Being the third largest wildfire in California's history, the 2013 Rim Fire in the Sierra Nevada region caused unprecedented damage to not only the Stanislaus National Forest and adjacent areas, but also incurred costs to several communities after causing damage to nearby hydroelectric power plants. Additionally, water supplies became at-risk for millions, including Turlock Irrigation District's Don Pedro Reservoir due to washed down silt and debris from the fire.
Since then, a long term restoration process has been underway through the U.S. National Forest Service, in addition to state funded disaster assistance. Due to the damage to Don Pedro, TID will be working alongside state agencies to receive such assistance.
According to TID, staff members Wes Monier, John Perry and Jason Carkeet will act on behalf of the District to execute all matters pertaining to the Rim Fire state disaster assistance, after learning Gov. Jerry Brown authorized state reimbursements to public agencies for certain costs resulting from the impacts of the wildfire. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has also authorized funding to be distributed through the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services.
District staff has reported TID as incurring approximately $167,000 in costs that are eligible for partial reimbursement due to the wildfire, which has been applied for through state agencies.
During their meeting, the TID Board of Directors will authorize the signature of the application for reimbursement, while also allowing Monier, Perry and Carkeet to sign on behalf of TID for any future instances with respect to receiving state disaster assistance.
On Tuesday, the TID Board of Directors are also expected to:
• Receive weekly updates on electric services, power, water and irrigation;
• Approve the inclusion of 3.58-acres into the Conley Ditch;
• Authorize the Installation of a 15-inch sidegate in the Ceres Main Canal;
• Establish a Deferred Regulatory Asset Fund of $8.18 million to account for debt issue costs associated with outstanding debt;
• Review the Power Supply Monthly Report and the Don Pedro Board of Control Report.
The TID Board of Directors will meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesday at the TID Main Office Building located at 333 E. Canal Dr.