Emond, Henriette M., authorLoftis, Jim C., authorPodmore, Terence H., authorColorado Water Resources Research Institute, publisher2007-01-032007-01-031993http://hdl.handle.net/10217/1034December 15, 1993.This publication is a product of the Natural Resources Law Center, a research and public education center at the University of Colorado School of Law.This paper presents the results of a two year study sponsored by the Colorado Water Resources Research Institute, the United State Geological Survey, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency on the impact of irrigation water use on water quality in the agricultural area near Greeley, Colorado. Data on water management techniques, consumptive use, irrigation application efficiency, deep percolation, surface runoff and nitrate levels were collected. Results indicated a wide range of application efficiencies and deep percolation percentages. Nitrate levels in the pumped ground water often exceeded EPA drinking water standards, while nitrate levels of water from the South Platte River were generally below the drinking water standards. There are opportunities for improving irrigation application efficiency in this area, but there may be repercussions for downstream water users. Decreasing the quantity of nitrate going into the ground water can occur through increased water conservation and through reducing the actual amount of nitrates applied in the irrigation water or fertilizers. There is currently little incentive for farmers to implement these measures.reportsengCopyright and other restrictions may apply. User is responsible for compliance with all applicable laws. For information about copyright law, please see https://libguides.colostate.edu/copyright.Irrigation efficiency -- Central Colorado Water Conservancy DistrictWater quality -- Central Colorado Water Conservancy DistrictIrrigation -- Environmental aspects -- Central Colorado Water Conservancy DistrictIrrigation -- Central Colorado Water Conservancy District -- ManagementText