BOISE, Idaho (Governor News Release)—Governor Brad Little, Lt. Governor Scott Bedke, and others commented Tuesday on the news that surface water users and groundwater users are nearing the finish line on a new mitigation plan, in keeping with the “ Protecting Idaho Water Sovereignty Act ” executive order issued in June.
“Farmers working together to determine our water destiny has always been and will always be the best path for protecting agriculture and conserving water for today and future generations. The plan is nearing completion and given the positive momentum and the good faith efforts of all parties involved, we look forward to putting the finishing touches on a new agreement that provides certainty for all water users. It is important to note that the farmers are getting this done during their busiest time of year – harvest.
“My office has been intimately involved in the mitigation plan process and we have seen firsthand the value of farmers coming together, rolling up their sleeves, and finding solutions so WE control of our water, not other states or the federal government. I have talked to many farmers in eastern Idaho and the Magic Valley in the last two weeks, and I share their enthusiasm on the progress we’ve made. I have never doubted we could get this done,” Governor Little said.