The Bureau of Reclamation is extending the public review and comment period for the Casitas Lake Recreation Area Resource Management Plan (RMP) Draft Environmental Impact Statement Draft (EIS).   The Draft EIS describes the potential environmental impacts of the RMP.  It was released for public review on August 8, 2008.  Due to considerable public interest in the RMP, the comment period is being extended to October 31, 2008. 

The RMP is being developed to guide the management of natural resources and recreation at Casitas Lake.  The project purpose is intended to: 

(1) Ensure safe storage and timely delivery of high-quality water to users while enhancing natural resources and recreational opportunities,

(2) protect natural resources while educating the public about the value of good stewardship,

(3) provide recreational opportunities to meet the demands of a growing, diverse population,

(4) ensure recreational diversity and the quality of the experience, and

(5) provide updated management considerations for establishing a new management agreement with the managing partners.

The Draft EIS was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act and is available for a 60-day public review.  The document may be viewed at:  http://www.usbr.gov/mp/nepa/nepa_projdetails.cfm?Project_ID=792.  If you have problems accessing the document, please contact Ms. Lynnette Wirth at 916-978-5102 or lwirth@mp.usbr.gov.  A public meeting was held in Oak View on August 28, 2008, to provide information and receive comments on the Draft EIS.

Written comments on the Draft EIS should now be received by close of business Friday, October 31 2008, and sent to Mr. Jack Collins, Resource Specialist, Bureau of Reclamation, 1243 'N' Street, Fresno, CA 93721, or faxed to 559-487-5397, or e-mailed to jcollins@mp.usbr.gov.  For additional information, please contact Mr. Collins at 559-487-5409.