Wheeler has assisted CWPDA in its acquisition and evaluation of temporary and permanent sources of replacement water. Wheeler reviewed the H-I model used in the Colorado-Kansas Interstate Compact litigation to determine well depletions and modify the Colorado State Engineer's accounting model to make it more compatible for use in depletion calculations. Also, Wheeler has assisted CWPDA in its interfacing Federal and State agencies for purposes of developing procedures to ensure it complies with State and Federal rules and regulations, including the Reclamation Reform Act.
COLORADO WATER PROTECTIVE AND DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION -
WATER RIGHTS AND HYDROLOGIC ENGINEERING
The Colorado Water Protective and Development Association (CWPDA) was founded in 1964 by Arkansas Valley farmers to protect and develop the underground and surface waters of the Arkansas River Basin. CWPDA's current membership includes over 900 wells, which pump over 50,000 acre-feet per year.
Since 1994, W. W. Wheeler and Associates, Inc. has been responsible for providing water rights and hydrologic engineering to CWPDA. Wheeler has assisted CWPDA with its well pump testing to determine power consumption coefficients and to verify flow meters. The primary focus of the engineering has been assisting CWPDA in complying with the Rules and Regulations developed by the State of Colorado. In that regard, the engineering services have included the develop-ment of a computer software program and databases, which enable CWPDA to comply with the rules and prepare reports quantifying the amount of water pumped. Wheeler has performed hydrologic studies to determine stream depletions resulting from well pumping and stream accretions resulting from return flows of transmountain water and lawn irrigation. The results of the studies have been used in preparation for submission to the Colorado State Engineer for substitute water supply plans for member wells and to administer the approved plans.
