As wildfires devastate Los Angeles, concerns rise about Denver’s water system readiness
Denver: The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have been devastating. They’ve caused loss of life and destruction of homes. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly things can change.
In Colorado, we’re not immune to these threats. Wildfires can happen anywhere, not just in forested areas. The fire season is no longer confined to summer months.
Just a few years back, the Marshall Fire destroyed over a thousand homes in winter. It was fueled by intense winds, showing how unpredictable these events can be.
In fact, Colorado has seen some of the largest wildfires in its history in recent years. The East Troublesome Fire in 2020 broke out when fire season was thought to be over, taking weeks to control.
With the recent issues in LA, there are growing concerns about how well our water systems can handle a similar crisis. We need to ensure our hydrants and reservoirs are ready.
Denver Water, which serves 1.5 million people, is taking steps to prepare for potential wildfires. They’re focused on protecting our water supply and infrastructure.
They’ve partnered with various organizations to invest $96 million in reducing wildfire risks. This funding helps manage forests and protect the areas that supply our water.
Since 2010, they’ve treated over 120,000 acres of forest land, working with local groups to keep our water safe. This is crucial, especially if we face a firestorm like the one in LA.
Denver Water is also expanding the Gross Reservoir to ensure there’s enough water supply in case of emergencies. This is vital for the north side of the metro area.
But the challenge is bigger than just one utility. Everyone needs to be involved in reducing wildfire risks. It affects all of us, not just those living near the foothills.
Wildfires can lead to dangerous air quality and require a massive emergency response. It’s a community issue that can impact homes and businesses across the region.
Fortunately, there’s a growing awareness in Colorado about these risks. Denver Water is collaborating with various partners to tackle this challenge together.
Recently, a working group brought together leaders from different sectors to discuss how to enhance resources for wildfire mitigation. It’s a step in the right direction.
We need to actively manage our forests, use fire-resistant materials, and create defensible spaces around homes. This proactive approach can help protect our communities.
Funding and labor for these projects are ongoing challenges. We need to tap into private sector innovation to expand our efforts in wildfire resilience.
Raising public awareness is crucial. We can’t underestimate the risks wildfires pose to our communities. It’s not a question of if, but when these events will occur.
We’ve been warned. Now it’s time to act and prepare for the future.
Alan Salazar is the CEO and manager of Denver Water.
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