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. . . . -- ,'\ ("" i ':tv -' ~ Problems and Needs of the Area Freedom from recurrent floods also would contribute to a more healthful and satisfying economic climate. The numerous floods experi- enced in the area have damaged crops, roads and bridges, railroads and utilities and cont~ibuted to very heavy flood damage in metropolitan areas. Flood protection would provide added stability for the agricul- tural enterprises of the area. Outdoor recreation opportlmicies associated with large bodies of water are very limited in the vicinity. With the continuing nationwide emphasis on expansion of water-oriented recreational activities, the construction of Narrows Reservoir and its associated recreation and fish and wildlife facilities, would supplement the limited facilities of Jackson Lake and satisfy this increasing need of residents in the vicinity of the Narrows Unit. LOCAL INTEREST AND SUPPORT Interest in water resource development has been high in the unit area from the time of settlement. At the outset of the great drouth of the 1930' '], this interest was focused on ground-water development, and individl>9.1 farmers constructed wells in substantial numbers for both supplenental and new irrigation uses. However, expansion of ground- water development cannot be looked upon to fulfill supplemental require- ments because many parts of the area are not underl9.in by suitable water- bearing aquifers, and because recent legislation limits new developments where suitable aquifers are present. Upon resumption of studies of the Narrows Unit by the Bureau of Reclamation in 1959 with flmds 3dv9.nced by the Colorado Water Conserva- tion Board, the South Platte Steering Committee was appointed by the Board. That Committee was instrumental in keeping citizens of the valley informed on the status of the stuQies. The Committee also assumed leader- ship resulting in the formstion of the Lower South Platte Water Conser- vancy District on May 6, 1964. The Conservancy District has demonstrated continued interest in, and support for, the Narro~s Unit. That support has intensified since the Jur.e 1965 flood with many requests for early construction of the unit. The DistrLct has indicated its willingness and desire to con- tract for the supplemental irrigation water that would be made available by the unit. The plan of development is also strongly supported by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, other state agencies, and by communities and service agencies in the area. 13