This Introduction is an overview of the Rules. Since it is an overview it does not contain all of the details of the Rules. You must read and understand the Rules themselves. Use this Introduction only as a general summary of what you must do. Please remember to check for updated forms with the Division Engineer prepared after August 25, 2006.

The Ground Water Measurement Rules require that every non-exempt well (generally wells producing more than 50 g.p.m.) to be equipped with an approved measuring device by March 1, 2007. The generally approved measuring device is a totalizing flow meter on each well. Fire protection wells producing more than 50 g.p.m., that are capped and locked and only the fire department has a key to the well, are exempt wells and require no meter.

Alternative means to measure groundwater withdrawals may be approved pursuant to a variance granted by the State Engineer under Rule 11. Examples of the potential variances may include use of a Power Conversion Coefficient or a single totalizing flow meter measuring the withdrawals from several wells feeding a single sprinkler.

Variances from the Rules must be approved in advance by the State Engineer. The procedure for variance requests is contained in the attached material.

NO PUMPING IS ALLOWED BY ANY WELL COVERED BY THE RULES AFTER FEBRUARY 28, 2007 UNLESS AN APPROVED MEASURING DEVICE IS INSTALLED, AND FUNCTIONING.

The Rules require all totalizing flow meters must be certified to be in accurate working condition within 45 days after installation. The Division Engineer’s office has advised the Water Users that the certification must be filed within one year of the meter’s installation or March 1, 2008, whichever is earlier.

If any meter breaks or stops working accurately you must promptly notify the Division Engineer and agree upon an alternate measurement method until the meter is repaired.

You must have the broken meter repaired within 14 days or obtain a variance from the State Engineer.

If you do not plan to use an existing well you must file a form declaring it to be inactive. Inactive wells must be disconnected from their power source unless a variance is obtained from the State Engineer. The owner or user must reapply for the variance each year for inactive wells that are not disconnected from the power source and for inactive artesian wells.

Before using an inactive well you must submit a reactivation notice to the State Engineer and have an approved measuring device on the well.

Every four years you must have the accuracy of your well meter tested and certified as accurate to the State Engineer.

By December 1, 2008, and by every December 1, thereafter you must file with the Division Engineer the record of your prior irrigation year’s pumping (November 1 - October 31).

If you fail to comply with the Rules you may be sued by the State of Colorado and, if sued, will be required to pay fines and the State’s attorneys fees.