TEST RESULTS IN BUT CONCLUSIONS DEPEND ON WHO INTERPRETS THEM

We just had a major rain event and the lakes only rose 3ft.  That says under similar circumstances, had the lakes been down 2ft, the lakes would have ended up only 1ft above full pool.  This type of real life. full scale test gives beautiful data for deciding how much draw down should be used each winter for our basin.  But the conclusions that are drawn from such a test depend on who is interpreting the results.

If we look at the results from the perspective of downstream environmental interests or in terms of safety factors for water supply and water quality one could conclude the more draw down the better regardless of the results of this test.  If on the other hand you look at the results from the perspective of impact on recreational infrastructure which includes real estate around the lakes you would conclude that 2' draw down looks adequate.

In short our problem is not in having enough data.  Our problem is in whether true balance is provided between lake and downstream interests.  For the past decade the Corps has been vociferous on downstream needs, power quotas, etc. etc.  Repeatedly we are told that if any agency representing downstream interests balks at any action the corps may wish to take that action is abandoned.  We also have heard repeatedly that power production quotas must be met if at all possible.  During this same period of time, although lake interests have been screaming for less drop in lake levels, the corps has made no effort to accommodate those interests. And it has become glaringly obvious that lake interests are not represented when it comes to drought plan decisions.

Another facet of the same problem is the Corps uses the excuse that they need congressional approval for this or that change.  This could be solved by our congressmen helping the corps with their interpretation of the rules.  But our congressmen remain silent on the issue.  Apparently they have more important issues to contend with. Or maybe this is another example of why people have grown totally dissatisfied with the way congress is handling our problems.