NORTHGLENN, Colo. — Vandalism to water diversion gates on Berthoud Pass caused a "sudden and significant" decrease in water supply in the City of Northglenn last week, and repairs will cost about $50,000.
A water ditch on Berthoud Pass diverts water through a system of gates to Northglenn. After the city reported a decrease in water output from Grand County last week, staff found that several of those gates had been intentionally destroyed or damaged, the Grand County Sheriff's Office said Thursday.
“This type of crime is extremely concerning and is in no way victimless," said Grand County Sheriff Brett Schroetlin. "The residents of the City of Northglenn are directly impacted by this vandalism.”
Water levels in Northglenn are now fine, after the gates were put back into position, but complete repairs will cost about $50,000 and could take up to six months due to supply chain issues, said city spokesperson Diana Wilson.
Northglenn City Manager Heather Geyer said this was a serious issue.
"We will do everything we can to protect our resource," she said. "Respecting the ownership of water rights is critical to fair and equitable distribution of this precious resource in Colorado.”
The incident was still under investigation. Anyone with information on the incident can contact the Grand County Sheriff's Office at 970-725-3343 or so_investigations@co.grand.co.us.
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