Working together to preserve a Grand view

The windows lining one side of the Grand River Dam Authority’s water research laboratory actually look out onto the waters of Grand Lake. That is fitting, considering the purpose of the lab.

Created in 1935 to be a “conservation and reclamation district” for the waters of the Grand River, stewardship of the natural resources (Grand River watershed) under its control, has always been a top GRDA priority. With the creation of the Ecosystems & Watershed Management Department in 2004 and the establishment of the water lab in 2010, GRDA has continued to bring an even greater focus to stewardship and water quality research. That responsibility even expanded to include the Illinois River watershed in 2016.

Today, new research-related programs are always being explored. Whether its bacteria management, nutrients research, metals, zebra mussel monitoring, fisheries enhancement or a number of other studies, the lab – and GRDA personnel – are involved in the research. However, that research never takes place in a vacuum. Since its beginnings, the department has worked with other resource and research agencies not only in Oklahoma but also all across the watershed area. It is also working with landowners and lake users on new programs like the “Guard the Grand” (www.grda.com/guard-the-grand). Collaboration with these partners, is intended to benefit not only the watershed, but also those who live, work and play near its banks. Protecting and preserving these valuable natural resources means protecting, preserving and promoting economic development and quality of life. Those are also top GRDA priorities.

So, as the windows of the lab look out across Grand Lake, it is a daily reminder to GRDA’s team of the real and valuable impact of water research, data collection and public outreach programs all intended to benefit not only fish and waterfowl, but also the thousands of Oklahomans who utilize these resources. 

GRDA is Oklahoma’s largest public power utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, employees and efficiency.  

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