desirable to the northern Colorado circumstance; especially considering the water rights, the historic role of the canal companies, and the growing pressures and impacts of urbanization. As urbanization increases in the vicinity of the Union Ditch, there may be potential for the development of a secondary supply system. This study conceptualizes key components of a potential secondary supply system within the Union Ditch. Development of a secondary water system is envisioned to be, not only a key canal modernization strategy, but a mechanism for actually sustaining an agricultural economy and setting amidst increased growth and competition for water. The potential for urbanization within Union Ditch is high, although it is likely that traditional agricultural will remain a part of the system for some time. As such, secondary supply has been identified as a key, long-term element of this canal modernization study. More short-term canal modernization opportunities are also discussed. Description of Study Area The Union Ditch Company is a mutual ditch company located in Weld County, Colorado. Union operates and manages the Union Ditch for the benefit of the shareholders in the company by providing direct flow irrigation water to a 5,500-acre service area. Figure 1 is a general location map of the Union Ditch. The irrigated area within the Union Ditch and the South Branch (a lateral that is a part of the Union Ditch) exists almost exclusively in the lower half of the canal. A majority of the land under the Union Ditch is still in agricultural production, even though urbanization pressures from surrounding cities are increasing. 1 Wilkins-Wells, John and Terence H. Podmore. 2003. The Benefits and Costs of Pressurized Dual Water Systems in Colorado and the Potential Role of Canal Companies and Irrigation Districts in Providing the Pressurized Irrigation Water Supply Portion of the Dual Systems. Report prepared by the Sociology Water Lab and the Colorado Institute for Irrigation Management. Colorado State University, Fort Collins. September. http://waterlab.colostate.edu/DuaIStudy/finished _ dualstudy.pdf Aqua Engineering, Inc. November 17,2004 Canal Modernization Study - 1 -