2026 June Update

 

June’s weather didn’t help us with the current drought we are going through. The AG Met sensor in Penrose has only recorded .18 inches of moisture for the month. Unfortunately, all the rain has been North or East of Penrose. Lack of rain has Fremont County listed as severe on the drought monitor.  On a positive note, we did escape the severe damaging hail that those receiving rain had to endure.

As we suspected, our water for irrigation is quickly diminishing. If the weather continues as it has, soon irrigations will not be able to continue. Any water that comes down the creek that isn’t used to provide Domestic Water, may be used for continued irrigations. The process will be slow. However, the ditch riders are prepared to share the water as it is available.

As our Superintendent has been busy monitoring the water and making sure we are using all the irrigation water available. Two of the Board of Directors were out inspecting the pumps used for any irregularities and not in compliance with the written specifications allowed for pumping. It was discovered that several pumps and outlets were not within the specifications required. It was also discovered that pump permits were not in place as required. As a reminder to all pumpers, you must renew pump permits yearly at the beginning of each irrigation season. At this time all pumping from the upper and lower ditches is suspended.

Penrose Water District is asking for volunteer water reductions at this time. We are hopeful that all those who depend on domestic water for drinking and household use are mindful of their water use. Please don’t waste water, it is precious commodity that once it’s gone, we are all going to suffer the consequences.

Please be responsible and pray for rain. We have several individuals that are doing daily rain dances. Join in! Rather than carry an umbrella, don’t. Maybe we might get soaked but that is okay.

May 2026 Update

 

May finally gave some well needed RAIN! According to the AG Met sensor in Penrose, we received .68/in of ground moisture (not the same as rain gages) Forecasts for the end of the month are showing possible showers. Please continue to do the rain dances! We can use every sprinkle that comes our way.

The ditch riders have completed 90% of 1^st irrigations. Unless we receive significant rain in the next couple of weeks, Brush Hollow’s gate for the lower canal will be closed. Closing the gate protects the volume of water for domestic water use and the fish pool that we must maintain. At this time if we don’t receive more water down the creek, some shareholders may receive a second irrigation but unfortunately the majority of the shareholders will not. Drought conditions are very hard to deal with and we would like nothing better than to deliver irrigations to all shareholders. At this time Penrose Water District has not limited water use but has asked for volunteered reduction of water usage. Supporting their efforts will be beneficial for us all.

Fremont County currently is listed as severe to moderate drought. We actually are fortunate as many areas in Colorado are suffering through extreme drought.

Please continue to pray for rain and carry umbrellas for good measure.