Independent candidate Patrick Belmont issued a detailed 10-page assessment of the draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Logan River Watershed Project. Belmont, who is running for the Utah House District 3 seat, stated the project could shape water management in Cache Valley for approximately 50 years.
The Logan River Watershed Project proposes spending more than $300 million to address flood prevention, public recreation, and agricultural water management. The plan includes reconstructing canal diversions, installing an irrigation connection to First Dam, and constructing downstream water storage with pump stations.
Belmont expressed concern that the presented options reflect an artificially narrow framing of the challenges facing Cache Valley. He stated that the deeper question should involve building a water system that serves people, restores rivers, reduces demand, strengthens communities, and contributes to the recovery of the Great Salt Lake.
Technical concerns raised by Belmont include the plan's lack of effort to reduce future water demand. He suggested that planners may be attempting to incentivize more turf grass customers to legitimize existing water rights. Belmont also noted missed opportunities for recreation and restoration, unanswered questions regarding growth and long-term cost, and insufficient consideration for the Great Salt Lake.
Belmont is running as an independent candidate for the Utah House District 3 seat, which includes Logan, River Heights, and Richmond. He will face incumbent Representative Jason Thompson in the November 3 general election.
Belmont previously served as the vice-chair of the Logan City Renewable Energy and Sustainability Advisory Board until his resignation in spring of 2025 due to policy disagreements with the Logan Municipal Council. His career experience includes work as a scientist, educator, and community advocate in areas such as water, energy, air quality, wildfire prevention, and growth.
