[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 26 (Monday, June 28, 2004)]
[Page 1155]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Resolution of Issues Affecting the Missouri River Basin

June 25, 2004

    My administration is committed to working to preserve for America's 
farming families their way of life in the Missouri River basin, to 
provide more predictability to the many users of the river, and to 
protect threatened and endangered species that depend on the river for 
habitat.
    The Army Corps of Engineers and Department of the Interior have 
succeeded in achieving a balance among interests on the river and 
resolving a key element of a 15-year-old conflict. Today the agencies 
are announcing the restoration of the habitat of an endangered species, 
which is an important milestone in ensuring that the river can remain an 
affordable avenue of commerce while meeting the habitat needs of the 
river's many species.
    In addition, I am pleased that earlier this week the Federal court 
approved my administration's operating plan for the river, resolving 
years of litigation in multiple courts. The citizens who call the 
Missouri River home can now better plan for their future as they enjoy 
the many benefits and abundant wildlife that this extraordinary natural 
resource provides.