This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2008, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
LOGAN - A Logan company says construction of a hydroelectric plant near Bear Lake could solve Utah's future energy problems.
Symbiotics LLC wants to build the Hook Canyon Pump Project on Rich County's Fish Hook Creek. The plant would pump water from Bear Lake at night and release it back to the lake during the day, to generate electricity.
Company Director of Environmental Compliance Erik Stemile says the proposal could meet about 85 percent of Utah's current peak energy demands if it's used in concert with conservation efforts.
As proposed, the pumped water would cause the lake to rise and fall at least three inches a day.
State fisheries biologist Scott Tolentino said that could stir up the lake's bottom settlement, altering Bear Lake's water clarity and changing its unique blue color. The project could also threaten four species of fish unique to the lake, by changing their feeding patterns.
The project would include a 160-foot dam, a reservoir to store 1,210 acre-feet of water and a powerhouse with two generating units.