BOARD02203 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

I I their areas of Southwestern Colorado what the Mancos Project has done for our area. Understanding the benefits which can flow from a water reclamation project and also recognizing that the construction of these two projects will solve the Indian water rights conflict, we urge this Board and the Colorado Congressional Delegation to support a construc- tion request to the Congress for the Dolores Project for this year, and to continue with the planning on the Animas-La Plata Project, so that it too can be constructed and ~esolve this situation. We also have in our district, we developed quite a domestic water system we got about 30 miles, and it goes through the rural water people to a vocational school located about half-way between Mancos and Cortez, and also the State Park down there. I do thank you for your consideration. Mr. Stapleton: Thank you very much. I think now we will have questions by the Board on the Animas-La Plata and Dolores Projects from any of the witnesses. Mr. Sparks: We have heard testimony, Mr. Chairman, which paints a true picture of the situation which has developed as a result of the United States waiting over a hundred years to make claim on behalf of the Indians. The original Ute Reservation was established in 1868, and here we are over a hundred years later. I would say that some negli- gence has been demonstrated on the part of the United States in connec- tion with these Indian rights. I have had the privilege of serving as general counsel for the Ute Mountain Ute Indian Tribe, and have been acquainted with the tribe for over 25 years. Chief Jack House was back here as part of the delegation to testify for these projects. Now his son Thomas and grandson Ernie are here. Some of you know that I am associated with the Colorado National Guard. Ernie has been one of our paratroopers and a good one. I am very pleased to see that Chris, Tom and Ernie are here. I know that your two tribes have done everything possible to keep harmony in Southwestern Colorado. I am sure we are going to work out this problem, the Utes do desperately need water, and for over a hundred years there has never a drop of water been adjudicated to those tribes. These two projects will be a solution. I know this Board greatly appreciates your help, Chris, and the tribal council. We are sorry that Leonard Birch couldn't be here today. And, Tom, will you convey to Marshall White and members of your council that this Board certainly appreciates your attendance here today at this meeting. Mr. Baker: Thank you. Mr. Stapleton: Are there any further comments on either project to be asked? Gentlemen, thank you very much for your appearance. -43-