Rep. Costa Establishes New Congressional Water Caucus

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congressman Jim Costa (D-Fresno) announced the establishment of the bipartisan Congressional Water Caucus. Costa, along with Representatives John Linder (R-Georgia), Bart Stupak (D-Michigan), George Radanovich (R-Mariposa) and Grace Napolitano (D-California), will be a co-chairman of this caucus, with goals of promoting dialogue among Members of Congress and staff about water quality, supply and access. Another major goal of this new caucus will be to educate representatives about water, providing scientific information about water resources and water use.

"This new caucus has the potential to be a strong voice on water issues in the halls of Congress," said Costa. "With droughts currently plaguing much of country, and with long periods of nation-wide drought on the horizon, we need to work together today to come up with solutions for tomorrow. Water is not only the lifeblood of California, but of our nation as a whole."

Recently, there have been reports of drought spreading from California and Arizona to 11 other western states, as well as Minnesota which is experiencing its worst drought since 1976. The Southeast is also experiencing severe dryness, and Lake Okeechobee in Florida, America's second largest body of fresh water, dropped almost 9 feet last week.

"If there ever was a time to discuss the future of water in America, that time is now," said Costa. "It's a matter critical for our country and it is an issue of international security."