Leaburg Dam Demolition: A Community Fights for Leaburg Lake’s Future
An intense debate is unfolding in Oregon regarding the Leaburg Dam Demolition. The Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) plans to decommission the Leaburg Dam. This action would drain Leaburg Lake, and an Oregon community is fighting to save it. They fear significant economic and environmental losses stemming from the proposed Leaburg Dam Demolition. The fight highlights a clash between infrastructure development and local heritage, impacting many Oregon residents as EWEB considers its dam plan.
A Prized Community Asset Threatened by Leaburg Dam Demolition
Leaburg Lake is more than just water; it’s a vital hub for recreation, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Leaburg Dam Road sees over 100,000 vehicles each year. Popular spots include the Leaburg Fish Hatchery. EWEB’s own Lloyd Knox Park also draws many. The McKenzie Discovery Center is undergoing renovations, focusing on enhancing the river experience. These attractions drive local tourism and support area businesses. Draining the lake due to the Leaburg Dam Demolition would end these activities, a major concern for the economy.
EWEB’s Decommissioning Plan and the Leaburg Dam Demolition
EWEB’s decision stems from aging infrastructure. The Leaburg Hydroelectric Project needs costly repairs. Estimates suggest millions for decommissioning, and repairing the canal to meet modern seismic standards is also expensive. EWEB cites a desire to provide cheaper electricity. They currently buy power from the Bonneville Power Administration, which is much less costly. EWEB views decommissioning as economically responsible and plans to restore the McKenzie River to a free-flowing state. This process is expected to take years, with the actual Leaburg Dam Demolition potentially not starting until the 2030s. EWEB hired McMillen, Inc. to manage the complex project of the Leaburg Dam Demolition.
Community Rallies Against EWEB’s Dam Plan
Organizations like Oregon Citizens for Energy Security oppose the EWEB dam plan. They argue EWEB’s analysis is incomplete, overlooking the lake’s broader community value. They believe the lake is crucial for tourism and supports local agriculture; many farmers depend on irrigation from the Leaburg Canal, and homeowners also rely on this water. Losing the lake due to the Leaburg Dam Demolition means losing these resources. Critics worry about a severe economic blow, seeing it as dismantling a valuable asset and questioning the energy security aspect. Retaining the facility offers regional resilience and provides a local power source.
Environmental and Infrastructural Questions Surrounding the Leaburg Dam Demolition
EWEB claims dam removal will benefit endangered salmon and reduce temperature exposure in the river. However, concerns remain for the Leaburg Fish Hatchery, which relies on lake water, and its future is unclear. The dam itself is described as low-impact, with functioning fish ladders aiding migration. Removing the dam, however, creates new infrastructure needs. Property owners on the east side require a new bridge, and Leaburg Dam Road needs upgrades. These costs are not fully accounted for, and community members want a full environmental assessment, feeling decisions regarding the Leaburg Dam Demolition should not be rushed.
Separately, Oregon State Parks are considering rule changes affecting the Special Access Pass. Proposed changes limit eligibility and caps free camping nights annually. Officials cite budget shortfalls and rising costs, impacting state park access for many and adding another layer of concern for Oregonians in the broader context of resource management.
An Ongoing Debate Over Leaburg Dam Demolition
The future of Leaburg Lake is still being decided. EWEB’s decision regarding the Leaburg Dam Demolition requires federal approval, with key agencies like FERC and NEPA needing to sign off. This means public input remains vital. Many in Oregon hope to explore solutions and advocate for retaining this community treasure. This news highlights a critical debate balancing progress with local preservation. The community’s voice will be crucial as they seek to protect their way of life and oppose the current EWEB dam plan and the looming Leaburg Dam Demolition, hoping to save Leaburg Lake from its impending fate.
