Laserfiche WebLink
<br />-2- <br /> <br />Furthermore, it should be noted that although 34 gages are operated and fully funded a <br />under the NSIP, approximately 171 Colorado gages have been identified as meeting the _ <br />goals of the NSIP program and are eligible for full federal funding. Although NSIP was <br />created as a result of Congress' concern about the loss of stream gages, Congress has <br />never adequately funded the program to fully address the concerns. This year <br />approximately $14 million was allocated to the NSIP nationwide, whereas it has been <br />estimated that it would take over $100 million to fully implement the program and <br />another $100 million to fund the program on an annual basis. <br /> <br />The continual decline in funding of the CWP and NSIP and the subsequent loss of <br />stream gages is becoming more critical every year and is an important issue not only in <br />Colorado, but nationally. Recently, the Western States Water Council prepared a letter <br />to the Secretary of the Interior (attachment B) which addressed this issue in detail and <br />requested an increase in federal funding for both programs. <br /> <br />Colorado's State Engineer, Hal Simpson, is the Chair of the Western States Water <br />Council and is very familiar with this problem and the implications for Colorado. <br />Although the Division of Water Resources may have the ability to take over some of the <br />lost gages, and also perform operation and maintenance on the gages at a cost lower <br />than that of the USGS, this ability is limited by FTE restrictions. There are simply not <br />enough state hydrographers to take over the increased work load. In addition, it is a <br />matter of concern when federally mandated programs are insufficiently funded resulting <br />in an increased burden on the states and local entities. <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />Staff Recommendation <br /> <br />Staff recommends that the Board authorize the Director to send the attached letter to <br />the Secretary of the Interior and Colorado's Congressional Delegation requesting their <br />support for an increase in federal spending for these programs. This request will help to <br />more directly focus efforts on the loss of Colorado gages. <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />Flood Protection. Water Project Planning and Finance. Stream and Lake Protection <br />Water Supply Protection. Conservation Planning <br />