STATEMENT FROM ALLEN FOREMAN, TRIBAL COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, THE KLAMATH TRIBES,
ON INTERIOR SECRETARY NORTON'S ANNOUNCEMENT OF ADDITIONAL WATER FOR WILDLIFE
IN THE KLAMATH BASIN.
Chiloquin - September 28, 2001
"Secretary Norton's announcement that additional water is now available
for the Lower Klamath and Tulelake Wildlife Refuges is welcome news for the
wildlife and for people concerned about these unique Refuges. The Secretary's
announcement is an essential ingredient of the long-term prospects of resolving
the singular issues that face the Secretary and all of us in the Klamath Basin.
The Tribes applaud Secretary Norton's continuing commitment to finding solutions to the pressing water problems in the Basin. Her focus on preserving agricultural and Tribal communities and their property rights, and meeting the needs of endangered species is an important element. And her renewed call for long-term solutions signals the continued support of the Administration during this trying time.
Development of a long-term plan for the basin is significantly aided by this resolution of the immediate needs of the Refuges. Further litigation this year over the extremely limited water supply would only be divisive and detrimental to everyone's long-term work. Careful, thoughtful efforts, like the present identification of needed water supplies for the Refuges, will pave the way for restoration of the Basin's ability to support all our communities. The Tribes look forward to continuing to work with Secretary Norton and all Basin water interests."