Commissioner Daniel Advocates for Shoshone Water Rights at Colorado Water Congress
Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel continues her strong advocacy for water rights by participating in the Shoshone Water Rights – Motivation and Benefits panel at this year’s Colorado Water Congress. The panel, which took place Friday, Jan. 31, showcased the importance of preserving the Shoshone Water Rights and its benefits to communities, agriculture, and economies across Western Colorado.
Why Shoshone Water Rights Matter
The Shoshone water rights are crucial in ensuring reliable water flows along the Colorado River, benefiting agricultural and food producers, municipalities, and recreational industries throughout the Grand Valley.
- Municipalities like De Beque and Clifton rely on the Colorado River for clean drinking water. Clifton alone serves 13,000 domestic taps, and maintaining consistent river levels is critical for water quality and affordability.
- Farming, ranching, vineyards, and orchards are the backbone of Mesa County’s economy, generating $90 million annually from the sale of agricultural products. The Grand Valley Water Users Association delivers irrigation to over 42,000 acres of farmland, drawing from the Colorado River. Without stable water flows, family farms — many of which have operated for generations — would struggle to survive.
- The Colorado River is key to the Grand Valley's outdoor recreation economy. Sustained flows support rafting, fishing, and other water-based activities, benefiting residents and attracting visitors.
Mesa County’s Commitment to Water Security
- Recognizing the vital role of the Shoshone water rights, Mesa County has committed $1 million to their preservation. This is part of a greater effort, which includes millions in contributions from other Western Colorado governments, water entities, and state and federal funding.
- “Without the historic flows maintained by the Shoshone Water Rights, every aspect of our way of life in Mesa County is at risk,” said Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel. “This is an incredible opportunity to bring more certainty to an uncertain future. Protecting Colorado River flows today means protecting our drinking water, agriculture, preserving our farms, and recreation for future generations.”
For more information on the Colorado Water Congress and the ongoing efforts to protect Shoshone water rights, visit cowatercongress.org.
