Rep. Gosar Presses Fish and Wildlife Director for Answers Behind Arbitrary Boat Closures in Lake Havasu

Statement

Today, Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) released the following statement after participating in a House Natural Resources Committee hearing titled, "Recent Changes to Endangered Species Critical Habitat Designation and Implementation" where the Congressman questioned U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Director Dan Ashe about unwarranted boating closures made last May in a 1/2 mile backwater area in Lake Havasu as well as additional arbitrary boating closures the Service is now pursuing as a result of the Draft Compatibility Determination announced last week:

"Rather than attempting to defend his agency's motorized boating closures for Lake Havasu, Director Ashe decided it was best to act like he knew nothing about them. I find that hard to believe given his Deputy Director was well-versed on this topic during a hearing less than a month ago, and because my staff informed the Service that I would be asking the Director about this topic during today's hearing. I can't say that I blame him though as the Service's actions on this issue are indefensible. Closing motorized boating in an area utilized by recreational enthusiasts for decades, two days before Memorial Day Weekend, without public comment, and without merit is appalling. Pursuing massive new closures not based on science less than a year later is outrageous.

"If implemented the shortsighted proposal announced last week will cause substantial socio-economic impacts, harm navigation and commerce on the River, significantly damage the local economy and deprive a significant recreation resource to the public at large. Such changes should not be made unilaterally and should undergo a full Environmental Impact Statement. It is outside the administrative authority of the acting refuge manager to pursue closures of this magnitude without a full analysis under NEPA. Since Dan Ashe claimed he didn't know much about this critical topic causing significant harm to Lake Havasu, I took it upon myself today to educate him. I will continue to do everything I can to fight these unwarranted closures."

Source