Subject: Notice
that Klamath Project Water Not Currently Available
Dear Water Users:
Reclamation is currently operating the
Klamath Project (Project) in accordance with the 2009 Annual
Operations Plan which expires on March 31, 2010. Current
hydrologic conditions indicate a potential for shortage of
water in the upper basin and, if precipitation does not
increase significantly over the next few months, severe
water shortages are likely during the upcoming 2010
irrigation season. Therefore, you are notified that
Project water is not available for use until such time as
the 2010 Operations Plan or other such written notification
is completed. (Emphasis in original letter)
Reclamation is in the process of developing
the 2010 Annual Operations Plan. While it is possible that
there may be drastic reductions in project agriculture and
refuge deliveries in 2010, Reclamation is working diligently
to mitigate such an outcome. To date, Reclamation has not
made a determination as to whether and to what extent
Project water could be made available for irrigation. Thus,
until such a determination is made, no Project water may be
diverted or used unless expressly authorized by Reclamation.
Finally, we wish to acknowledge and extend
our gratitude to individuals and organizations within the
water user community who have provided cooperation and
assistance in the formulation of the elements of the 2010
Plan to deal with current hydrologic conditions. We expect
and intend to continue this inclusive, cooperative
relationship during the next few difficult weeks as the
consultations are completed and the 2010 Plan is finalized.
If you have questions, or wish to discuss the
details of this notice or other elements of the planning
process, please feel free to contact me at 541-883-6935.
Sincerely,
/signed/
Susan M. Fry
Area Manager