Cascade Water Alliance is developing a formal policy regarding the use of its property by third parties around the Reservoir and the water purveyor is hosting an open house early next year to allow residents a chance to ask questions and get more information.

Any new improvements or modifications on Cascade property will require a license from Cascade, as well as the appropriate permits from state and local jurisdictions as required.

Residents around the lake will be receiving more information regarding the proposed Lake Tapps Reservoir Property Management Policy, and are invited to a public open house workshop on Jan. 12, 2012, to ask questions and get more information.

Existing structures or facilities on Cascade property may be “grandfathered” if Cascade determines that they do not pose an adverse impact on the operations of the Reservoir, or pose a danger to public health or safety.

“Our goal is to keep the property free of obstructions and unauthorized structures to ensure dike integrity, water quality, public safety and use are not compromised,” said Lloyd Warren, chair of the Cascade board of directors.

At the open house residents will be able to ask questions of staff as well as get information regarding applicable jurisdictional permits.

Cascade has owned and operated the White River Lake Tapps Reservoir Project (Project) and lake, up to its property boundary line delineated by the 545 foot elevation and including the dikes, since December 2009.

As the Project’s owner, Cascade’s primary function is to ensure the safety and viability of the Lake Tapps Reservoir for long-term municipal water supply purposes, while managing authorized public access to the lake. For the past two years, Cascade has been working in, on and around the Project to determine function and system improvements necessary for long-term maintenance.

During this period, Cascade has also been engaged in a real estate/asset management assessment of the Lake Tapps Reservoir. Several issues have come to light that must be addressed in order to ensure long-term dike integrity, safe recreational use, water quality, general legal and financial risk management, and preservation of Cascade’s property. To address these issues, Cascade is considering requirements that will affect existing and new homeowner improvements on Cascade’s property in and around the lake.

“Everyone’s goal is to ensure the future of Lake Tapps for utility and recreational purposes,” said Warren. “Making sure that this lake is healthy today ensures its future for tomorrow.”

The open house is scheduled for 6 – 8 p.m. Jan. 12 at North Tapps Middle School, 20029 12th St. E., Lake Tapps.

For additional information on the proposed Lake Tapps Reservoir Property Management Policy and the open house, visit www.cascadewater.org.