History

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
  1. 1
  2. 2

Start of Construction


  • 2005: Request for enlargement of original project
  • 2006: Completion of Cherry Creek Diversion and Pump Station

Completion of Construction on Phase 1 of Rueter-Hess Dam


  • April 2008: Approval of Rueter-Hess enlargement (Phase 2)
  • May 2011: Cherry Creek Diversion Structure tested and first water pumped to Rueter-Hess Reservoir
  • Spring 2012: Completion of and begin filling of Rueter-Hess Reservoir
  • 2014: Entering into a future of recreation at the reservoir with partnering Towns and County