Planning for Rueter-Hess began in 1985, when Parker Water and Sanitation District (PWSD) projected a water shortfall. Since that time, conservation efforts have improved the long-term outlook, but are not enough to eliminate future water shortages on their own.
Timeline
- 1986: Conservation efforts such as metering and xeriscape education implemented
- 1987: PWSD demonstrates feasibility of re-injecting surplus water into Denver Basin aquifers
- 1991: PWSD becomes charter member of Douglas County Water Authority, which cooperates on water conservation solutions
- 1996: Court decree entered for Rueter-Hess Reservoir
- 1996: First geotechnical studies at Rueter-Hess Reservoir
- 1997: First environmental studies at Rueter-Hess Reservoir Site
- 2000: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process begins
- 2001: Spring - Public input on draft Environmental Impact Statement
- 2002: Final design
- 2004: Completion of EIS process and approval for construction