Date: 2013-06-19
Speaker: BEN RAY LUJAN (democrat)
Chamber: H
State: New Mexico

Mr. Speaker. as we come to the House floor this morning. many communities across the West suffer from severe wildfires. and theyre having a more devastating impact due to extreme drought conditions this year. In my home State of New Mexico. firefighters have bravely worked to battle a number of blazes. and I extend my sincerest thanks for their tireless efforts. With global climate change contributing to drier and hotter summers and more intense fire seasons. it is critical that we take steps to address the root causes of climate change before it gets too late. And while we should focus on the steps we must take to reduce greenhouse gases and encourage energy conservation. we must also ensure that were preparing for the drought conditions that will continue to impact our communities in the years to come. The National Integrated Drought Information System is an important tool in this effort. This program collects and consolidates droughtrelated data and information. It operates regional drought early warning system pilot projects across the country. Authorization for this program is currently scheduled to end this year. That is why Im working in a bipartisan effort to reauthorize the National Integrated Drought Information System for another 4 years. This will enable the Federal Government to further develop regional drought early warning systems and identify research. monitoring. and forecasting needs that can help farmers and firefighters alike. Because whether its growing crops or raising livestock or battling wildfires in the West. drought conditions in the coming years will continue to pose challenges for our communities. and we will need to do all we can to assist those whose lives and livelihoods are impacted by climate change. Mr. Speaker. today Im also offering an amendment to be able to provide grant authorization to many small. predominantly Hispanic communities across northern New Mexico that are in these areas where these waterways have been carved through our mountains. through our watersheds to provide opportunity to small farmers. rural communities all across New Mexico called acequias. For many years. local farmers in New Mexico have been asking for an amendment that would allow acequia and community ditch associations to access EQIP funds. An acequia is a centuriesold irrigation structure that is still in use today. providing opportunities for many private land owners all across New Mexico and southern Colorado. The board of private land owners. also called an acequia and community ditch association. is in charge of administering maintenance of the irrigation infrastructure which often requires work on sections of the ditch of the acequia on private land. These small community ditch associations do not have the authority to levy taxes. Thats why Im asking for Members to please consider and offer your support on this amendment today. Members who are watching and tuning in to CSPAN this morning. as well as offices. please take a look at this amendment. We need your help in New Mexico. and our farmers would certainly appreciate the kind support of Members of Congress. So thank you so much. Mr. Speaker. We have a lot of work to do. Lets make sure we can get this done on behalf of people who are struggling and working all across America today.