Bureau of Reclamation News: Media Advisory - Reclamation Commissioner John Keys

Upper Colorado Region
Salt Lake City, Utah

Media Contact:

Kim Greenwood
(505) 462-3557

Released On: June 13, 2003

Media Advisory - Reclamation Commissioner John Keys

John Keys, Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, will hold a telephone media availability to issue a statement regarding the 10th Circuit Court's Opinion and the Department of the Interior's position. Following his statement, Commissioner Keys will take questions on background only.

DATE: Friday, June 13, 2003

TIME: 1:00 PM - MDT

TOPIC: 10th Circuit Court Opinion - Minnow v Keys

CALL IN NUMBER: 888-843-7183 - Passcode 20960 Moderator: Kim Greenwood

Statement of Commissioner Keys:

The 10th Circuit Opinion is a major setback in the efforts to resolve competing water allocation needs during a period of extreme drought. While the Department of the Interior believes that the 10th Circuit Opinion is wrong, we will continue to work to meet the water needs of irrigators, endangered species, pueblos, the City of Albuquerque and other San Juan-Chama contractors. And, we will also explore all legal options to address the 10th Circuit Decision.

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Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at www.usbr.gov.