WaQSP INSTREAM FLOWS PLANNING ELEMENT
After three years, 125 stakeholder meetings, 200 individual comments, and numerous unofficial discussions, the final Salt Lake Countywide Water Quality Stewardship Plan (WaQSP) was published in August of 2008. The FINAL WaQSP Instream Flows Planning Element is now available for public use. Please let us know if there are any comments or suggestions (801.468.2711).
BACKGROUND
Hydrologic modification of stream flows has historically resulted from diversions for water supply, irrigation and power generation purposes. These flow diversions have resulted in flow reductions or interruptions to the streams, and therefore impacting recreational and wildlife uses. The WaQSP Instream Flows Planning Element considers the quantity of flows in the streams for use as recreational amenities and aquatic habitat purposes.
SCOPE
1. Review existing stream flow conditions of all major streams and river in Salt Lake County.
2. Review anticipated changes to flow conditions of all major streams and river in Salt Lake County.
3. Identify methods to preserve and augment stream flow.
MAJOR RECOMMENDATIONS
Improve both quality and quantity of stream gage data in Salt Lake County.
Further examine options for acquisition or reassignment of water rights to be used for instream flows.
Ensure that a rigorous review process is conducted for any proposed changes to water rights and water use that could potentially reduce instream flows.
Encourage or mandate the adoption of low impact development (LID) techniques.
Conduct a detailed instream flow study of the Jordan River and targeted tributaries that considers hydrology and physical habitat.
Develop a management strategy for the releases from Utah Lake such that the flows in the Jordan River more closely resemble a natural flow regime.
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