KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – The Klamath Water Users Association (KWUA) is pleased to share important and positive news regarding the Klamath Project. The Bureau of Reclamation has formally communicated its intent to reinitiate consultation under the Endangered Species Act for Project operations. This step comes in response to a recently adopted, bipartisan federal statute and recent ESA case law, which require a new approach to how the ESA is applied to Project operations (additional information linked below).
This is a positive development for KWUA and our members because it represents a clear path toward predictable operations of the Klamath Project that balance water supply for irrigated agriculture, our beloved wildlife refuges, and also for the fish species in Upper Klamath Lake and Klamath River.
Reaching this point also reflects hard work by KWUA, including regular and consistent communication with Reclamation and the Department of the Interior at local, regional, and Washington, D.C. levels. Our efforts have helped ensure that the voices of water users are heard and considered throughout this process.
Reclamation has also committed to transparency and collaboration with stakeholders — a commitment that aligns directly with KWUA’s priorities of ensuring reliable water delivery, protecting the interests of our members, and supporting a balanced, sustainable approach to managing water in the Klamath Basin.
We appreciate this development and thank the Bureau of Reclamation and the Department of the Interior in getting to this point. We look forward to continued coordination and ensuring that the needs of farmers and ranchers are fully considered as these efforts move forward.
KWUA Applauds Release of Updated Endangered Species Act Guidance For the Klamath Project – KWUA
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