IDFG has stated that developing a “high-value fishery” would generate $1.5 million in annual benefits to the local area. To achieve this level of benefit, based on IDFG’s own data, would require an additional 7,300 fisher-people visits to Priest River every year – a number not even in the realm of the possible, due to many reasons, including the short season and lack of the public river accessibility. IDFG has also stated they will not stock the river. A senior IDFG official said “in any event, we have no intention of trying to support the fishery with stocking if a cold-water bypass is implemented. We would rely on reproduction of wild fish, that’s free.” The assessment that the fish are “free” ignores the upfront cost of $8.2-$16.5 million-plus ongoing operations, maintenance, and replacement expense.
Sen. Scott Herndon, R-Sagle, presented Senate Bill 1021, which would amend that law to stipulate the existing dam is the only structure authorized to release water from the lake, and that no siphon, gravity bypass, or other bypass device may be constructed without prior approval from the legislature and the governor.
February 13, 2023 Update: S1021 passed in the Senate 27 to 7 with 1 absent. It now moves to the House’s Resources & Conservation Committee. It will be considered there on March 9th.
There are 3 steps, out of 5, remaining in our efforts to preserve the lake:
Bill passes in Idaho Senate Committee on Resources and Environment
Bill passes in Idaho Senate
Idaho House Committee on Resources & Conservation March 9
Then Passage by the entire House of Representatives.
Bill signed by the Governor.
DO EMAIL OR CALL THE REPRESENTATIVES LISTED IN THE EMAIL YOU RECEIVED. THEY MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE.
Reminder:
PLCOA Annual Meeting
August 6, 2022 - 9:00 AM
Inn at Priest Lake
Guest Speakers
2022 VAFO Update, Leasing Update, Forestry Update – Speaker Josh Purkiss IDL Director of Real Estate
Asia Williams – Newly-elected Bonner County
East Priest Lake Fire District Update – Speaker Ann McKinstry (Commissioner)
New Bonner County Commission for PL Area: Speaker Asia Williams
Priest Lake Water Quality/Temperature Findings – Speaker Dr. James Lee
Stop the Priest Lake Siphon – Speaker Allan Songstag