Dear Editor,

Many philanthropic organizations and government agencies classify Siskiyou County as a “frontier.” Our minimal, scattered population is great for pilot programs, and there have been numerous pilot programs that have excelled expectations positively. However, there are endeavors that have and can bring devastation to our communities, such as the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement.

We are faced with, basically, an outside group whose agenda is to achieve fame for implementing the world’s largest dam removal project – the Klamath River’s four hydroelectric dams. Why is the KBRA so focused on destroying what is and has been saving lives, providing irrigation for farmers, supplying reasonable power rates, creating recreation opportunities with “man-made” lakes and establishing attractive real estate property, all while keeping water flow adequate for fish?

As a descendent of pioneering families and having helped self-publishing authors tell their memories, I’ve heard stories of thousands of rotting fish carcasses stranded during high run cycles before the dams were built. KBRA wants power to control Siskiyou County and the region – do you want to give that to them?

Too often agenda-driven groups function at the emotional level and are not burdened by the necessity of truth or scientific proof. This is so reminiscent of the geothermal battle that had good paying, long term jobs, but after a decade of fighting the developers left. We lost those jobs and are continuing to lose opportunities as the water issue takes center stage.

Who wants to invest in a “frontier” region where water, a mainstay of life, is dubious? This perpetual fight is detrimental to the economic growth.

Vote “no” on G in Siskiyou County.

Vote YES on 18-80 in Oregon.