In a dispute centered around water rights, Colorado officials have responded firmly to Nebraska’s recent legal actions concerning the South Platte River. This conflict arises from Nebraska’s desire to secure water supplies through the proposed Perkins County Canal, which they claim is being hindered by Colorado.
Last July, Nebraska brought the matter to the U.S. Supreme Court, seeking intervention against Colorado’s water management practices concerning the South Platte River. However, on Wednesday, Colorado’s Governor Jared Polis, alongside Attorney General Phil Weiser, expressed their opposition to Nebraska’s request for the Supreme Court to hear the case.
Attorney General Weiser voiced his confidence in their legal stance, stating, “At this point, the Supreme Court should not take this case. We believe they won’t take this case, and that we will continue to defend the rights of Coloradans and to protect northeast Colorado landowners.”
According to Colorado’s legal brief, Nebraska has made minimal progress in securing the necessary permits from the Army Corps of Engineers. These permits are crucial as they address various technical issues that Nebraska has identified. Furthermore, the brief outlines that Colorado is mandated to shut off junior irrigators when water flows fall below specific levels, but during dry years, Nebraska is not guaranteed a fixed water allotment. Weiser anticipates that even if the Supreme Court chooses to engage with the case, a final verdict would not be reached for several years.
