Grand Lake Level Bill Passes Second Committee

 

   A measure by Rep. Doug Cox (R-Grove) establishing a year round normal level for Grand Lake passed a second test in the legislature. 

   The bill  establishes the level at 745’ above sea level.  Rep. Larry Glenn (D-Miami) debated against the bill citing the results of the lawsuit brought by citizens of his district against GRDA over flooding issues.

   “I respect the concerns of Miami residents over the 745’ level.  744’ is perfectly acceptable to me.”  Cox also pointed out the bill continues to specify that “The established normal surface elevation shall not interfere with the authority of the Grand River Dam Authority to manage Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees for flood control and electricity generation purposes”.  In no way does this alter the ability to lower the lake to accommodate increased rainfall in the watershed”

   Rep. Ron Peters (R-Tulsa) pointed out that the lake level is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Agency (FERC). Cox said GRDA can use this legislation in support of arguments to FERC regarding the lake level.

   The real purpose of the bill, said Cox, is to eliminate the lowering of the lake to the 741’ level in August and September, prime tourism and boating time on the lake.  The lowering is for seeding of millet on the mudflats for waterfowl on the mudflats.

   Cox said over 4,000 resident and part time Grand Lakers signed petitions requesting elimination of the lowered lake level.  Many said it created problems with their docks, launching their boats, and navigational hazards.  Fisheries experts feel the lower lake level is detrimental to the fish population by eliminating shore cover for fish frye hatched that spring.

   This bill will help GRDA eliminate the unpopular millet program, said Cox, which is being replaced by thousands of acres of acres of wetland sanctuary.

   The bill passed out of committee with a vote of 12-2 with the promise of Rep. Cox to continue to work with Rep. Glenn and Senate author Charles Wyrick (D-Fairland) to attempt to find language acceptable to all parties.

 

Rep. Doug Cox, State Capitol Building, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd.,

Office 334, Oklahoma City, OK 73105

 

Office Number: 405.557.7415, email address: DougCox@okhouse.gov

 

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