As discussed at previous meetings, I have been working with Methow Salmon and our project team to evaluate the current ditch conditions and identify opportunities where upgrades to the ditch could provide a more efficient delivery system, reduce liabilities and reduce maintenance for users.
The study has been funded in two phases. Phase 1 includes initial planning, mapping, water measurements, and identification of alternatives. Phase 2 includes continued site evaluations and monitoring, alternatives analysis and conceptual design and a 30% design.
I am attaching a short technical memo that describes the project goals, progress to date, a summary of preliminary alternatives and a more detailed list of work planned for Phase II. The memo has also been provided to the Colville Tribes, as the funder for both phases of our project.
We intend to hold a preliminary presentation of site assessments this coming November or December, provide a memo documenting site assessments and implications for upgrades in February 2026, and develop a final preferred alternative with user input from a March 2026 shareholder meeting.
As a reminder, completion of this effort does not require the shareholders to commit to implementing a preferred alternative. We hope the information gained will provide TVPI with a better understanding of the condition of its irrigation system, and help identify where public funding may be available to make improvements to our system that would also provide measurable habitat benefits.
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Camden Shaw
Project Manager
Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation
509.341.4133
