Bynum Successfully Defends Community Engagement on Detroit Lake Drawdown Proposal

Washington, DC - On December 1st, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) led Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) in requesting additional time for community engagement on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) proposed drawdown of Detroit Lake.

Earlier this week, on December 10th, USACE announced that it would be extending the comment period until January 13, 2026 for the project's draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. Rep. Bynum's successful advocacy will allow her constituents in impacted communities additional time to robustly engage with this drawdown proposal. In their letter, the Members expressed concern that the overlaps of the comment period with the holidays would inhibit engagement.

"When a proposal as impactful as the Detroit Lake drawdown is being evaluated, community input is critical," said Rep. Bynum. "The original comment window - and its overlap with the holiday season - left people without enough time to meaningfully engage on the issue. I'm proud and encouraged that our efforts will allow communities around Detroit Lake the time they need to make their voices heard."

For reference, you can find the letter sent on December 1st by clicking here.

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