Temperance Flat Dam supporters appeal State Water Commission's project rating

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Valley supporters of Temperance Flat Dam issued an appeal to the State Water Commission. They're concerned over funding for the $2.7 billion project.

Temperance flat received a 'zero rating' when the California Water Commission ran a cost-benefit analysis in January. But local elected leaders and farmers say the commission didn't have the right information to analyze the proposal. So the group has sent reviewers a letter of appeal and updated detailed models to consider. Fresno County Supervisor Buddy Mendes called it a 'user's guide.'

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"What this does is actually help the commission come up with their decision by being able to run. This is a very complicated process," said Mendes.

Mario Santoyo of the San Joaquin Valley Water Infrastructure Authority says the ecosystem plays a major role in the public benefits portion of the application.

"The flows that we are projecting will be verified and in those flows, the bulk of our public benefits is water going to the San Joaquin River," said Santoyo.

The group seeks over a billion dollars in state bond money for the $2.7 billion storage project above Millerton Lake.

"Temperance Flat will benefit all Californians and Americans who depend on a domestic food supply," said Courtney Sorensen, Farm Bureau.

The State Water Commission is expected to make its decision on the public benefits portion of the application in April. A final decision on project funding will come in July.