February 16, 2007

Ms. Carol Collier

Executive Director Delaware

River Basin Commission

Dear Ms. Collier,

As Revision VIII draws near, we are under the impression that a very complex methodology is being considered as the foundation of the proposed new Revision. Of course, we look forward to being given the opportunity to review the specifics, as I'm sure do all River users.

Although there is a wide spread public belief that a 600 cfs release regime (or something in that vicinity) cannot be safely provided for the fishery (from mid May through September), we have never been shown any scientific studies concluding that a 500 to 600 cfs constant minimum release program cannot be afforded the fishery under most conditions. Obviously, if reservoir storage were to be low, releases would need to be reduced, but we would argue that all River users should bear the pain. By this we mean that water use reductions should be shared proportionately by all and not simply forced on the fishing community. If the DRBC has conducted or has available studies showing that a 500-600 release regime during the warm weather months is not feasible in most years, we would greatly appreciate your forwarding them both conclusions and supporting data - to us at your earliest convenience

Fully integrated with concerns for adequate releases is our concern with water temperature. As you know, cool water is critical for the survival of the upper Delaware wild trout populations. It is our understanding that the new Revision VIII dismisses temperature requirements particularly on the upper main stem. These requirements have been in place for decades. If the dismissal of thermal requirements is indeed being proposed, we would greatly appreciate your forwarding to us the studies and supporting data the DRBC has that justify the need for the elimination of these requirements. We also would like to see the studies the DRBC has showing that the critically needed temperature requirements for the wild trout and aquatic insect populations will be insured under the new Revision.

The materials I've requested above would greatly improve our understanding of the DRBC proposed new directions and can be sent via either email or hard copy to our regular mailing address (P.O. Box 69, Minoa, NY 13116). Thank you Carol and I look forward to hearing from you.

Craig Findley
President
Friends of the Upper Delaware River