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are no shallow wells in the southern portion of the system because unconfined aquifer well yields <br />are low due to tight soils. <br />The Empire Canal participates in the winter recharge program. Historically, there has been <br />limited use of winter water. A portion of available winter water is delivered to the Monte Vista <br />National Wildlife Refuge. <br />Cropping Within the Service Area <br />The principal crops irrigated under the Empire Canal include: <br />• alfalfa <br />• small grains <br />• pasture hay <br />• potatoes <br />Potato farming is fairly limited and occurs mainly in the northern and very southern portions of <br />the system. <br />Irrigation Techniques <br />There are approximately 125 sprinkler systems, primarily center-pivots, in use under the Empire <br />Canal, accounting for roughly 30 percent of water application. The remaining irrigation occurs <br />by way of flood techniques. There are also a few farmers in the Empire service area that still <br />practice sub-irrigation. <br />Sprinkler systems in the service area can be supplied with water in several ways. The most <br />common supply is from groundwater pumping. Sprinklers can also be supplied from surface <br />diversions, where the water is typically run into small ponds, then pumped to the sprinkler. <br />Water from surface drains is also used to supply sprinklers. Many of the center pivots in the <br />service area can be interchangeably operated using both groundwater and surface water. <br />System Gains and Losses <br />The amount of loss experienced in the Empire system varies considerably by season. During the <br />early parts of the irrigation season, losses are quire high, but tend to diminish by later summer. <br />Losses have been estimated at approximately 20 - 30 percent over the main canal and all laterals. <br />During November and December, water is diverted through the Empire Canal under the winter <br />recharge program. Much of this water recharges via seepage from the main canal or is delivered <br />to the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge. <br />Return Flows <br />The service area of the Company lies to the south of the Rio Grande. Much of the return water <br />associated with the Canal accrues to the Rio Grande, although some returns may also be picked <br />up by the Alamosa River, La Jara Creek or one or more drain systems. <br />C:Acdss\EMPCanal.doc Commonwealth Irrigation Co. Interview June 23, 1999 -Page 6 of 7 <br />