Mendocino County discusses Lake Pillsbury's water flow and dam safety concerns

In a recent Town Hall meeting held in Lake County, California, community members gathered to discuss the future of Lake Pillsbury and the Potter Valley Project dams, raising critical questions about water dependency and environmental impacts. The atmosphere was charged with concern as residents voiced their reliance on the lake for water supply, particularly during the dry summer months.

One participant highlighted the significant role Lake Pillsbury plays in supplying water to Cloverdale and Mendocino County, emphasizing that the lake acts as a crucial supplement to the water supply, especially when Lake Mendocino runs low. “There is a total of 39,000 acre-feet being released into the Russian River that goes through Cloverdale currently,” they noted, stressing that this amount is barely sufficient for the community's needs, particularly in fire-prone months.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of potential infrastructure projects, with estimates reaching up to $2 billion. Residents expressed concern over the burden these costs could place on taxpayers and ratepayers. “It’s important that the public understands how much of that is on their backs,” one speaker remarked, advocating for a study to explore options for preserving and modernizing the Scott Dam to enhance water supply resilience.

Steve Lynch, a local resident with deep ties to the area, passionately shared his memories of the lake and the dual purpose of the dams in flood control and water retention. He urged for a thorough evaluation of the water flows before making any decisions about dismantling the dam, suggesting a mock trial to assess the impacts of shutting off the penstock. “People don’t understand that the water you expect to be flowing in the summer just isn’t there,” he cautioned, reflecting a broader sentiment of uncertainty about the future of the river and its ecosystems.

As the meeting concluded, the community's commitment to preserving their water resources and ensuring sustainable management of Lake Pillsbury was evident. The discussions underscored the delicate balance between environmental stewardship and the needs of local residents, leaving attendees with a sense of urgency to advocate for informed decision-making in the face of potential changes to their water supply.