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As La Plata County's population continues to grow, so does the risk to human health from <br /> continued dependence on water wells. Increasing residential development means more <br /> individual water supplies are vulnerable to contamination not only from naturally occurring <br /> substances but also from agricultural activities and increasing numbers of septic systems. At this <br /> time there is only one centralized sanitary sewer system serving a small part of Florida Mesa, <br /> most of the area uses septic systems. This would suggest the potential for increased <br /> contamination of the rural area's drinking water supply. <br /> Public Safety <br /> Three volunteer-based fire districts provide fire protection in the proposed service area. For <br /> most of this area, the water supply to fight fires must be hauled. Larger fires frequently require <br /> multiple trips by tankers to provide sufficient water to extinguish these fires. The design of the <br /> proposed rural water system includes provisions for fire flow storage and fire hydrants, and can <br /> be expected to significantly improve fire protection for the community. <br /> Public Support <br /> There is wide support for this project from both county government and the general public. <br /> La Plata County officials agree there is a need for this centralized rural water system. Joe Crain, <br /> La Plata County Director of Planning, stated at a July 31, 1997 Intergovernmental Clearinghouse <br /> Meeting that the county is in favor of the project because it believes current residents desperately <br /> need potable water. Mr. Crain reiterated, at a September 3, 1997 public meeting, that the county <br /> welcomes a system that can bring great water to the people who need it. On April 9, 1998 the La <br /> Plata County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of a county Class II <br /> Master Plan Permit for this centralized rural water system <br /> The initial demand for water taps demonstrates the need for this project and the extent of public <br /> support. As of the date of this report, 1998, VWC had received deposits for approximately 1,500 <br /> taps. It is worth noting that a majority of the deposits for taps were from individuals who already <br /> have wells. Also, U.S. Congressman McInnis and U.S. Senator Campbell have received over <br /> 250 letters in support of the water system. <br /> Support has also come from the fire marshals in the fire protection districts located in the <br /> proposed service area. It is generally agreed that the centralized rural water system will <br /> substantially improve fire protection for the area's rural residents. <br /> ALTERNATIVES EVALUATED <br /> This section is separated into an analysis of alternatives to a central water system and alternatives <br /> for the initial service area and associated treatment plant location. <br /> 7 <br /> II <br />