Chiloquin, Ore. – The Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement, or ‘KBRA’ is at a critical point this summer.
For the Klamath Tribes, the success of the KBRA hinges on dam removal, and the acquisition of the 140 square mile Mazama Tree Farm.
However, that property was sold last month to a company based in Singapore.
But, Klamath Tribal Chairman Don Gentry says that hasn’t derailed the KBRA…
“No, it hasn’t. It’s certainly a concern, that this significant benefit of the Tribes has been lost, but the parties are working hard to try and find a solution, an alternative property that could fill that need.”
Gentry notes that while the agreement hasn’t been passed, water users on the Klamath Project have been getting water as outlined in the agreement, in exchange for their support of the KBRA…
“Part of the deal when we signed into it, was to honor the water balance that was negotiated there. And of course, the project is honoring that also.”
Chairman Gentry says that deal is likely to continue this summer…
“Yes, that will be in play this year. It should help, but we know it’s a real dry year. We’re expecting some real concerns about water availability late in the season.”
While Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley continue to back legislation based on the KBRA, there are no guarantees for the future of the bill.
And if the KBRA falls apart, both the Tribes, and farmers will be back to square one.
Chairman Gentry says the Tribes are exploring several options to replace the Mazama Forest – but he’s not at liberty to discuss any of those options at this time.
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