Water is One of Colorado 's Most Valuable ResourcesLakewood, CO -- Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter applauded the Colorado River Cooperative Agreement, a proposed agreement bringing together 34 partners stretching from Grand Junction to Denver , for the benefits it brings to Colorado and to the state’s 7th Congressional District.
“Constituents of my district need more water but also want to protect the environment and the health of Colorado ’s rivers and streams,” Perlmutter said. “They also know that a secure water future is vital for a healthy economy in the region. This agreement is an historic breakthrough in how Colorado ’s water is managed by meeting all those goals .”
The proposed agreement sets up a process of cooperation for managing water between entities traditionally at odds over such issues. It also seeks to improve the health of the Colorado River from its headwaters to the state line. Additionally, ratification of the agreement would allow water sharing arrangements in the Denver-metro area that support the needs of the south metropolitan area while reinforcing commitments to conservation and reuse.
Perlmutter said he is encouraged to see a proactive approach that spans the Continental Divide as well as encourages infrastructure and water sharing along the Front Range .
“While the partners engage in the public process necessary to finalize the proposed agreement, I want to add my support for this effort,” Perlmutter said. “Leaving behind our traditional mindsets and embracing a future where we are all in this together as a state is the only way we will move Colorado forward in this important arena.”
