BOARD00821

• Board Meeting Date: 5/21/2001
• Description: WSP Section - CO River Basin Issues, Draft Principles of the CO River Basin States Concerning the CO River Delta in Mexico
• Board Meetings - Doc Type: Memo

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The interests of international comity require communication and cooperation between the
two national governments in resolving any issues of mutual interest in the Colorado River Delta.
These issues are interrelated and should be addressed in conjunction with each other. Any
analysis and proposal made should be in the context of all related needs in Mexico, so there can
be a fuU understanding of the implications of each proposal. For example, protecting and
enhancing the natural values in the Delta cannot be resolved in the absence of addressing the
water supply needs ofthc Baja region, consistent with the 1944 U,S.lMexico Treaty.

In the context of this international cooperation, we request that the U.S. Federal
. Government recognize the legal authority ofthe Basin States over the appropriation,
administration, development, use and mana~ment of their apportioned water and water rights,
and the important role of the States in the optlration and management of the River, as established
under federal law. Therefore, the U.S. Federal Government should closely COOperate and
communicate with, and seek the participation of, the Basin States. Our States are committed to
playing a cooperative and constructive role in addressing these issues.

Interests involved should also recognize that under the Law of the River, the water
supplies of the Colorado River and its tributaries in the United States are fully apportioned.
Property rights, existing water delivery and firm electric selVice contracts, reserved rights,
economic expectations, instream and recreational management, local and regional economies,
and environmental protection and enhancement in the United States all depend upon the certainty
of the water supply apportioned under the Law of the River.

Any proposal to manage water and other natural resources for environmental pmposes in
the Delta that includes the cooperation, participation or funding by the United States should be
consistent with clearly articulated and agreed-upon habitat, species, or environmental goals. The
two countries should establish a common base of data and information on the laws and
institutions of both countries, the operation and management of water delivery systems and
hydrology, and the status of species and habitat in the Delta,

While we recognize that any alternative to assist in improving the natural environment or
resolving water supply issues in the Delta will require study and negotiation, the Basin States .
would favorably consider the development and implementation of feasible proposals that include
cooperation or funding by the United States, and which implement conservation and improved
water management efficiency, that manage, divert or impound water or restore habitat in the
Delta using existing and anticipated supplies, and that include non-water related actions.

We appreciate this opportunity to express our views. We would like to meet with you at
your earliest convenience to discuss the status of the Delta issues, the fall symposium, and the
position ofthe Basin States. We will be contacting your office to mange an appropriate time.

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