BOISE, Idaho – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Jim Risch emphasized the importance of local water resource management and his commitment to advancing the priorities of Idaho farmers, ranchers, and water users in a recent feature by Irrigation Leader Magazine.

“Q: In Idaho, we have long considered you a water champion. Your office regularly takes the lead on water issues important to our state. Why do you believe you are drawn to water issues?

Senator Risch: I know firsthand that difficult problems—especially those relating to natural resources—are best addressed when local stakeholders come together to develop creative and tailored solutions. Unfortunately, it seems that the federal government is increasingly trying to impose one-size-fits-all mandates that do not work for Idaho and certainly do not work for Idaho water. As a senator for Idaho and a member of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, it is my job to ensure that Idahoans have a seat at the table and to maintain our right to manage Idaho’s natural resources.

As a rancher, I recognize the critical role agriculture plays in Idaho’s economy and identity. Water is at the heart of our agriculture industry. When it comes to the issues that matter most, keeping Idaho’s farmers and ranchers in the driver’s seat is my top priority.”

“Q: Being in Congress gives you a special perspective on not only the challenges that water managers are facing in the West but also the politics of addressing those challenges. What do you see as the biggest issues affecting water use and management in the West?

Senator Risch: People outside the West struggle to understand the distinctive challenges we face. This is especially apparent when it comes to western water management. Idaho has been a leader in water innovation and conservation, employing aquifer recharge, surface water infrastructure upgrades, and other water-conserving technologies to ensure that our most valuable resource, water, remains available to future generations. Unfortunately, continuous overreach and regulation from the federal government, even on matters about which agencies have received clear direction from Congress, disrupt these tailored and effective efforts. Local stakeholders have the best ability to solve these difficult problems, and the federal government needs to leave states room to manage their water.”