roundtable speech russ

• Title: The Colorado Water for the 21st Century Act
• Author: Russell George
• IBCC - Doc Type: Articles & Speeches

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HB 05-1177 - The Colorado Water for the 21 Century Act

Russell George

(published by the Colorado Water Congress)

The dialogue on water in Colorado has already changed. During my travels across this
state, I have had the opportunity to learn first hand of the great many collaborative efforts
undertaken to help resolve our complex water situation.

Historical water use patterns have caught up with our choices of where we live and work.
Increasingly communities have outgrown available water supplies. This predicament was
created over time and will likely continue to become more dramatic as Colorado's
population continues to grow and its water uses and needs continue to grow. To correct
this problem by moving water from place to place without regard for the communities,
economies, and environment that will be affected by such movement does not recognize
the value and importance of families, businesses, and culture and environment in all parts
of Colorado.

Water is moved from basin to basin and sub-basin to sub-basin in every corner of
Colorado. In the past, and far too often, the movement of water has been viewed as
creating winners and losers. Even in our major river basins, there are complicated issues
between different geographic regions within basins. These too have grown over time to
create the perception of winners and losers. I am convinced that this need not be the
case.

There is absolutely no question that compromise is in order and will be necessary to
accommodate the many competing water uses in Colorado-but it does not mean that we
are dealing with a zero sum proposition.

This is the backdrop behind the collaborative process outlined in HB 1177. The
legislative process itself was a model for the Interbasin Compact. The bill went through
many changes, and many different individuals put their expertise and knowledge to task
in helping us create a better product. Representative Josh Penry (R-Grand Junction) and
Senator Jim Isgar (D-Hespems), as House and Senate sponsors, showed us that we are
able to address difficult and controversial issues while maintaining an eye toward the
future. Their leadership guiding HB 1177 through legislature was exceptional.

The Interbasin Compact initiative is based upon the premise that Coloradans must work
together to address the water needs within our entire state. It is also based upon the
premise that we will be willing to work together to do so. I am convinced that we will
work together to meet these challenges.