Senate subcommittee meets Friday on impact of Devils Lake draining

WEST FARGO - North Dakota Democratic Sen. Byron Dorgan will lead a field hearing Friday to discuss the effects of Devils Lake outlet water on downstream communities in the Sheyenne River basin.

The Senate Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, which Dorgan chairs, will meet at 10 a.m. Friday at West Fargo City Hall, 800 4th Ave. E.

“Citizens who live in downstream areas have signed petitions and expressed concerns about the state’s proposal to increase the sulfate levels in the Sheyenne River in order to take more water off of Devils Lake,” Dorgan said in a statement. “I want to examine those concerns and evaluate the consequences for downstream communities.”

Several state and local leaders are expected to testify during the hearing.

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