Bay Area reservoir proposal raises concerns

Paul Rogers (“Plans under way for new Bay Area reservoir, but … ,” Page 1A, July 19) writes about the Santa Clara Valley Water District’s plans to expand the North Fork Dam. One of the key issues of concern includes the miles of essential riparian habitat as well as important cultural artifacts that will be inundated with the expansion of the dam. Additionally, the cost vs. benefit is questionable. The application alone for Proposition 1 funding will cost approximately $900,000 with no guarantee that the project will pass or garner enough financial support to be viable.

Finally, of greatest concern is the usage and storage of water imported from the Delta being released into local creeks, something the National Marine Fisheries Service has expressed concerns about in the past. The Water District has neglected to consult local environmental groups for their guidance in addressing these issues, which is critical if they intend to progress further with their construction plans. — K. M. Joffray, Sierra Club Researcher Palo Alto