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Editor, Citrus Heights Bulletin:

In his recent mailer titled "Fighting for Flood Control,"
Congressman Vic Fazio claims that an expandable Auburn Dam "will
not create a permanent reservoir," and assures us that "this dam
will only back up water and create a temporary pool immediately
after a major rainstorm." 

Considering the likelihood that an expandable dam would eventually
be "expanded," his assurances are misleading. Further, he does not 
explain why we must spend $120 million to reroute highway 49 for
a "dry dam."

Members of the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA) stated
that, "Ever since the disastrous floods occurred in this area in
1986, we have been working hard to protect Sacramento from a repeat
flood disaster in the future." [Sacramento Bee 9/10/92] This
statement suggests that an Auburn Dam would have prevented the 1986
flooding. In fact Auburn Dam provides no protection against similar
flooding under similar conditions: The 1986 flood waters did not
originate from the American River.

In support of a multi-purpose dam, Rep. John Doolittle said local
funding would allow local control and keep most of the water in the
area [Bulletin 7/22/92]. By "local control" does he mean the
Sacramento valley residents who will be taxed to fund the dam? Or
does he mean water will be siphoned off by new foothill development
prior to reaching Folsom Reservoir? Indeed, Sacramento valley
residents may be forced to fund a dam which will reduce their water
reserves.

The volume of water dumped from Folsom Reservoir this summer
roughly equals the volume pumped south. Does Doolittle contend that
local government would be permitted to cut off water to Southern
California? His promise of "keeping most of the water in the area"
is a fantasy.

The primary reason Folsom Reservoir provides poor flood protection
is that it cannot release at full capacity until it is 85% full.
Even a lowered level cannot provide adequate protection given this
limitation.

This emotionally charged issue is fueled by omissions, half-
truths, and misleading statements by our leaders.

Sincerely, 
Mr. Kim Berry
 
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        Kim Berry              kberry@sactoh0.SAC.CA.US