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" ~"%> ':/' . . 2 It now seems clear that our focus in the West must look beyond existing natural barriers to reckon with our inter-basin interdependency. Whether we on the Columbia recognize it or not, our interest in the development of the Colorado or the San Joaquin -- even the Missouri or the Rio Grande -- our interest in their proper development is inescapable. On numerous occasion I have indicated Oregon's willingness to parti- cipate in the necessary studies leading to solutions of western water problems. We on the Columbia may pretend that it is an appropriate response to offer to California full access to the waters of the Columbia -- at its mouth -- but we know (as you know) that such a proposal rests on analysis of data which is at best inadequate, frequently unavailable, and almost never integrated beyond basin barriers. The Oregon Legislative Assembly earlier this month concurred in my budget recommendation that we make "a more intensive effort in the evaluation of our water resources." I further noted that "this is not a matter of selfish defense against proposed diversion of Oregon's water to other areas. It is, rather, a proper response to the compelling fact that the availability of fresh water is a crucial key to the economic future of Oregon and the West. All of the states of the West need the kind of effort this budget proposes." I am delighted in the presence of this audience -- to sign that appropria- tion bill. It is doubtful if there is anyone agency, anyone state, -or the federal government, that is fully qualified to develop an acceptable plan that will provide the solution to western water problems and at the same time adequately represent all interests and governmental entities involved. Solutions can be achieved, but they will require the full and effec- tive participation by all interested and by all affected.