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Josephine County commissioners approve distributing opposition letter on Murphy Dam removal
Summary
Commissioners expressed concerns about irrigation, groundwater recharge, firefighting water and agricultural impacts related to the proposed removal of Murphy Dam on the Applegate River and approved moving a draft opposition letter to regulatory agencies and stakeholders.
Chair Ron A. Smith opened discussion on the proposed removal of Murphy Dam on the Applegate River, noting new permit information received through the County Planning Department. Commissioners and staff raised multiple concerns including the potential loss of irrigation infrastructure, reduced groundwater recharge benefits, effects on agricultural operations, and decreased firefighting water availability for local landowners.
The transcript records mention of Water Watch of Oregon as an involved party and that the regulatory review process and public comment opportunities, including submissions to the Department of Environmental Quality, are available. Commissioner Colene M. Martin expressed support for a draft opposition letter prepared for distribution; Commissioner Gary L. Richardson said he wanted additional review time but did not prevent the board from moving forward. The board approved distributing the letter to relevant agencies and interested parties without objection.
The board did not record a formal vote count in the transcript for the letter distribution; the action was approved by consensus to proceed with sending the letter to regulatory agencies and stakeholders. The board did not take additional formal land-use action or direct staff to pursue litigation at this meeting.
