Montezuma Valley Irrigation Company had two of its managers, Don Magnuson and Mike Higman, recognized as co-Water Managers of the Year for 2012 for the Colorado Division of Water Resources.
The State and Division Engineers have recognized Don and Mike for their tireless efforts in promoting and leading efforts resulting in improvements to the Montezuma Valley Irrigation Company. Their ability to communicate with the staffs of several entities has resulted in the advancement of our responsibility to put MVICs decreed water right to beneficial use. The Board of Directors realized that diversion-only practices were jeopardizing the long-term viability of water rights. The policies the Board enacted were integrated with best-use water management by Don, carried out by Mike and staff and have effectively improved the irrigation system.
Randy Carver, president of Montezuma Valley Irrigation Company said Don and Mike should be applauded for their outstanding efforts in management of both Narraguinep and Groundhog reservoirs and the advancement of proper water accounting methods that allow a record of both diversion and delivery.
The state of Colorado owns the water, and they have granted MVCI the right to use it beneficially. With tightening water supplies and a growing scrutiny on the use of water, MVCI is fortunate to have Don Magnuson and Mike Higman managing the company, Carver said.