EAST CHERRY CREEK VALLEY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT
CHERRY CREEK RESERVOIR OPERATION STUDY AND CHERRY CREEK AQUIFER ANALYSIS

The Cherry Creek alluvial aquifer, located just upstream of Cherry Creek Reservoir, is an important source of water supply for several municipal water providers. Recharge to this aquifer is provided through surface streamflow of Cherry Creek and underflow within the alluvial aquifer. The aquifer extends downstream into Cherry Creek Reservoir, where a conservation pool is maintained for recreation and wildlife purposes. W. W. Wheeler and Associates, Inc. conducted a hydrological analysis of the available water supply in Cherry Creek and its alluvial aquifer to identify a method for making future determinations of the reliable annual water supply and for providing water rights accounting. This work was conducted in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that included the Colorado Department of Parks and Recreation (Cherry Creek Reservoir State Recreation Area), the City of Aurora, East Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District, and two other water districts. Pursuant to the MOU, Wheeler also provided assistance in development of a water supply operating agreement that will include management of the Cherry Creek alluvial aquifer and seasonal operation of Cherry Creek Reservoir.