CCWCD Well Telemetry Program Underway
By Christopher Schall
Installing computers on irrigation wells, boosting water resources, CCWCD is creating one of the most sophisticated agricultural water systems in the nation.
Inside A CCWCD telemetry box.
In the new program, CCWCD is equipping 200 McCrometer flow meters with small computers that digitally record and transmit information about water usage. This data will help CCWCD manage its member’s water resources, and boost available supply through increased system efficiency.
“Through measurement efficiency, we save water, and the telemetry makes this possible with a constant data flow of well pumping information.” explains Ruthanne Schaffer, CCWCD Senior Water Accountant.
The telemetry system starts with water. When water is pumped and recorded on a water meter, a small, attached magnetic assembly translates the spinning water meter dial into an electrical signal. This signal is then transferred into a data logging computer where it is packaged, and then later transmitted to a web site via satellite. But to understand how telemetry equipment produces water, look at the accounting.
CCWCD Well Telemetry Unit
Though irrigation information is valuable to accounting, there are logistical benefits to a telemetry system. “With 200 plus wells equipped with telemetry, I can dedicate more time to other duties at Central. This project saves both time and money,” says Rod Asmussen, Meter Program Administrator.
Because ultra-efficient accounting can create water without the need of a new reservoir or large water purchase, the project received congressional attention in the 2008 omnibus bill.
“Since we presented the project, the congressional delegation has been excited about how we’re managing water here… We received strong support from former Senator Wayne Allard and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar” said Greg Hertzke, CCWCD External Affairs Manager. “Now we’re working with the Natural Resource Conservation Service and the Environmental Protection Agency to complete the funding transfer.”
CCWCD’s telemetry project is still developing, and soon will expand scope. Now the program is looking to add more wells, and include study parameters like water quality. Additionally, the project will soon allow irrigators to log onto the CCWCD web site and view a record of their pumping.
As helpful as the technology will be, further expansion requires additional funds. “Now Central plans to work with Senator Mark Udall, Senator Michael Bennet and Congresswoman Betsy Markey to locate new funding sources,” says Hertzke.
CCWCD will be equipping meters throughout the year, and expansion will continue throughout 2010. For more information about the program, contact Jon Peggram at 970-330-4540, or look at our website: www.ccwcd.org.