PROJECT INFORMATION:
Flow measurements on the LeClair Canal were conducted as part of the
Wind River Basin Study. The LeClair laterals have areas of high
exfiltration which require considerable maintenance. These open canals
will be replaced by buried pipelines, reducing greatly both maintenance
costs and water losses. The estimated total project cost is $1,500,000.
The proposed Level III project will address up to fifteen (15) of the
laterals within the main canal system.
In 1994, the Commission recommended the project be advanced in the
Rehabilitation Program to Level III status with an appropriation of
$750,000. The recommended financing plan provided that the appropriation
be used as a grant for purchasing project materials. Payments will only
be made for materials invoiced to the district. The district will be
responsible for all costs related to project design, permit procurement,
land procurement, construction engineering and construction of the project.
During 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998; Phases I and II of construction were
completed along with a portion of Phase III. Eleven lateral ditches to
date have been upgraded by installing pipelines in place of earthen channels.
The design of further improvements under Phases IV has been completed, but
has been delayed due to the lengthy process of obtaining easements on Tribal
and allotted lands of the Wind River Reservation and unusual wet conditions
during the spring and fall of 1998. The construction of Phases III and IV
will continue through the spring and summer of 1999, however it is
anticipated that only a total of twelve (12) of the proposed fifteen (15)
laterals will be completed prior to the project reversion date.
RECOMMENDED LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
No legislative action is recommended for this project.
