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2003 LEGISLATIVE REPORT
Active Projects

PROJECT INFORMATION:
The Big Spring at Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis produces around 2,500 gallons per minute. The water quality and its thermal characteristics are important in the formation and maintenance of the park's mineral terraces. State Park personnel distribute flow and maintain all conveyance structures. Previous studies include USGS reports on the thermal spring phenomena and a study of the overall geo-hydrothermal system in the Thermopolis anticline (1982). The Wyoming Department of Agriculture Analytical Services analyzed the water chemistry, which identified the microorganisms found in the water. A report was also commissioned by the Board of Charities and Reform, which resulted in establishing monitoring protocols, management plans, and provided recommendation for implementation of the best alternatives. The overall 1983 plan was designed to improve and modify the existing water delivery system, to improve irrigation of terraces, to ascertain the actual quantities and variability in Big Spring discharge, and to augment and regulate the supply of water delivered to the terraces and users. Some of the recommendations of the 1983 study were implemented and some were not. The purpose of this study is to determine how best to address system deficiencies and to establish operation and maintenance protocols.

RECOMMENDED LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
No Legislative action is required.