3 Internal Draft - Institutional Framework for

• Title: Colorado’s Interbasin Compact Negotiations: Development of an Institutional Framework - Process Overview
• Date: 12/17/2004
• Author: Russell George, Frank McNulty, Peter Nichols, Eric Hecox
• IBCC - Doc Type: Program Planning, Budget & Contracts

Revised: 7/26/2007
Institutional Framework for Interbasin Compact Negotiations

Internal Draft

Interbasin Compact Negotiations

Summary
Interbasin compact negotiations will take place on a voluntary basis between the following eight
basins: The Yampa/White/Green/North Platte; The Colorado; The Gunnis on; The Dolores/San
Juan; The Rio Grande; The South Platte and Arkansas metro areas (collectively called the Front
Range); The non - metro South Platte; and The non - metro Arkansas.

Interbasin compact negotiations must adhere to the principles and follow t he structure
established by the Steering Committee. Compact negotiations may result in a compact that will
be ratified by a vote of the citizens, implemented through a constitutional amendment, and
administered by a standing Compact Commission.

Compact N egotiators
The Director will appoint Compact Negotiators with input and guidance from the Steering
Committee. The Steering Committee will provide the Director with a list of Compact Negotiator
Nominees from which the Director will select the Compact Negot iators. The Director and the
Steering Committee will work towards a balance of interests among the negotiators.

Format for Negotiations
The Steering Committee will establish a format for negotiations.

Resolving Conflicts
The Steering Committee will prov ide facilitators to guide the negotiation process and help
resolve conflicts.

Technical Information
The Steering Committee will provide technical advisors and staff support for gathering,
compiling, and analyzing necessary data and information.

Financial Resources
The Steering Committee will receive and control the funding for the interbasin compact
negotiation. This funding will provide the necessary financial resources to sustain the compact
negotiation process.

Compact Enforcement
Compacts may be i mplemented through a constitutional amendment (referred) and ratified by a
vote of the citizens if appropriate and necessary. The compact may also outline the role of the
Compact Commission and how the terms of the agreement can be changed or amended.

Co mpact Administration
Interbasin compacts may create a Compact Commission to administer the terms of the
agreement. The negotiation process will determine the make - up, responsibilities, and powers of
a Compact Commission.
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