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May 12, 1999 To Parties, Bay-Delta Water Rights Hearing PHASE 7 MAPS AND BRIEFING SCHEDULE On April 27, 1999, at the end of Phase 7 of the Bay-Delta Water Rights Hearing, I announced that the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) would have the consultants who prepared the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) complete the EIR for Phase 7. The consultant will be instructed not to divulge the SWRCB’s instructions to the Bureau of Reclamation or to any other party unless specifically authorized. Any directions given to the Bureau of Reclamation or received from it will be copied to all of the parties. I pointed out that in completing the EIR, the SWRCB would direct the preparation of maps that would replace the place of use maps in the draft EIR. At that time, I also indicated a desire to have legal descriptions of the water districts’ boundaries. I have since decided not to ask for the legal descriptions or any other additional evidence in connection with Phase 7 at this time. The SWRCB will take into account the briefs filed by the parties for Phase 7 before finalling any place of use maps to be used in connection with the draft EIR, including any maps that resolve the issues of whether or not certain areas currently are within a place of use of the Central Valley Project. The briefs may address the proper interpretation of the existing boundaries of the places of use, as well as any arguments regarding whether or not the boundaries should be expanded to include areas that may not currently be within a place of use of a water right permit or license held by the Bureau of Reclamation. Briefs for Phase 7 will be due on June 8, 1999. If you have any questions about this letter, you may contact Barbara J. Leidigh, Senior Staff Counsel, at (916) 657-2102. Sincerely,
James Stubchaer Hearing Officer and Chairman |
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