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. . . , . Colorado wanted to solve the problem. Throughout the negotiation process, al I parties made compromises. The water users not only reduced their present al 10- cations but also provided conveyance structures and contributed funds toward the cost-sharing agreement for the Animas-La Plata Project. For example, the Florida Water Conservancy District reduced its al location of Florida River water and provided conveyance structures for the Indian water at no increased cost to the tribes or to the federal government. The tribes adjusted their claims, compromised priorities, and agreed to the cooperative administration of the streams with the state of Colorado. Cooperative administration ensures that al I parties wi I I receive their correct al locations of water, guarantees proper uti I ization of this valuable resource, and prevents waste. As a water administrator it is sometimes necessary to curtai I junior users to supply senior appropriators. During the summer in southwestern Colorado, the state's water commissioners are required to enforce the prior appropriations system dai Iy on many streams. Inasmuch as the Indians may obtain a senior water right through the Winters Doctrine, the seriousness of their claims is wel I understood and respected by the water users. It is only by compromise and de- velopment of storage projects such as the Dolores Project and the Animas-la Plata Project that the conflict over Indian water rights can be resolved. Lengthy litigation wi I I not increase the supply of water in any of the streams in south- west Colorado. Litigation can result only in paper water rights. Once ratified, the negotiated agreement, by contrast, wi I I al locate "wet" water to serve area lands. This legislation is an opportunity for Congress to establish a new approach to an old problem. urge you to consider this Bil I favorably in I ight of the 0266 (2)