In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing issue of botulism affecting waterfowl and shorebirds in local lakes, particularly during the summer months. The problem typically escalates in July, peaks in August, and subsides in September, correlating with rising temperatures. To address this, a proposal was made to release fresh water from Willard Bay into Willard Spur prior to the peak outbreak period. This initiative aims to mitigate the impact of the botulism outbreak, which has been a recurring issue.

The legislature expressed strong support for this proposal, and as of last week, the water release has commenced, with approximately ten and a half days of water being released to dilute the outbreak's effects. During the meeting, Senator Bluein inquired about the specifics of the water release, including the volume involved. It was clarified that the legislature had allocated $10 million for related projects, with $5 million sourced from ARPA funds and an additional $5 million appropriated last session. This funding is expected to facilitate the delivery of 1,500 acre-feet of water over a 15-year period.

The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, emphasizing the role of the advisory council in generating innovative solutions and studies that inform legislative decisions. The meeting underscored the proactive measures being taken to protect local wildlife and manage environmental challenges effectively.