The amount of water that we have claimed through time is enough water to supply the citizens of Golden and take care of our needs. We have additionally claimed water to try to keep water in this stretch of the creek. We have a lot of money invested in a white water course and it has become a real amenity, said Hartman. If the water court grants Golden s claim, Georgetown s Loop Train may have to shut down. The narrow gauge train uses water from Clear Creek to keep its steam engine running.
Georgetown merchants say they count on the tourists the train brings to town.
Without the train, I m afraid we won t be able to be in business any longer, explained Mark Evans, Georgetown merchant. The fight over water rights is stirring up strong feelings. City of Golden officials say they are willing to sell water to Georgetown to keep the train running. State Attorney General Ken Salazar stepped into the fight and filed a suit on behalf of the state against the city of Golden. Monday, the Greeley Water Court begins hearing arguments in that suit.