    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [March 29, 2002]
    [Page 525]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Klamath River Basin Federal Working Group
    March 29, 2002

        I am pleased with the progress being made by the Klamath River Basin
    Federal Working Group in addressing the problems facing the people of
    this region. Under the leadership of Secretary Norton, the working group is providing water to farmers who depend
    on it for a living, while taking careful steps to protect and enhance
    the health of fish populations in the Klamath River Basin. The working
    group is undertaking new environmental restoration projects in the area
    and has initiated a dialog with native tribes about long-term solutions
    to the natural resource and native rights issues in the basin.
        The times are still difficult for many in the region, and much work
    remains to be done. It is essential that the citizens of Oregon and
    California in the Klamath River Basin--whether farmer, rancher, tribe
    member, fisherman, or environmental activist--embrace compromise and
    seek understanding. The working group's rapid progress, combined with
    the efforts of Senator Gordon Smith and
    Representative Greg Walden, give me great hope
    for a lasting solution to the challenges of the Klamath River Basin.