The schedule for repairs to Steinaker Dam were outlined on Wednesday at the Water Conference held in Vernal. Bureau of Reclamation representative Spencer Strand presented the overview, stating that the objective is to restore full function and balance the responsibility to deliver water but in a safe way. Design plans are expected to be complete in May and irrigation will follow as normal this summer. In the fall this year, the reservoir will be drained and the construction contract will be awarded by December. On-site construction to repair Steinaker Dam will begin in February or March of 2018 and no irrigation is planned for the summer of 2018. After repairs are complete the reservoir will be slowly refilled and monitored closely. Irrigation in 2019 could be impacted depending on the filling in the fall of 2018 into the spring of 2019. Strand explained that the repair will be made to about 1100 feet on the right side of the dam. The left side had a similar repair made in the early 90s and is considered in safe condition.
