Wyoming Framework Water Plan - Living Rivers Home Page

8.0 OPPORTUNITIES
Agricultural Opportunities
The short list for the Salt River subbasin includes 11 storage
projects which are primarily located on tributaries of the Salt River. Of
these sites, seven are located on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The
WWDC currently has a Level I study being conducted for the
Cottonwood Lake Enlargement. As indicated previously, the shortages
or needs for the alternative sites were not specifically quantified. The
available water supply for the affected tributaries was quantified.
In the Snake River subbasin, conversion of flood irrigation to sprinkler systems has normally
been funded by other state agencies. Cottonwood Creek Reservoir on the Gros Ventre was the only shortlisted
storage site.
Domestic/Municipal Opportunities
Development of additional water sources for municipal needs can be studied and funded by the
WWDC. These WWDC studies are normally on an individual community request basis. The State of
Wyoming has storage water available in Palisades Reservoir for potential development. Metering of
community water systems is normally funded by other state agencies. Flood control, is normally a
secondary benefit of storage projects as proposed for the Jackson area of the Snake River subbasin.
Environmental Opportunities
The potential environmental opportunities on the short list for the Salt River subbasin included
improvement of wetlands, riparian areas, and stream stability. The WWDC has been funding watershed
management plans which consider these opportunities as well as other opportunities. Most of the
environmental opportunities on the short list for the Snake River subbasin would fall within a watershed
management plan.
Recreational Opportunities
Recreational opportunities are normally incorporated into multipurpose storage projects as
previously discussed. WWDC-funded projects can incorporate recreational opportunities.
Industrial Opportunities
The State of Wyoming has storage water available in Palisades Reservoir for potential
development. Industrial opportunities are normally supported by the local entities.
8.8.6 Recommendations for Opportunities
If sufficient interest is indicated in the basins by the BAG, the following recommendations could
advance the short list projects.
Salt River Subbasin
A basinwide study of supplemental irrigation needs and the best projects to meet those needs
would be the most efficient way to advance the opportunities. The potential multiuse projects that most
effectively benefit the basin could be determined. Projects that benefit irrigation, municipal needs,
recreation, and environment would have the best potential for implementation.
8-48