EBS
STAFF
A
yearlong engineering study to better understand the hydrology of the Gallatin
Canyon begins in July as part of the task of determining how to best manage
water and wastewater along the precious river corridor. The Gallatin River Task
Force received resort tax funds in June to pay for the project, which will
better illuminate available options for centralized treatment for canyon businesses
and residents; options could range from a centralized treatment plant to
treatment pods throughout the canyon, according to Karen Filipovich, the
consultant GRTF hired to lead the initiative to address water quality concerns
in the canyon.
Without
centralized wastewater treatment in the canyon, developments rely primarily on
septic systems, which do not treat wastewater to as high a degree as a plant,
even under proper maintenance. If not properly maintained, septic systems can
contaminate drinking water from wells and the Gallatin River.
