I must say that Reclamation has just been a tremendous help to us in that regard, by working to run the systems, to work with the State system, run both systems much more efficiently.

Candidly, it is really not acceptable when we consider all of the water resource needs our Nation faces.

So you will meet the December 2015 deadline?

Okay. But you are saying that the technical work will be completed by July?

So it is your intention to continue with the study?

I would hope you would work with me. I am kind of the mother of that whole salt ponds situation.

So can you tell me how you plan to finish the chief's report by December 2015 as promised without Federal funding in the 2015 work plan and the 2016 budget?

This is a very high priority for me.

So if I understand this, if the work could be done when the earthquake repair is done, the amount is not that great for a prudent raise.

I am going to hold you to your word, General. Thank you.

As Senator Alexander stated, the hearing record will remain open for 10 days.

Be assured that I will behave.

It is not a huge raise, but it is a raise that could be very helpful. And as I understood it, it costs in the millions, not the billions, low millions.

Sites, although it is the most expensive, may just well turn out to be the best, because it produces the most, although it is expensive.

I have had several conversations with Secretary Darcy about this, so, General Bostick, I would like to involve you in this, too.

The study continues to be a high priority for me and very frustrating.

Okay. I guess I will now know what you mean by very, very close. You are new. We'll see.

So if the Sites numbers could get done, that would be very much appreciated, quickly.