The Platteville Irrigating and Milling Company (PIMC) functions as one of the earliest incorporated non-profit mutual ditch companies in Colorado (appropriated July 1st, 1862). The PIMC's purpose is to purchase, extend, enlarge, and keep in repair the irrigating canal commonly known as the Platteville Ditch. The Platteville Ditch resides in Colorado's Water Division 1, District 2, commencing at the east bank of the South Platte River in Section 31 and ending at Platteville Reservoir in Section 19. Since 1950, the Platteville Ditch diverts on average 19,667 acre-feet of water per year (CO Department of Natural Resources).
All shareholders are required to notify the Ditch Superintendent when they are planning to open and close their headgate(s) to the Platteville Ditch or a lateral of the Platteville Ditch. Notice is required by telephone or in-person at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to turning headgates on or off. Ditch Superintendent, Kassandra Sobesky, can be reached by phone at 970-590-3622.
Hi, I am Kassandra Sobesky, Platteville Milling and Irrigation Company's Superintendent. I have been the superintendent here since January 2018. I have worked on this ditch as well as Platte Valley Irrigation and the Western Mutual ditch for many years, starting around 2006. I started with winter maintenance such as burning, concrete work, and general maintenance. In conjunction with this ditch, I have also been a superintendent for Platte Valley Irrigation since April 2016.
I learned everything I needed to know to succeed in this position from my father, Rick Ebert, who was a superintendent from 2003 to 2018 when he retired. As the times have changed so has the knowledge on how to run a ditch. Every day is something new and every water year is different. With that said, my job is to adapt to the ever-changing years. I have to be able to communicate effectively with each shareholder about their needs. I then calculate my consumptive use and order that water from the River Commissioner. I need to know and understand our appropriation on the river to do this effectively. Along with bringing the water through the canal, I am to ensure that each gate is only taking the water that was ordered or allotted. I also oversee any and all maintenance that is required to keep the ditch functional. This includes but is not limited to treating, spraying, and burning. Finally, I report monthly to the Board of Directors with any and all issues as well as the needs of the ditch.
I live in Johnstown, Colorado with my family. I enjoy boating (I just can't stay away from the water!), crafting, and spending time with my family and friends.