Congressman Salazar Secures Millions for Rural Water Development

U.S. House Approves Nearly $60M for Third CD Water Projects

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Salazar (CO-3) won a key victory for rural Coloradoans today when Congress approved nearly $60 million for water infrastructure development projects in the Third Congressional District. The appropriation of the funds came as a direct result of Congressman Salazar’s fight to include local projects in the 2006 Energy and Water Development Bill. 

“This is a huge step towards realizing improved water access in the Third Congressional District,” said Salazar. “Water is the lifeblood of our rural communities and we must do whatever we can to make sure that rural Colorado gets its fair share of federal tax dollars.”

The 2006 Energy and Water Development Bill provides funds for the Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, Department of Energy and related agencies. The annual spending bill is a statement about the federal government’s priorities for improvement of water infrastructure and energy research. Salazar emphasized the need to continue water development and provide adequate funds for successful completion of existing projects.

“Investing the right amount of money now will make sure problems are solved at the get go and save more money down the line,” said Salazar.  “I can’t emphasize how important it is to invest back into local water infrastructure.  Without this investment, we would continue to see a decline in the management of this irreplaceable resource.”

In the Third Congressional District, the following projects are slated to receive funding:

Animas La Plata Project - $56 million
Citing a need for greater water supply and job creation in Southwest Colorado, Salazar united the Colorado delegation behind a request to increase funds for ALP development. Salazar’s consistent efforts will result in a nearly 20% increase in funds directed to the site and a renewed commitment to having water pumping by 2012.

Arkansas River Habitat Restoration Project - $315,000
Funds secured through this bill will allow for the completion of this important environmental restoration project. In cooperation with the City of Pueblo, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed 90% of the project

Trinidad Lake Project– $1.021 million
Emphasizing maintenance of existing projects, Salazar secured a $50,000 increase for operation and maintenance of the Trinidad Lake. Trinidad Lake is a multipurpose project for flood control, irrigation and recreation, and was authorized by the 1958 Flood Control Act.  The lake is located in southern Colorado on the Purgatoire River, and bordered by the historic Santa Fe Trail. 

“Spending bills are about priorities. In this case, we have succeeded in placing a priority on development in rural Colorado,” said Salazar.