Agreement on dams unlikely by June 30

Gov. Kulongoski: Government and PacifiCorp agreed to extend the deadline

By TY BEAVER Herald and News 6/5/09

SALEM — Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski said in an interview Thursday that he believes it is unlikely government and PacifiCorp officials will reach a final dam removal agreement by a June 30 deadline.

He said they mutually agreed to extend the deadline.

State and federal officials have been meeting with the Portland-based utility about removing four hydroelectric dams from the Klamath River. Dam removal is a key element of the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement, which seeks to resolve differences among fishermen, farmers, tribes and environmentalists.

Kulongoski said the delay is not from disagreement on issues, but from the necessity for more time to work out details.

“I think the process is moving forward and I remain optimistic,” he said.