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MORGAN — As rising temperatures cause the snowpack to melt, officials at East Canyon Reservoir say the rising water is expected to fill the reservoir.
While the rising water from the melting snow is cause for concern for potential flooding, another benefit is that the states many reservoirs are expected to reach water levels they haven’t reached in years.
“We were 10 feet higher at this point than last years. So that’s a lot of water coming in,” said Chris Haramoto, manager at East Canyon State Park. “We’re expecting — we’re hoping — with the projections we are seeing is that we’ll be full. Most of the reservoirs around will be full.”
The East Canyon Reservoir has been filling up at almost a foot a day. Filling up the reservoir would mean that the waterline will increase by 40 feet.
“This year has been exceptional with the snow we’ve got,” said Haramoto.
All this is certainly good news for boaters and fishers on the reservoir, with more room to maneuver, and more water to fish in.
“You’re really close to other boaters,” Haramoto said about the current water level. “Tensions run a little bit high sometimes.” He’s hoping that the increased water level will let everyone have more room to relax and play in.
Lorrie Rebeck, a Riverdale resident, comes to the reservoir to fish and is hopeful that the increase will allow her plenty of space to pursue her favorite hobby. “It’s been a long time coming,” she said about the water levels. “I hope it does fill up … Now we’re in fish heaven.”
Haramoto believes that the water level could eventually go up and over the top of the reservoir’s dam, a 45-foot increase from the current water line.
