Bill Requires Army Corps of Engineers to Study Reservation's Water Resource Development Needs

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Joe Baca (D-Rialto) introduced legislation to direct the Secretary of the Army to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of carrying out a project to address the water resource development and management needs of the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians Reservation.  The legislation authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to appropriate $1.7 million to complete the feasibility study.

“Proper use and management of our water resources is becoming increasingly critical to the quality of life in the Inland Empire,” said Rep. Baca.  “I am pleased to introduce this bipartisan legislation, which directs the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to carry out a long overdue feasibility study on the Soboba Reservation.  Especially in these times of continued drought, protecting the water resources of our tribal communities is essential to their future growth and economic well-being.”

In 2008, Congress enacted the Soboba Settlement Act, which included funding for the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians, to settle water-related claims against the United States.  But before the Soboba community can begin construction on new water related structures and systems, they need a feasibility study to ensure the construction can be carried out safely and in a cost-effective manner.  

Rep. Baca’s legislation is co-sponsored by Rep. Mary Bono-Mack (R-Palm Springs), and Rep. Jerry Lewis (R-Redlands).  

“An analysis of the water resources development and management needs of the Soboba Band shows that a feasibility study is of great importance at both the local and national level,” concluded Rep. Baca.  “Flood risk management, ecosystem restoration, and the availability of safe, clean drinking water are all essential to the public health and quality of life in the Inland Empire.  This bill ensures the Soboba Band of Indians will receive the proper considerations they deserve when considering the future of water resources in Southern California.”