Information | Take Action | Press | Handouts |

Low rainfall early in 2005, coupled with diversion mismanagement, graphically show the river less than 7.5 cubic feet per second (CFS). (CA Dept. of Fish and Game's legal minimum for fish survival). The sediment visible was caused by breach in the irrigation canal that would be used for this project occurred in November 2004. This project is NOT worth draining this beautiful river! (more...)

They Want Us to Think This Project – Is Good for Our County

The reality is:

• NO extra water added to West Valley Reservoir for any local use

• NO new jobs brought to the area – construction by out-of-area workers – the power plant is run by computer, monitored part time by one existing employee

• NO lower local electric bills – power joins the general grid and could even cost county residents more!

• Reduced local revenue – project would use public land virtually tax free – and nearby devalued properties generate less tax

• Profits go to a private company in Idaho and his millionaire developer investor who has made a deal with the South Fork Irrigation District

• Very little power produced for the huge amount of damage done

• NO amount of river restoration makes up for the water being gone

We will lose:

• Three miles of beautiful river reduced to a trickle – up to 93% taken all year-round

• Valuable scenic beauty – utility buildings, pipes, and the drained river all would be visible next to Jess Valley Road, on the reservoir shore, and near homes and Native American sites

• Lost visitor dollars – popular National Forest riverside camping and fishing spots along Jess Valley Road and Old Blue Lake Road – West Valley (“Short”) Creek would be encased in pipe (more...)

(top)

Site Map

©2007 Friends of the South Fork Pit River