State Engineer Orders Draining of Tropic Reservoir Amid Irrigation Water Crisis

The Garfield County Commission meeting on April 14, 2025, focused on critical water management issues affecting local agriculture and infrastructure. A significant point of discussion was the state’s controversial decision regarding the Tropic Reservoir, which has left residents uncertain about their irrigation water supply. The state engineer ordered the reservoir to be drained before any water could be accessed, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from local officials and citizens alike. Concerns were raised about the impact on the community's livelihood, as the reservoir is vital for irrigation in an area already suffering from drought conditions.

Commission members expressed frustration over the state’s actions, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to address the water crisis. They noted that state legislators, including Representative Walters and Senator Owens, are also alarmed by the situation and plan to question state officials about the draining of the reservoir.

In addition to water management, the meeting addressed grazing improvement programs. A rancher, Dustin Cox, has been seeking to reopen a grazing allotment that has been closed since the 1990s. The commission discussed the importance of this allotment for local ranchers and the potential for funding to support water development on grazing lands.

Another topic of concern was the ongoing issues with Pankaj Lake, where harmful algal blooms have been a persistent problem. The commission is exploring the possibility of installing a siphon to draw water from the lake's lower levels, which could help mitigate the algae issue. Discussions included potential funding sources and maintenance agreements to ensure the success of this initiative.

The meeting concluded with updates on public works projects, including the construction of a new shop for the county, which is currently underway. The commission is optimistic about the progress being made and is committed to addressing the challenges posed by the local environment and infrastructure needs.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the urgent need for effective water management strategies and collaboration between local and state officials to support the agricultural community in Garfield County.