Reclamation Press Release
Mid-Pacific Region
Sacramento, CA
MP-06-21
Media Contact: Jeffrey McCracken 916-978-5100 Rae
Olsen 541-880-2543
jmccracken@mp.usbr.gov rolsen@mp.usbr.gov
For Release On: February 9, 2006
The Bureau of Reclamation today announced the availability of the Third Draft
of the multi-participant, basin-wide Conservation Implementation Program (CIP)
for the Klamath Basin. The document is available online at www.usbr.gov/mp/kbao/
or by calling 541 883-6935.
The document is the result of input by many interested parties and has been
discussed in six public meetings held in Chiloquin, Klamath Falls, Yreka,
Arcata, Klamath, and Weaverville. In addition to seeking confirmation
that the current program in the CIP reflects the needs of the interested
parties, Reclamation worked with the Basin’s residents to identify consensus
activities that were immediately activated. Typical activities
implemented in 2005 included funding half of the cost of a Water Master for
Shasta/Scott rivers for 2 years, continuation of the Salmon River gauge,
support of the 5-year sucker review, completion of the Natural Flow Study, and
other activities.
The purpose of the CIP is to: (1) restore the Klamath River ecosystem,
(2) further the fulfillment of the Federal Government’s tribal trust
responsibilities as they relate to natural resources from the Klamath River
ecosystem,
(3) sustain agricultural, municipal, and industrial water use while reducing
water demand throughout the Klamath River Basin, and (4) foster a lasting
partnership between Government (Tribal, Federal, State, County, and local) and
private interests of the Klamath Basin to advance the goals of the CIP.
Natural resource conflicts in the Klamath Basin have highlighted the need for
a Basin-wide forum to identify and implement solutions. Moreover, the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA Fisheries issued biological opinions
on Klamath Project operations calling for the formulation of a program to
achieve or contribute to the recovery of several threatened and endangered
species.
In spring 2006, Reclamation will hold a public meeting facilitated by an
organization development expert to discuss and determine a workable governance
structure. Reclamation will again seek participation by all interested
parties. As soon as a date is set, details will be announced.
For additional information on the CIP or the public meetings, please contact
Ms. Rae Olsen, Reclamation Public Affairs Officer, Klamath Basin Area Office,
at 541-880-2543.
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Reclamation is the largest wholesale water
supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United
States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its
facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and
wildlife benefits. Visit our website at http://www.usbr.gov.