The Klamath County Commissioners took public comment on dam removal, and the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement today…But some believe the commissioners have already made up their minds.
The commissioners say they want to know if they should be playing an active role in backing the KBRA, or not.
An overflow crowd was divided on the issue.
“So I ask you, commissioners, to stay engaged.” Testified Gary Wright, a Klamath Project irrigator. “We feel whether you like it or not, the KBRA is, and could be a way to keep the water flowing.”
Klamath Project irrigator Brent Cheyne disagrees, citing uncertainty over power rates…
“As it stands right now, I am not a supporter of the KBRA as it is written.”
Backers say the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement would help to provide more reliable water supplies for project farmers.
Opponents say that removing four dams from the Klamath River is too high a price to pay.
All three commissioners have already expressed a strong opposition to dam removal.
“It’s obvious that they’ve made up their minds.” Stated Klamath Tribes Vice-Chairman Don Gentry. “It seems to me from comments that the commissioners have made, that they don’t fully understand the agreements.”
Ann Watson wanted to know if the commissioners have a better plan…
“Today’s job as commissioners is to decide if the community should remain at the KBRA table, or just throw your hands up in the air, and scream ‘no no no’. That’s always worked well in the past.”
You can still comment on the issue by sending an email to: [email protected]
The commissioners will be taking comments through 5:pm Friday.
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