On the recordDecember 4, 2020
Today I rise on behalf of the communities and the residents surrounding Lakes Freeman and Shafer. This summer, these communities witnessed the water levels in Lake Freeman reach a dangerously low level. The low water levels were brought on by drought, but were exacerbated by a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ruling meant to protect several species of mussels. However well-intended the ruling, it is having devastating consequences for these communities and the city of Monticello. Local businesses are struggling to get by, property values are decreasing, and the ecosystem of the lake is threatened. Fish and Wildlife have the power to resolve this issue, but the agency has been unable to adjust to realtime circumstances. I brought this issue to the attention of the Department of the Interior. My hope is that our government can be responsive to the concerns of the people on a problem they have helped create. ____________________
