06/13/2003

SCE is tentatively scheduling a flow study on the Borel reach of the Kern
River (Dam Run) for July 15-16 (Tuesday and Wednesday) and again in late
August on a date yet to be determined (probably a weekday).  The results of
this study will be used to determine what flows the FERC will require SCE to
release for boaters during the summer for the next 30 years.  We (American
Whitewater and the SC River Touring Section) need to have a team of boaters
paddle 400, 800, 1200 and 1600 in the Borel channel. We believe this range
will bracket flows from unacceptable to optimum.  Because the water master
controls flows beyond SCE's diversion capacity we need to schedule this
study on two different months to capture the full extent of the flows.  I
need your assistance to be part of a team of boaters for the study.  We need
5-8 boaters that will commit to participating at all the flows in July and
again in August.  This commitment to participate in ALL the flows is
CRITICAL.  Failure to participate in all the flows means the individual
cannot do the comparative analysis at the end of the study.  We are looking
for folks with Class III to Class IV-V experience.  The Class III boaters
will help give us a reference to the higher flows from a scare factor since
in reality we believe this reach will be used primarily by Class III boaters
unless we find an awesome playspot(s) at higher flows to attract the play
boaters.  This latter reason is why we want to have some Class IV-V boaters.
In addition, the Class IV-V boaters can provide needed safety if someone
swims.  

If you are willing and able to participate please send me your contact
information (full name, phone, address, e-mail).  

Thanks,

Kris Schmidt
Conservation Chair
River Touring Section, Angeles Chapter, Sierra Club
10354 Danube Ave.
Granada Hills, CA 91344
(818) 892-4616 evening
(661) 295-5600 x2475 day