To the editor:

It is time for a full inquiry as to why our flood gate operators and authorities did not take appropriate action to reduce lake levels in a timely manner during the January to April window of opportunity.

From personal observations, the lake waters were left at a much higher level this winter than usual. The excuse of concern for fish over people and the excuse of decisions made on the basis of November-December snow load just don鈥檛 cut it.

No one is saying that flooding in the Shuswap-Okanagan lake chain can be completely eliminated with flood gate control, but I鈥檓 betting the lake waters would be a foot less than the present peak with better management.

If we don鈥檛 want this to happen with the same severity and angst in future, let鈥檚 look for better controls.

As this is a matter involving three levels of government, I urge the mayors and councils of each and every community press the matter to the top. I also urge fellow citizens not to sit idle or quiet in pressing this matter.

It鈥檚 time to cry ouch.

Ian R. Sisett, 91大黄鸭