Nestlé Waters is committed to environmental stewardship, and takes an active role in protecting our water resources, reducing packaging, and improving manufacturing and transportation efficiencies, and supporting recycling.
In Chaffee County, at the Ruby Mountain Springs Site, all structures and infrastructure associated with the existing residences and fish hatchery will be removed, and the site naturalized. A significant benefit of the project is the future restoration of the hatchery site along The Arkansas River to a more natural state, enhancing the riparian and wetland features and habitat. Nestlé Waters is committed to working closely with stakeholders in the restoration project, including the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), Colorado Mountain College and other local specialists.
Comprehensive hydrogeologic studies have been conducted to assess aquifer characteristics, determine the safe yield of the aquifer feeding the springs, evaluate potential impacts on nearby streams and water supplies, and to ensure the springs are stable, abundant and yield high-quality water. To verify the sustainability of the resource, several extended pumping tests were conducted on wells at each of the sites during high and low water table periods.
The conclusion of these tests is that the proposed spring development is sustainable with no significant impact to the springs, other water users, or The Arkansas River. The proposed spring water withdrawals are a small fraction of the available spring water, even during low flow conditions.
Since early 2008, water table levels and water quality have been monitored from ten small-diameter monitoring wells located between the springs sites and Johnson Village. Preliminary results are being used to evaluate the sources and influences on spring flow. Long-term monitoring of hydrologic and environmental conditions ensure spring water withdrawals are sustainable and cause no adverse impact.
Once the project is permitted and in operation, long-term monitoring will continue in support of proper management of the resource. The preservation and management of open space near the springs sites is essential to maintaining the quality and yield of the springs.
In addition to protecting the water source, protected watershed lands provide for open space and wildlife habitat. Lands owned by Nestlé Waters will be holistically managed for continued cattle grazing and protection of Bighorn Sheep habitat, and may provide for educational and passive recreational opportunities. |
