CO HB1072

Directs University of Colorado, in collaboration with Colorado State University and the Colorado Water Institute, to conduct feasibility studies and pilot deployments of emerging water management technologies including blockchain, sensors, telemetry systems, aerial observation platforms, and satellite-based remote sensing.

Universities must report findings to the Water Resources Review Committee by July 15, 2021, and upon request thereafter, including conclusions on whether technologies can improve Colorado water management and recommendations for administrative or legislative action.

Requires all feasibility studies and recommendations to account for Colorado's existing prior appropriation water rights system under the state constitution and Colorado water law.

Appropriates $40,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2020-21, contingent on universities receiving at least $40,000 in matching gifts, grants, and donations; upon certification of matching funds, an additional $20,000 per university will be appropriated.

All provisions expire July 1, 2022, except the appropriation requirement which expires June 30, 2022.