Jefferson County Mountain Ground Water Resource Study

How It All Started

This study was initiated in the summer of 1997 by Commissioner Pat Holloway with the support of the other Commissioners, John Stone and Michelle Lawrence. Janet Bell, Manager of the Long Range Planning Section, Jefferson County Planning and Zoning Department, was tapped as Project Manager.

The purpose of the study was to take a fresh look at water quantity and water quality issues in the mountain areas of Jefferson County. The first phases of the study identified what water-related problems existed in the mountains and how those had changed over time. This problem identification step ultimately lead to discussions about the desirability or appropriateness of public policy initiatives to address water quantity or water quality concerns, especially in light of future mountain population growth and economic development.

Much of the preliminary work on the project consisted of extensive interviews with mountain area citizens and water experts. These interviews helped define the broad range of opinion and knowledge surrounding mountain water issues.  The first "Water Guru's meeting" was held October 9, 1997 and met regularly through 2001.  After extensive peer review, the final report was delivered in 2003.

Here are the products…

Water Resources Assessment of the Turkey Creek WatershedSummary Findings of Phase I of the Mountain Ground Water Resource Study

Conceptual Model of the Hydrology of the Turkey Creek Watershed

"Hydrologic Conditions and Assessment of Water Resources in the Turkey Creek Watershed, Jefferson County, Colorado, 1998-2001"
U.S.G.S. Report
Abstract

"Water Smarts: A Homeowner's Guide to Mountain Groundwater" is a public education booklet created by Jefferson County with the generous assistance of many local, state, federal and private organizations. Funding for the printing was made possible through the Clean Water Act, Section 319 Grant funds, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

The booklet focuses on ground water issues in the fractured bedrock environment typical of Jefferson County and the Rocky Mountains. Topics discussed include ground water hydrology, water quality, wells, septic systems, water rights, and lifestyle impacts. A "Questions and Answers" section as well as definitions and resources provide additional information. Throughout, you will find references to the Jefferson County Mountain Ground Water Resource Study. This case study gives a "real-world" look at some of the concepts being presented.

"Where Do Mountain Raindrops Go?"  is a collection of kids' mountain ground water activities designed at the 4th to 5th grade level.

    * Raindrops Overview
    * Raindrops (kids version)
    * Raindrops (teacher version)
    * Follow up Activities
    * Classroom Activity

Last Modified: Mar 28, 2009 10:17 PM