YAKIMA, Wash. - The Bureau of Reclamation has completed a Draft Investigation Report for the Manastash Creek Enhancement Project to improve water supply for fish and irrigation purposes on Manastash Creek, which is an important tributary of the upper Yakima River. The objectives of the study include:

Identify effective means for providing increased instream flow in Manastash Creek for fish;

Increase irrigation water-use efficiency; and

Improve operational flexibility for agricultural water users of the Kittitas Reclamation District.

The report finds that the actions proposed by Manastash Creek Enhancement Project can produce positive benefits for both fishery resources and the agricultural community of Manastash Creek.

The project involves constructing a pressurized pipeline to convey irrigation deliveries currently made using KRD's South Branch Canal 13.8 Lateral. Construction would take place in conjunction with the Manastash Creek Restoration Project, which is being implemented by a Manastash Creek Steering Committee with assistance from the Kittitas County Conservation District.

The study was completed under the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project Tributary Enhancement Program in coordination with the Yakama Nation, State of Washington, Manastash Creek water users, and the KRD.

To obtain copies of the Draft report contact Activity Manager Walter Larrick at (509) 575-5848, extension 290. The document is also available online at: http://www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/yrbwep/phase2/index.html

Written comments should be addressed to Mr. Walter Larrick, Activity Manager, Bureau of Reclamation, 1917 Marsh Road, Yakima, Wash., 98901-2058. Comments will be accepted until March 18, 2013.

Background: http://www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/yrbwep/authorization/index.html