Why was a teleconference used to initiate the public comment period?
The interior Columbia Basin project area is a very large area. We felt that the best way to reach a great many people and have broad participation was to hold a teleconference. It was not a substitute for having public meetings and open houses across the basin, which are scheduled for July and August. We believe it was best to start the process by delivering the same, consistent message to everyone at the same time. This kind of process enables all members of an audience to hear the information without disruption or distraction. We also wanted to introduce the decision makers to as many people as possible.
Why was a teleconference used to initiate the public comment period?