Southwest - La Plata West Rural Domestic Water Supply_Statewide Application

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. Sustainablv meet M&/ demands The water supply system will bring access to a new M&I water supply source, the Animas La Plata project. The infrastructure for the project will allow access to this resource for several different M&I interests. . Sustainablv meet aaricultural demands Although the domestic water supply system cannot be used for agricultural purposes, it will decreases competition for limited water supply in the La Plata River basin and reduce pressure on irrigators. Agricultural water users in the area support the project because it will reduce competition for limited groundwater and surface water supply by importing a new domestic water supply and potentially increasing groundwater recharge. . Optimize existina and future water supplies The proposed water supply system is an optimal use of the newly developed ALP water source. The ALP waters have been allocated and will be stored in Lake Nighthorse, creating a secure future supply. . Enhance Recreational Opportunities The LPWW A will coordinate with the Bureau of Reclamation in designing the infrastructure for the project. This may include sharing facilities (such as road, electricity, water) with the recreational facilities at Lake Nighthorse. . Provide for Environmental Enhancements The return flows from the water that is imported to the La Plata River basin will contribute to shallow groundwater and streamflows in the basin. This will benefit the riparian corridor and the important habitat therein. . Promote Cost Effectiveness The shared use of the backbone infrastructure for the water supply system is the most cost- effective way to develop this single resource for several parties. All vested parties will share cost on system construction and ongoing operations and maintenance. Also, an intake structure in Lake Nighthorse is the most cost effective means (in capital and O&M costs) to access water from the reservoir. . Protect Cultural Values Southwestern La Plata County has a long heritage of agriculture which is being threatened by increasing demands on irrigation waters. By creating a new domestic water supply, the project will reduce pressure on the agricultural irrigators in the area. . Provide for Operational Flexibilitv The system design will meet initial needs and parameters based on engineering studies and demand estimates. The system also will have the ability to increase capacity to meet projected future demands; this includes increased capacity of the intake structure, pumps, water treatment plant and distribution lines. . Complv with all applicable laws, reaulations and water riahts