This page documents the Fall 2001 letter
writing campaign opposing the dams. Please do not write further
letters at this time. Read on to learn
about how local citizens protested.
WHAT'S
HAPPENING WITH THE DAM PROJECTS?
We
are in a "STUDY PHASE:" The applicant has up to 36
months to develop and implement a study plan. During this time
he is supposed to identify all areas of concern, establish a
benchmark of existing conditions and identify appropriate scientifically
sound methods of studying the potential impacts of the project.
At the end of this period, this data will be the basis for decision
made by himself and FERC regarding the feasibility of the project.
PUBLIC
COMMENT PERIOD
THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT POINT IN THE PROCESS! We have an opportunity
to participate in making sure that all the impacts are addressed
in the study work. Government agencies will be requesting certain
studies but we, as individuals, also have a right to request
studies. Issues that are not raised now, and thus not carefully
evaluated, might not be allowed to be considered in the final
process.
HOW
CAN YOU PARTICIPATE?
Write
a letter-make a couple copies!
Think about what really concerns you about this project and write
a letter to the developer asking to study the impacts of his
project on your areas of concern. Some concerns and potential
studies are listed here to spark your thoughts!
Letters
at this phase should go to the applicant:
Mr. Richard Williamson
Copies
to FERC:
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
And
to Donna Boyd, who will be delivering a complete comment
packet of our letters to the appropriate Forest Service and agency
personnel.
Concerns and Potential Studies
Feasibility
of Projects
-site specific flow studies-both canyons/multiple years to determine
if viable flows exist
-sediment transport study to determine potential "silting-up"
of reservoirs including; evaluation of various options for addressing
silt buildup in long term operation
-restoration responsibilities of applicant in the event of project
failure.
Damage
to fish and/or other aquatic life
-biological assessments to identify existing populations and
their habits and habitat
-careful modeling of affects to habitat of changes in flows-short
and long term.
-potential impact to aquatic life from changes/loss to habitat
-potential impact from changes in water quality/temperature.
-identification of minimum in-stream flows to support healthy
continuing populations
-impacts from project construction, road building, increased
debris in stream beds
Damage
to Vegetation
-biological assessments to identify existing vegetation, particularly
within designated reservoir areas and facility areas.
-careful modeling of affects to, or loss of, stream banks from
changes in flows-short and long term-and the resultant impact
on stream side vegetation.
-impacts from project construction, road building, loss due to
facility placement.
Damage
to Surrounding Bird and Animal Populations
-biological assessments to identify existing populations and
their habits and habitat
-careful modeling of affects to habitat of changes in flows-short
and long term.
-impacts from project construction, road building
Safety
of Dam Projects
-assessment of potential for high winter flows to damage or destroy
dams including potential downstream impacts from resultant debris
flood, loss of roadways/access, and damage or malfunction of
transformer/power plant.
-safety assessment in and around project sites for both human
and wildlife users of the area.
Impacts
on Community/Siskiyou County
-quantitative assessment of current importance of project area
to local economy-including, but not limited to:
tourism, real estate values, recreation-angling/kayaking/mtn.
biking/hiking, etc.
-assessment for potential conflict with Siskiyou County's Lake
Siskiyou Watershed Conservation Plan and the Conservation element
of the county's General Plan
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORKS!
Together we
will make a difference. It's the American Way...
|
|