Denver Water's Strategic Response to Drought: Antero Reservoir Closure and Water Transfer Plan
Denver Water has announced the closure of Antero Reservoir for recreational activities as part of its response to the ongoing drought. The utility will be transferring water from Antero to Cheesman Reservoir to prevent significant water loss due to evaporation, preserving approximately 25% of the reservoir's storage capacity. Nathan Elder, the manager of water supply for Denver Water, emphasized the strategic planning behind the reservoir system, highlighting Antero's role as a drought reservoir intended to support customers during severe drought conditions.
In collaboration with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Denver Water will relocate the fish from Antero Reservoir before closing it to recreational activities, including camping. The timing of refilling the reservoir will be contingent on drought conditions. Additionally, water from Antero will be transferred to Cheesman to enhance operational efficiency during the drought period.
To further optimize water resources, Denver Water plans to increase the utilization of water from the South Platte River Basin to alleviate the reliance on sources west of the Continental Divide, which are currently experiencing below-normal water levels. The strategic reallocation of water resources aims to mitigate the impact of the drought on water supply for Denver Water customers.
In conclusion, Denver Water's proactive measures, including the temporary closure of Antero Reservoir and the strategic transfer of water to Cheesman Reservoir, demonstrate the utility's commitment to efficient water management during challenging drought conditions. By prioritizing water conservation and resource optimization, Denver Water aims to safeguard water supply reliability for its customers while addressing the impacts of the ongoing drought.