Lower Republican River Basin Sudy Act

LOWER REPUBLICAN RIVER BASIN STUDY ACT -- (House of Representatives - September 27, 2006)

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Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New Mexico. I also thank the gentleman from Wisconsin this evening for being here in support of H.R. 4750. As has been indicated, this is a very important issue for many in both the State of Nebraska and the State of Kansas. I particularly want to express my appreciation to the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Osborne) and really the cooperation that has existed on very difficult issues between the State of Nebraska and the State of Kansas.

Water is a huge issue in the midwest. It always has been, probably always will be. But it is especially exacerbated by the fact of inadequate rainfall for now, four, five and six years in much of Kansas and much of Nebraska.

An agreement was reached, compact litigation ensued. Ultimately a settlement of that litigation was reached. And that settlement provides for the State of Nebraska and the State of Kansas to come together, provide some money, share with the Federal Government.

The Department of Interior would then conduct a study. The State of Kansas, and I believe the State of Nebraska has appropriated this money for the fiscal year. That is why this legislation is so important to be timely considered and timely approved. All that now remains is for the Federal Government to meet its obligation under the settlement agreement.

The feasibility study is desperately needed to increase the water availability to find out how we do that, and to encourage its efficient use and conservation within our delivery system.

Madam Speaker, the feasibility study authorized by 4750 is not only necessary to ensure the State remains in compliance with that agreement, but to make certain that the economic, agriculture and personal use of water is done in a very efficient and effective way.

I urge Members of Congress to approve this legislation.

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