The recent cycle of rainy weather has brought little long-term benefit to three key reservoirs on Colorado’s eastern plains.
Bonny Reservoir, southeast of Idalia, received exceptionally heavy rain runoff around July 4, which raised the level by about 4 feet. However, the state engineer’s office ordered that water to be released, returning the reservoir to its pre-flood level. More recent rain water probably also will be released, but the lake level is likely to remain at an adequate level for boating through Labor Day.
Nee Grande and Nee Noshe reservoirs in southeast Colorado near Eads are unlikely to receive additional water anytime soon. With John Martin Reservoir at 10 percent of capacity, according to Steve Kastner, assistant water engineer for the state’s Division II office in Pueblo, irrigators will store their water there, rather than diverting it to Nee Noshe and Nee Grande.
Purchase of water for the lakes by the Colorado Division of Wildlife or other entity also appears unlikely at this point of the summer.
