On the recordJuly 9, 2014
I rise in opposition, although I am hopeful that my colleague will withdraw the amendment. First, let me assure the gentleman that I am sympathetic to the issues that he has highlighted in his statement. Adequate water supply, whether it is for agricultural irrigation or municipal or industrial use, is a basic necessity for economic prosperity. In the committee's view, however, navigation and flood control are top priorities for the Corps of Engineers, and the bill before us prioritizes funding accordingly. My colleague from Arkansas has proven to be a strong advocate for his constituents and for the projects that seek to further develop the agricultural irrigation infrastructure important to his constituents. If the gentleman will agree to withdraw the amendment, I will agree to work with him, moving forward, to try to address these needs, if additional funding beyond that necessary for navigation and flood control becomes available.
