Provo River Water Users Association secures $4M for vital dam control upgrades

The Water Resources Board meeting held on March 19, 2025, focused on critical funding discussions for water infrastructure projects in Utah, particularly concerning the Provo River Water Users Association. The meeting began with a clarification regarding the board's financial commitments, specifically noting that only one repayment and one bond motion would be addressed.

The primary agenda item involved the Provo River Water Users Association, represented by General Manager Jeff Budge and Operations Manager Brad Jorgensen. They presented an update on the Deer Creek Dam and Reservoir, a crucial facility in Wasatch County that has not undergone significant upgrades since its construction over 80 years ago. The association is currently undertaking a $1 million project to retrofit controls and enable inspections of the upper outlet pipeline, which is essential for maintaining water delivery to shareholders.

The project is already underway, with a bypass pipeline being installed, and is expected to be completed by early 2026. The funding for this project has been complex, with the association initially bonding for $7 million and seeking additional support to cover an $11 million funding gap. The Central Utah Water Conservancy District has committed to covering 17% of the upgrade costs, while the Division of Drinking Water has provided $7 million. The board previously authorized $4 million in funding, which is now being finalized.

Budge emphasized the importance of securing the additional $4 million to ensure the project remains on track. However, he noted potential complications related to a legislative grant that requires the association to provide a specified volume of water to the Great Salt Lake. This requirement poses legal challenges, as the association must navigate water rights issues and federal regulations.

Board members expressed concerns about the implications of the association's funding strategy, particularly regarding perceptions of circumventing legislative processes. Budge clarified that the association is committed to fulfilling its obligations while also striving to secure the necessary funding to complete the project.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation from staff to commit the additional $4 million, which would be structured as a separate bond with a 1% interest rate over 35 years. The board's decision on this funding request will be crucial for the successful completion of the infrastructure improvements at the Deer Creek facility.