An ongoing Colorado State University study of Lower Arkansas Valley irrigation will turn its attention to the potential impact of a proposed “Super Ditch” that would fallow farm land on a rotational basis for water leases. “In the last two or three years, issues have been emerging and coalescing that we weren’t ready for 10 years ago,” Tim Gates, a professor at Colorado State University, told the Lower Arkansas Valley Water Conservancy District on Wednesday. “Now we have eight years of good data and some tools we can use. I honestly believe (Super Ditch) has the possibility to change the basin for the better.” Gates is studying salinity and groundwater levels in the large farming areas of the Arkansas Valley with the aim of improving agricultural efficiency and improving water quality in the river. By fallowing some farm ground each year, removing only the consumptive use, the quality of water could improve. Water tables which are too high in many cases could be lowered if return flows are reduced, Gates said.

To view the full article, visit the Pueblo Chieftain.  For a copy of the original articles contact the WIP at (970) 247-1302 or stop by the office at 841 East Second Avenue in Durango.