Water/Irrigation History
SHRA has conducted historical research for many water users across the West. Since the mid-1990s, we have written histories and conducted research on multiple watersheds and irrigation projects. We have expertise in the history of both U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Projects as well as Carey Act and private irrigation projects.
We have also examined the historic character of water courses, using written documents as well as photographic evidence in order to determine historic stream flow, navigability, presence of certain landmarks or users, fish populations, etc. Our reports have been used in litigation to demonstrate the original intent of various irrigation facilities, historic crops and water demand, and impacts of ground water pumping on surface water users. Specific watersheds and projects include:
- Snake River Basin (as part of the Snake River Basin Adjudication), Idaho;
- Pioneer Irrigation District, Boise;
- Twin Falls North Side Project, Twin Falls, Idaho;
- Portneuf River, Idaho;
- Deschutes River, Oregon;
- Boise Project, Idaho;
- Missouri River Basin, Pick-Sloan Plan;
- Groundwater development, New Mexico;
- Kern River, California;
- Santa Margarita River, California;
- Gila, Salt, and Verde Rivers, Arizona;
- North Platte River, Nebraska.