Water year 2021 is now the worst year on record for many farmers and ranchers, wildlife managers, and businesses and communities who rely on water supply from the basin, putting these irreplaceable resources at risk. While these freshwater-dependent resources cover only 2% of the landscape, they support 40% of all breeding birds. The myriad rivers, wetlands, and lakes of the Colorado River basin have extraordinary value, economically, culturally, ecologically, and spiritually. Audubon advocates for solutions in the Colorado River basin that ensure adequate water supply for people and the environment.Īs you consider options to support drought management in the West, it is important to recognize the consequences of severe drought in the Colorado River basin. Since 1905, we have been dedicated to the conservation of birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow, throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the- ground conservation. Audubon is a leading national nonprofit organization representing more than 1.8 million members. My name is Jennifer Pitt, I serve as the Colorado River Program Director for the National Audubon Society (Audubon), and I have more than 20 years of experience working on water issues in the Colorado River basin.

The full testimony can be found at the bottom of this page.Ĭhairman Kelly, Ranking Member Hyde-Smith and members of the subcommittee, thank you for holding this important hearing on drought in the West, it is an honor to testify before you today. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water and Power.

On October 6, 2021, Audubon's Colorado River Program Director gave the following testimony before the U.S.

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