Dent Public Meeting
May 29, 2009


On Friday, May 29th, Congressman Charlie Dent held a public meeting at the Easton Public Library.  I attended on behalf of the DRC and requested that Congressman Dent send a letter to Governor Rendell asking for another ordered release of the swollen and spilling reservoirs just as he did in Dec. '08 after our organization sent him a request to do so. 
 
I explained that 2 of the 3 reservoirs that directly affect those of us downstream, are currently spilling due to the multiple rain events over the past 2 months.  I explained that the advocacy groups are VERY concerned with 2009 hurricane season officially starting on Mon. June 1st.  We are currently in the same situation as in the April '05 flood, in relation to the reservoir levels and rainfall to date, and we are extremely worried about another flooding event this year.  
 
He agreed that he would send a letter upon our request.  I will be sending a formal request today to Collin Long, his legislative assistant in Washington DC that oversees all issues pertaining to the Delaware River Basin, and he will have Congressman Dent send a letter immediately.   
 
To those of you who may be home on Monday morning, June 1st, Good Morning America (ABC  7am-9am) will be reporting on the first day of the 2009 hurricane season as to what we can expect for this year. 
 
There is still much work to be done.  Advocating for year round safety voids, a FFMP that works for all parties concerned, and investgating the state of the dams, tunnels, and reservoirs all along the basin and requesting repairs and upgrades where needed.  As we are all aware, our fight for these things will be one that takes time to accomplish.  I know that many of you out there have been advocating for these causes for over 5 years now and are growing weary, but let's not lose sight of our goals.  As Americans we have the right to stand up and speak for what we believe in, so please DON'T GIVE UP!  If we continue to apply pressure to the DRBC, the decree parties of 1954, and NYC DEP, I'm hopeful for the future management of the Delaware River and all those who dwell upon it.  If the 2 agreements reached by the PA Fish & Boat Commission with the decree parties (press release 5/29)  is any indication of a step in the right direction, it's all the more reason to continue advocating for our cause of better river & reservoir management.
 
Let me leave you with a few quotes that I keep on my bulletin board for inspiration to continue advocating for our cause......... 
 
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." 
 Margaret Mead. 
 
Those who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.   Author unknown.  
 
Linda Hill
VP, Delaware Riverside Conservancy, Inc.