Environment DEC
From the November 2007 issue
Delaware River Plan
Delaware River
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis has endorsed a new water-management proposal for the Delaware River reservoirs, saying it would improve trout habitat, bolster flood-mitigation efforts and restore a more natural flow to the river. The new program was agreed to unanimously by New York State, New York City, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware, through the Delaware River Basin Commission. The reservoirs not only feed the Delaware and other rivers but also supply drinking water to 17 million people.
"This is an innovative plan for dealing with a long-running issue," Grannis said. "Flood control, the trout fishery, biodiversity and recreation opportunities all can be aided while assuring adequate quantities of drinking water to millions. This new water-release protocol could serve as a national model." The commissioner also noted that the trout fishery is a major economic engine in the region.
Currently in effect on an interim basis, the plan-which is subject to a public comment period and review-will focus on:
- More water for the east and west branches of the Delaware River and the Neversink River
- Better trout habitat
- Natural flows
- Flood mitigation
- Better public information
