"The purpose of this study was to develop a quantitative assessment of the levels of stream depletion or reduction in formation outflows (Spring flows or flowing stream systems gaining from contact with formations) that may be occurring as a result of the removal of water by coalbeds methane wells. .... The concern has been raised that the removal of ground water from aquifers that may be tributary to the surface stream system could be resulting in stream depletions or a reduction in spring flows and/or formation outflows that are of a magnitude sufficient to cause injury to senior water rights holders on over-appropriated stream systems."-- Cover letter.
The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) secured Severance Tax Funding for a series of scientific studies known collectively as the 3M Project (Mapping, Modeling, and Monitoring). The Colorado Geological Survey (CGS) was asked to provide the basic mapping components in the form of a geological map of the Fruitland Formation coals as well as subsurface well log cross sections from the outcrop to the Colorado-New Mexico border. A 1:16,000 geologic map was produced along the Fruitland Formation and Pictured Cliffs Sandstone outcrop. It shows the surface extent of the various Fruitland coal beds from the north end of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation at Ridges Basin to the Archuleta County line, a distance of approximately 26 miles. The stratigraphic relationship and lateral continuity of these coalbeds is demonstrated, as are areas of major seeps, distressed vegetation, clinker, springs, coal mines, and high soil gas readings.
