Jewell disappointed in Congress’ failure to authorize Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement

After the end-of-year adjournment of Congress without legislative approval of the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement (KBRA), Interior Secretary Sally Jewell expressed disappointment that the hard-fought document will not be implemented.

"I am deeply disappointed that authorizing legislation for the hard-fought Klamath Agreements was not passed during this session of Congress,” Jewell said. “In crafting these agreements, a diverse and committed group of coalition parties set aside ideology and years of conflict for the hope of long-term progress and sustainability for tribes, the fishery and irrigated agriculture in the region.”

The process of drafting the KRBA was an extensive series of negotiations impacting more than 45 entities in the region of southern Oregon and Northern California. 

"While the KBRA will terminate due to the lack of congressional authorization, we still believe the future of the basin lies with negotiated agreements and we will work hard with the parties to find ways to achieve their collective goals while they take necessary steps to protect the long-term interests of the people of the Klamath Basin and the important natural resources on which they depend for their cultural, economic and spiritual livelihood," Jewell said.