Enlargement of Crowley Lake

In response to the article by attorney Antonio Rossman (Editorial Pages, July 21), “A Chance for Peace at Crowley Lake,” the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power believes an enlarged Crowley Lake will be a benefit to both Los Angeles and the Inyo/Mono area.

Since there is concern about the impact of the project on saline Mono Lake, the DWP has made the commitment that the project will be operated in a manner that will result in no increase in water diversions from the Mono Basin.

The water supply for the larger reservoir will come from conserving above normal runoff from the Owens River drainage area.

Public meetings have been held with the Board of Supervisors of Mono and Inyo counties and the city councils of Mammoth Lakes and Bishop to inform them of the project. Future meetings will be held on the project.

We believe the proposed enlargement of Crowley Lake makes sense. The project should, however, be evaluated on its own merits and any final decision should be based on the advantages and disadvantages associated with a larger reservoir.

The Crowley Lake project will move forward only if there is support from the people and elected officials from Mono and Inyo counties.

The positive benefits to recreation and water conservation, we believe, will make this project desirable for the benefit of the people of Los Angeles, Mono and Inyo counties, as well as the visitors from Southern California.

RICK CARUSO

President

Los Angeles Department

of Water and Power