STATEMENT FROM ALLEN FOREMAN, TRIBAL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, THE KLAMATH TRIBES,
ON SECRETARY OF INTERIOR, GALE NORTON'S ANNOUNCEMENT IN PORTLAND THAT HER
DEPARTMENT IS RELEASING WATER TO FARMERS IN THE KLAMATH BASIN.
Chiloquin - July 24, 2001
"Today's announcement by the Secretary of the Interior is welcome news
for our distressed region. As long as the release of water does not jeopardize
the fish and eco-systems that are so important to the culture and livelihood
of The Klamath Tribes and the wellness of the entire Klamath basin- we support
using surplus water for farming purposes.
The Klamath Tribes have lived in harmony with the land for more than 14,000 years. We empathize with farmers who, like us, were made a promise by the federal government that was not fulfilled.
The release of water today doesn't solve the long-term problem we face in the Klamath Basin. We continue to press for a solution that is fair and legal, and that honors longstanding treaties and commitments."