Soils within the HMA tend to be very erosive, hence nearly all attempts (over 300 reservoir sites within the HMA) have been filled in with silt and/or washed out so as to be either non-functional or minimally functional. With that in mind, we have incorporated silt traps upstream of each restored reservoir pond. We have also lined the overflow points on the dikes so as to prevent breaching. These projects have been performed by skilled local contractors hired by FOAL.
Lotus Reservoir in late 2025 holding water well. No additional work has taken place on Lotus since initial rehab.
To date, we have accomplished restoration of 17 reservoirs. The results have been so noteworthy that FOAL has expanded the goal. We now hope to refurbish 25 reservoirs by December, 2030.
As we plan for those eight projects, it is our sincere desire to consult with the BLM and the permitted cattlemen as reservoir sites are selected which should provide mutual benefits for all.
Written by Marshall Dominick, FOAL Board Member