The Bureau of Reclamation is extending the public review and comment period for the Cachuma Lake Recreation Area Resource Management Plan (RMP) Draft Environmental Impact Statement (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 Cachuma Lake.

The project purpose consists of:  

(1) Protecting the water supply and water quality functions of Cachuma Lake;

(2) protecting and enhancing natural and cultural resources in the recreation area, consistent with Federal law and Reclamation policies; and

(3) providing recreational opportunities and facilities consistent with the original Cachuma Project purposes and Reclamation policies.

The Draft EIS was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and may be viewed at:  http://www.usbr.gov/mp/nepa/nepa_projdetails.cfm?Project_ID=283.  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 Solvang on August 26, 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.