Secretary Jewell Statement on Congressional Failure to Act on Klamath Agreement

Date: December 21, 2015
Contact: Jessica Kershaw, Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov

WASHINGTON — U.S. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell issued the following statement on the status of the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement after the U.S. Congress adjourned for the year without acting on the settlement.

"I am deeply disappointed that authorizing legislation for the hard-fought Klamath Agreements was not passed during this session of Congress. In crafting these agreements, a diverse and committed group of coalition parties set aside ideology and years of conflict for the hope of long term progress and sustainability for tribes, the fishery and irrigated agriculture in the region. 

"While the KBRA will terminate due to the lack of congressional authorization, we still believe the future of the basin lies with negotiated agreements and we will work hard with the parties to find ways to achieve their collective goals while they take necessary steps to protect the long-term interests of the people of the Klamath Basin and the important natural resources on which they depend for their cultural, economic and spiritual livelihood."