This bill allows additional local Colorado entities to maintain Bolts Ditch and its headgate within the Holy Cross Wilderness.
Michael Bennet
Senator
CO
The "Bolts Ditch Act" amends a previous act to expand the list of entities eligible to perform maintenance on Bolts Ditch and its headgate within Colorado's Holy Cross Wilderness. Specifically, it adds the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, a Colorado Special District, and the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority to the list of eligible maintainers. This aims to ensure the upkeep of this important water infrastructure.
Bolts Ditch Act Expands Maintenance Rights for Colorado Water Infrastructure
The Bolts Ditch Act amends the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act to allow more groups to handle upkeep on the Bolts Ditch and its Headgate within Colorado's Holy Cross Wilderness. Specifically, it greenlights the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District and the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority to take on maintenance duties (SEC. 2).
Keeping the Water Flowing
This bill is all about making sure the Bolts Ditch, a key piece of water infrastructure in Colorado, stays in good working order. By adding the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District and the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority to the list of approved maintenance providers, the bill aims to streamline upkeep and ensure consistent water delivery to those who rely on it. Think of it like this: if your apartment building's maintenance was only handled by one person, things might get backed up. This bill adds more hands on deck, which should, in theory, make things run smoother.
Who's Affected?
This is a pretty localized deal. The folks directly impacted are those who depend on the water from Bolts Ditch. We're talking residents, maybe some businesses, and potentially agricultural users in the area served by the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District and the Upper Eagle Regional Water Authority. For everyone else, this is mostly behind-the-scenes stuff. It's important, but it's not going to change your daily commute or your grocery bill.
Nuts and Bolts
This act amends 'Section 305(d)(2)(B) of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act (16 U.S.C. 1132 note; Public Law 116–9)'. No major challenges are immediately apparent, as the bill simply expands the list of who can do maintenance. The change fits within existing laws around conservation and management, ensuring continued operation of vital water infrastructure. Long-term, this could mean more efficient and reliable water access for the communities served by Bolts Ditch.