AWWA JAW66942

Growth and development in northern Colorado are resulting in the need to seek out alternative water sources. Agricultural water supplies, provided in the form of secondary water systems, make an attractive alternative. Urban water managers responsible for supplying water to growing communities can benefit by taking advantage of traditional agricultural supplies, without putting agriculture out of business. Such systems offer continued viability of agricultural canal systems, use the water rights historically decreed for irrigation for use in urban landscapes, and reduce the landscape-driven demand on potable water supplies. These systems are a benefit for all involved. For municipalities, allocating nonpotable water for landscape use reduces the volume of water that needs to be treated to potable standards. This reduces the cost of treatment and delays the need for expanding treatment facilities. For the mutual irrigation company, operating as the secondary water purveyor for urban development expands the company's user base and gives them a new source of revenue. Includes figures.