[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
[December 15, 1994]
[Page 2182]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on the California Bay Delta Agreement
December 15, 1994

    When I campaigned for President, I said many times that 
environmental protection and economic growth can go hand in hand.
    Today's historic Bay Delta agreement demonstrates that this goal can 
be achieved. It resolves one of the most contentious and important 
public policy issues affecting the State of California. It puts an end 
to a bitter conflict that has persisted for decades.
    This is a solution that serves all the people of California. It 
means farmers will have a reliable supply of water to grow their crops; 
that commercial and sport fishermen will have reliable supplies of fish; 
that cities in California will have consistent, predictable supplies of 
water at reasonable rates; and that those who love the outdoors will 
find places throughout northern California with fish, birds, and clean, 
fresh water.
    Under the leadership of Secretary Babbitt and Administrator Browner, 
the Federal Government aggressively faced up to its responsibilities, 
took a process that had previously failed, and made it work. We made 
certain all the Federal agencies worked together, not at cross purposes; 
we challenged our scientists to create new ways of using water more 
efficiently; and we invited all stakeholders to take responsibility for 
a comprehensive solution.
    The result is an innovative plan that protects both water quality 
and water supplies; that enhances environmental and economic progress; 
and that provides the certainty necessary for water users to plan well 
into the future. It demonstrates that, with strong leadership and a 
cooperative spirit, environmental laws can be properly and productively 
enforced.
    This historic agreement is good for economic growth, good for the 
environment, and good for California and the Nation.