Hearing on HR 3881: Testimony of Steve Arveschoug

Home Browse Search

h . was signed, the primary benefit of implementation of the PSOP will be better management of existing supplies. Most of the water captured by re- operations and enlarged space will be transmountain water and legally reusable consumptive use credits. With that said, it is our intent that any development of additional storage capacity through the PSOP is done in complete compliance with the Arkansas River Compact. And, throughout the federal -level studies requested in H.R. 3881, we expect that Reclamation will continue to involve the state of Kansas and the Arkansas River Compact Commission. Conclusion— I consider H.R. 3881 to be the most significant water resources legislation for Southeastern Colorado since the authorization of the Fryingpan- Arkansas in 1962. The Fry-Ark Project was designed and built to meet the year 2000 water demands in the Arkansas River basin in Colorado. Community leaders from throughout the basin worked together to create the vision for the Fry-Ark Project. Their vision has certainly paid off, but it wouldn't have been accomplished without a lot of cooperation and compromise that followed the 1962 Act of Congress. The communities in southeastern Colorado have again come together to plan for their future water resource needs. This time the target is the year 2040. Again we need the expertise and cooperation of the Bureau of Reclamation, and we're again asking Congress to get us started by passing legislation, H.R. 3881. Like before there will be a need for cooperation and compromise as our plans move forward. But, we can't continue the process without the blessing of Congress. Today, I'm asking that the members of the House Resources Water and Power Subcommittee support H.R. 3881. It will help southeastern Colorado continue the local initiative to prepare for our future. Thank you. Respectfully submitted, Steve Arveschoug General Manager Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District Pueblo, Colorado 12