H.R. 8113: To direct the Secretary of the Interior to carry out a feasibility study on a selective water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam, and for other purposes.

This bill, known as H. R. 8113, aims to direct the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study on a selective water withdrawal system at Glen Canyon Dam. Here are the main points of the bill:

Feasibility Study Implementation

The Secretary of the Interior, through the Commissioner of Reclamation, is required to carry out a feasibility study. This study will include:

• Hydrological modeling: Understanding the water dynamics and effects of a selective withdrawal system.
• Optimizing hydropower generation: The goal is to enhance the production of hydropower when cold water is released from the dam.
• Preventing invasive species: Measures will be taken to prevent the movement of invasive species during the water withdrawal process.
• Compliance with existing plans: The study will align with the 2016 Long-Term Experimental and Management Plan and related environmental impact statements.

Feasibility Determination

After the feasibility study, if the Secretary determines that a selective water withdrawal system is viable and it has the agreement of the Colorado River Storage Project power contractors, the Secretary may proceed with:

• Compliance and construction of the chosen alternative system.

Feasibility Study Deadline

The feasibility study must be completed within 18 months after the bill is enacted.

Funding Provisions

The funding for the feasibility study will come from appropriated federal funds, and the following conditions apply:

• The costs will be borne by the Secretary and will not be reimbursable to the U.S.
• The Secretary, in consultation with relevant parties, must identify available funding sources within 90 days of enactment.

Operational Impact

This bill states that its provisions will not affect the operational guidelines for Colorado River reservoirs, including Lake Powell and Lake Mead, that are in effect before, on, or after the date of the bill's enactment.

Relevant Companies

• None found