For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 1, 2002

President Creates Klamath River Basin Working Group
Statement by the President

A prolonged drought and complex federal and state legal issues have made for difficult times in the Klamath River Basin. Today I am establishing the Klamath River Basin Federal Working Group to address concerns raised by farmers, ranchers, fishermen, Tribes, and others affected by these difficult conditions.

I have directed Secretary Norton, Secretary Veneman, Secretary Evans, and CEQ Chairman Connaughton to advise me of the immediate and long-term actions necessary to enhance water quality and quantity, and to address the other complex economic and natural resource issues in the Klamath River Basin.

I have directed the Working Group to begin their efforts immediately. I want to thank Senator Gordon Smith and Congressman Greg Walden for their commitment to working together to find a lasting solution that meets the needs of the Klamath River Basin.

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