Carter Administration - Reclamation Legislation
The Carter Administration was the first to challenge the reclamation-system of development in the American West. (sometimes referred to as the “Iron Triangle”: The Bureau of Reclamation, Congress, and the water users—primarily the Big-Capital agricultural interests). In this regard Phillip Fradkin wrote:
“Barely a month after taking office, the Carter Administration had precipitated its first major confrontation with Congress over nineteen obscure water projects…and put its entire domestic program into jeopardy. Some powerful members had been offended. It was time to compromise.” [From: A River No More]
The following is a letter that President Carter wrote to congress outlining his water development policy:
To the Congress of the United States:
During the campaign I committed myself to a prudent and responsible use of the taxpayers' money and to protection of the environment. Today I am announcing a major review of water resource projects which will further both commitments.
Water development projects have played a critical role in developing the economy of this nation. But many of the 320 current projects approved in the past under different economic circumstances and at times of lower interest rates are of doubtful necessity now, in light of new economic conditions and environmental policies. At this point, based upon information thus far developed by the Council on Environmental Quality, the Office of Management and Budget and' the Interior Department, I have identified 19 projects which now appear unsupportable on economic, environmental, and/or safety grounds. I have attached a list of these projects. I am recommending at this time that no funds be provided for these projects in FY 1978.
I am instructing Secretary of the Interior Andrus and Secretary of the Army Alexander, working together with the Office of Management and Budget and the Council on Environmental Quality, to carry out a complete evaluation of these 19 projects and of all other water resource projects and to develop comprehensive policy reforms in this critical area. They will report back to me and to the Congress by April 15.
This review will give us the necessary facts upon which to make certain that only projects which are economically and environmentally sound will receive final approval. The FY 1978 budget reductions for the deleted projects amount to $289 million. Total potential savings from these deleted projects would amount to $5.1 billion.
I look forward to working closely with Congress to develop a coherent water resource policy.
We must work together to achieve our national goals of adequate water supplies, a sound transportation system and needed flood protection. In doing so, we must make certain that our investments are cost-effective, that the cost burdens are equitably borne, and that the environment is protected.
JIMMY CARTER
The White House,
February 21, 1977.
Citation: John T. Woolley and Gerhard Peters, The American Presidency Project [online]. Santa Barbara, CA: University of California (hosted), Gerhard Peters (database). Available on the World Wide Web.
For more information regarding the Carter Administration Reclamation Legislation go to the American Presidency Project
