SEQUIM — A draft environmental analysis on the Dungeness Water Users Comprehensive Conservation Plan pits wetland protection against salmon preservation efforts.
Diverting water from the Dungeness River to keep wetlands thriving was the major bone of contention during a meeting Wednesday on the environmental impact statement.
Fewer than 20 people — including irrigators and others directly affected by reduction of the amount of water being taken from the river — attended Wednesday night’s state Department of Ecology meeting at the Sequim Community Center.
The environmental impact statement was required after Graysmarsh Farms appealed a determination of non-significance on the plan developed by the water users association, which draws water from the river for irrigating farms.
Graysmarsh officials contend that drawing less water from the river will be detrimental to upland wetlands.
Those wetlands are fed by springs and streams enhanced by irrigation, they say.
Jamestown S’Klallam tribal officials want to keep more water in the river to support salmon runs.
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