During the summer of 2017, Little Camas Reservoir and the two downstream reservoirs were contaminated by blue-green algae according to state agencies. Little Camas Reservoir is located just 1.5 miles and 30 feet elevation from a planned new reservoir just above Anderson Ranch Reservoir, a recreational mecca for many residents of southwestern Idaho.
That new reservoir is part of a large-scale alternative energy project that could be built in southwestern Idaho’s Elmore County unless the county commissioner can be convinced the project is coming with more problems than solutions. We know the Elmore County Commissioners number one concern is acquiring a new source of domestic drinking water for the county residents. Cat Creek Energy, LLC wants to build a large reservoir above Anderson Ranch Reservoir and have indicated Elmore County could buy some of the water if certain condition are met. That new Cat Creek Energy Reservoir will be connected by a penstock, or a number of pipes drilled down through the sheer rock face and into Anderson.
Knowing that Little Camas Reservoir was tested and found to have toxic blue-green algae in it, do we really want to open that type of water transfer and contamination to Anderson Ranch Reservoir? Fishers, boaters, swimmers, and campers surely do not want to see blue-green algae in their favorite lake.
The Elmore County Commissioners are holding a public Rehearing on 20 different aspects and issues regarding the Cat Creek Energy Project at 6 p.m. on July 26, 2018. If you believe this project could result in more problems than benefits for the residents, please consider testifying and stating your opposition to the project. We believe the blue-green algae problem was never considered and it could easily cross-contaminate Anderson Ranch Reservoir.
From last summer’s advisory:
“Samples taken at the Little Camas Reservoir indicate bacteria counts that could make people and animals
sick, so everyone should heed these precautions and avoid contact with the water.”
If you value the outdoor recreation in and around this beautiful mountain lake, please attend the meeting in the War Memorial Hall (American Legion Post 26 Building) located at 515 E 2nd S St Mountain Home, ID 83647.