Mesa County, CO – During the July 15 public hearing, the Mesa County Board of Commissioners ratified a letter of support for the Clifton Water District’s grant application to the Colorado Basin Roundtable. The grant aims to fund a feasibility study for a proposed 100 acre-feet water storage facility at D ½ Rd, Clifton, CO.
The study will assess the viability of the project, which is critical for ensuring a stable water supply, enhancing emergency preparedness, and improving water quality for the community.
Currently, Clifton Water District’s limited storage capacity—less than a day’s worth—leaves it vulnerable to upstream contaminants, as it cannot halt river intake during pollution events like chemical spills or wildfires. The proposed storage would provide a crucial buffer, allowing the district to shut off intake temporarily and protect water quality.
The Commissioners emphasized the project’s potential to boost community resilience against water shortages and contamination, expressing optimism about its positive impact on both residents and the environment.