Bear River water flow analysis reveals significant drops compared to historical data

The Great Salt Lake Ecosystem Program Technical Advisory Group convened on April 2, 2024, to discuss critical updates regarding water flow and salinity levels in the Great Salt Lake and its tributaries. The meeting focused on the current state of water inflows, historical comparisons, and ongoing monitoring efforts.

The session began with a review of cumulative stream flow data, highlighting that the Bear River near Corinne is currently below the median flow, with only 35-40% of historic levels observed. The group noted that approximately 420,000 acre-feet of water has passed through the river this year. In contrast, the Plain City site reported a flow hovering around 26%, significantly lower than historical records. The total estimated inflow across various sites reached about 720,000 acre-feet, which is 30% lower than the same time last year.

The discussion then shifted to the complexities of measuring discharge at the Bear River outflow. Monthly measurements have been challenging due to the intricate nature of the site, but recent data indicated a discharge of approximately 2,200 cubic feet per second. The group acknowledged improvements in measurement consistency compared to the previous year, attributing this to better alignment between outflow measurements and upstream data.

Technological advancements were also a focal point, with the introduction of a camera system to monitor conditions at the Bear River site. This system allows for real-time observation and data collection, enhancing the group's ability to track water flow and quality. Additionally, surface water velocity sensors have been installed to aid in continuous discharge measurements.

The meeting concluded with a review of salinity levels across various sites. Current salinity measurements indicate that shallow salinity levels remain stable, with no significant influx of northbound water detected. The group emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring to understand the lake's health and the impact of water management strategies.

Overall, the meeting underscored the challenges faced in managing the Great Salt Lake's ecosystem, particularly in light of fluctuating water levels and salinity. The Technical Advisory Group plans to continue its efforts in data collection and analysis to inform future water management decisions.