Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Aquifer Study topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board reviews Sand Hollow aquifer study; USGS says city participation and historic data matter
Summary
Board members reported a recent meeting with a U.S. Geological Survey hydrologist about a Sand Hollow aquifer study; the USGS urged local involvement and additional historic well-level data to refine conclusions about how reservoir operations affect nearby water users.
Board members and staff told the Hurricane City Water Board they met with a U.S. Geological Survey hydrologist reviewing the Sand Hollow aquifer and that USGS staff emphasized the importance of local participation and historical data.
Board member Lee said the USGS representative, Tom Marston, told the group that because the study was initiated by local water users rather than the state, ‘‘it’s really important that we stay involved with it because basically, the state is just kinda mediating. And if we want something, it’s our responsibility to be part of the plan.’’
City participants said the USGS told them the reservoir’s recent operations are not yet drawing on the city’s primary sources and that pressure effects from the reservoir can cause shallow groundwater to rise in some basements; the USGS advised that historic well-level records and additional localized monitoring would help clarify long-term impacts.
Board members discussed metering and enforcement as a tool to ensure users are taking only their allotted shares. One board member said metering of wells in the area could help identify overuse and protect other users’ rights. The group also discussed that, if all nearby private and district wells were pumped heavily without rest, the city could see drawdown impacts on its wells.
The board agreed to stay engaged with the state and USGS process, to encourage well owners and water-right holders to share historical level data, and to meet again ahead of a state meeting the board expects in June.
Ending: The board concluded it will continue participation in the Sand Hollow study, collect historic well data where available and report back after the next state-led meeting.
