CWSD moving forward with regional system

Preparing for future funding opportunities, the Carson Water Subconservancy District has stepped up its regional water planning efforts.

District board members recently approved moving forward with a planned regional water distribution system for the Carson River basin while continuing to complete the first phase of the project.

Phase I includes water master plans for each of the counties and towns along the river's path, extending from Alpine and Douglas counties through Carson City, Mound House, Dayton, Stagecoach, Silver Springs and Churchill County.

Some counties are still in the process of updating their master plans, but

District Manager Ed James recommended the district move ahead.

"If we wait for everyone to finish their master plan, we might not be ready to apply for funding when it becomes available," James said Friday. "Once we have a good plan in place, we have the option of going to the state Legislature if we need to. It is best to have plan ready and be prepared than to see a need in mid-session and not be ready."

Phase II includes studies to determine how to meet water needs basinwide in the most cost-effective manner.

The most important studies, according to James:

-- Douglas/Carson City - Linking the two counties to allow water to be moved between them as necessary, lending reliability to the water systems.

Also, determining how to meet new federal standards on arsenic levels for Douglas County water customers. Cost: $55,540.

-- Marlette/Hobart - Establish a firm water supply in the system by creating additional storage. Supply currently varies with the annual snow pack. Could be used as source of water for Mound House or other areas. Cost: $31,850.

-- Mound House - Enhancing the water supply, possibly through Carson City from Douglas County, or through the Marlette/Hobart system, freeing up water now pumped from Dayton Valley to Mound House to be used to meet future needs in Dayton. Cost: $38,810.

James said low-interest loans and grants would be sought through federal and state agencies.

"If the federal government is going to mandate tougher arsenic standards in water, than there should be federal funds available to implement them," James said. "If Douglas has a plan in place, federal funds should be available to meet the requirements."