WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Cliff Bentz (OR-02) introduced legislation aimed at protecting agricultural producers in the Klamath Basin because of the dam removal.
“This bill builds upon the promises made by parties to the agreement entered into regarding dam removal and species restoration, all intended to shield farmers from the adverse effects of dam removal. The legislation also ensures that the Department of the Interior remains accountable, preventing the transfer of river infrastructure unrelated to irrigation costs onto hardworking farmers,” stated Congressman Bentz. “Furthermore, the legislation tackles regulatory challenges posed by species habitat expansion while bolstering efforts to transport water to the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, thus reaffirming commitments made to farmers and ranchers.”
“We could not be more grateful to Representative Bentz for introducing this legislation to protect farmers and ranchers in the Klamath Basin,” said Paul Simmons, Executive Director of Klamath Water Users Association. “It’s proof positive of his leadership and that things can in fact happen in Washington. We look forward to working with Congressman Bentz’s office and our representatives in the Senate who have supported similar legislation in recent years.”
Read the full bill HERE.