June 22, 2015

Mr. Donnelly

discussed the different methods of eliminating Tamarisk that have been used along the Amargosa River. The most effective method has been to cut and then paint the remaining stumps with “Garlon” over a period of 2-3 years until no new growth is detected. Using photos of locations where Tamarisk has been eliminated, Mr. Donnelly showed how native Mesquite trees have flourished in what was once a forest of Tamarisk. Mesquite uses about 50% less water than Tamarisk. According to one lifelong resident of Shoshone, there has not been this much water flowing in the river since she was a child.

Mr. Donnelly

went on to discuss possible sources of funding for initiating a Tamarisk removal program in the Pahrump Valley. There was other discussion about monetary incentives that may be used to encourage people to remove the plants from their property.

Mr. Dann

argued that the board needed proper representation and approval today would circumvent new members. A delay of 30 days will not harm the process. Mr. Wichman noted that he will lose momentum if he does not do any work on the plan for a month. Darrell Lacy felt that Mr. Dann’s argument did not make sense because new members get appointed every year. Mr. Lacy related all of the different projects that he is involved with that do not allow time for him to write the plan. Greg Dann made a motion to table Items 11 and 12 until new board members are appointed. The motion died for lack of a second. Dave Hall made a motion to approve the Professional Services Agreement for Oz Wichman for FY 16 as presented. James Eason seconded the motion. During public comment John Bosta noted that Oz Wichman should be considered the General Manager of the Water District as he shoulders most of the Water District workload. Dwight Lilly stressed that the Water Board should direct Water District Staff and not the other way around. Gregory Hafen II thanked Mr. Wichman for all of his work on the Groundwater Management Plan and felt that it was imperative for him to continue without interruption. Mr. Hafen noted that the first draft of the plan is ready to be reviewed by the committee. There may be several more items added to the plan as it takes shape. Walt Kuver questioned why Mr. Dann was trying to undermine the Water District and felt that it looked “sad.” Mr. Dann stressed that he was just an “average Joe” who was an advocate for the people and that he made his own decisions.

Mr. Lacy

related that Steve Bradhurst will be present at the next Water Board Meeting to discuss the benefits of joining the CNRWA. Mr. Lacy briefly discussed water appropriation application #66080 which is in the process of being appealed to the State Engineer by Nye County after being denied. The rights are located in the Crater Flats area and could be put to beneficial use in support of the Amargosa River Basin. (At this time Dave Hall excused himself from the remainder of the meeting.) II. Oz Wichman

Mr. Wichman

noted that he will continue his work on the Groundwater Management Plan. He also related that he had met with MaryEllen Giampaoli a couple of times in May regarding ongoing activities relating to the update of the Water Resources Plan. James Eason has been scheduled to meet with her soon. III. Levi Kryder None IV. John Klenke None d. Project Status Report No comments. e. Board Liaison Report I. Frank Carbone None f. Report from other individuals, groups and or agencies regarding water-related issues: For informational purposes only. None