January 24, 2002
John Redding
(208) 378-5212

Burley Irrigation District Honored

The Bureau of Reclamation acknowledged the Burley Irrigation District for its long and successful history at conserving water in southeastern Idaho by presenting the district with the Regional Director’s Water Conservation Award. The award is presented to irrigation districts in the Pacific Northwest that take an active role in ensuring that water is managed and used wisely, according to Reclamation Regional Director Bill McDonald.

"The Burley Irrigation District has proved itself to be a leader in water conservation in the Snake River Basin," McDonald said. "Good stewards such as this needs to be recognized and appreciated." The district received the award during the Idaho Water Users Association’s 64th Annual Convention in Boise on January 24.

The district was nominated and awarded for its efforts in three specific areas: water conservation planning, delivery system improvements, and management improvements.

The Burley Irrigation District was among the first districts in the Snake River area to submit a comprehensive water management plan, following the release of the new water conservation plan policy in December of 1996.

The plan closely followed the Reclamation guidelines and set priorities and goals in several areas. The plan was developed by district staff and management and outlines proposed actions including continuation of effective management efforts. The Burley irrigation district has taken a number of measures to reduce loss of water through seepage and operational spills.