Irrigation Season Estimated Target Flow Dates and Rates - Annual Ramp-up Schedule

-April 1 (depending on weather and demand)............0% to 30% flow rate delivered (~2 gpm/ac)

-May 1 .....................................................50% flow rate delivered (~3.5 gpm/ac)

-May 15 - Sept 14..........................100% flow rate delivered (~5-7 gpm/ac)

-Sept 15...................................................50% flow rate delivered (~3.5 gpm/ac)

-Oct 1- 24 (depending on weather and demand)........30% to 0% flow rate delivered (~2 gpm/ac)

*Flow rates are "targets", always subject to change, and not guaranteed. Rates may vary slightly from patron to patron depending on the circumstances. Please call the office for questions or concerns.

 

The Irrigation Season

Swalley’s irrigation season runs from April 1 through October 31. We typically begin delivering stockwater for livestock in late March, then transition into full irrigation operations on April 1 in accordance with our annual ramp-up schedule.

Because the system is gradually ramped up and down (generally 30–50%), delivery rates may vary across the District, and some patrons may experience reduced water availability during the spring and fall transition periods. Shortages are more likely during warm, dry conditions, particularly in April, May, and September.

Our system is operated on a demand basis—we do not bring the entire system online at once. We typically start with the main canal or pipeline and then open branch laterals as customers call in and request water. During cold or wet spring conditions, startup may be delayed until sufficient demand exists, so it is important that patrons communicate their anticipated needs.

Similarly, during fall ramp-down, operations remain demand-driven. If enough users on a branch lateral request early shutdown, portions of the system may be taken offline ahead of schedule.

Please note that flow changes are not made on weekends except in true emergencies. To request adjustments at your delivery gate, plan ahead and submit requests Monday through Thursday, allowing at least 24 hours for processing prior to the weekend.

 

Patron/Customer Maintenance Responsibility

Swalley delivers water to your designated delivery gate located on a District-owned canal or pipeline. Beyond that point, the conveyance system serving your property is typically privately owned and maintained by you and, in many cases, your neighbors—unless alternative arrangements are in place (such as with Avion or Chaparral customers or other private water user groups).

The District does not maintain private irrigation infrastructure beyond the delivery gate. It is the responsibility of landowners to ensure that private ditches, pipelines, grates, pumps, ponds, and filters are kept clear, functional, and in good working condition. Well-maintained systems improve efficiency and help ensure consistent water delivery.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the District office—we’re available to discuss your concerns.

Note: Water delivery is both weather-dependent and demand-driven. At the start of the irrigation season (typically between April 1 and April 8), it may take 2–3 days for water to reach your private system after flows are initiated. As the season progresses, flows are gradually increased from approximately 30% to 50% to full capacity. In the fall, flows are reduced in reverse (100% to 50% to 30% to 0%), with similar 2–3 day adjustment periods.

Routine maintenance of your private ditch or pipeline—especially during the fall and early spring shoulder seasons—is critical to ensuring reliable and efficient water delivery.

Privately owned ditches and pipelines are not the District's responsibility to maintain, clean, or upgrade. Neglect of these private systems is the #1 reason that customers experience water delivery shortages and inefficiencies.

 

---> WINTER STOCK RUNS <---

Stock runs are occurring less frequently due to evolving environmental, legal, safety, and logistical considerations. Any District-planned stock run is subject to change without notice and may be modified or canceled at any time due to construction activities, maintenance needs, winter weather conditions, inadequate river levels, or other operational constraints.

Stock runs are not guaranteed, and patrons are not charged for stockwater. Patrons with livestock are strongly encouraged to contact the District well in advance to confirm whether stockwater will be available in a given year.