Summary
Gives the government power to build projects that help manage water, protect fish, and restore nature in the Klamath Basin to reduce conflicts.
What problem does this solve?
Conflicts over water use in the Klamath Basin have harmed the local environment and important Tribal fisheries. This law allows the government to fund projects and make agreements to better manage water and restore habitats.
Who does this affect?
- Tribes in the Klamath Basin
- Farmers and Irrigators
- Federal environmental agencies
What does this law do?
Authorizes new restoration projects
Allows the Secretary of the Interior to plan, build, and maintain projects in the Klamath Basin watershed to improve water management and habitats.
Protects fish and tribal fisheries
Directs projects to reduce the number of fish trapped by water systems, lessen impacts on water life, and restore habitats, including Tribal fishery resources.
Funds a local irrigation district
Permits the Secretary to pay back the Tulelake Irrigation District for up to 69 percent of the costs to run and maintain Pumping Plant D.
Allows for new partnerships
Lets the Secretary make agreements with state, tribal, and local governments, as well as private groups, to carry out the projects.
Upholds a 2016 agreement
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to follow the terms of the '2016 Klamath Power and Facilities Agreement'.
Does not change existing water rights
States clearly that the law does not create, determine, or affect any water rights that existed before the law was passed.
What is the real world impact?
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Promotes cooperation to end water conflicts
Encourages federal, state, tribal, and local groups to work together on water sharing and environmental restoration. Aims to reduce long-standing fights over water in the region.
When does this start?
This law takes effect on January 4, 2025.