The district has announced a public hearing to be held at 6:00 p.m. on April 29, 2026, regarding proposed water conservation rate structures for 2026. The meeting will take place at the Uintah Conference Center in the Split Mountain Room #3, located at 313 E 200 S in Vernal, Utah.
The hearing will cover several topics including drought conditions, allotment amounts, restrictions, and modifications to rates and fees. The proposed 2026 Conservation Rate includes a residential water rate of $20.50 for 6,000 gallons, with overage charges ranging from $2.50 per 1,000 gallons up to 10,000 gallons to as much as $22.00 per 1,000 gallons for usage exceeding 32,000 gallons.
For commercial water under the 2026 Conservation Rate, the base rate is also $20.50 for 6,000 gallons, with overage costs ranging from $2.75 per 1,000 gallons up to $8.25 per 1,000 gallons for usage over 32,000 gallons.
The district has also proposed a 2026 Emergency Restriction Rate. For residential users, this rate includes $20.50 for 6,000 gallons, with overage charges reaching $70.00 per 1,000 gallons for usage exceeding 50,000 gallons. Commercial emergency rates include $20.50 for 6,000 gallons, with overages up to $35.00 per 1,000 gallons for usage over 50,000 gallons.
The district utilizes a multi-phase drought condition rate structure. Phase 2 is triggered by Snotel reports indicating the basin is less than 100% of the peak median. Phase 3 involves conservation rates if Red Fleet Reservoir storage falls below 10,000 acre feet or if the State of Utah declares a state of emergency. Phase 4 may implement mandatory outdoor watering restrictions based on reservoir capacities at Steinaker or Red Fleet, while Phase 5 imposes Emergency Restriction Rates if mandatory outdoor restrictions are implemented by the State of Utah or local officials.
