Settlement aims to protect future of Green River Reservoir

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) - A recent settlement between the state, Morrisville Water & Light, and environmental groups buys more time to determine the future of the Green River Reservoir.

For years, the state has sparred with the local utility over state rules limiting the amount of water it can release to power its 800-kilowatt hydropower operation while still meeting state water quality standards.

Because of the limitations, the utility has argued it has lost money operating the plant and has sought to decommission the dam, placing the future of Green River Reservoir State Park in question.

But in a settlement reached last week, Morrisville agreed to back off on decommissioning while the state reviews its water quality standards.

“We are making no promises about the outcome of that process,” said Vermont Natural Resources Secretary Julie Moore. “Changes to our water quality standards are never simple and will require careful and deliberate analysis. This settlement gives us the time we need to examine those questions thoroughly, collaboratively, and with full public input.”

The reservoir is known for its pristine waters, vibrant recreation, and abundant wildlife. Any changes to the state’s water permits would have to be approved by the federal government.