Report of the Oregon Klamath River Commission on water resources and requirements of the Upper Klamath Basin

Oregon Klamath River Commission; Stanley, Lewis

"The Oregon Klamath River Commission was given the specific assignment of cooperating with the California Klamath River Commission in formulating and submitting to the legislative assemblies of both state for their approval an interstate compact relative to the distribution and use of the waters of the Klamath River. It was given authority to make the necessary surveys and investigations upon which to base such negotiations. The Problem: An interstate compact to govern the equitable division of the waters of the Klamath River between the states of Oregon and California is unquestionably the logical means of avoiding litigation, promoting friendly relations and developing a compehessive [sic] plan for the utilization of the waters of the Basin in the best interests of all of its people. Matters of present and potential controversy which may be finally resolved and settled by such compact include the following: 1. Determination of the portion of the total run-off of Klamath River and its interstate tributaries which may be consumptively used in Oregon. 2. Determination of the rights for storage in Upper Klamath Lake and other possible reservoir sites in Oregon and operation of reservoirs to benefit water users in both states. 3. Authority for diversions of water in one state for beneficial use in the other. 4. Nature and extent of the rights of the United States to waters of the Basin, particularly as such rights apply to interstate diversions. 5. Determination of the order of preference in uses of water for its several purposes, where the supply is inadequate to fulfill all demands."