Castle Valley panel discusses water-banking as a way to protect surplus water

John, an unidentified committee member acting as chair, opened discussion by urging the group to 'Explore options for protection of surplus water.' He described the effort as a long-term project and said the committee should prepare for future legal and practical questions.

An attendee noted the legal incentive: 'Under Utah's water banking law that if you bank your water, it's exempt from forfeiture,' presenting banking as both a protection mechanism and a potential revenue stream. Members said they need more technical and legal detail before making recommendations and suggested inviting an expert.

Ryan and others recalled presentations by Emily Lewis and the Division of Water Resources materials. Ryan said Emily Lewis had given multiple presentations and that 'She said she would come talk to us.' The committee agreed staff should gather Division materials and links and consider inviting a water attorney or Lewis to brief the committee.

John said he would ask staff to compile links to state guidance and to track potential legal complications. He warned the town will want legal counsel if it pursues formal banking, and members agreed that the Division materials were a reasonable place to start.

The committee did not take any formal action on banking at the meeting; members concluded to continue research, gather Division of Water Resources materials, and consider scheduling an expert briefing.