Chamber of commerce backs water agreement 

February 17, 2010

   The Klamath County Chamber of Commerce announced Tuesday it supports the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement because it would economically benefit the region.

   A majority of the chamber’s board members voted to support the agreement, pointing to immediate and long-term impacts of the landmark document and a related Klamath River dam removal agreement, according to a press release.

   Benefits cited by the chamber include $500,000 for economic development in Klamath County for fishery enhancement and tourism, tens of millions of dollars for restoration and related activities, development of renewable resources, and stability for agriculture.

   “Water supply predictability and regulatory streamlining for the region’s farmers and ranchers will be good for Klamath County businesses,” said Charles “Chip” Massie, the chamber’s executive director.  

   Chamber president Stan Gilbert said the agreements needed to be implemented in a way that would allow opponents to be heard, and the chamber can assist in that effort.