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Bethel gives update on Toronto Reservoir public access road

By Matt Shortall
Posted 6/21/22

BETHEL — Covering 833 acres with 11 miles of shoreline, the Toronto Reservoir is a popular spot for many in and around the Town of Bethel. At their most recent town board meeting, Supervisor …

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Bethel gives update on Toronto Reservoir public access road

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BETHEL — Covering 833 acres with 11 miles of shoreline, the Toronto Reservoir is a popular spot for many in and around the Town of Bethel. At their most recent town board meeting, Supervisor Dan Sturm read an annual inspection report regarding the condition of the public access road leading to part the reservoir.

In accordance with their license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Eagle Creek Renewable Energy, which operates hydroelectric facilities on the reservoir, is tasked with maintaining the public access road.

A group of local residents known as Friends of the Toronto Reservoir (FOTR) has fought for 20 years to ensure the public access road remains open and maintained.

Over the past several years, FOTR has been critical of Eagle Creek for failing to complete annual repairs and fill in potholes. FOTR has also urged the Town of Bethel to play a more active role in safeguarding this public resource for the community.

The town board had written several letters to FERC asking that the road be put in an annual maintenance schedule in time for the summer season.

A recent letter sent to the town by Eagle Creek says they have honored that commitment. 

Eagle Creek says three loads of crusher run gravel were added along the length of the road and grated.

“Upon completion of the maintenance work, Eagle Creek inspected the access road and certifies that the road is in good, well maintained condition and provides safe and adequate public access to the east Toronto access area,” said Joyce Foster Eagle Creek Renewable Energy LLC.

Councilwoman Lillian Hendrickson said she is amazed by how many people utilize the public access road to visit the reservoir.

Sturm said that in past years there was “always an issue” each year.

“It was not maintained adequately,” he said.

Sturm said he was “very happy” about the maintenance this year and thanked Eagle Creek.

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