Whatever It Takes: From Water Availability Model to Cost of Water

This paper summarizes ongoing efforts by the Water Resources Division at Aurora Water to determine the cost of Raw Water for the City of Aurora. Aurora is currently developing, at a cost of approximately 700 million dollars, a new water supply and delivery system, the Prairie Waters Project (PWP). This project will act as an additional source of water supply. The project is designed to divert Aurora's reusable return flows from the lower South Platte River, pump them back to the City, and, after suitable treatment, reintroduce them into the City's potable water system. In addition, Aurora Water staff is diligently pursuing the acquisition of storage and agricultural water rights in the South Platte River north of the Denver Metropolitan Area. Purchased agricultural water will be transferred to municipal use to supplement reclaimed water in order to provide for future population growth. Using results from the water availability model, and established budgeting procedures, staff at Aurora Water is taking the necessary steps to determine the cost of raw water.