Mission Statement

The mission of the Water Quality Department is the protection of life, health, property, and public welfare through effective administration and enforcement of a variety of regulations regarding water quality.  In accomplishing this mission, we strive to maintain the highest level of fairness, professionalism, and ethical conduct toward the citizens of Archuleta County. 

Description

The County Water Quality Department is responsible for enforcing the federal, state, and local regulations regarding on-site wastewater treatment systems (OWTS), gray water, and swimming pools/spas and investigating complaints regarding the operation of regulated systems.  This is carried out by the review and approval of plans for new systems, system modifications, and the appropriate inspections for those systems, as well as licensing of local contractors who provide services for those systems to ensure they are built and maintained in an appropriate manner that does not negatively impact the health, safety, and general welfare of residents of all areas of the County.  Additionally, the department ensures proper Transfer of Title for existing OWTS systems upon sale or transfer of title on a property to new ownership. Water Quality Department personnel include a Water Quality Manger, Water Quality Specialist, and a Water Quality Technician. 

Core Services

• Enforcement of the State regulations on Water Quality:
  • 5 CCR 1002-43 Regulation No. 43 – On-Site Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Regulation
  • 5 CCR 1002-86 Regulation No. 86 – Graywater Control Regulation
  • 5 CCR 1003-5 Swimming Pools and Mineral Baths (SPMB)
• Enforcement of the County Regulations related to the same.
• Transfer of Title Program for Existing OWTS
• Licensing of OWTS Local Contractors 

2023 Accomplishments 

• Hired all three staff positions and began attending training to work toward certifications.
• Acquired a mobile office trailer to accommodate department staff.
• Acquired additional IT equipment and supplies for the staff.
• Completed draft of the Archuleta County Regulations to prepare for Jan 1 adoption.
• Acquired software license for permitting and tracking system.
• Participated in Reg 86 stakeholder group to rewrite and implement this regulation.
• Participated in SPMB working groups to update this regulation statewide.
• Adapted all processes, documents, training, and workflows from San Juan Basin Public Health for use in Archuleta County.

2026 Goals 

• Continue to improve the skills of all staff to streamline procedures and improve review times.
• Implement and refine Graywater Management Program in Archuleta County.
• Improve the effectiveness of all staff through outside training opportunities.