Discussion followed about the state's drought preparation program and the City of Aurora's South Park Conjunctive Use project. Mr. Simpson also commented on extending the Special Water Committee's repeal date. He recommended that the committee continue while the South Platte River Decision Support System is developed. He was concerned that this well may significantly lower the water table under his land. If so, he will need to drill a much deeper well than he would otherwise.
Deeper wells are more expensive to drill and require more electricity to pump water.
He requested legislation that would require wells to be drilled away from property boundaries to minimize impacts on neighboring wells. Mr. Simpson explained that current law does not prohibit Denver Basin Aquifer wells from being placed on property boundaries. No bill was requested to change this law or prohibit wells from being drilled on property boundaries. He said that the South Platte River is one of the most complicated river system in the United State due to its extensive use, return flows from transbasin diversions and nontributary ground water, and river-aquifer interactions. In addition to hydrologic studies, the study will also examine policy issues including the management of the Tamarac water project.