Riverton Valley Irrigation District
Press Release #5
8 PM, 21 June 2017
POC: Steve Doyle 857-7090
Work on Riverton Valley Irrigation District’s canal west of Riverton continues to move forward, though at a slower pace than hoped for.
The contractors, Earthworks and Rocky Mountain Logistics, should finalize work on the new bridge tomorrow morning, enabling trucks to begin hauling in material to be used in the dike extension. It is, however, unlikely that the dike will be accessible until this weekend as river flow is expected to hover around 10,000 cfs through Friday. Aerial photos, gratefully, show the dike is weathering the flood water quite well.
Half mile to the east work is progressing on target. The 1250 feet of new canal should be ready for use by Friday. The overarching problem is the inability to control the flow of water in the existing canal - until the dike is completed and water flow regulated the risk of damage remains too high.
Expenses are adding up. To date, RVID has spent approximately $580,000 and by the time water is flowing down the canal to the users below, those expenses will likely push towards $750,000. Total anticipated costs for reclamation and protection of the head gate and canal system is $2.3 million.
RVID is seeking funding assistance through various federal agencies, Wyoming’s legislature and the Governor’s office. More details on this will be shared when known
Until a marked change in the situation occurs this will be RVID’s final press release. RVID water users who wish to continue following the situation and look at aerial photos of the site are encouraged to visit LeClair Irrigation District’s website. We will update this site daily.
Finally, the directors, manager and farmers of Riverton Valley Irrigation District wish to extend their sincere thanks to Mr. Bruce Brimmer and the Cassidy family for the use of their roadways and land, as well as their considerable patience.
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