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August 28, 2007 - Mr. Steven Wallach, Clayton, New York

In anticipation of the IJC's decision to be announced on Sept. 17, I would like to offer the following comments. I believe that they are reflective not just of my concerns but those of the approximately 70 other families with seasonal cottages or homes on Grenell Island (off Wellesley Island) and those of residents of nearby islands such as Murray.

This past Monday, August 27, my wife and I were forced to close our cottage prematurely. We ordinarily close Columbus Day weekend. The water level has become so low that not only am I unable to dock at our fixed dock, but it is difficult even to reach our floating dock. There is great danger from the numerous unmarked shoals and rocks which now threaten our boat's propeller and lower unit. The water level at our marina-Spicer Bay outside Clayton-is becoming dangerously low.

In the past, these problems did not arise until later in September at the earliest. I could not afford to remain at our cottage any longer since any further drop in water level could make closing very difficult.

As a result of our early closing the local economy will suffer greatly-no food shopping, restaurant use, golf and enjoyment of the many pleasures on the US and Canadian sides of the 1000 Islands.

I implore the Commission to adopt Plan B+ and maximize water levels from late summer until mid-October. Already many cottages owners are talking of selling if our season is cut short again.

I plan to attend a public meeting after the tentative plan is announced and also intend to share my concerns with my US Congressional representatives at home in New Jersey.

I understand the importance of the shipping and hydropower interests, but hope the economy of the 1000 Islands region and its many visitors will be considered in your decision-making.

Steven Wallach
Clayton, NY

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