Commissioners keep Warm Springs outflow at 35 CFS as experts say filling likely

Granite County commissioners on Tuesday voted to maintain outflow from the Warm Springs reservoir at 35 cubic feet per second (CFS) after staff and regional water experts discussed inflows, snowpack and forecasts.

County staff and consultants presented data showing recent gains in storage and a forecast that inflows could continue to outpace outflows in the coming weeks. Paul (county water operations) told the board that ‘‘inflows are exceeding the outflows by 2 or 3 weeks’’ and that there is rain in some forecasts; Brad Lerman provided reservoir and streamflow numbers and said the basin remains near or slightly above normal for the season in several gauges.

Commissioners debated whether to increase or decrease outflows. One technical speaker recommended caution about raising outflows beyond 35 CFS, noting the licensing language and seasonal thresholds; another argued that the currently observed inflows make filling more likely and that keeping the outflow at 35 CFS will aid storage without violating license language. After discussion, a commissioner moved to keep the outflow at 35 CFS; the motion was seconded and the board voted in favor.

Commissioners asked staff to watch conditions and planned to revisit the setting next week. Staff noted that if inflows continue and the pool approaches spillway elevation, they will manage releases consistent with the water license and coordinate with stakeholders. The vote recorded a voice ‘‘Aye’’ and the board closed the agenda item with staff direction to monitor and report back.