AW Opposes CT Farmington River Diversion
American Whitewater has filed comments opposing the further diversion of water from the Farmington river in Connecticut by the Metropolitan District Commission. The Commission is proposing to divert up to 5 million gpd in order to supply the water needs of the University of Connecticut. The Farmington river, and in particular the Tarrifville section, is a valuable whitewater resource and is a frequent paddling spot throught the year. Each year, the Whitewater Triple Crown is held at Tarrifville where paddlers compete in the three major whitewater disciplines -- wild water racing, slalom, and freestyle competitions. American Whitewater opposes the proposed MDC diversion of water from the Farmington river until the effects of the diversion on whitewater boating opportunities can be fully studied and the MDC can clearly and convincingly demonstrate that this valuable resources will not be adversely impacted by the proposal.