Idaho Water Users Find Solution to Shutoffs

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) — Idaho groundwater users have agreed to cutback more than 10 percent of their water claims in a monumental deal designed to stave off crippling water shutoffs.

The Times-News reports that junior groundwater users in southern Idaho had failed to provide 89,000 acre-feet of water to senior surface irrigators by May 1. In Idaho, senior water right holders get a priority in water delivery. An acre foot is enough water to cover an acre one foot deep.

However, the two parties came to an agreement on Thursday without requiring the state to intervene. Twin Falls Canal Co. Brian Olmstead says details of the agreement are still being fleshed out, but he's optimistic the deal will be signed.