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. . . Western States Water Council Full Council Minutes Boise, Id&ho April 22, 2005 Jack: "How does that compare with the priority for security, environment, etc." Bill: "There is also a target - top down budget from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Department of Interior, for us to work within." Pat Tyrrell stated, "We testified in the Senate that BOR should tap into the unobligated balance inthe'Reclamation fund. Is there any movement from BOR to finance these needs?" Bill said, "We do talk about it. It has to be appropriated. The balance that seems to be showing there is attractive. If Congress so chose, it could be appropriated. It is probably an area where help will be needed. It all comes out of Treasury. The big money is coming from mineral leasing. " Pat concluded, "It's a big issue with western states. We have needs." THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONSERVATION DISTRICTS & WATER CONSERVATION Krysta Harden, NACD Executive Director, was unable to attend. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES A. Water Quality Committee Paul Frohardt reported that the Water Quality Committee had one action item. The Western Governors' Association (WGA) has requested the Council review the WGA position regarding the Clean Water Act and suggest revisions. A subcommittee has recommended a March 15 draft, circulated with 30-day notice. Following further revisions (editorial), a handout was distributed with changes recommended by the Water Quality Committee. The document was approved unanimously, and will be forwarded to WGA. B. Water Resources Committee Dave Pope reported there is a proposed position in the form of a letter to Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM), which also replaces a sunsetting position. Shaun McGrath and Jack Stults described it in committee. There were minor amendments made to add S. 802 to the position in the 1"l and 2nd paragraphs. Also, it supports S. 648 to extend BOR drought assistance authorities. The letter was moved, seconded and approved unanimously. 9