Water News
Water Conservation, Climate, and the Colorado River
Despite a semi-arid environment, Cheyenne has enjoyed an abundant water supply that has met the essentials of life and supported a growing economy for over 100 years. Hotter, drier weather has resulted in less water in the Colorado River system. There has been measured success with water conservation efforts to reduce demand. However, there is more we can do to use water more efficiently. Learn how you can help.
Water managers closely track climatological data to ensure agriculture, industry, and residents have water; not just to survive, but to thrive. Reliable resources for information on climate and drought are provided below. Keep in mind that a single blizzard or downpour may affect short-term drought status, but decisions are based on hydrologic drought status that is determined on a time scale longer than six months.
Supplying water to BOPU's customers involves a complex system of reservoirs, diversions, pipelines, a trans-basin tunnel, groundwater wells, aboveground storage, the R.L. Sherard Water Treatment Plant, and miles of underground mains. Over half of the surface water supply is currently available through a trans-basin exchange of water rights from the Little Snake River to the North Platte River. These water rights are subject to any curtailment or "compact call" on the Colorado River if obligations cannot be met to downstream users. BOPU is actively involved in stakeholder discussions and decision-making to ensure adequate water supply now and into the future. Click on the links below for more information on this topic, including opportunities for public participation.
Contact Us for More Information - Online Form Submission
Click here to view form.