Political Quotes

“the Columbia Basin Project is a federally authorized project managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, part of the Department of the Interior. At its heart, is the Grand Coulee Dam, which has the primary purpose of supplying water for irrigation and producing power. There are secondary benefits, such as aiding flood control and providing recreation opportunities. The Western Waters Regional Conservation Area, by contrast, is designated by the Department of Agriculture as a critical conservation area whose primary purpose is to address insufficient water and habitat. I am concerned, therefore, that this amendment may divert funds meant for drought relief toward areas that have a dam supplying them water. If the gentleman sincerely believes that there are farmers in need of USDA assistance, then I would be happy to work with him when NRCS completes its review of CCAs every 5 years. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.”