The Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) prioritizes the health and safety of our staff and the individuals in our custody. As part of our regularly scheduled monthly water testing, water quality samples were collected at the Buena Vista Correctional Complex (BVCC) on February 24, 2026.
Upon receiving preliminary results today, February 25, indicating low but acceptable chlorine levels, CDOC has implemented precautionary measures out of an abundance of caution.
Active Distribution: CDOC is bringing bottled water into the facility now. Distribution is currently underway to ensure all 947 incarcerated individuals and all staff on-duty have immediate access to clean drinking water.
The facility has temporarily transitioned to bottled water for consumption, and a precautionary boil order is in place for food preparation. Current public health guidance confirms the water remains safe for non-consumption purposes, including showering, handwashing, and sanitation.
CDOC is coordinating closely with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to remediate the system. These precautionary measures include a system-wide treatment and a schedule of daily testing.
Medical staff are on-site and monitoring the population. At this time, there are no reported illnesses linked to water quality.
At this time, no prison operations will be modified.
Our routine testing program is designed to identify potential issues early so they can be addressed promptly. Precautionary measures will remain in place while follow-up testing is conducted. CDOC will continue to provide updates as appropriate.
We will provide further updates as the remediation process progresses and results are verified by state health officials.