The City of Aurora has proposed the Wild Horse Reservoir project near Hartsel, Colorado, to enhance its water storage capacity and meet future demands. This initiative has sparked discussions within the Hartsel community regarding its potential impacts.
Project Overview
The Wild Horse Reservoir is planned to be located southwest of Spinney Mountain Reservoir, near Hartsel. Aurora Water officials have selected this site to store water at higher elevations, aiming to reduce evaporation and support the city’s recycled water program. The reservoir is intended to capture water from both the Colorado River Basin and the Arkansas River Basin, providing a 95,000-acre-foot storage system to meet water needs through 2075.
Community Concerns
Local residents have expressed apprehension about the project’s impact on their properties and livelihoods. Some homeowners in the proposed area face the possibility of relocation. For instance, Josh Kimbrough, a Hartsel resident and Army veteran, has built an off-grid homestead with his family. He voiced concerns about the feasibility of moving his modular home and the disruption to their lives.
Environmental and Economic Considerations
Aurora Water emphasizes that the reservoir will be an off-channel facility, meaning it won’t require damming existing rivers, thereby minimizing streamflow impacts. Additionally, the project is expected to create new recreational opportunities, jobs, and economic benefits for Park County.
Next Steps
The project is currently in the planning and pre-permitting phase, requiring approvals at local, state, and federal levels. Aurora Water has engaged with the community through virtual presentations and in-person meetings to address questions and concerns. The permitting process’s duration is uncertain, but once approved, construction is anticipated to take about five years, with several additional years needed to fill the reservoir.
As the Wild Horse Reservoir project progresses, it’s crucial for Hartsel residents to stay informed and participate in discussions to ensure their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.