Resolution No. 2025-8
RESOLUTION OF THE PROWERS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SUPPORTING THE LOWER ARKANSAS VALLEY WATER CONSERVANCY DISTRICT AND OPPOSING THE ANNEXATION PLANS OF COLORADO SPRINGS
WHEREAS, the Lower Arkansas Valley Water Conservancy District (Lower Ark District) was established by the voters of Pueblo, Crowley, Otero, Bent, and Prowers Counties in 2002, with the mission of conserving, protecting, and enhancing the water resources of the Lower Arkansas Valley, which are vital to agriculture, economic stability, wildlife habitats, and responsible water use; and
WHEREAS, Prowers County, located within the boundaries of the Lower Ark District, has a population of over 11,000 residents, encompasses more than 1 million acres of agricultural production, and contributes $310.05 million in agricultural market value, representing nearly 5% of the state’s total agricultural sales; and
WHEREAS, the Lower Ark District has consistently raised concerns regarding the rapid, unplanned growth of Front Range municipalities, particularly in Colorado Springs, which threatens the sustainability of water resources in the Lower Arkansas Valley and jeopardizes the long-term viability of the agricultural economy, which is the backbone of Prowers County’s economy; and
WHEREAS, the Colorado Springs Utilities’ 2017 Integrated Water Resources Plan predicts that a significant portion of its future water needs approximately 34,000 acre-feet per year-will be met through agricultural water transfers from the Lower Arkansas Valley, exacerbating existing water scarcity challenges and placing further pressure on local agricultural producers; and
WHEREAS, Prowers County, along with the Lower Ark District, is deeply concerned that the transfer of this additional 34,000 acre-feet per year could not only be unfeasible but may also cause irreparable damage to the agricultural and environmental resources that sustain Prowers County and the broader region; and
WHEREAS, the City of Colorado Springs has already acquired significant water rights in the Lower Arkansas Valley and continues to pursue the permanent transfer of these rights for urban use, further threatening the viability of water supplies crucial to Prowers County’s agricultural community; and
WHEREAS, despite a record inventory of over 10,000 undeveloped lots within Colorado Springs’ city limits, the city continues to pursue annexations in the Lower Arkansas Valley, raising serious concerns about the necessity and sustainability of such expansions, particularly in light of the available water resources to support this growth;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT:
1. The Prowers County Board of County Commissioners unequivocally stands in support of the Lower Arkansas Valley Water Conservancy District, Otero County, and other regional stakeholders in opposing any new annexations or expansions by the City of Colorado Springs that would exacerbate the current water supply deficit and place additional strain on the already limited water resources of the Lower Arkansas Valley, which is vital to Prowers County’s agricultural base.
2. The Prowers County Board of County Commissioners strongly urges the City of Colorado Springs to recognize the long-term consequences of its water demands, and their potential to undermine the agricultural, economic, environmental, and cultural heritage of the Lower Arkansas Valley. The City is further encouraged to consider more sustainable alternatives to manage its growth within its existing boundaries, thereby reducing the impact on regional water resources.
3. The Prowers County Board of County Commissioners calls upon neighboring counties, municipalities, and all relevant stakeholders to collaborate in advocating for responsible water management policies that prioritize the protection of the Lower Arkansas Valley’s agricultural foundation, water resources, and long-term economic sustainability, ensuring a stable and thriving environment for current and future generations.
INTRODUCED, READ AND ADOPTED this 8th day of April, 2025.
RON COOK Chair
ROGER STAGNER Commissioner
TY HARMON Commissioner
ATTEST:
JANA COEN, County Clerk