Committee forwards Lake Level Management Plan after public comments on broken gauging station

A county resource committee voted to forward a Lake Level Management Plan to the Board of Supervisors after residents and committee members debated lake-level targets and the condition of a key gauging station.

Jeff Reed, a resident who spoke during public comment, told the committee the Department of Water Resources — which Reed said owns the broken gauging station at the Narrows — estimated repairs at about $7,000 and suggested the county explore a low‑tech stick gauge as a backup. "It's important to have a reliable gauge that transmits to citizens of the state and our county as well as to NOAA," Reed said.

The committee discussed historical guidance from a 1989 Fish and Wildlife management plan, which commenters said targeted lake levels between roughly 4 and 6 feet for habitat benefits. Speakers argued the lake has been managed at higher levels in recent decades, contributing to shoreline sedimentation and loss of submerged aquatic vegetation. One presenter recommended a lower target range to support possible future salmon reintroduction; another participant noted a 2016 court action that had directed an 8‑foot level for Fish and Wildlife.

Committee members and staff described procedural next steps: the committee will forward its plan and supporting comments to the Board of Supervisors for review and public hearing. Chair (S3) called for a motion; a motion was seconded and the committee approved the recommendation by voice vote. The transcript records members responding "Aye" but does not provide a roll-call tally.

The committee did not adopt an enforceable change to state permits or Fish and Wildlife management; members said those authorities and Coastal Commission permits would still be involved if the county pursues a different operational level. The plan will proceed to the Board of Supervisors, where the county will present the committee's recommendation and collected public comments.