Bill Richardson and Water Rights

Recently, the Gov highlighted his plan to hold a "national water summit" if elected president and to establish a water-conservation position as a cabinet post in his administration. He also made a comment that was easily misinterpreted: that "Wisconsin is awash in water." That kind of talk raises the hackles of folks around the Great Lakes, who have seen their water levels dropping and, rightfully, don't want to see other regions of the country dipping into their water supply.

So let's clear this one up: Bill Richardson doesn't want to transfer water from one region of the country to another. This isn't socialized water that he's talking about. All he meant by Wisconsin being "awash" in water is that *all* states, even the more "awash" ones, need to be focused on water conservation. Folks in the Southwest have been dealing with this for years, and there certainly are many good people in the Great Lakes area who have too, but BR's point is this: *everyone* in the US needs to focus on water-supply issues and conservation. It's that important. Bill Richardson doesn't want to steal anyone's water. He just wants everyone to think of water as a precious resource that needs to be protected.

Here's the official statement from the campaign yesterday (link to website):

Bill Richardson reaffirms authority of states to oversee water distribution

SANTA FE, NM-- Presidential candidate New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson's national press secretary Tom Reynolds today released the following statement on Richardson's water policy for America's future:

"As president, Gov. Richardson will launch a national dialogue on water issues affecting all parts of the country, including quality, conservation, efficiency and reuse. While certain areas of the country enjoy greater water supplies than others, Richardson in no way proposes federal transfers of water from one region of the nation to the other. Richardson believes firmly in keeping water in its basin of origin and of the rights of states to oversee water distribution.

"As governor of a western state, Richardson understands more than others the importance of protecting our water supplies. In New Mexico he has developed a statewide water initiative, he has created a statewide strategic water reserve, and he has created a water innovation fund and a water trust fund to invest in water conservation and production.

"As President Gov. Richardson will embrace a national water policy that will specifically help protect the authority of states and the rights of local communities throughout the country."