The recent draining of Roslyn Lake could pose potential problems for nearby homeowners that have relied on leaks from the lake to augment their shallow wells.
The manmade lake was scheduled to be drained for some time as a necessary step in decommissioning Marmot Dam on the Sandy River. PGE warned 22 homeowners that their wells would likely be affected, but the Oregonian reports that as many as 60 could see their wells dry up. PGE denies responsibility for any costs associated with having to drill deeper wells; cost that could reach $20,000 to $30,000.
Many residents feel that they were underrepresented in the administrative process leading up to the decision to drain Roslyn Lake. Certainly, this issue appears to have received little attention.
Unfortunately, injured residents that failed to comment on the removal project could have difficulty litigating this matter. However, with the trend of decommissioning diversion dam systems similar to Marmot, the situation serves as a reminder to rural homeowners to familiarize themselves with their water rights and the vulnerabilities of their water systems.
For the Oregonian’s account, see: http://www.oregonlive.com/
