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Commissioners say $5 million secured for Panguitch Lake dam; federal permits and timber‑sale delays remain obstacles
Summary
Commissioners reported a $5 million appropriation for a new Panguitch Lake dam but said finalizing permits remains difficult after Army Corps and Forest Service raised wetlands and clearing issues; commissioners also reported timber sales needed for local sawmill have not been released for public bidding.
Commissioners reported they secured $5 million to build a new Panguitch Lake dam approximately 50 feet north of the existing structure, and described ongoing permitting challenges with federal agencies.
One commissioner said the plan is to leave the old dam in place to serve as a coffer dam while the new structure is built. County project manager Dave Dodds is working to finalize permits, but the board said the Army Corps of Engineers has asserted wetland jurisdiction and the Forest Service has raised issues even though needed NEPA analyses were completed on four timber‑sale areas last year. That delay, the commissioner said, is preventing public bidding for timber sales that local sawmill owners need for material and operation.
Commissioners said they are working with members of Congress and federal offices to resolve the disputes. The board described the Army Corps’ wetlands claim as a significant regulatory hurdle and said they are continuing discussions with the Forest Service and congressional offices to advance the work.
No construction start date was announced; staff said permit clearance is required before work can proceed.
