March Updates

 March provided us with the elusive moisture in the form of snow which according to the COAGMET sensor in Penrose recorded .18 of an inch of moisture. Although the total accumulation is small, it is very much needed. Unfortunately, we are still classified in the severe drought range.

Due to this drought situation, it is highly unlikely that irrigation water will be available. We will be evaluating our ability to irrigate around April 15^th.  Our current creek flow is supplying Penrose Water District with domestic water for use in homes and very little is going to Brush Hollow Reservoir. At the present time, Brush Hollow is approximately nine feet below the level we measured last year at the same time. If we should receive significant rain or snow fall, it may be possible to begin irrigations.  The ditch riders will start rotations were they stopped last year. The same policy will apply; water share assessments must be paid prior to receiving irrigation water. All prior years assessments must be paid in full and a minimum of one-half of current year’s assessments must be paid.

As a reminder share assessments pay for the purchase of the company and the system upgrades and repairs over the years. Beaver Park Water loans totaled $3,300,000.00. These loans have been reduced over the past 35 years with current balances totaling approximately $1,500,000.00. The primary purpose for the assessments is to make our loan payments and provide maintenance of the entire system to keep it operable and a portion of the assessments goes into a special Brush Hollow Fund account for purposes paying back loans for previous restoration. Not only is it important to maintain the system, we are mandated by the State of Colorado Water Commission to keep accurate measurements on the system at strategic locations and report as required. Our current primary objective is to provide Penrose Water System with water to support Penrose’s domestic water needs.

 Please keep in mind that Penrose is not alone in this drought. Many towns in Colorado are dealing with the same situations as we are currently facing. Historical data provides us with insight to drought patterns and we expect to recover and benefit from our ability to provide all shareholders with irrigations just as we have done in the past. In the meantime, we can all help by conserving our water usage, whether it be using less water on our lawns or not allowing the water to run while brushing our teeth. We all must be good stewards with this precious resource.

Tom Sanders is accepting appointments for system tours. These tours will provide all shareholders with a better understanding of our complex system and how it affects each delivery point. All Shareholders are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. Please contact Tom at 719-371-4313 or leave a message for him at 719-372-3664.

 Pray for Rain!