FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - A California irrigation district that has the largest entitlement to Colorado River water says it doesn't support proposed federal legislation to implement a multi-state drought plan.
The Imperial Irrigation District says language in a packet that several Western states recently sent to Congress would waive environmental laws.
Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming recently agreed to push for federal legislation to implement drought contingency plans. Under the plans, the states would give up water to keep two reservoirs from dropping drastically.
The Imperial Irrigation District said it won't commit to the plan unless it secures $200 million in federal funding to help restore a massive briny lake southeast of Los Angeles.
Testimony submitted to a congressional panel Wednesday says the plans comply with environmental laws and regulations.
