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The Salinity Control Act directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement units based on cost effectiveness (cost per ton of salt removal). The units under construction within the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) program (table 6, page 55) are nearing completion and will have an average cost effectiveness of $73 per ton. The U.S. Department of Agriculture program (table 7, page 56) has averaged $44 per ton through 1994. Both programs have been very effective and complement each other with Reclamation improving irrigation delivery systems and USDA improving onfarm irrigation practices. The salinity reduction benefit of the program is estimated at $340 per ton. With the completed portions of USDA and Reclamation programs removing 533,000 tons per year, the annual benefit is estimated at $181 million per year. Other water conservation benefits have not been quantified but are significant; but more can be done to reduce costs and improve the program's effectiveness. Recommendations-Public Law 93-320 directs the Secretary of the Interior to report any special problems that may be impeding progress in attaining an effective salinity control program, For several reasons, the Bureau of Reclamation needs new congressional authorities to reduce program costs. In an audit report dated March 1993, the Inspector General recommended that Reclamation seek broader authorities like those provided to USDA. Unit by unit authorizations have not allowed Reclamation the flexibility needed to optimize its program. In 1994, Reclamation conducted a public review of the program and found wide support for the Inspector General's recommendations. The administration testified in support of a bill before the Senate in 1994 and will continue to support the basinwide approach recommended by the Inspector General, Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Forum, Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Advisory Council, and the Colorado River Basin States. 8-2