PUD Receives Award for Spada Lake Reservoir Management

Snohomish County PUD received the Outstanding Stewards of America’s Waters Award for Operational Excellence at the Clean Currents Conference in Pittsburgh. The award recognizes the utility’s development of two predictive hydrologic models that enhance decision-making and optimize power generation and water management at Spada Lake Reservoir. Fully implemented in 2024, these models were a response to a record-setting rainfall of 48 inches, which raised concerns about future reservoir levels. The models can forecast reservoir elevations from one to 30 days ahead, allowing staff to make informed decisions on generation levels while meeting license obligations. PUD Manager Scott Spahr noted that the new modeling helps optimize generation value during high and low power prices, ultimately benefiting ratepayers.

Spada Lake Reservoir provides drinking water for 75% of Snohomish County and generates about 5% of PUD’s power demand while enhancing fish habitats and recreation. Andrew McDonnell, PUD Manager of Natural Resources, emphasized the models' importance in maintaining water quality during the dry season. This initiative reflects the utility's commitment to environmental stewardship and resource management in a changing climate.