Hearings Set On Revised Plan For Rivers

A revised state water plan calls for federal agencies to use the state plan when protecting Idaho rivers, rather than imposing federal protection designations.

The draft plan also calls for the state to be directly involved with federal authorities in the endangered species listing process and developing recovery plans.

The plan, reviewed and adopted by the Idaho Legislature in 1992, is undergoing its five-year revision. The purpose of it is to guide the development, use, conservation and protection of the state’s water supplies.

The Idaho Water Resources Board is seeking public comment on whether Idahoans want the plan to emphasize development of water resources or management and protection.

Public hearings on the revised plan are being held around the state this month.

Planners and members of the board will take comments in Sandpoint at 7 p.m., Oct. 16, in the Bonner County Courthouse.

The next closest hearing will be in Lewiston at 7 p.m., Oct. 17, in the Snake River Room of the Student Union Building, Lewis and Clark State College.

Copies of the plan are available for review at Idaho Department of Water Resources regional offices located in Coeur d’Alene, Boise, Twin Falls and Idaho Falls. Or call (208) 327-7966.

Written comments will be accepted until Nov. 22.

, DataTimes