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Desert Research Institute to help update Elko County Water Plan; county approves engagement
Summary
The board authorized Desert Research Institute to provide technical support to update the county's water plan under Nevada Revised Statutes, including inventory, demand analysis and options; DRI said the work is grant‑funded and up to $20,000 is available to support county effort.
The Board of Commissioners voted to proceed with a county water‑planning effort assisted by the Desert Research Institute (DRI). Alexandra Lutz of DRI explained the water‑plan elements required under Nevada Revised Statutes — an inventory of water sources, analysis of current use, demand projections for growth, supply assessments and options to close any gaps.
Lutz emphasized that DRI's technical support is funded by a state grant (Nevada Water Conservation and Infrastructure Initiative) and that the institute will work with county staff to produce maps, tables and a usable plan for planners. "We're meant to help; most of our data comes from the state," Lutz said, and DRI offered up to $20,000 to support county needs via purchase order if local assistance is required. Commissioners moved to engage DRI and the motion carried by voice vote.
Commissioners asked the team to consider septic‑systems recharge and fire‑water needs in rural communities and requested DRI schedule outreach and provide regular updates at county meetings during the plan process.
