KDRV Staff & Associated Press
 
February 4, 2010
 
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. -- Three more irrigation groups have voted in favor of the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement.
 
The decisions from Tulelake Irrigation District and Klamath Water and Power Agency were unanimous. The board of directors for Klamath Basin Improvement District also supported the agreement, but there was a no vote.
 
The agreement, between farmers, salmon fishermen, American Indian tribes, government representatives and conservation groups, is expected to be signed later this month. It lays out the terms of the $1 billion restoration project, which proposes guaranteed water for farmers and irrigators in the Klamath Basin and protection for salmon runs.
 
The KBRA would lead to the decommissioning of four hydroelectric dams along the Klamath River. Enough groups must approve the final document before that happens. Portland-based utility PacifiCorp, which owns the dams, has already agreed to terms for their removal.
 
Actual removal of the dams would not start until 2020. In addition to the parties signing the KBRA, the removal of the dams is contingent on a water bond that is now before California voters.