A recent series of breaks in the antiquated waterline at the Grand Canyon forced water restrictions on the park and area residents of the South Rim. Park officials say last year, a rock slide damaged the pipeline leading to the North Rim, which took $1.5 million to repair over two weeks and water had to be hauled in for drinking and firefighting. Park officials say that is why they are considering an overhaul of the South Rim extension of the pipeline. Last week, drilling equipment was flown in by helicopter and once in place, a new rig will pump water from the test well over the next few days. If data is promising, the Grand Canyon would propose new pump stations and treatment plants built over two to three years. Officials say another option is replacing the entire pipeline with a more durable material along the same route. Grand Canyon officials have estimated the price tag at up to $120 million, partially funded by visitor entrance fees. Officials say it’s among the top priorities for the National Park Service.
