Office of the Secretary

For Immediate Release: August 7, 2001

Contact: Mark Pfeifle 202/208-6416

Statement of Interior Secretary Gale Norton Regarding Klamath Lawsuit

Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton expressed disappointment over a lawsuit filed today by several environmental groups challenging the Department's recent release of water for Klamath River Basin farmers. Secretary Norton issued the following statement:

"This suit reflects a lack of understanding of the complexities of the issues. The Interior Department is working ceaselessly to find a long-term solution that will help farmers, tribes, fishermen, and wildlife. However, this year, there simply has not been enough water to do more than provide a little relief to some desperate farm families and a little relief to the refuges.

"We began delivering 1,000 acre-feet this past weekend to help wildlife depending on refuge water. Bald eagles that winter on the refuge are hundreds of miles away at this time; the farmers in the Klamath Basin are not. Supplemental feeding of the eagles is already being considered in the event their natural food supply is affected by the water shortage.

"We are working to find ways to solve the needs of all Basin interests for the remainder of the year. In the months ahead, we'll be looking at a number of options. These may include seeking new sources of groundwater, purchasing water from willing sellers, and developing alternative plans for ensuring a food supply for wildlife.

"We are committed to working with all interested parties in the current mediation process to avoid a repeat of this situation next year and in the future. Through cooperation, communication, and conservation -- and hopefully more help from Mother Nature -- those "drops in the bucket" can multiply into a more permanent solution."

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