Historic meeting on water relations between B.C. and Washington state to be held in Osoyoos in a three day session.

The Osoyoos Lake Water Science Forum will be held Sept. 18 to 20 in Osoyoos and is open to the public, and presented by:

·         the Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB)

·         the International Joint Commission,

·         Town of Osoyoos,

and several other U.S. and Canadian partners

Background:

For the last 25 years, lake levels on Osoyoos Lake have been controlled by the State of Washington through its Zosel Dam, following Operating Orders set by the International Joint Commission (IJC).

These orders are set to expire in February 2013.  This forum is intended to give the public an opportunity to provide comment regarding the renewal of the Operating Orders.

A number of issues are on the table for discussion, including lake levels but also how much water should be required to flow south across the border.

While the last order was for 25 years, the next one could be permanent.  This is an opportunity for people to learn about the issues and provide input before a new deal is signed for 2013.

Contact the Town of Osoyoos for information. Seats still available.