Jeff Bingaman: “I support the approach taken in Section 205 to address the ongoing conflict between water use and the ESA in the Middle…”

“I support the approach taken in Section 205 to address the ongoing conflict between water use and the ESA in the Middle Rio Grande basin. While there is a remaining issue about the interpretation of one aspect of the language in that section, I have worked with Senator Domenici to address that issue and we will follow-up on that matter when the bill comes to the floor. The conflict in the Middle Rio Grande was exacerbated by a recent decision by the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Section 205 responds to that decision. I think it is an appropriate response because it provides a level of certainty for water users in the basin but leaves intact the requirements and goals of the Endangered Species Act.”