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, . e State Water Plans Some western states are developing a state sponsored water plan (examples include Wyoming and Texas). There are some with characteristics very similar to the decision support systems being developed here in Colorado. A benchmarking study would review the efforts of other states and identify tasks being completed that might be desirable for Colorado. Basin Study Groups Basin Study Groups (aka watershed councils, forums, advisory committees) would identify for each basin the burning issues that must be addressed. These groups would build partnerships for solving water-related problems. The groups would be open to all stakeholders. The State could provide additional funding and technical support. CWCB Basin Planning CWCB Board members have been conducting basin planning meetings in most of the river basins. Sunrmaries of these meetings will be prepared. Ongoing discussions would focus on identification and prioritization of issues of concern. And then work plans for key issues would be developed and implemented. e Colorado Water Congress The CWC through a Special Project will establish a funded work group to identify priority project(s) that its members will support. Identified joint project(s) will be pursued. Water Transfers The economic impact of the transfer of agricultural water rights has been the subject of much public debate. Transfers out of the lower Arkansas Valley have been a media focus and the target of at least one current constitutional amendment proposal. The transfers are a direct result of the depressed state of the agricultural economy. Impacts to the local communities from these transfers may exacerbate the current situation. They have been a source of speculation, but little real information has been developed. Further there is no process as to what could be done'even if there was agreement that something should be done. The proposed Rocky Ford transfer offers an opportunity to develop a path for evaluating project impacts and developing and implementing a strategic plan to address the needs of the community. This would fit in with the Governor's Smart Growth Plan that has the stated goals of working with the plains communities to help develop their economies. e Other Possibilities Follow-up on SB 96-74 studies on issues such as the role of the Denver Basin Aquifers and offsets from the increases in streamflows as a result of new of impervious surfaces.