Colorado River Salinity Problem - Definite Proposal for Discussion with Mexican Commissioner

Document: From J.F. Friedkin, "Colorado River Salinity Problem, Definitive Proposal," July 1, 1964, page 1July 1, 1964 COLORADO RIVER SALINITY PROBLEM Definite Proposal (For Discussion with Mexican Commissioner) 1) Introduction I am now authorized to present for consideration by your country, a definite proposal for a "permanent and effective solution" of the Colorado River Salinity Problem in accord with understandings of the Presidents. 2) Proposal Solution I am authorized to agree, subject to the approval of necessary appropriation by the Congress, that the United States will either: a) Provide for operation of Wellton-Mohawk District at a salt balance ratio of no higher than 1.5:1 beginning October 1, 1964, subject to insignificant variations due to operating practicalities, or b) At the option of the United States, install a gravity drainage system in substantially all of the irrigated lands in the Wellton-Mohawk District, as the "permanent and effective solution," even though the salt balance may be higher than 1.5:1. Under a) the monthly pattern of discharge of salts from the District in waters delivered to Mexico will approach as nearly as practical that which would obtain with gravity drains. The quality at the northerly boundary during the winter months of 1964-65 will be at least as good as that delivered during the winter of 1963-64. The United States Government anticipates that under operations of a) (to obtain at least 1.5 salt balance), the ratio will improve over the next three or four years to below the 1.5:1 ceiling.Epson Perfection 4870 Photo, 400 dpi, 8 bit, 1,608,426 byte