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1970s. These studies were conducted during periods when the ditch was completely saturated. A <br />study of the Main Canal (Manassa No. 3 Ditch) indicated losses of approximately 1 cfs per mile. <br />A study on the Bountiful Lateral indicated slightly higher losses (approximately 1.3 cfs per mile). <br />The amount of loss experienced in the system has remained fairly constant over time. <br />Return Flows <br />Return flows from irrigation under the Manassa system accrue to two drain systems or directly to <br />the Rio Grande. Drains that pick up Manassa system water include the Bountiful Drain and the <br />Manassa Drain. The Bountiful Drain empties into the Norton Drain, although some water may <br />enter the Norton below the upper (south branch of the drain) measurement point. The Manassa <br />Drain empties directly into the Conejos River. Water is taken out of the Bountiful Drain and <br />Manassa drain via gravity flow for reuse in irrigation. <br />Interaction with District 22 Commissioner <br />The Company communicates with District 22 Commissioners on a daily basis. Phone calls are <br />made to the Commissioners early each morning to learn about River flow conditions, availability <br />and the last priorities served. The Ditch rider then adjusts the river diversion headgate to the <br />appropriate level. <br />Interaction with Company Share Owners <br />The ditch rider for the Company is responsible for communicating with share owners. The ditch <br />rider is kept informed of water requests to determine the amount of water to deliver to each major <br />lateral. The ditch rider is also responsible for adjusting individual turnouts to farmers along the <br />laterals. <br />Attachments <br />1. Map of Manassa service area <br />2. Map showing Manassa system diversion points <br />C:\cdss\MANDitch.doc Manassa Land and Irrigation Company Interview June 21, 1999 -Page 7 of 7 <br />