Addressing the Scarcity of Water in the West

Colorado, like many Western states, practices planning by local control and state enabling statutes. In recognition of the scarce water supply and the critical need for future planning, Colorado developed a Colorado Water Plan, its first and only statewide planning document. It is both aspirational and goal-oriented and it sets the framework for water conservation efforts.

An example is a fairly recent development, Sterling Ranch, that includes water conservation measures and usage restrictions in the project’s overall zoning. Further, the developers of Sterling Ranch championed state legislation that led to establishing a pilot project for rain barrel collection, which is in conflict with water law. This allowance is now permanent and further considerations for regional stormwater collection are underway. This combination of goal-oriented planning, zoning regulation, and adjustments to water law set the stage for addressing water supply and demand issues.