Please take a moment to send a quick comment in support of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's (ODFW) proposed budget for the agency's water program for the 2009-11 Biennium. While the 2009 Legislative Session is still months off, critical budget decisions are being made NOW.

ODFW is requesting $850,000 to support its water program. The draft proposal includes funding for five positions, including an instream flow specialist, a hydrologist, and a team leader and two associated regional positions to work on water right application issues.

These positions are critical to protecting Oregon's rivers and streams and the fish and other aquatic species that depend upon them. Funding of these positions will help ensure that instream water rights are protected, that the state moves forward in its determination and protection of "peak flow" needs of rivers and fish, and, importantly, that fish and river needs are considered in water allocation decisions. Without adequate ODFW staffing our precious river resources are at risk in water permitting decisions.

Comment by May 5th by filling out the "town hall comment form" (click on "Town Hall Meeting Comment Form" about two-thirds down the page).

Please:
• Voice your strong support for funding of ODFW's "water program capacity" proposal
• Tell ODFW full funding of the "water program" should be a priority
• Urge ODFW to ensure that the determination and protection of "peak flows" be key component of final "water program" budget

You can also attend a town hall meeting near you. See schedule or get more information: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/agency/budget/index.asp#Town

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