The following anouncement comes as the result of several years of advocacy by AW, the Lehigh Valley Canoe Club, and other user groups.  The process will allow the ACOE to propose changes to the management of the Lehigh River and recieve public feedback on those proposals.  There is a very good chance that different proposals will be on the table that could enhance whitewater boating opportunities or impact them.  It is very important that the paddling community participate in this opportunity to enhance the ecological and recreational values of the Lehigh River. We will share a report and opportunities for public comment after the meeting, but we also encourage individual paddlers to attend the kickoff meeting. 

Corps to hold workshop addressing recreational enhancements on the Lehigh River

PHILADELPHIA (Feb. 8, 2005) --- The Corps of Engineers, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and Delaware River Basin Commission announce today that they have begun the process to explore potential recreational enhancements along the Lehigh River and will conduct a public information workshop facilitated by the Wildlands Conservancy Feb. 24, at the Split Rock Lodge, One Lake Drive, Lake Harmony, Pa. from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

        The next step in this process is to enlist public participation by providing them historical information about the process, discussing long-term objectives for Francis E. Walter Dam flow management, proposing a short-term plan, and addressing the need for further study and analysis. 

        At the heart of the process are the public and how its needs will influence future flow management decisions. The public is invited to attend the workshop that will include several formal presentations and then be followed by the opportunity to discuss the process with the Corps and its partners at their respective booths.

        The Corps and its partners will continue to encourage the public to participate in the process and provide us written comments through the mail or email via the project website which will be announced at the workshop.

        Prior to the information workshop, there will be a networking session from 6:30 pm until 7 pm. The information workshop will be held in the Galleria's Keystone Ballroom from 7 to 9 pm.

        For further information please contact Merv Brokke, Philadelphia District, at 215 656 6032 or email mervin.e.brokke@usace.army.mil