In order to secure additional water sources for our customers, Sweetwater Authority (Authority) initiated a controlled transfer of water from its two reservoirs on Monday, January 11, 2021. Water that leaves Loveland Reservoir is transferred through the Sweetwater River channel and captured at Sweetwater Reservoir where it can be treated and distributed to Authority customers at a lower cost than importing water. “This transfer is an example of how the Authority is maximizing value for our ratepayers. Utilizing water from Loveland Reservoir and taking advantage of our assets helps us to offset the cost of purchasing water. This is a priority for our Board, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Chair Hector Martinez.
Sweetwater Authority’s team of scientists and engineers will monitor the water transfer, which will occur over several weeks, and make modifications as necessary depending on weather conditions. The Authority worked closely with local landowners and businesses near the Sweetwater River channel, notifying them by mail and phone prior to the start of the transfer to lessen any potential impacts.
The Authority conducts controlled transfers periodically when a variety of conditions are met, and coordinates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure that environmental needs are met. A similar water transfer was last conducted in February 2019. Currently, Loveland Reservoir is over 70 percent full, while Sweetwater Reservoir’s level is at 20 percent of capacity. Daily lake levels are available at www.sweetwater.org.