Colorado Diversion Measurement Installation Program (West Slope)

CWCB will install a free diversion measurement structure (flume, weir or meter) at the point of diversion for West Slope water users whose measuring device is missing or faulty, as new DWR measurement rules take effect in the Colorado River Basin. It covers design, equipment and installation by a licensed subcontractor; the water user maintains the device and shares diversion data through 2029, and then owns it. The program covers Divisions 4, 5, 6 and 7 (Gunnison, Colorado, Yampa/White and San Juan/Dolores basins).

• Water users in Divisions 4, 5, 6 and 7 within the Upper Colorado River Basin (excluding the North Platte River Basin)

• Must own or use an active water right at the point of diversion, with a missing or faulty measurement device

• Legal right to access the installation location

• Existing diversion structure (e.g., headgate) must be in working condition and actively used

• State and federal agencies are not eligible

Free structure plus installation; water user owns and maintains it after installation and reports diversion data to the state through 2029; no headgate funding; not combinable with other sources for the same structure.

Published amounts: 100% covered, in kind: 'Eligible water users will receive a measurement structure, installed at their point of diversion, at no cost to them.' Covers design, the flume/weir/meter and installation to DWR specifications; no headgates. No match required; cannot be combined with other funding for the same structure; no reimbursement for devices already installed.

Submit the online application or the PDF application (email to DNR_diversionmeasurement@state.co.us). If your Division is not yet accepting applications, submit the Statement of Interest. CWCB and SGM review submissions; accepted applicants sign an ownership agreement with CWCB (maintain equipment, provide diversion data through 2029), then a contractor installs the structure. Informational meetings are held in each Division.

Deadline text on the page: Applications for measurement devices in Divisions 4 and 5 are now available through November 20th. Divisions 6 and 7: submit a Statement of Interest to be notified. Structures will be installed by 2029.