Final Klamath Dam Removal Decision on Horizon while Irrigators Test Water Regulators’ Resolve
It was a busy week for regulatory agencies on the Klamath.
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) staff released the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) on Klamath dam removal. The FEIS sums up the pros and cons associated with dam removal, and in this case, makes a strong case for approving dam removal plans; the Commission will review the FEIS and make a final decision later this year.
Early last week, the Klamath Irrigation District (KID) made headlines when they openly defied new federal orders to cease diversions from Upper Klamath Lake. The Bureau of Reclamation responded by saying that if the diversions continued, it would threaten the district's ability to claim federal drought relief funding. The diversions to the A Canal were turned off shortly after.
Meanwhile, in California, ranchers in the Shasta Valley suddenly defied state orders and began diverting surface water from the Shasta River, instantly dropping water levels in the river by 40%. Local Tribes demanded action from the state, which promptly told ranchers to halt diversions or face fines. Those diversions have since ceased, and the river has returned to state mandated flows to protect fish.
Explore the articles below to learn more.
News
FERC releases final environmental statement on Klamath dam removal – Times-Standard
The federal agency that regulates hydroelectric dams has issued its final environmental impact statement for the removal of the dams on the Klamath River a month earlier than expected and that could mean dam removal would begin early next year.
Southern Oregon officials reverse course, halt water deliveries to farmers under federal order - oregonlive.com
The Klamath Irrigation District in southern Oregon has reversed course and now says it has complied with a U.S. government order to stop delivering water to farmers in the drought-stricken area.
California drought: Ranchers told to halt water diversions - Los Angeles Times
California has warned the farmers and ranchers to comply with orders aimed at protecting fish suffering from drought and a devastating wildfire.
Big win for endangered Klamath Basin fish in first round of federal funding – Oregon Capital Chronicle
Endangered suckers and salmon in the Klamath Basin face a greater shot at survival thanks to federal funds awarded this week.
Firefighters fight spot fires in McKinney Fire burn area
Here are updates on fires burning in Northern California.
Why suppressing wildfires may be making the Western fire crisis worse - OPB
There is growing acknowledgment among veteran managers that these modern wildfires burning amid record heat waves and extreme drought can never be stopped by firefighters alone.
Media coverage of wildfires: Where should reporters draw the line?
When covering wildfires, reporters juggle a desire to give audiences up-to-the minute information and a need to respect residents’ and first responders’ boundaries. What is the media’s responsibility in such fast-moving situations?
Wildfire smoke is choking Indigenous communities | Grist
With government monitoring lagging behind, members are installing their own monitors.
Klamath River Renewal Corporation Seeks Tribal-Affiliated Businesses, Individuals for Dam Removal Project | Wild Rivers Outpost | Del Norte, Curry Counties
The Klamath River Renewal Corporation and Kiewit, the contractor it hired to spearhead the removal of four hydroelectric dams on the river, is holding a hiring outreach at Yurok Tribal Office in Klamath on Saturday.
More Condors To Fly Free Over California Redwoods After 100-Year Absence
Until this year, the rare and endangered California condor had not been seen flying free in Northern California, once part of their historic range, since 1892.
In Case You Missed It...
FERC Staff Issues the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Hydropower License Surrender and Decommissioning of the Lower Klamath Project No. 14803 (P-14803-001) | Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Docket Number: P-14803-001 Issued: February 25, 2022
Commission Staff prepared a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the surrender, decommissioning, and removal of project works of the Lower Klamath Hydroelectric Project No. 14803.
Klamath Irrigation District says it will defy federal order to halt farmer water deliveries - OPB
The bureau has said the project is now out of water and ordered a shutdown last week, but irrigation district directors met Monday and authorized the district's manager, Gene Souza, to continue operations, the Capital Press reported.
Sister of 73-year-old McKinney fire victim sues PacifiCorp utility - Los Angeles Times
The sister of longtime fire lookout Kathy Shoopman and dozens of others are suing PacifiCorp, alleging wrongful death, negligence and other claims.
