Congressman Biggs Leads Arizona Republican Delegation in Formal Opposition to Flawed Colorado River Draft Plan

Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) led Arizona's Republican Members of Congress in submitting a formal comment letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum expressing serious concerns with the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Post-2026 Operational Guidelines for Lake Powell and Lake Mead. The proposed alternatives in the DEIS would place reductions exclusively on the Lower Basin, despite the fact that the Lower Basin represents 75% of the Basin's population and economy, 76% of its jobs, and 78% of its crop sales.

For decades, Arizona has been a good steward of its water allocation, employing innovative methods to save, store, and reduce overall water use. These efforts have allowed the state to flourish, doubling in population while using less water. Along the way, the state has been a true partner among the seven basin states, taking prudent reductions to ensure the viability of the Colorado River for decades to come. The proposals included in the DEIS are unnecessarily punitive on the Lower Basin states and will have a drastic impact on Arizona's future. The proposals are also in direct contradiction to the Colorado River Compact of 1922, solidifying them as unworthy of consideration.

"The Colorado River is foundational to Arizona's economy and our national security," said Congressman Biggs."Yet the alternatives outlined in this draft plan would force disproportionate and devastating water cuts on Arizona and the Lower Basin, while allowing the Upper Basin to increase its use."

"Arizona has done the hard work. We have and continue to save every possible drop of water so that our population can grow, our economy can thrive, and our state can serve as a hub for agriculture and technology in the nation. We cannot accept a framework that punishes responsible stewardship while ignoring long-standing legal obligations under the Compact and the Law of the River. The Department must go back to the drawing board and produce a revised plan that is balanced, lawful, and sustainable."

"Arizona and our Lower Basin partners have sacrificed to contribute nearly 9 million acre-feet of water to help save the river system, and we have offered to do more. Now it's time for our Upper Basin neighbors who benefit from the river to show responsibility and step up with real reductions. If no agreement is reached among the parties, the United States must implement a decision that is consistent with the Colorado River Compact of 1922, the Law of the River and wise water policy. We thank our congressional delegation for their continued support," said Brenda Burman, CAP General Manager.

The Arizona Republican delegation reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Department of the Interior and fellow Basin States to secure a durable and fair agreement that protects both the Colorado River system and the communities that depend on it.

The letter may be read here.