I thought the new agreement was positive in nature.

There was no talk of water flows or guarantees which had been a pre-negotiation concern. Obviously I was very pleased to see that this was not a consideration.

There was a mention of sustainable flows for fish. With our record new salmon returns this is an important inclusion.

There was mention of an IWI (International Watershed Initiative). This would provide local (Wash/BC) input on everything effecting Lake levels. I also am relieved to hear that quality was mentioned in the agreement.

Some of the lake levels under drought conditions were adjusted. These downward adjusted numbers will have less impact on lake front property owners.

There was also consideration of a smoother transition of Lake levels. This smoother transition along with a stronger communication commitment will certainly allay some on the citizen’s concerns.

The agreement has moved from a term to an agreement in perpetuity with a mandatory re-visit clause within 25 years or upon request from either party.

This is an acceptable agreement. However, as both the Mayor of Osoyoos and Chair of the Okanagan Basin Water Board I will be working to create the IWI. It is time for local input into local maters. We have a great relationship with Washington State and I think a joint Board dealing with all quantity and quality concerns is in order and is the right governance model.