Commission decides to maintain lake outflow at 30 CFS amid irrigation and order concerns

Granite County commissioners voted to keep the lake outflow at 30 cubic feet per second (CFS) after discussion with stakeholders and reference to a prior order limiting reductions.

Commissioners referenced correspondence about managing lake levels and irrigation demands and debated whether lowering outflow below 30 CFS could violate a standing order. One county official advised that dropping below 30 CFS could place the county in noncompliance with a “third order” cited in correspondence. Commissioners said maintaining 30 CFS struck a balance between providing water for irrigators and staying within legal constraints.

Why it matters: lake-level and outflow decisions affect downstream irrigators, local recreation and reservoir management. Commissioners noted that reducing flows now could require “payback” later in the season when water is scarce.

What happened: a commissioner moved to keep the outflow at 30 CFS and another seconded the motion. Commissioners discussed possible temporary increases later in the season but emphasized the need to avoid violating any order cited by state or adjudicating authorities. The motion to maintain 30 CFS was carried in the meeting minutes and the commission said it will monitor levels and consider adjustments later this year.

What’s next: staff will continue to monitor lake levels and to coordinate with irrigators; commissioners asked staff to follow up on communications with interested parties and to document correspondence and decisions.