In Colorado and across the country, One Water approaches and full-on One Water plans are taking shape as communities embrace a more holistic view of water resources management. Goals are wide-ranging, from increased water supply to water quality improvement, recreational opportunity, even economic equity. To succeed, One Water requires a new governance culture of increased communication across historically siloed entitles, with an eye toward maximizing the benefits of the urban water cycle through multi-purpose projects. The 2023 Colorado Water Plan calls for all communities statewide to embrace a One Water ethic. But with only one official One Water plan published to date in Colorado, many still haven't heard of One Water, while others are systematically breaking down barriers that pave the way for more One Water actions in the future.
