Bear Lake Reservoir: recreational use.
The implications of AB 440 are noteworthy. By extending the monitoring and treatment requirements indefinitely and removing the seasonal limitations, the bill facilitates increased recreational access while ensuring public safety and water quality standards. With no set timeframe for recreational use, the public can utilize the reservoir for a broader range of activities. However, this change mandates that the Lake Alpine Water Company maintain stringent water treatment and monitoring protocols to produce safe water suitable for bodily contact, reflecting an ongoing commitment to public health and safety.
Assembly Bill No. 440, introduced by Bigelow, amends Section 115843.6 of the Health and Safety Code, specifically focusing on recreational use at Bear Lake Reservoir. Previously, the law imposed strict limitations on bodily contact with the reservoir water, allowing such activities only under specific conditions. These conditions included the implementation of complete water treatment, a four-month cap on recreational use, and regular monitoring by the Lake Alpine Water Company. The current amendment removes the time restriction on bodily contact and indefinite extends the requirements for monitoring and treatment, thereby enhancing recreational options at the reservoir.
Supporters of AB 440 argue that the bill represents a positive step towards enhancing recreational activities at Bear Lake Reservoir, affording citizens increased opportunities for enjoyment of natural resources. On the other hand, there may be concerns regarding the capacity of the Lake Alpine Water Company to consistently meet the heightened obligations for monitoring and treatment, thus presenting a challenge to ensure compliance and uphold water quality standards without compromising public safety.
Critics of the bill might point out potential risks associated with more extensive recreational use of the reservoir. While the intent is to allow ease of access to recreational activities, increased human intervention and the risk of noncompliance with health standards raise questions about maintaining the delicate balance of public health and robust recreational opportunities. The specifics of monitoring frequency and reporting expectations remain critical to the successful implementation of this bill and its overall efficacy in protecting water quality.