From Sen. Conrad's Office
Lisbon - Senator Kent Conrad today (Aug 17, 2010) convened an official field hearing of the Senate Budget Committee to gather input from area leaders on how to combat the challenges posed by an overflow of Devils Lake to downstream communities in the Sheyenne River basin.

"We're really in uncharted territory here. All it would take is a couple of heavy downpours and then we're faced with a possible uncontrolled overflow of Devils Lake," said Senator Conrad. "That could have a devastating impact on the Lake Region and on downstream communities as well. We need to work together to avert this pending disaster."

Senator Conrad convened the Senate Budget Committee field hearing to explore the concerns of those downstream over a controlled release or an uncontrolled overflow. Lisbon is on the Sheyenne River downstream of Valley City and would be significantly impacted by flooding if Devils Lake reaches its overflow point.

The Senate field hearing today explored new options for moving more water off of Devils Lake. Among those testifying before Senator Conrad were: Todd Sando, State Engineer for the State Water Commission; Lisbon Mayor Ross Cole; Neil Olerud, Chairman of the Ransom County Commission; and Teresa Rotenberger, Emergency Manager for Ransom County.

The Senator is taking today's testimony to the White House's interagency working group that is looking to develop solutions to both the short-term and long-term threats posed by Devils Lake.

Senator Conrad — the chairman of the Senate Budget Committee — reported on the progress of the working group during today's hearing.

"I am pleased that members of the White House working group were in Valley City last month to hear directly from local leaders on these options. I have emphasized to them that the interests of downstream communities like Lisbon must be fully considered as options to manage this devastating flood are identified," Senator Conrad said.

Next month, a delegation of local and state officials will meet with the White House working group in Washington as its recommendations are finalized.

Since 1992, Devils Lake has risen nearly 30 feet. Last year alone, the lake rose more than 3-1/2 feet. And this year, it reached a record elevation. Devils Lake is now within 6 feet of the natural overflow.

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