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/ Annual Report For 1969 Action taken to remedy flooding of our Canal when heavy rains occur in the Wile,}', Big Bend area, is discussed in our attorney's report. Our Superintendent will give a detailed report on the operation of the Amity system, the distribution of water and the need for future improve- ments. Because of the increased uses of water b,y tile urban population, the concern about the pollution and the integration of al1 waters. surface and ground by law, administration of the river is made more difficult and exacting. Down stream users will have to remain alert if the,,,, are to receive the irrigation waters to which they are accustomed. We have list- ed a few of the changes and improvements in progress, or suggested that ma~.. affect Qur water suppl;y in the future. By this time, most of our stockholders have had the opportunity to read S.B. 81, passed by the 1969 session of the Legislature-, which inter~ grates the use and administration of surface and the underground waters tributary to a stream. Elaborate procedures were set up for the Administration of this law. Seven districts were outlined, for which Dh'ision Engineers, under the direction of the State Engineer, were designated. Water .Judges and Clerks have been appointed in each district, and referees may be appointed to in- vestigate and determine facts in adjudication of wells and alternate points of diversion. The owners of wells, adjacent to the stream, who wish a priority dale, must file ",ith the wate!' clerk oC the district, and after a priority had been determined by the Comi, a tabulatic.m is to be prepared by the Division Engineer, showing the order of seniority, It is the poIic~' of tile State to integrate the appropriation, and use of underground water tributary to the stream, "ith the surface water. in such a way as to make maximum beneficial use. The State Engineer must draft and publish regulations and rules of procedure, before .....ells can be shut orr, to provide water for a senior surface appropriator. Revision of parts of this law is on the Governor's call this .rear, and changes will no doubt be made concerning tabulation of water right priorities, and in the powers and duties of the water judges, clerks, and referees. & At the annual meeting. of the .....rkansas River Compact Administra- ~1 lion in December, members of the .-\dministration were asked to consider ~', a resolution declaring that it is the intent oC the Administration to assure \ the Colorado Fish, Game and Parks Di vision of the right to establish a ., permanent pool in John Martin Reservoir, provided the Colorado Fish, . Game, and Parks DivisIon showed e....idence of suppl.... of water to replenish \ I evaporation losses, and they developed an operating criteria acceptable l: .J J iP Page 4