GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. - Reclamation announced today the release of the final environmental impact statement for the Paradox Valley Unit. The benefits and impacts of a variety of alternatives for salinity control were analyzed and the “no-action alternative" was selected as the best means to minimize and avoid environmental harm, while maintaining compliance with the Salinity Control Act.
“After considering public comments, Reclamation determined the no-action alternative achieves the best balance among the various goals and objectives outlined in the environmental impact statement," said Reclamation’s Western Colorado Area Office Manager Ed Warner. “The no-action alternative is in the best interest of public health and safety."
Alternatives analyzed in the final EIS include a new injection well, evaporation ponds, zero liquid discharge technology and no action.
The Paradox Valley Unit is one element of Reclamation’s broader Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program. The SCP is a partnership among Reclamation, several federal agencies and seven basin states. This partnership developed measures that prevent an estimated 1.22 million tons of salt from entering the Colorado River System each year and contribute to long term water quality goals.
The final environmental impact statement is available online at www.usbr.gov/uc/progact/paradox/index.html or a copy can be requested by contacting Reclamation at 970-248-0600.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
