Hayworth Floats Colorado River Conservation Plan

50 year plan secures access to power and water supplies as well as protecting endangered species WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman J.D. Hayworth (R-Ariz.) has taken another big step in his commitment to protect Arizona's natural resources by leading a bipartisan coalition of legislators in introducing the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program Act (LCR MSCP). The LCR MSCP is a 50 year partnership designed to restore over 8,000 acres of new habitat and while enhancing fish and wildlife environment along the 400 miles of the Colorado River below Lake Mead as it flows through Arizona, Nevada and California into Mexico. Supported by a number of federal and state officials, this bill would also eliminate future lawsuits between residents, power and water suppliers and industries that rely on resources provided by the river. "This is a win-win situation for everyone," said Rep. Hayworth. "The Colorado River is the heart of the Southwest. Not only does it provide power to 20 million people in places like Phoenix, San Diego, and Las Vegas, but it is also irrigates over 2 million acres of farmland and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife on the planet." "This legislation assures that the Lower Colorado River remains alive, vibrant and productive for generations to come." The cost of the $626 million dollar conservation initiative will be split 50/50 between the Department of the Interior and over 50 non-federal partners. Hayworth worked with over 30 water and power authorities, numerous federal and state agencies as well as several Native American tribes to make this partnership a reality. "This bill provides important assurances to the LCR MSCP participants and we appreciate Congressman Hayworth's leadership in introducing it," said Doug Miller, General Counsel for the Central Arizona Project. "The program will help us protect 26 endangered, threatened and sensitive species on the Lower Colorado River while ensuring future water supply reliability for citizens and industry in the Lower Basin states for years to come."