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The impact of a pump down of an additional 80 feet is called out in this report by noting that "there may be negative impacts on the quality and quantity of domestic wells in the area'. The stated response is that "a selection of wells will be monitored and mitigated as needed". No one knows whose well will be monitored or what will the mitigations entail. We suggest that All Wells in the area be proactively mitigated by drilling them to a depth that will insure continued access to potable water as is required by -Public Health. These mitigations should be completed before the pumping plant is activated. The local Fire District (FD4) has concerns that when the water level is drawn down an additional 80 feet there will be no ability to draw water for active fire suppression. A mitigation for the Fire District could be adding a well or storage tank of sufficient volume that will address fire suppression needs. Other options may exist but will it be the role of DOE or Rosa to fulfil the mitigations? A better definition of mitigation and timing for a proactive program is needed. During construction and primary operation of a pumping plant very heavy materials will need to be transported to the site on Kittitas County roads. Our roads in the area are not built to carry that level of service and will sustain serious damage. Will proactive mitigation compensate for upgrading the roads in the area? Will the roads need to be improved to a much higher carrying capacity before construction begins? When the pumping plant is operating there is concern that diesel generators will be needed to power the electric pumps. The noise of generators cannot be controlled to the point that the surrounding residents anywhere on the lake will not be inundated. The better plan would be to upgrade the electrical service to the pump site so as to remove the need for diesel generators entirely. The pump noises will be difficult to control. Therefore a better option is to place the pumps on land so that buildings can attempt to control the sound levels. Concern has been raised that once pumping starts it will continue. How long will this scenario play? The SDEIS mentions that the start is triggered by notice that the irrigators will receive less than 70% their allotment. Will the pump start at the notice or when curtailment is to begin? What is the cutoff? Will environmental health of the area be considered equally as the needs of Rosa irrigators? Agriculture in Kittitas County affects almost every resident who lives here. Many family members of farmers work "in Town". Many businesses provide services to farmers, shippers, and partners of our agricultural community. Water is required to continue to operate in all parts of the Yakima River Basin. Millions of dollars have been invested in restoring the wetlands, spawning beds, and removal of fish barriers to meet the obligations signed into treaty rights with the Yakama Nation and Ten Confederated Tribes. The Bull Trout, already listed as threatened, that live in the waters of the Kachess will be further harmed with a deep drawdown. The SDEIS suggests a mitigation plan to cut a 25 foot channel to assist the Bull Trout but with an 80 foot draw down, the difference of 55 feet is unlikely to be mitigated enough. KITTITAS COUNTY COURTHOUSE • 205 WEST 5T", RM 110 • ELLENSBURG, WA 98926 (509) 962-7508 • FAX (509) 962-7679