Hundreds lose water source in Colorado's poorest county with no notice
16 days ago
- #water-crisis
- #drought
- #rural-living
- Residents of Costilla County, Colorado, rely heavily on cisterns for water due to the high cost and uncertainty of drilling wells in the high desert.
- The Fort Garland Water and Sanitation District abruptly stopped selling water to rural residents, causing a crisis for those dependent on cisterns.
- The decision was made during a contentious board meeting, leading to dysfunction and anger among community members.
- Residents, including elderly and disabled individuals, are struggling to find alternative water sources, with some considering leaving their homes.
- The water crisis highlights broader concerns about water scarcity and competition in the drought-stricken Western U.S.
- A proposed solution involves creating a county-run water station, but implementation could take up to a year.
- Tensions have risen between long-time residents and newcomers, with blame being placed on the latter for the water shortages.