Field reports: Dworshak project lawsuit pending

FISHERIES – An Orofino man has filed a notice of intent to sue the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game over a program that adds nutrients to Dworshak Reservoir.

Both agencies are in the midst of a five-year pilot project that adds nutrients to the 55-mile-long reservoir to boost the growth of phytoplankton in order to promote kokanee growth.

Ron Hanes, represented by the law firm Bricklin and Newman and the Gonzaga Environmental Law Clinic of Spokane, claims the two agencies failed to secure the proper permits for the program and the nutrients are leading to blue-green algae blooms.

Hanes said the blooms are likely contributing to disease issues at Dworshak National Fish Hatchery.

Lewiston Tribune

Umatilla tightens campground rules

FORESTS – New regulations are being posted at some Umatilla National Forest campgrounds to reduce overcrowding, prevent damage and increase safety.

Except for designated group areas, developed campsites will be limited to no more than eight people, two tents or trailers and two full-size vehicles.

Entry to campgrounds will be prohibited from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. for people who are not camping.

Info: (541) 278-3716.

Rich Landers

Hosts go green at Lake Roosevelt

PARKS – Volunteer campground hosts at five of the most visited campgrounds at Lake Roosevelt NRA are riding “green” this season.

Five new Gem el XD® electric work vehicles have been purchased to reduce the park’s carbon footprint, and promote the values of clean and quiet vehicles.

The volunteers have been trained to help educate visitors on reducing their impact on the park and other park visitors.

For info on the vehicle: http:/tinyurl.com/ greenrig/

Staff and wire reports

Retrievers tested

HUNTING – The 2010 North American Hunting Retriever Association’s National Invitational Hunt Test is set for June 15-20 at the Spokane Bird Dog Association’s 320-acre Espanola training grounds west of Medical Lake.

The event is open to dogs that have earned a Master Hunter Retriever title.

Info: www.spokanebirddog.org/

Rich Landers

Hike the Cascades

TRAILS – Guidebook author Craig Romano will present a free slide program on “Dayhiking the Central Cascades” Thursday, 7 p.m., at REI.

Rich Landers