As everyone is aware, the Eastern Sierra has received unusually large amounts of snow this year. While it is sunny today, there is another very wet storm predicted for this weekend. Inyo County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning about avalanches and potential flooding. CalOES plans to utilize the Tri-County Fairgrounds as an evacuation site. Snow, ice and mud make access to Pleasant Valley Reservoir difficult and the Owens River is high and flowing faster than normal for this time of year.

For all these reasons and because we truly value the safety of our Blake Jones participants and volunteers, we have decided to postpone the derby. Tentative new date for the event will be Saturday, May 13th, 2023.

This is not a decision taken lightly. The chamber had been making plans for many months and invested several thousand dollars in advertising, insurance, fish stocking and prizes. They also understand the financial impact to the local economy; however public safety must be the highest priority.

Thanks for understanding!