Water Smarts 2002

• Year: 2002
• Title: Water Smarts
• Author: Upper Arkansas Area COG USGS Pueblo Office
• Description: A well and septic system owner's guide to ground water in the upper arkansas area chaffee, custer, fremont, and lake counties, Colorado
• Publications - Doc Type: Other

Before a new well permit can be issued, this
consumed amount needs to be identified with
a plan in place to return this depleted amount
back to the stream system so that existing
older water rights are not injured. The
process of replacement is a "Plan of
Augmentation." This Plan is a Water Court
process where the consumptive use is
identified using the location, amount and
timing of use. Plans must show how this
consumptive use is to be replaced to the
stream system where it occurred. This is
usually accomplished through the release of
stored water to match timing of use and
amount of depletion that occurs. Some types
of domestic wells are exempt from this need
for replacement. Contact the Upper
Arkansas Water Conservancy District
regarding augmentation, wells and planning
(See page 25 for more information).
How do we protect ourselves
against future wells depleting
the already limited ground water
supply up here?
In general, new construction can occur on
vacant parcels that are legally subdivided and
meet zoning and building regulations. If the
landowner has applied for property rezoning
with the county, anyone opposed can express
concerns to the Planning Commission and to
the Board of County Commissioners.
If a landowner has a legal parcel, they can
usually get a well permit. If they have a well
permit, they can drill a well.
Landowners can adjudicate their wells,
granting them legal standing in water court
should they wish to protest some other case
before the court. Well adjudication does not
guarantee water availability.
It is wise to establish and build a record of data
and history on your well. Collect data from
regular monitoring of water levels, well yield,
and water quality to track potential changes to
your well. Also, stay informed of surrounding
land use activities.
What well documents or
information should I get from the
sellers?
The state's Division of Water Resources
retains well records. Before purchasing,
obtain a copy of the well record and review it
carefully. A well record will include the well
driller's log with construction details, the
pump installer's report with pump depth and
type, and the well permit showing allowed
water uses(s).
Lifestyle Questions
What are the hidden costs of
wells and septic systems?
Preventive maintenance costs are minor
compared to the cost of replacing an entire
septic system, or drilling a new well. Usage
and age take their toll on various parts of
wells and septic systems. Well pumps and
pressure tanks may need to be replaced. A
continually declining well yield may indicate
the need to drill a new well. Also, you may
need an in -home water treatment system. Be
aware that companies may try to convince
homeowners that expensive treatment
equipment or septic additives are necessary,
when they may not be. Have your water
tested first, and always require written
guarantees on any treatment claims. Regular
maintenance will prolong the life of a septic
system. Some experts argue that even a well -
maintained standard septic system will
eventually fail. When that happens, the
installation of a new leach field, or new
system would be required.
Are there ways to conserve
ground water?
Yes. In -home water conservation. measures
include low -flow shower heads and toilets
and watering plants with water used for
boiling eggs or cooking vegetables.
21