Water Engineering

Water engineering for Colorado land development

MES designs water systems for Colorado developments, towns and special districts. The work covers water treatment, storage tanks, booster pump stations and distribution mains.

For a new development, MES sizes the mains, builds a hydraulic model to check flow and pressure, and designs the tie-ins to the water provider's system.

For existing systems, MES studies water loss, models the network and ranks line replacement by priority, so owners can plan spending and apply for funding.

How water design review works in Colorado

The CDPHE Water Quality Control Division approves the design of new waterworks, and of substantial changes to existing ones, before construction. That covers new sources, new or changed treatment and storage tanks. Its Engineering Section reviews the design against the state's Design Criteria for Potable Water Systems under Regulation 11.

Treatment for a community water system must be designed by a professional engineer registered in Colorado.

Most distribution projects do not need state approval. The city or district that will own the mains reviews them. Each provider sets its own standards for pipe, valves and hydrants.

Supply comes first on larger projects. Colorado law bars a local government from approving certain development permits until it finds the water supply adequate. The applicant's report comes from a registered professional engineer or a water supply expert the local government accepts. New wells need a permit from the Colorado Division of Water Resources.

Colorado water work

In Teller County, MES designed two groundwater treatment plants, an elevated storage tank and a new pipe network for a metropolitan district that serves a disadvantaged community. See the Teller County water system.

Near Elizabeth, MES designed about 4,600 feet of new 10-inch waterline to serve commercial and industrial growth. See the Elizabeth waterline.

In Hayden, MES built an EPANET water model for the town. See the Hayden work.

Common questions

Does CDPHE review water main extensions?

Usually not. State design approval covers sources, treatment and storage tanks. A distribution project needs it only in special cases, such as one that adds a pump station wet well or provides disinfection contact time. The city or district that will own the main reviews it under its own standards.

Do I need a water model for my development?

Often, yes. A hydraulic model shows whether new mains hold pressure and carry fire flow. Providers commonly ask for water system calculations with the utility report.

When should water supply be checked?

Before you close on land. For larger developments, the local government must find the supply adequate before it approves the permit, so a supply problem found late can stop a project.