WSP04702

• File Number: 8272.300.50
• Description: Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Advisory Council
• Basin: Colorado Mainstem
• Water Division: 5
• Date: 12/31/2000
• Title: Annual Report on the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program - 2000
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Annual Report

]000 Al\:VUAL REPORT

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federal agencies and with thl: Basin states. Having the USDA Salinity Coordinator located in Salt
Lake Ciry, where he can dirlXtly interact with the USBR staff. is important. Coordination with
assigned USDA leadership in Washington, D.C. has also improved.

The Council observes that the authority for the EQIP program and other provisions of the 1996
Farm Bill expire in 2002. Anticipating that the Administration will be supporting legislation (0
reauthorize or amend existing USDA conservation programs. the Council believes that it is
important that the USDA and the Basin states work closely together on consideration of potential
changes that would affecr the USDA salinity control effort. The Council urges the USDA to
advise the Forum and to work closely with the Forum and the Forum's Work Group as the
Administration moves ahead with consideration of fUfUre authorities for USDA conservation
programs,

The Council requests written responses to all concerns raised in [his repon concerning the USDA
by May II. 2001 (see page 12).

U.s. Fish & Wildlife Service IUSFWS)

The Council recognizes the USFWS role in the implementation of the salinity control program and
the Council appreciates the attitude of cooperation brought to the table by Reed Harris and Keith
Rose. The Council notes that Reed Harris has announced his plans to retire and Keith Rose is
moving to other assignments. The Council urges the USFWS to promptly assign personnel to
replace these gentlemen as representatives to consult with the Council and the Forum and to work
with other federal agencies and the Forum's Work Group. The Council acknowledges that issues
associated with the fish and wildlife values impacted by the salinity control program are dynamic.

The Council requests any written responses that the USFWS may have to the above observations
by May 11. 2001 (see page 12).

V.s. En~'ironmental Protection AgenC)' (USEPA)

The Council appreciates the well thought-out update provided by the USEPA a[ the last [wo
Council meetings and hopes they will continue in the future.

COLORADO RIVER BASIS S.ill.\7H CO.UROL AD I 7S0R}" co usa/.

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