Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressional Western Caucus Chair Celeste Maloy (UT-02) released the following statement after introducing the Glen Canyon Selective Withdrawal Feasibility Study Act. This legislation requires the Bureau of Reclamation, working with the U.S. Department of Energy and Colorado River Storage Project power contractors, to determine whether a thermal curtain could be utilized at Glen Canyon Dam to improve water use and power generation.

"Glen Canyon Dam is essential for water planning and power production. Forced bypasses of power generation endanger the communities that depend on power, but a feasibility study could help managers better utilize and manage stored water without threatening energy production," said Chair Celeste Maloy.
 

The Glen Canyon Selective Withdrawal Feasibility Study Act

Background: Glen Canyon Dam is the keystone for water management and power generation within the Colorado River Storage Project. Lake Powell water levels have fallen to such low elevations that cold water releases must use the river outlet bypass, which flows directly into the Colorado River, rather than generating power through the Glen Canyon Powerplant at the base of the dam. This lost generation is estimated to cost $30 million to $40 million, according to the Western Area Power Administration.

Summary: The Bureau of Reclamation, in consultation with the U.S. Department of Energy and Colorado River Storage Project power contractors, is required to carry out an 18-month feasibility study about whether a selective water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam would optimize hydropower generation when releasing cold water, while also preventing entrainment of invasive species. If the system is determined to be feasible and the power contractors concur, then the new system may be constructed and put into use. The bill specifically prevents this study or determination from affecting the post-2026 operating procedures for Lake Powell or Lake Mead, given the ongoing negotiations over the Colorado River.

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced a companion bill in the Senate, which you can find here.