Ray Williams
669 Old Route 10
Deposit, NY 13754-2103
May 14, 2007

The Honorable Maurice Hinchey
House of Representatives
2431 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515-3222

Re: Delaware River Basin Commission Investigation

Representative Hinchey:
Please be advised that the West Branch of the Delaware is flowing at such a low rate that the gravel is being exposed and the wild trout population is forced into pockets where the fisherman are having a field day while it
lasts. I made several phone calls to the DRBC, and the NYSDEC and had no success in getting any extra water out of the dam. I took many pictures to show how low the river has become with thier revision 7 flow. With all the Public outcry they extended the revision with no modification till JULY. Lowest ever according to those who have lived here for many years. As of now the guide boats can't float the WEST Branch or the EAST Branch.

Why is it that the NYCDEP and the DRBC can profit from the water but all below the dam can fail at buisness, be flooded, have there properties bought out after FEMA condemns them. It is the duty of the Government to protect the Citizens rights. This all started in 2001 after they allowed hydropower to be generated in from Lake Wallenpaupack and they did not need to meet minimum flow levels at the MONTAGUE, NJ gauge. Then in 2004 the revision 7 was instated and it flooded every year. This revision was put in place so they could bank more water for either new municipalities or to increase sales to existing municipalities.

Ask yourself, how is it they can predict drought days, but with 3 years of 5-7 days notice of rain storms that would produce 4 + inches of rain, they did not release any water.

I feel a full investigation into the actions of the DRBC and the profits, which they claim they use for dam repairs in Pennsylvannia, may be in conflict of interest. They were formed to be sure that the water usage is fair and equitable to all. Why would they listen to anyone but the NYCDEP? The DRBC should be The Delaware River Basin Water Company.

They can not represent the people of all the communities and all the businesses that depend on the Rivers for economic growth. They are just another example of Big Government doing what ever it pleases. As always I
ask you or any Government Official to take the time to see this and judge it for yourself.

Sincerely,

Ray Williams