First Advisor
Mark Eiswerth, Ph.D
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
Document Type
Thesis
Date Created
5-1-2021
Department
College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Economics, Economics Student Work, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences Student Work
Abstract
Water rights in semi-arid Eastern Colorado is a battleground topic. Between stressed surface water supplies and strict regulation of alluvial aquifers, farmers may face water shortages and impacts associated with high water table levels. Disruptions in farming on a large enough scale can have dire consequences for the local and state economy. Utilizing the framework of Livingston and Garrido’s 2004 paper, this study reevaluates the physical, economic, and institutional indicators of the efficacy of groundwater policy in Weld County, Colorado. We find that the most significant changes stem from costs associated with damages and mitigation related to a high water table. Findings may influence state and local government to adjust groundwater policy.
Rights Statement
Copyright is held by the author.
Recommended Citation
Slutzky, Collin, "Reevaluating Colorado's Groundwater Policy Framework" (2021). Undergraduate Honors Theses. 50.
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/honors/50