ASPEN, Colo. (AP) – Aspen is testing a plan to ensure sufficient flows in the Roaring Fork River by reducing the amount of water the city diverts from the stream.
The Aspen Times reports the City Council approved the one-year pilot project last week in an agreement with the Colorado Water Trust.
The program is designed to minimize environmental impacts of drought on the river.
The city will reduce its diversions when flows in the Roaring Fork fall below 32 cubic feet per second.
To accommodate the cutback, Aspen will lease less water to third parties, reduce outdoor water use and redirect other water supplies.
KOAA News 5
Associated Press, Juice Godfrey