Mono County objects to Settlement
The waterfowl habitat restoration plan that emerged out of the Settlement did not enjoy the same unanimity of support as did the stream plan. In a 3-2 vote, Mono County supervisors opposed the waterfowl element of the Settlement. The basis of the County's objection was the concern that the Mill Creek restoration proposal would affect the County's opportunities to raise fish on the Conway Ranch, which the County hopes to purchase.
People for Mono Basin Preservation, a new group in the Basin, also opposed the Settlement.
Concerns expressed in the county with regard to "dewatering" Conway Ranch, including impacts on fish-rearing, could likely be addressed and satisfied should the Mill Creek proposal be approved for consideration. The outstanding question would be wintertime flows in Wilson Creek, which runs through the Conway Ranch and carries Mill Creek water.
The Water Board specifically retains final authority over restoration projects that might have environmental impacts. Any decision on the Mill Creek restoration proposal ultimately will be made by the Water Board.
Settlement reached on Mono Basin restoration
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