Granite County keeps Georgetown reservoir outflow at 15 cfs for now, authorizes request for 20 cfs if needed

Granite County commissioners voted to keep Georgetown Reservoir outflows at 15 cubic feet per second (cfs) for the near term and authorized staff to request an increase to 20 cfs if hydrologic conditions or irrigation needs require it.

The decision followed public comment from irrigators and lakeshore property owners, who described last summer’s low flows and flood concerns when the reservoir spilled. A speaker who identified himself as an irrigator said, “we're the first irrigator below the dam, so we only get what comes out of the dam.” County staff reviewed snowpack and moisture data and recommended holding releases steady for another week while monitoring conditions; a staff member said, “I'm actually gonna keep it at 15 for another week since we are climbing or gaining.” The board then passed a motion to keep the release at 15 cfs and ask again for 20 cfs if required; the motion carried on voice vote.

Why it matters: outflow rates from the reservoir directly affect downstream irrigators, river channel conditions and lakeshore properties; earlier high releases prompted concerns from homeowners about sediment and erosion below the dam and raised questions about federal oversight (FERC) and interagency coordination.

Supporting details: speakers and staff recounted that previous spill events triggered FERC inquiries and led to additional inspection or remedial work. Staff also noted current snowpack and soil-moisture observations relevant to spring runoff forecasting. Commissioners discussed timing and the county’s ability to coordinate with state and federal agencies.

Outcome: Motion carried to maintain 15 cfs for now and pursue a request for 20 cfs if conditions change.