HomeMy WebLinkAbout790750 /11 icy
Richard D. Lamm agelMV AGRICULTURAL COMMISSION
Governor � -
TIW Clarence Stone, Center
NM "_U Chairman
Morgan Smith +, not William A. Stephens, Gypsum
4131 nnai�[Glfb�x M. 0 Vice-Chairman
Commissioner
COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Ben Eastman, Hotchkiss
John L. Malloy. Denver
406 STATE SERVICES BUILDING
M. C. McCormick, Holly
1525 SHERMAN STREET Elton Miller. Fart Lupton
Donald L. Svedman DENVER, COLORADO 80203 Kay D. Morison, Fleming
D eouiv Commissioner William H.Webster, Greeley
March 5, 1979 Kenneth G.Wilmore. Denver
Chairman
Board of County Commissioners
Colorado Counties
Dear Commissioner:
Although our winter moisture levels have been good in many areas of the
state, a few areas now have soil which is susceptible to wind erosion
and others may become susceptible later in the spring. The mechanism
for requiring emergency treatment of land to prevent or reduce dust blow—
ing is set forth in Title 35, Article 72 of CRS, as amended.
In Article 72 the County Commissioners initiate action, either voluntary
action by the landowner or via contract services should the landowner fail
to act. The Colorado Department of Agriculture acts as principal (CRS- 35-
72-104) and operates the revolving fund through which payments are made
for contract services and tax lien receipts are received.
The Department has not received appropriations to CRS 35-72-108 for several
fiscal years. Because of that, the program has had a relatively low profile.
The increasing concern over drought related soil losses has caused us to look
for both short-term and long-term resolutions to the problem. In the short-
term, a payments mechanism has been established for claims which may arise
between now and June 30. In the long-term, others have introduced new legis-
lation in the hope that a better program might result.
Our thought is that this letter would convey to you our concern over the
possibility of large scale soil losses this spring. Also, we wish to convey
to you our offer of assistance should you deem it necessary to take action,
Any questions you may have concerning procedure or implementation should be
forwarded to Donald Svedman, Deputy Commissioner, at 839-2811.
Here's hoping that our preparations will not be needed.
Sincerely; / -
// f' - -
:Mbrgan Smith
Commissioner
MS/GEL/pjc
790750
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