Klamath Co. commissioners hear public comment on KBRA

By Emily Wood
 
January 27, 2010
 
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Klamath County commissioners heard public opinion Wednesday night concerning the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement.
 
The KBRA, which could be signed as early as next month, would lead to the decommissioning of four hydropower dams along the Klamath River. It proposes guaranteed water for farmers and irrigators in the Klamath Basin while preserving minimum flows for salmon habitat. Enough groups, including government representatives, Indian tribes, fishermen, and conservation groups must approve the final document before that happens. Portland-based utility PacifiCorp, which owns the dams, has already agreed to terms for their removal.
 
Actual removal of the dams would not start until 2020. Proponents point out, in addition to the parties signing the KBRA, the agreement says if more than $200 million is needed for dam removal, a $250 million water bond would come before California voters or through other means.
 
More than than 250 people were attendance at the meeting. Those opposed said the KBRA is suicide for the Klamath Basin and denies water and cheap power. Those in support said it is the best compromise farmers, irrigators and tribes have been able to come to in decades.
 
The commissioners are tentatively scheduled to meet Monday, February 8th get more information from the writers of the agreement.