The state has submitted more paperwork to the federal government regarding the proposed Lake Powell pipeline. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission had asked for more details on cultural resources that could have been affected by the massive project, as well as details regarding cost feasibility and per-capita water use. This final batch of paperwork is expected to answer questions posed by the commission and help the state move forward on the 140-long route of the pipe, at an estimated cost of $1.3 billion.
The pipeline is expected to serve 13 communities, by building a hydropower project which will feature five pump stations and six hydroelectric generation facilities. The move is deemed essential by proponents, who say that the estimated population growth of the area is expected to reach nearly 350,000 over the next 50 years, making Washington County the fastest growing in the state. Critics, however, claim that the project is not feasible and have gone so far as to say that those working on development have intentionally inflated water usage numbers in order to secure support and funding.
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