General Contractor Barnard Construction’s on-site water treatment plant makes sure water used on-site is as clean – if not cleaner – than it was when it came through the Adams Tunnel before being discharged back into the system.  

Along with residual water from storms, Barnard’s water treatment operators collect water from the main dam core trench and the tunnel. The dirty water is pumped through four ponds for cleaning before discharging into the stream that leads to Flatiron Reservoir. On average, crews clean 35,000 to 40,000 gallons every day, which is equivalent to an average household use for four months. 

“We want to make sure everything is copasetic with the environment. That’s one of the main things with Barnard – we care about the environment,” said Water Treatment Operator Aaron Goiciecgea. 

Operators send water samples weekly to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for verification. Inspections verify that stormwater controls are in place and effective.  

As the reservoir is built, this process will continue to ensure high-quality water is discharged back into the CB-T Project.