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Congressman Barrett Statement concerning recent Army Corps of Engineers Announcement

Thursday October 16, 2008

Congressman Barrett Statement concerning recent
Army Corps of Engineers Announcement

Anderson, SC - Congressman Gresham Barrett (SC, 3) released the following statement in reaction to an announcement by the Army Corps of Engineers to expedite the process to reduce the downstream outflows from the Thurmond Dam.

"I am pleased that the Army Corps of Engineers is working with us to help reduce the outflow downstream to 3100 cubic feet per second (cfs)," said Barrett. "While I appreciate the complexities of managing our lakes and rivers, especially during drought conditions, there are common sense solutions that can be implemented to reduce the effects on our upper lakes while still protecting those downstream."

"The situation in our upper lakes is critical and action must be taken sooner rather than later. I will continue to work with the Corps, my local lake organizations, constituents, and the Governors of Georgia and South Carolina to ensure this issue is resolved as quickly as possible and in a manner that is both environmentally and economically sound. I am extremely hopeful and confident that a quick and responsible decision can be made immediately after the October comment period ends."

Congressman Barrett has maintained constant contact with the Army Corps of Engineers, lake community organizations, his constituents, and representatives from both Georgia and South Carolina state government on this issue. In fact, since coming to Congress in 2003, Barrett has put lake levels and water related issues at the top of his agenda. Working with Governor Sanford, Barrett made sure a representative from his office is able to attend state level meetings affecting the Savannah River basin.

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