The Change Mariner

Norton Signs Historic Water Pact in West

Aberdeen News (South Dakota):

Interior Secretary Gale Norton signed a deal Thursday meant to end years of bickering among California and six other states that rely on Colorado River water. The deal ensures more water for fast-growing cities in Southern California while limiting supplies to farms.

More than 30 million acre-feet of water - enough to cover the state of Pennsylvania a foot deep - will move from farms to cities in Southern California over the 75-year life of the deal. Beyond serving burgeoning urban populations, the shift is designed to curb California's overreliance on the river.

"Today we celebrate an historic event on the Colorado River, the river that brings life to this arid region of our nation," Norton said. "With this agreement, conflict on the river is stilled."

Much of the water affected by the deal will go to San Diego. The Imperial Valley, California's biggest user of Colorado River water, will sell as much as 90 billion gallons each year to San Diego - roughly a third of the city's future water needs.

Amazon Price:

Amazon Price: