Today GBWN released a report with our partners at the Utah Rivers Council and the Glen Canyon Institute warning of major water release issues associated with Glen Canyon Dam’s antique plumbing.
The solution: We need Congress to act –– and fast.
Our report summarizes an ever-growing likelihood of events where the continuing decline in flows at the nation’s second largest reservoir can impact the ability of Glen Canyon Dam to send the full amount of water to Nevada, Arizona, California, tribes and Mexico –– as required by law.
While officials talk about Glen Canyon Dam’s hydropower problems, few are talking about the even bigger problems related to delivery obligations. As Lake Powell gets closer to minimum power pool and deadpool elevations, the dam’s antique plumbing could prevent the release of the Lower Basin’s full allocation of water under the Colorado River Compact and subsequent laws governing delivery. The spectre of this engineering shortcoming continues to grow into a more realistic dilemma as the Colorado River continues to decline.
Our report cites existing academic research, the Bureau of Reclamation’s own data, and a host of other evidence that demonstrates why we need elected leaders and Bureau of Reclamation officials to act. The forecasts in the report are not guaranteed. But the situations we foresee are reasonable. Let’s hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
We are requesting Congress funds a study to figure out how to solve the problem. Then we will need Congress to fully fund the solution. Time is running out. Politicians and officials must act.