Department of the Interior

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Office of the Secretary


For Immediate Release:
March 7, 2006
Contact:
Frank Quimby, 202-208-7291

Secretary Norton Names Mark Limbaugh Her Representative on Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Work Group


WASHINGTON -Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton today named Assistant Secretary Mark Limbaugh her representative on the Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Work Group (AMWG) that evaluates modifications in the dam's operations and other management actions aimed at protecting the Grand Canyon.

Norton also appointed Limbaugh co-chair of the Department's Policy Group that reviews recommendations from the Adaptive Management Work Group and provides policy-level guidance.

"Protection of the Grand Canyon and its natural and cultural resources is, and will continue to be, among the highest priorities for this department," Norton said. "I believe that Mark will bring important insights and perspectives to the ongoing work of this critical effort."

Limbaugh, who oversees both the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Geological Survey as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science, replaces Mike Gabaldon, who has served as the Secretary's designee on the Work Group since 2002.

"Mike has overseen the workings of the AMWG in a professional and effective manner," Norton said in thanking Gabaldon for his efforts, noting that the Bureau of Reclamation had recently appointed Gabaldon director of its Technical Service Center in Denver, Colo.

The Glen Canyon Dam Adaptive Management Program undertakes research and monitoring to determine if revised dam operations are actually achieving resource protection objectives through a rigorous, science-based program that promotes flexible decision-making.

"I also appreciate the hard and dedicated work of the members of the AMWG, and I thank them for their continued participation in this program, "Norton said.