In a rare occurrence, biologist Steve Zalusky of Northwest Biosurvey testified before the Lake County Planning Commission on Aug. 11 that his work had been altered in favor of conclusions drawn by a report on Wild Diamond Vineyards.

Standing before the commission, he accused the consulting firm that hired him, SHN Engineers and Geologists, of multiple instances of irregular practices.

SHN, contracted by Wild Diamond Vineyards to produce an environmental impact report, determined in their draft document that there would be no significant impact to people or the environment from a proposed vineyard/winery/event center development next to Hidden Valley Lake.

Zalusky came forward of his own accord and I find his integrity very moving. His testimony should raise questions about the validity of the entire report for those who weren't already asking them.

Elizabeth Montgomery lives in Hidden Valley Lake, Calif.