Crook County reservoir drained; reward offered

Crook County authorities are looking for whoever drained a private reservoir east of Big Summit Prairie, while the landowner is offering a $5,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of the vandals, officials said Monday.

About a month ago, someone trespassed on private property at the Peterson Creek Reservoir and was able to manipulate the valve, letting out most of the water, said sheriff’s Sgt. James Savage.

Savage said the valve ran open for about the first two weeks of April, before the owner located it.

As a result, the reservoir was drained by nearly 75 percent before it was discovered, Savage said.

“In a year like this, with low water levels, every bit is a valuable resource,” the sergeant added in a news release.

Anyone with information that could help find the culprits is asked to contact Savage at 541-447-6398.

You can also contact the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-877-876-TIPS, or use the form on KTVZ.COM’s Crime Stoppers page. You can remain anonymous, and you could be eligible for a cash reward.