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Water is now and will continue to be our #1 challenge for Douglas County, as well as Colorado, for decades to come. Not because we have failed at recognizing the issue, but because we live in a semi-arid environment and must use this finite supply with great care. There is no silver bullet to save the day, and I appreciate the dedicated people on the Douglas County Water Authority who developed the South Metro Water Study. The only way to deal with this issue is through planning and regional cooperation. The Douglas County Water Authority and future conjunctive water use system with Denver Water, Colorado River Commission and Colorado River Authority must continue their efforts in combining surface and ground water. The scientific data from this study will expand conservation , water reuse and renew efforts for a reservoir.

But let's not forget the government is responsible for public awareness. We have been diligent in dealing with the issue but failed to inform people adequately. Recent articles in the Rocky Mountain News has brought these issues to light. A new bill introduced in this legislative session purposes to develop a water conservation authority to represent water districts in Douglas and Arapahoe resulting in a regional water authority.

My experience as a Council Member on the Castle Rock Town Council from 1994 through 1999 offered me the opportunity to be involved in the groundwater supply dynamics. During that time our priority and budget was focused on sufficient water storage during the extreme summer heat and efficient water distribution throughout the community. As in most small communities the ability to finance the ongoing operations and build water rights is a huge challenge. During my tenure I took a leadership role in the implementation of the 200-year water supply.

As to our future, each additional land development will require close scrutiny and a commitment to follow the Douglas County's 2020 Comprehensive Master Plan.

Where do we go from here?

#1. The Douglas County Water Authority must continue their efforts and work regionally with Arapahoe County.

#2. Communication between policy makers and scientists will need to continue to resolve the problems.

#3. Government officials must inform and include the public in water efforts. Public awareness is critical even in wet years.

#4. We must develop education programs and truly partner with the citizens to develop water saving principles.

#5. Managed growth must continue to protect all of our property rights.

Government has taken the lead with our public lands but must continue the evaluation of any options available. In use today is Astroturf on recreation fields, water sensitive sprinkling, recycled water where possible, Xeriscaping, water sensitive sprinkling and water saving methods in all government buildings. Investigate reusing existing topsoil with new development to support plants that thrive under Colorado conditions and long term decisions on how we plan, design and build for our future.

This will be hard work but I am committed to supporting not only conjunctive use and other solutions which are still being investigated, but also methods that guarantee long term reductions in water use.