Department of Water Resources
A daily compilation of significant news articles and comment
June 14, 2007
3. Watersheds -
Worries delay NID canal work
Neighbors want answers about impacts
The
By Union Staff
Concerns for the environment have halted a proposed replacement of eight old flumes on the
The postponement Wednesday followed comments made by Trevor Robbins of Pinewoods Road and Roger Davis of Big Blue Road, who objected to tree cutting, wildlife and ecosystem impacts, aesthetics, noise, access, traffic and other issues.
NID Chief Engineer Gary King asked for the delay, saying he and his staff would do their best to mitigate concerns the residents claimed were not adquately covered in environmental studies.
The
When NID developed the canal system in 1926-28, it included 31 wood and metal flumes.
Over the years, 23 flumes have been replaced, leaving eight old structures.
NID project engineer Tonia Tabucchi Herrera said the old flumes require continued maintenance and pose fire and safety risks.
Downstream water restrictions have been imposed because of canal limitations, she noted. The district is estimating the flume replacement work will take two years and cost $6 million.
Studies, announcements and other project information are available for public review under project documents in the Planning and Development section of the NID website at www.nidwater.com.
Board President Scott Miller said the board would likely consider the project again in July, when directors will be asked to approve the project, its environmental studies and a mitigation monitoring program.#
http://www.theunion.com/article/20070614/WEBUPDATE/70614002
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