[Senate Hearing 107-176]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
S. Hrg. 107-176
BAILEY, KEYS, AND MAINELLA NOMINATIONS
=======================================================================
HEARING
before the
COMMITTEE ON
ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
UNITED STATES SENATE
ONE HUNDRED SEVENTH CONGRESS
FIRST SESSION
on the
NOMINATIONS OF VICKY A. BAILEY, NOMINEE TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS AND DOMESTIC POLICY,
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY; JOHN W. KEYS III, NOMINEE TO BE COMMISSIONER OF
THE BUREAU OF RECLAMATION; AND FRANCES MAINELLA, NOMINEE TO BE DIRECTOR
OF THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
__________
JUNE 27, 2001
Printed for the use of the
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
_______
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COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
JEFF BINGAMAN, New Mexico, Chairman
DANIEL K. AKAKA, Hawaii FRANK H. MURKOWSKI, Alaska
BYRON L. DORGAN, North Dakota PETE V. DOMENICI, New Mexico
BOB GRAHAM, Florida DON NICKLES, Oklahoma
RON WYDEN, Oregon LARRY E. CRAIG, Idaho
TIM JOHNSON, South Dakota BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL, Colorado
MARY L. LANDRIEU, Louisiana CRAIG THOMAS, Wyoming
EVAN BAYH, Indiana GORDON SMITH, Oregon
BLANCHE L. LINCOLN, Arkansas JIM BUNNING, Kentucky
PETER G. FITZGERALD, Illinois
CONRAD BURNS, Montana
Robert M. Simon, Staff Director
Sam E. Fowler, Chief Counsel
Brian P. Malnak, Republican Staff Director
James P. Beirne, Republican Chief Counsel
Note: Senator Bingaman assumed the Chairmanship on June 6, 2001.
C O N T E N T S
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STATEMENTS
Page
Akaka, Hon. Daniel K., U.S. Senator from Hawaii.................. 22
Bailey, Vicky A., Nominee to be Assistant Secretary for
International Affairs and Domestic Policy, Department of Energy 15
Bayh, Hon. Evan, U.S. Senator from Indiana....................... 7
Bennett, Hon. Robert F., U.S. Senator from Utah.................. 6
Bingaman, Hon. Jeff, U.S. Senator from New Mexico................ 1
Campbell, Hon. Ben Nighthorse, U.S. Senator from Colorado........ 24
Craig, Hon. Larry E., U.S. Senator from Idaho.................... 7
Domenici, Hon. Pete V., U.S. Senator from New Mexico............. 1
Graham, Hon. Bob, U.S. Senator from Florida...................... 5
Keys, John W. III, Nominee to be Commissioner of the Bureau of
Reclamation.................................................... 13
Lugar, Hon. Richard G., U.S. Senator from Indiana................ 8
Mainella, Frances, Nominee to be Director of the National Park
Service........................................................ 10
Murkowski, Hon. Frank H., U.S. Senator from Alaska............... 2
Nelson, Hon. Bill, U.S. Senator from Florida..................... 4
APPENDIXES
Appendix I
Responses to additional questions................................ 31
Appendix II
Additional material submitted for the record..................... 45
BAILEY, KEYS, AND MAINELLA NOMINATIONS
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2001
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources,
Washington, DC.
The committee met, pursuant to notice, at 9:32 a.m. in room
SD-366, Dirksen Senate Office Building, Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
chairman, presiding.
OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. JEFF BINGAMAN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM NEW MEXICO
The Chairman. The committee will come to order. This
morning our hearing is on President Bush's nomination of
Frances Mainella to be the Director of the National Park
Service; John Keys, to be the Commissioner of Reclamation; and
Vicky Bailey, to be the Assistant Secretary of Energy for
International Affairs and Domestic Policy. Without objection,
the written testimony of each witness and the committee
questionnaire and the financial disclosure statements will be
submitted for the record.
Let me call on Senator Murkowski for any opening statement
that he has at this point.
Senator Murkowski. Looks like, Mr. Chairman, we have got
some signs up there that suggest we are going to have some
members do some introductions, but----
The Chairman. We are if they arrive. If they don't arrive,
we will do without them.
Senator Murkowski. All right. Well, that is fair enough for
me. We have got one that has arrived.
The Chairman. Do you want to make any statement before we
hear from the members. Why don't you sit down, Senator Nelson,
and you can hear Senator Murkowski's statement and then we will
hear from you.
[A prepared statement from Senator Domenici follows:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Pete V. Domenici, U.S. Senator
From New Mexico
Mr. Chairman, I appreciate these individuals appearing before us
today, because these nominations are critical not only to their
respective agencies, but also to our state of New Mexico. In
particular, the Department of the Interior is still the one cabinet
department in which only the Secretary has been confirmed. This is
particularly distressing considering the broad mission of the
Department and its wide jurisdiction which includes our national parks,
water issues, American Indians, public lands, and preservation of our
nation's resources.
I firmly believe that the individuals appearing before us today
will greatly benefit the Department of the Interior and I fully support
each nominee.
With the federal government managing over 30 percent of the land in
New Mexico, much of what the Department does directly impacts New
Mexico. Both the Park Service and the Bureau of Reclamation play large
roles in New Mexico parks and water issues.
New Mexico has been very fortunate having just had Eluid Martinez
as the Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner. We are proud of Eluid's
service with the Bureau. It was always comforting to know that we had a
Commissioner who understood the challenges associated with western
water issues. I still believe it is critical that the Bureau administer
its numerous initiatives to help the Western states meet their water
needs while balancing the multitude of competing uses of water in the
West.
I also look forward to working with the two other nominees, Ms.
Bailey on energy policy issues and Ms. Mainella on maintaining our
National Parks. Given the importance of water, parks and energy to New
Mexico, it is vital that the Energy and Interior Departments have
experienced, educated and informed officials to carry out desired goals
and missions.
I am proud to report that the three nominees before the committee
today bring vast amounts of knowledge and experience to the
Departments. They have remarkable expertise in their respective fields.
I am certain that they will serve the Department of Energy and the
Department of the Interior with pride. I look forward to working with
each of them on issues critical to New Mexico.
STATEMENT OF HON. FRANK H. MURKOWSKI, U.S. SENATOR
FROM ALASKA
Senator Murkowski. Thanks, Jeff. I am certainly pleased
that we scheduled this hearing today. I think we have three
well-qualified nominees. Vicky Bailey is, of course, no
stranger to this committee. She has been endorsed twice before
when she served as Commissioner of FERC, at FERC I should say
and will certainly be a great asset to the Department of
Energy. Her knowledge and contribution has high expectations.
Mr. Keys has testified before the committee and has a long
and distinguished record of the Bureau of Reclamation and a
record of reaching out on all sides and managing the Bureau's
projects in the Northwest. I am pleased to see some of the
families here as well.
Ms. Mainella has certainly a distinguished career in park
and resource management, including recognition by her peers,
and service as president of the National Association of State
Park Directors and of the National Recreation and Park
Association has worked with our staff on issues over the years.
I appreciate the pace at which the committee is attempting to
hold these hearings, but I am troubled by the situation on the
floor of the U.S. Senate.
It is my understanding that the Majority Leader intends to
hold nominations until the organization resolution is resolved,
and I could not disagree more with that procedure. I fail to
see how hamstringing the Federal agencies advances any public
policy. We have a situation currently in the Department of the
Interior where we have one individual who has been confirmed,
and that is the Secretary. I am even more troubled that the
leadership continues to object to a time agreement on Steven
Griles, so that once--it seems like we should be able to move
that particular nomination.
Let me elaborate for the record on the facts. Steven
Griles' chronology suggests that the intent to nominate was on
March 9 of this year. The nomination was received on May 1 of
this year. Would the staff please pick up Senator Graham's
name--thank you.
He was reported favorably out of this committee by a vote
of 18-4 on May 23. All this was before Senator Jeffords made
his announcement on May 24. We immediately began to try and
move this nomination. The minority also tried to get a time
agreement, and in checking with the floor staff, we find that
Griles was cleared on the Republican side on May 23. In an
executive session on May 23, we moved one nomination. On May
24, we moved 19 nominations. On May 25, we moved 33
nominations. On May 26, we moved eight nominations. In each
case, Griles was cleared on our side but objected to by the
Democrats.
During this period, a unanimous consent agreement was
ordered to allow for 2 hours of debate and a vote. The
Democrats had said they needed 2 hours with consideration and
as a consequence, the week we returned from the recess, that
was rejected again by the Democrats, as was a modification that
deleted the time certain and only included the time limitation.
At that point it was clear that obviously the Democrats would
control the floor, and the timing on our return from that
recess.
An Executive Order--on June 14, we cleared three additional
nominations, but the Democrats again would not agree on Griles.
As of today, Griles has been pending 36 days without even a
time agreement. I would also note that even if the Majority
Leader wants to hold consideration of further nominees hostage
to the reorganization resolution and agreement on time for
debate has nothing to do with the resolution and the actual
schedule of the debate.
I think the record will note when the Clinton
administration was in power, we did move the nominations. We
did not attempt to delay them and while I don't dispute the
issue on the resolution with regard to the nominations, I think
the record is quite clear on Griles. Griles should be cleared
because he was moved prior to the takeover by the new majority.
I wanted to make that note so that the record would clearly
indicate what's going on here, and that is an effort to
withhold nominees and in the particular issue of Griles, use
him as an excuse to throw him in with the rest of the nominees
and clearly that is unfortunate.
I am also troubled by the fact that we canceled our markup
for today and I understand the Democratic leader doesn't even
want to move out of committee markups until this resolution is
resolved. In any event, I think it is contrary to serving the
public and I know they say there is a simple solution, but
Griles certainly doesn't fit into that category. Griles should
be moved.
I'd like to have our full committee of members in the
Senate working together on this, as I know we all would, but I
think it is important to point out that the Appropriations
Committee is moving markup on the Interior bill tomorrow, so
some committees are moving along, but maybe it is different
when you are providing the funding for projects back home and
when you are approving the President's nominees to administer
these programs and projects, but I don't think there is much
difference.
That being said, I welcome our fellow Senators. I welcome
the nominees, but I did want to express some frustration
concerning Mr. Griles, who is anxious to serve the Department
of the Interior and the public.
The Chairman. Why don't we go ahead with statements by
various Senators who are here to introduce nominees. I think
I'll call on people in the order that the staff has written it
down here. Senator Graham is here to introduce Fran Mainella,
and why don't you go right ahead with your statement.
Senator Domenici.
Senator Domenici. Excuse me, Senator Graham. Could I put a
statement in the record with about seven questions and ask that
they be answered. This is in support of all three.
The Chairman. We will include that in the record.
Senator Domenici. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Certainly.
Senator Graham.
Senator Graham. Mr. Chairman, with your permission, I would
like to defer to my colleague, Senator Nelson, who has a prior
commitment.
The Chairman. We are glad to hear from Senator Nelson.
STATEMENT OF HON. BILL NELSON, U.S. SENATOR
FROM FLORIDA
Senator Nelson. Mr. Chairman, I will be very brief, but
just wanted to be here personally on behalf of Fran Mainella to
tell you what an outstanding appointment this is and I know
about which I speak, because in my previous life as the elected
State treasurer and insurance commissioner of Florida sitting
on the cabinet, elected cabinet of Florida, which was actually
the group that was the official bosses of the agencies of
government of which Mrs. Mainella was the director of Parks.
Outstanding reviews. It was with great pleasure that
Senator Graham and I went to the Everglades, accompanying the
President, on the occasion of him making the announcement, and
it was certainly an honor for me to be there and participate
because this is an excellent appointment, and thanks to my
colleague, Senator Graham, to let me get on to these 50 people
that are waiting for me. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you very much for being here.
Senator Nelson. Thank you very much.
[The prepared statement of Senator Nelson follows:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Bill Nelson, U.S. Senator From Florida
Mr. Chairman, it is my privilege to introduce and recommend Mrs.
Fran Mainella to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
She is an accomplished and dedicated steward of Florida's parks.
I wholeheartedly support her nomination as Director of the National
Park Service.
Mrs. Mainella has an exemplary record.
Under her guidance, Florida's state park system received the
National State Parks Gold Medal, designating Florida's parks. as the
best in America.
Ms. Mainella received the Senator Bob Williams Award for
recognition of her public service, which has changed the course of
historic preservation in Florida.
She has served as the President of the National Association of
State Park Directors and President of the National Recreation and Park
Association.
Currently, as Director of the Division of Recreation and Parks for
the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, she oversees 155
state parks, eight bureaus, two offices and more than 1,000 employees.
Her vast experience and expertise make her the top candidate for
this important position.
Floridians value her service and appreciate the work she has done.
Our congressional delegation supports her nomination and I have
received many letters of support for Mrs. Mainella from people across
the state.
Floridians know Mrs. Mainella as a leader who works cooperatively
and effectively with others.
If confirmed as Director of the National Park Service, Mrs.
Mainella will continue to inspire confidence and respect, and our
National Park Service and public lands will flourish.
Thank you.
The Chairman. Senator Graham.
STATEMENT OF HON. BOB GRAHAM, U.S. SENATOR
FROM FLORIDA
Senator Graham. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, it
is a great pleasure to introduce Mrs. Fran Mainella to this
committee. As Senator Nelson has just said, Ms. Mainella is
known to us beyond her outstanding service, but also as a close
personal friend. Ms. Mainella has many accomplishments. She is
the past president of the National Association of State Park
Directors. She is the past president of the National Recreation
and Park Association.
This year she won the award in Florida in recognition of
public service for historic preservation efforts. Currently,
Ms. Mainella serves as the director of the Division of
Recreation and Parks of the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection. She has held this position for 12 years.
In that position, Ms. Mainella oversees 155 parks,
consisting of more than 500,000 acres. Under her leadership,
the Florida Park Service was the recipient of the 1999-2001
gold medal award, voted America's best State park system. That
speaks for the quality of her service.
The Florida State park system has received this recognition
as it has become a national model for a number of initiatives
that I know Ms. Mainella is interested in pursuing in the
national park system, volunteer and partnership programs. She
created these programs at all of the major State parks and then
created an umbrella group on a statewide basis so that one of
the most publicly supported aspects of State government in
Florida today are State parks.
She has created a partnership in the parks program, a
public-private program that has increased the service
capabilities of our State parks. She is aware of the needs of
our Nation's national treasures in our national parks. Under
her leadership, the Florida State park service has worked
closely with the superintendents of the national parks in
Florida, as well as with local parks.
Past superintendents of Everglades National Park and
Biscayne National Park have praised Ms. Mainella's cooperative
work as a model of relationships between State, local, and
national park systems. Mrs. Mainella's nomination is fully
supported by the Florida Congressional delegation and Mr.
Chairman, I have a letter of support from the delegation which
I would like to enter into the record, as well as Governor Jeb
Bush, and I also have a letter from the Governor in support.
In addition, my office has received numerous letters from
local organizations in support of Mrs. Mainella's confirmation.
I would ask that those also be included in the record.
I am certain that if confirmed, Mrs. Mainella will provide
important expertise and experience for the National Park
Service as she has in the State of Florida. I think the
President has shown great wisdom in nominating this experienced
American for this very important position, and I urge her early
positive confirmation.
The Chairman. Well, thank you very much. All of those items
have you brought with you will be included in the record, and
we appreciate your statement very much. Senator Bennett is here
to introduce John Keys.
STATEMENT OF HON. ROBERT F. BENNETT, U.S. SENATOR
FROM UTAH
Senator Bennett. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have the
privilege of introducing John Keys III, who is President Bush's
nominee to be Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation and
while I am sure he did not do this deliberately, Mr. Keys has
accumulated a political resume that should stand him in good
stead during the confirmation process.
Our friend, Senator Shelby, will be pleased to know that he
was born in Alabama. He graduated from Georgia Tech. He spent a
number of years in Idaho working where Senator Craig knows him,
but he had the wisdom to both begin his career and then retire
to the State of Utah, and so that is why we claim him in Utah.
Upon graduation from Georgia Tech, he accepted his first
position with the Bureau of Reclamation in Provo, Utah where he
worked for the Central Utah Project and after working on the
CUP, he worked with the Bureau in North Dakota, Montana, and
Colorado. From 1979 to 1980, he left the field to come to
Washington and then finished the last 18 years of his 34 year
career with the Bureau in the Pacific Northwest Region, where
he served as Regional Director from 1986 to 1998.
All the time that he was doing this work in the Bureau of
Reclamation, he found time to earn a master of science in civil
engineering degree from Brigham Young University. He was
awarded the Department's meritorious service award in 1984
during the Reagan administration and the Department's ultimate
award, the Distinguished Service Award in 1995 during the
Clinton administration, which demonstrates I think that he has
the capacity to work with all sides, see all sides, and make
everybody feel good about resolving difficulties from all
sides.
He has worked with State governments, tribal governments,
environmentalists and water users to fashion workable solutions
and along the way, has received praise from groups that are as
disparate as the Save Our Wild Salmon Coalition and Trout,
Unlimited to the Oregon Water Resources Congress of the Idaho
Water Users. I think it is a tribute to his willingness to
serve that he is willing to come out of retirement from a
delightful lifestyle in Moab, Utah, and those of you who have
been to Moab know how attractive that can be, to come back into
Federal service and accept the assignment as Commissioner of
the Bureau of Reclamation.
It is an honor for me to endorse his nomination, and to
introduce him here today. I urge the committee to give him
favorable and rapid consideration.
The Chairman. Well, thank you for that strong statement. It
sounds to me like his talents are needed in the Middle East
instead of in Bureau of Reclamation. But let me----
Senator Bennett. They do have water problems over there.
The Chairman. Senator Craig wanted to make a very short
statement also and then Senator Bayh wished to make an
introduction as well. Go ahead.
STATEMENT OF HON. LARRY E. CRAIG, U.S. SENATOR
FROM IDAHO
Senator Craig. Mr. Chairman, thank you very much. I did
want to recognize, as Senator Bennett has, John Keys in the
audience today, and who we are considering for confirmation for
the Bureau of Reclamation. Bob has laid it out very well. This
man's excellent record in public service. If you look at his
span of time in Idaho from 1986 to 1998, that is not quite as
long as I have been in public office representing Idaho, but it
means that all during that time, Mr. Chairman and members of
the committee, I have had the opportunity to interface with
John in working within his capacity as Regional Director for
the Pacific Northwest. He is fair. He is balanced. He brings
great expertise. He will serve us extremely well. I am proud
that he comes before our committee.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. Senator Bayh wished to
make an introduction of Vicky Bailey. Go right ahead.
STATEMENT OF HON. EVAN BAYH, U.S. SENATOR
FROM INDIANA
Senator Bayh. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am pleased to be
here today as a member of this committee to urge the
confirmation of Vicky Bailey as Assistant Secretary for
International Affairs and Public Policy, and Mr. Chairman, I am
pleased to report that although he could not join us today
because of a scheduling conflict, my senior colleague from
Indiana, Richard Lugar, feels just as strongly about Vicky's
nomination.
I have known Vicky Bailey for many, many years. As a matter
of fact, in my previous life as our State's Governor, I was
privileged to appoint her to a second term to Indiana's Utility
Regulatory Commission where she served with distinction for 7
years from 1986 to 1993. During that time, she took a
leadership role on several of the national associations
representing the electricity commissioners from across the
country, including the National Association of Regulatory
Commissioners and the North American Electrical Reliability
Council.
From her service in Indiana, Vicky moved to the national
stage as a member of the Clinton administration. The Clinton
administration's nominee to the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission, where she presided over a rapidly changing energy
industry. In January 2000, she left public service to return to
Indiana as president of PSI Energy, a subsidiary of Synergy,
and the largest electric utility serving our State.
The position to which Vicky has been nominated is a
critically important one, and particularly so at this time. The
Office of International Affairs and Domestic Policy will be the
United States' primary point of contact on international
collaboration on energy policy, including shared research,
technology, trade, and international energy goals and energy
diplomacy.
As our domestic energy policy comes into focus and the
threat of global warming must be addressed in the post-Kyoto
environment, international collaboration has enhanced
importance. Joint research ventures, exploring energy sciences
and technology, the advancement of domestic energy technologies
and the opening of international energy markets are all
critical to our energy future.
Domestically the Department of Energy will play a pivotal
role in energy research and development, an area in which I am
particularly interested, and it will serve as a foundation of
innovative, national energy strategy. The Assistant Secretary
will be responsible for coordinating all policy and management
initiatives affecting science, research, and technology
development activities.
These are serious challenges, Mr. Chairman, with far-
reaching implications for our energy security. I am confident
that Vicky Bailey is up to these challenges. With her
experience in the private sector, at the State level, and at
the Federal level, Ms. Bailey understands the challenges of
making policies and the challenges of implementing and living
with them.
She is an excellent choice for the job and has my full
support for this position. I look forward to working with Vicky
Bailey to help to frame an energy policy that will serve the
citizens not only of our State, but of our Nation well in the
years to come. Mr. Chairman, I thank the committee for its
indulgence, and I urge her swift confirmation.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. There is a statement
that Senator Lugar has prepared. He was not able to be here,
but he asked if we would include this in the record, and we
certainly will.
[The prepared statement of Senator Lugar follows:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Richard G. Lugar, U.S. Senator From Indiana
I am pleased to have this opportunity to introduce Ms. Vicky Bailey
to the members of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
I have known Vicky Bailey for many years and consider her to be a
uniquely qualified candidate for the position of Assistant Secretary of
International Affairs and Domestic Policy. Ms. Bailey's credentials and
experience range from being a Commissioner of the Indiana Utility
Regulatory Commission, a Commissioner to the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission, and currently president of PSI Energy, Inc., the largest
electric utility in Indiana, and a leader in helping to formulate
national energy and environmental policy.
Throughout her service on both Commissions, in the private sector,
and in the community, Vicky Bailey is known to be a true professional--
precise, fair-minded, thoughtful, and dedicated. She has extensive
leadership and management experience and a keen understanding of the
energy and environmental issues confronting our nation.
Ms. Bailey has won broad bipartisan acclaim in Indiana. First
appointed to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission in 1986 by
Governor Robert Orr, she was reappointed by Governor Evan-Bayh in 1990.
In 1993, President Clinton appointed her and in 1996, he reappointed
her to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, where she became an
expert on regulation of electric utilities.
Ms. Bailey has established herself as a thoughtful strategic
planner and resourceful director and liaison to federal, private, and
academic organizations. She has consistently used her talents and
intellect to bring people together for a common cause in order to
effect positive change. I have always been impressed by her high level
of dedication and commitment to public service.
Mr. Chairman, I thank you for this opportunity to introduce Vicky
Bailey to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
The Chairman. Why don't all three nominees come forward if
they would at this point and we will swear them in as required
by the rules of this committee. Would each of you please stand
and raise your right hand.
Do you solemnly swear that the testimony you are about to
give to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
shall be the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
[Chorus of ayes.]
The Chairman. Please be seated. Before you begin your
statements, let me ask three questions of each nominee, will
you be available to appear before this committee and other
congressional committees to represent departmental positions
and to respond to issues of concern to the Congress?
[Chorus of ayes.]
The Chairman. Second question, are you aware of any
personal holdings, investments or interests that could
constitute a conflict of interest or create the appearance of
such a conflict should you be confirmed and assume the office
to which have you been nominated by the President?
Ms. Mainella. My investments, personal holdings and other
interests have been reviewed by myself and the appropriate
ethics counselors with the Federal Government and I have taken
appropriate action to avoid any conflicts of interest. There
are no conflicts of interest or appearances thereof to my
knowledge.
The Chairman. Does that same apply to you, Mr. Keys?
Mr. Keys. Yes, sir.
The Chairman. And to you, Ms. Bailey?
Ms. Bailey. Yes, it does. Thank you.
The Chairman. And are you involved or do you have any
assets held in a blind trust? Ms. Mainella?
Ms. Mainella. No. I do not, sir.
The Chairman. Mr. Keys?
Mr. Keys. No.
The Chairman. Ms. Bailey?
Ms. Bailey. No, I do not.
The Chairman. Let me at this point invite each of you if
you have any family members who have accompanied you to the
hearing that you wish to introduce, you are welcome to do that.
Ms. Mainella.
Ms. Mainella. Mr. Chairman, my parents were not able to
join me today, nor my sister, but I do have a number of friends
here with me and other State park directors from across the
Nation. I just appreciate having them here with me. Thank you.
The Chairman. We are glad they were able to come. Why don't
we have them all stand up.
Ms. Mainella. Thank you.
The Chairman. Mr. Keys, did you have anyone you wish to
introduce? All right. Ms. Bailey?
Ms. Bailey. Yes, Mr. Chairman. My immediate family members
were unable to travel with me, but I do have today with me a
number of friends who have either worked with me in a
professional capacity and have thus become close relationships
since then, and then a few personal friends as well. With me is
Kathy Cobb, Ester Cosby, Jackie Simmons, Larry Smith, Mark
Schaffer, Larry Bruneel, Phillip Fralin, and Jackie Caul, and I
hope they all stood up.
The Chairman. Well, I hope they will all stand up. All
right. At this point, let me just give each nominee a chance to
make your opening statement. As I indicated at the first, we
will include your full statement in the record, but any
comments you would like to make. Ms. Mainella, why don't you
start.
TESTIMONY OF FRANCES MAINELLA, NOMINEE TO BE DIRECTOR OF THE
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
Ms. Mainella. Good morning, Mr. Chairman, Senator Murkowski
and members of the committee. It is just a great privilege and
honor to be sitting in front of you as the President's nominee
as National Park Service Director. It is like a dream come true
with our great 384 wonderful units, our crown jewels of natural
and cultural resources available to over 285 million people. To
be able to serve those resources if confirmed will be such a
great honor.
My dream of being involved with park and recreation began
as a child when I was in Groton, Connecticut, and was in
scouting, in Girl Scouting, by first camping and hiking. And
from there went on to be my first job in park and recreation as
a playground counselor working with children in playgrounds as
I worked my way through college.
From there, I had my, I continued to work part-time in park
and recreation, as I taught school. I was a physical education
teacher and did that for about 7 years and then moved to
Florida, which is where I moved into park and recreation not
only at a State level but in the local level and also in the
private sector.
I had a chance to be the executive director of the Florida
Recreation and Park Association, which also gave me that good
private sector experience which I think has benefited me in
many ways. My educational training from the University of
Connecticut and then my masters from Central Connecticut State
College, now university, helped me I think have the skills to
work with groups and bring people together. That has been some
of the, I think one of the key assets I have had when I have
been in Florida, and I hope to be able to if confirmed apply
that here on the national parks level.
As Senator Graham indicated, one of the top accomplishments
that we have had in Florida State parks, and as he said I was
there, I have been there for 12 years under three
administrations and they are both Democrat and Republican
administrations that I have served under, has been that we did
achieve the greatest award, which is being voted the best State
park system in this country, and in doing that, what it
recognized is the fact of our resource management, our citizen
involvement, our ability to work well with our volunteers, and
of course, our visitors services.
But in doing that we found that you needed to bring a team
together, and that is a whole team, a dynamic team, and it is
not just our great Park Service employees, but again, bringing
together groups from outside local governments and other State
entities, as well as our Federal partners that Senator Graham
mentioned as far as working with our Federal, our national
parks and other entities.
We have found that that team development has been so
critical in the success for Florida State parks. Again, our
challenges are probably--we're smaller than the National Park
System obviously and we have accomplished those so much and so
many of those techniques that are bringing teams together,
bringing groups together, consensus building is what is I think
applicable as we move forward with the National Park Service
efforts.
As you probably heard a number of times, Secretary Norton
foresees that communication, the ability to cooperate with each
other, consultation, and of course, all under the name of
conservation has been a theme that I believed in for a long
time, long before I even had a chance to meet Secretary Norton
and believe this is an important effort.
Our National Park System is the envy of this world. People
from all across the country and international visitors enjoy
our parks. And I want to commend all those that have served our
national parks, all our employees, all our partners as we have
gone forward. Our national park foundation and other
stakeholders, if I am confirmed, I look forward to working with
those groups.
As we reach out to people beyond just the folks that maybe
we have normally dealt with, we need to be able to do that so
that we know that all have had good communications, all have
been listened to and also that we have continued to put and
meet the major challenges ahead of us. Our ecosystem, our whole
protection of our ecosystem, the general park management
issues, our outdoor recreational opportunities to make sure
they will continue to be improved and of course our
infrastructure issues as we have addressed that through our
maintenance backlog.
I pledge to each and every one of you that I will commit to
making sure that I reach out to those stakeholders, open up
channels of communication with everyone, including all of our
elected leaders and making sure we have a good effort in that
direction.
I want to work on volunteer development. I want to work
further on improving our partnerships and enhancing them even
beyond where they are today, and of course, also
accountability, and I think that is an important part through
our performance goals and other methods of accountability.
The President has really put a focus on our national parks,
the natural resource challenge, the elimination of the backlog,
maintenance backlog and the establishment of partnerships
through the land and water conservation fund or similar
efforts. I believe this is a commitment that all of us will be
very beneficial to our national parks. I believe and hope that
I can play an integral part in that effort of moving things
forward, carrying forth the Organic Act of 1916 and making sure
that we are really in position as we move through this 21st
century.
I want to thank each and every one of you who have been
able to meet with me or visit with me. You have been a great
support, and so many of you, even members that are outside of
this committee, have reached out to me. Also the support of
both State and local officials, leaders from organizations from
across this Nation, and I do pledge to you, I pledge to all of
my supporters, to the President and to the American people,
that I will be ready to meet these challenges that are ahead of
us and further enhance the ability for the National Park
Service to move forward through the 21st century. I just thank
you for this opportunity, Mr. Chairman, and welcome any
questions.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Mainella follows:]
Prepared Statement of Frances Mainella, Nominee to be Director of the
National Park Service
Mr. Chairman, Senator Murkowski, and Members of the Committee, it
is a great privilege and special honor to appear before you today as
the President's nominee for Director of the National Park Service, in
the Department of the Interior. To be responsible for America's 384
special places, her crown jewels, is an awesome challenge. Working to
preserve and protect their natural and cultural resources for the over
285 million visitors that enjoy them each year is a dream come true.
My love of the outdoors began as a child in Groton, Connecticut,
where through scouting, I went on my first camping trip and hiked my
first trail. While I attended the University of Connecticut, I launched
my 36-year career in parks and recreation as a summer playground
counselor. Upon graduation, I taught junior and senior high school
physical education and worked part-time for the Southington Connecticut
Park and Recreation Department. I also completed my master's degree in
counseling at Central Connecticut State College. My academic training
and overall work experience has allowed me to develop the skills that
are necessary to work well with a variety of groups, building consensus
and developing very important partnerships.
My park and recreational experiences in Florida have been on the
local, state and private sector levels. As Executive Director of the
Florida Recreation and Park Association, a non-profit organization, I
worked with the many hundreds of volunteers, citizens, and numerous
other organizations and groups to further the Association's goals.
For the last 12 years I have served as Director of Florida State
Parks under both Democrat and Republican administrations. Most notably,
Florida State Parks were voted the best in the nation, achieving the
Gold Medal Award for 1999-2001. This award is given by the National
Sporting Goods Association, and the National Recreation and Park
Association. This prestigious recognition reflects most positively our
approach to resource management, citizens' involvement, innovative
funding concepts, and the emphasis we place on visitor services.
Building a dynamic team and working closely together to accomplish our
mission were essential components for the award which includes our
great employees, our 1900 partners including our concessioners and
friends groups, our volunteers and many others.
Florida parks, with 155 units and 16.7 million visitors, have only
some of the challenges that face the National Park Service. Yet the
successful techniques involved in establishing partnerships and
bringing all stakeholders together for meaningful discussion and
consensus building benefits all land managers. As Director of Florida
State Parks, I biannually schedule interactive meetings with
environmental leaders and recreation users to discuss challenges and
goals. This process parallels Secretary Norton's 4 c's--consultation,
cooperation, and communication, all in the name of CONSERVATION.
America's National Park System is the envy of the world. I commend
all those dedicated public servants that serve at our national parks.
If confirmed, I look forward to working with staff, our partners such
as the National Park Foundation, and other stakeholders. With the
support of the Congress, I look forward to the challenges this position
holds as we address park management, protection of ecosystems,
improvement of outdoor recreational opportunities, and improving park
infrastructures. I pledge to this Committee, Mr. Chairman, that I will
work closely with all stakeholders, open channels of communication with
all, including elected leaders, and all those that have a common
interest in making our national parks the best they can be.
Also, I pledge to work hard to improve our partnerships, volunteer
development, and accountability through meaningful performance goals.
The President has made a strong commitment to our national parks by
supporting the Natural Resource Challenge, the elimination of the
maintenance backlog, and the establishment of partnerships as reflected
through the Land and Water Conservation Fund. I believe that by working
with all partners and staff to achieve success, I can play an integral
role in having the National Park Service meet the goal described in the
Organic Act of 1916: of conserving ``. . . the scenery and the natural
and historic objects and the wildlife and to provide for the enjoyment
of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them
unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.''
I am also extraordinarily grateful and appreciative of the support
my nomination has received from Members of Congress, state and local
officials, leaders from organizations with which I have worked and
served. I pledge to you, to my supporters, to the President, and to the
American people my best efforts to meet the challenges ahead, and
further enhance the ability of the National Park Service as we move
through the 21st century.
Thank you. I am happy to answer any questions the Committee may
have.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. Mr. Keys, why don't you
go ahead with any statement you have.
Mr. Keys. Senator Craig and Senator Bennett, thank you for
the generous----
The Chairman. You might pull one of those microphones over
there, please.
TESTIMONY OF JOHN W. KEYS III, NOMINEE TO BE COMMISSIONER OF
THE BUREAU OF RECLAMATION
Mr. Keys. Senator Craig and Senator Bennett, I certainly
appreciate those generous comments in the introduction. Mr.
Chairman and Senator Murkowski, it is certainly an honor and a
privilege to be here today, and appear before you and ask for
your confirmation to be the next Commissioner of the Bureau of
Reclamation. I would like to ask that my full written statement
be made part of the record.
The Chairman. It will be.
Mr. Keys. Mr. Chairman, I retired from Federal service in
1998, after working with the Bureau of Reclamation for 34
years. During that time, I worked in the Great Basin in the
Missouri, Columbia, and Colorado River basins. I worked at all
levels of the Bureau of Reclamation, at the project office
level, at the regional office level, in the engineering and
research center and at the Commissioner's office. I enjoyed and
learned from every one of those assignments and I believe that
they prepared me well to handle the job of Commissioner of
Reclamation.
During those years of service, I had the opportunity to
work with 10 different Commissioners of Reclamation. And I
learned something from every one of them. Commissioner Domini
taught me to work with the Congress. He was very successful
with that. Commissioner Higginson taught me to work with the
States. Commissioner Underwood taught me to work hard.
Commissioner Beard taught me to respect the resource and how to
change, and Commissioner Martinez taught me humility and
service.
The Bureau of Reclamation is a grand organization. It has
great people there. And they have great potential to serve this
country. In cooperation with the States, tribes, local water
users and other stakeholders, Reclamation has a major role to
play in the future management of the West's scarce water
resources. It has served this country well for the past almost
100 years and I look forward to the opportunity to help launch
it into its next 100 years of service.
If confirmed as Commissioner of Reclamation, I will consult
with you and work with you. I will communicate with and work
with your constituents, and I will look for cooperative,
collaborative and innovative solutions to the water resources
problems that challenge us in the Western United States. Above
all, I will try to keep you from being surprised by any water
resource issue that involves the Bureau of Reclamation. Thanks
again for the opportunity to be here. I would look forward to
answering any questions that you may have today.
[The prepared statement of Mr. Keys follows:]
Prepared Statement of John W. Keys III, Nominee to be Commissioner of
the Bureau of Reclamation
Mr. Chairman, Senator Murkowski, and members of the committee, it
is an honor and indeed a privilege to appear before you today and seek
your confirmation of my nomination to be the next Commissioner of the
Bureau of Reclamation.
Mr. Chairman, my entire professional career was spent working with
the Bureau of Reclamation throughout the Western United States. The
experiences gained working in the Great Basin, the Missouri River
Basin, the Colorado River Basin, and the Columbia River Basin have been
invaluable to prepare me for the challenges of working with future
water resources problems, conflicts, and demands that we face in the
West. I believe that I can work with all of the water users around
Bureau of Reclamation projects to meet those challenges--the
traditional water users who have contracts for the delivery of
irrigation water, the municipal water users whose demands continue to
increase, the instream flow water needs that are becoming more critical
(for fish, wildlife, recreation, water quality control, etc.), the
increasing demands for hydro-electric power generation, and water
requirements that we don't even know about yet. And I believe that
water deliveries from those facilities can be made in compliance with
state water rights and laws and the applicable Federal rules,
regulations, and laws.
The last eighteen years of my work with Reclamation were spent in
the Pacific Northwest, dealing with water service, droughts, Endangered
Species Act requirements for stream flows, rebuilding of an aging
infrastructure, and the changing water requirements of our society.
Working closely with the State Legislatures (Idaho, Washington, Oregon,
Montana, and Wyoming), the Congressional delegations, the water users,
the Native American Indian tribes, and other water related
organizations, we were able to meet these demands. I believe that I can
bring that same cooperative spirit and attitude to the Bureau of
Reclamation for its future work throughout the Western United States.
With that background, let me share a few of my basic beliefs and
guiding tenets with you:
1. I believe in the Bureau of Reclamation. Its people and the
institution itself have the character and capability to work with all
of the water users within, around, and throughout the basins of the
Reclamation projects to meet their water requirements. Those water
requirements can and should be compatible. I believe that I have the
experience, ability, and ``work togetherness'' to make that happen.
2. I believe in State Water Rights. Bureau of Reclamation projects
were built within them and are operated within them. Reclamation should
work closely with the states for the best use of the projects and their
water resources.
3. Bureau of Reclamation facilities are a valuable asset of the
Federal government. Generally speaking, Reclamation's dams, reservoirs,
and hydro-electric power plants should remain in that ownership.
Ownership of other project facilities may be appropriate for transfer
to project beneficiaries.
4. The Bureau of Reclamation can work within existing Federal
rules, regulations, and laws that govern those projects and their
operations. Some of these rules, regulations, and laws may need
changes--if so, I would work with you to accomplish those changes.
5. I believe in Bureau of Reclamation people. I will work with
them, the Administration, the Congress, the states, other agencies, and
other organizations to get Reclamation's job done and help those people
do their jobs to their potential.
With that said, there are a number of challenges that the Bureau of
Reclamation faces and will have to deal with on a long and short term
basis:
1. Managing the limited water resources in Bureau of Reclamation
projects for the needs of traditional water users and the expanding
water needs of our society (domestic and municipal water use, instream
flows, power production, fish, wildlife, water quality control, etc.)
2. Maintaining an aging infrastructure to continue the delivery of
water for multiple uses, provide for the generation of power, and other
project benefits, and to protect public safety in those project areas.
3. Dealing with power supply in the Western United States--
coordinating Reclamation power plants, power generation, and power
marketing with other Federal agency and private power plants to meet
project uses and power customer demands, and to provide system
reliability.
4. Working with other Federal agencies to meet applicable Federal
laws, regulations, and requirements (i.e. National Environmental Policy
Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, water quality standards,
etc.).
5. Enhancing the role of the Bureau of Reclamation as a leader in
the management and conservation of water in the Western United States--
such role would certainly go beyond the delivery of project water----
conservation of water and encouragement of its judicious
use.
finding innovative and effective ways to deal with the
drought.
development of recycling technology and acceptance for waste
water reuse.
working with other agencies, organizations, etc. to make
many uses of the same water.
give water users and planners a place to turn to for
technical advice.
work with the states on water allocations from Western
rivers and deal with those rivers that may be over allocated.
Mr. Chairman, there are no magical answers or silver bullets that
will make the West's water resources problems go away or make these
tasks any easier to solve. If confirmed, I will work hard to make us
both successful in dealing with the challenges of managing the scarce
water resources of the West. Secretary Norton has outlined a vision for
the Department of the Interior that includes strong support for
conserving and maintaining our water resources. With her support and a
strong commitment to consultation, cooperation, and communication, I
believe that we can get the job done, and get it done right.
Thank you for the opportunity to be here today. If there are any
questions, I would be pleased to try to answer them.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. Ms. Bailey, why don't
you go right ahead with your statement.
TESTIMONY OF VICKY A. BAILEY, NOMINEE TO BE ASSISTANT SECRETARY
FOR INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS AND DOMESTIC POLICY, DEPARTMENT OF
ENERGY
Ms. Bailey. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would ask that my
statement be entered into the record, please.
The Chairman. It will be.
Ms. Bailey. My opening comments are very brief. It is a
huge honor and privilege to be asked to join the Bush
administration. I hope that my experience in my present
position and my background, especially as a former State
commissioner in Indiana and also as a Federal regulator at the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will be helpful to the
Energy Department.
Our country faces a lot of important decisions with respect
to future energy policy. Our Nation's economic engine depends
on the availability of (1) reliable and (2) affordable energy.
My mission in private industry has been the same.
In addition to its importance to our economy, energy policy
affects every citizen in our country, especially our Nation's
seniors and citizens struggling to make ends meet. It is also
important to demonstrate common sense and maintain a balance
between our energy and our environment. And as we move forward
to provide energy security, we need also to protect our
Nation's resources.
If confirmed as Assistant Secretary of Energy for
International Affairs and Domestic Policy, I would be prepared
to develop a team of people to give thorough analysis and
advice to the Secretary, basically be an analytical clearing-
house, provide expert analysis and opinion on policy proposals,
and hopefully keep the debate from being polarized, and also as
we go along, look at how proposals affect producers, as well as
consumers. And with those remarks, I thank you and offer myself
for any questions.
[The prepared statement of Ms. Bailey follows:]
Prepared Statement of Vicky A. Bailey, Nominee to be Assistant
Secretary for International Affairs and Domestic Policy, Department of
Energy
Mr. Chairman and Members of the committee, I am honored for the
opportunity to appear before you today. President Bush has nominated me
to serve as Assistant Secretary, for International Affairs and Domestic
Policy, United States Department of Energy. I accept his nomination
with great pride and respect, and a great deal of humility. I pledge to
serve the American people with all of the skill and dedication I can
muster. They deserve no less.
This is not the first time I have appeared before this Committee.
In 1993, I first appeared before this Committee to receive its
confirmation of my nomination to serve as a Member of the Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission. As a FERC Commissioner until early 2000,
I made subsequent appearances before this and other Congressional
Committees to discuss various topics concerning energy policy. However,
at no point during the past several years--perhaps not since the Middle
Eastern oil embargo and gas lines of the 1970s--have energy issues
dominated the headlines as they do now. In a recent poll, conducted by
CNN/Gallup/USA Today, 94% of the American people now agree that the
country is in a serious ``energy crisis.''
The reasons for public concern are familiar to us all. California
is now threatened every day this summer with rolling blackouts, and
much of the rest of the West is similarly at risk. Consumers have
experienced sharp increases in the price of gasoline, home heating oil,
natural gas, and electricity. Pipelines, transmission lines, and
refineries are aging and increasingly incapable of serving a growing
and energy hungry population. Indeed, the health of our nation's
economy, to which we have all grown to take for granted, is now
threatened by energy shortages and prices.
The challenges presented to government officials--federal, state,
and local--with authority to address pending energy issues are truly
daunting. I look forward to returning to Washington, D.C., and again
taking on these challenges.
I believe that I possess a varied--and possibly unique--perspective
on current energy challenges. In particular, I understand the issues
well based on the last 15 years of my professional career. Those years
have placed me in positions of responsibility at the state and federal
level, as well as in private industry. I will briefly explain those
positions, and how they have offered me the opportunity to influence
the development of energy policy.
For seven years, starting in 1986, I served as a Commissioner on
the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. (I was originally appointed
by Governor Orr, and then reappointed by Governor Bayh.) The Indiana
Commission regulates the retail and intrastate aspects of electricity
and natural gas service, as well as other utility services. I know
first hand how a decision to increase utility rates or site a
generating plant or transmission line will affect consumer interests. I
have always viewed the concerns of individual consumers of utility
service as no less important than the concerns of corporate providers
of utility service.
For seven more years, starting in 1993, I served as a Commissioner
on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. As you know, the FERC
regulates the wholesale and interstate aspects of electricity and
natural gas. It also exercises jurisdiction over oil pipeline rates,
the certification of natural gas pipelines, and the licensing of
hydroelectric facilities. During any years of service, the FERC moved
dramatically away from its traditional (and litigation-intensive)
review of utility revenue requirements and cost structures. In its
place, the FERC now relies on its assessment of competitive markets and
the opportunity to exercise market power. In my years as a FERC
Commissioner, I supported efforts to promote non-discriminatory, open
access to alternative energy suppliers, with the goal of allowing
consumers additional choices and service options.
I returned to Indiana in February of 2000. Since that time, I have
served as President of PSI Energy, Inc. PSI, headquartered in
Plainfield, is Indiana's largest supplier of electricity, serving 69 of
its 92 counties. It is the Indiana operating company of Cinergy Corp.
Cinergy serves more than 1.5 million electric customers and 500,000 gas
customers located in a 25,000 square mile service territory
encompassing portions of Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky.
As President of PSI, I make business and operational decisions
every day that affect the fortunes and lives of the Indiana businesses
and residents it serves. My responsibility to utility consumers is to
provide the most reliable, highest quality of utility service at the
lowest possible rates, and with the least possible impact on the
environment. My responsibility to utility employees and shareholders is
to develop and grow a business that can adapt to the changing
competitive landscape.
I do not leave these responsibilities and tasks easily. I leave
Indiana and return to Washington, D.C. only because of the opportunity
to assume new challenges and to confront the energy demands of all
Americans.
Despite recent setbacks, I continue to believe that American energy
consumers are best served by the competitive market. I have maintained
this belief ever since I first joined the Indiana Commission in 1986.
My 15 years in the business of regulating and providing energy services
have only served to reinforce my conviction that consumers demand
choice. I remain committed to the judgment that consumers can best
realize competitive options and obtain lower rates and higher quality
service through reliance on market forces.
This is not to assume that a competitive market for energy products
and services operates in all 50 states. Certainly, some regions--most
notably California--suffer from markets that are not competitive and,
perhaps, were not designed to be competitive. The goal confronting both
legislators and regulators is to move malfunctioning markets in the
direction of competition, and not retreat and embrace traditional
concepts that serve only to stifle individual initiative and choice.
I offer a Midwestern example. In the summer of 1998, the cost of
wholesale power in portions of the Midwest skyrocketed to, at times,
several thousand dollars per megawatt-hour. (In contrast, wholesale
electricity prices typically average between 30 to 50 dollars per
megawatt-hour.) The reasons for the price spikes were many and complex,
but at bottom they rested on the simple notion of inadequate supply and
increasing demand.
Fast forward three years. The Midwest now has proposed ample
supplies of power, and prices have reverted back to historical levels.
This is all due to the fact that the energy industry has learned from
the summer of 1998. Prices charged during that summer served as a
signal to induce interest from investors of capital who wanted to build
new generating facilities to serve pent-up demand. Lawmakers and
regulators, chastened by the events of that summer, committed to
provide the authorizations and incentives necessary to attract
investment in new infrastructure. This is exactly how the market is
supposed to work.
Nevertheless, as more recent events demonstrate, responsible
officials need not--and oftentimes must not--simply wait for
competitive circumstances to improve as the economics textbooks say
they inevitably will. There is much that officials can do to promote
competition in the supply of energy services. In the short-term,
consumers must be assured that suppliers will not be able to take undue
advantage of developing or dysfunctional markets. Anticompetitive or
other forms of improper behavior must be detected and remedied; market
rules must be vigorously enforced. In the long-term, consumers must be
assured that there will be an adequate supply of all forms of energy
products. They must also be assured that there will be an adequate
infrastructure in place that will enable the delivery of these products
throughout the country.
For these reasons, I am heartened by the efforts of this Committee
and this Congress to advance various legislative solutions to the
pending energy crisis. I am also encouraged by the vision and direction
of the Administration in packaging together a portfolio of policies and
initiatives, as enumerated in the National Energy Policy Report
addressing both the supply and demand side of the problem, that will
serve to promote the energy independence of the United States. I am
particularly pleased to see that consensus has developed that the best
way to ensure our nation's long-term energy security is to embrace,
rather than reject, the competitive market. I agree that any short-term
fixes must not jeopardize the long-term health of that market.
Experience has taught me that the energy business is cyclical. To
be sure, recent peaks and valleys have been more pronounced and
volatile than in prior years. But I remain confident that today's
headlines will attract--and indeed already have attracted the
investment dollars and consumer attitudes that will allow present-day
energy worries to recede. The task for governmental and private energy
officials will then be to advance and carry out policies that focus on
the long-term and that ensure that certain regions do not become overly
reliant on only certain fuels or neglect necessary infrastructure
enhancements.
A related task for officials is to ensure that the United States
does not become insular and overly isolated in its thinking on energy
policy. As for myself, I have remained active in organizations, such as
the European Institute, Aspen Energy Forum, The Keystone Center Energy
Project and the Harvard Electricity Policy Group, that have focused on
both domestic and international energy policy. The Administration has
laid out a strategy with the National Energy Policy where several
components focus on international concerns. If I am confirmed, I look
forward to supporting the task force's recommendations as well as
working with Congress on any directives they deem appropriate.
Thank you for this opportunity and I look forward to your
questions.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. Let me start with a few
questions. Ms. Mainella, let me ask you about this Park Service
proposal to significantly reduce the use of snowmobiles in our
national parks. I gather there are specific proposals at Denali
National Park and Preserve, at Yellowstone, at Grand Teton
National Park. Are you familiar with that proposal and if so,
do you support it?
Ms. Mainella. Mr. Chairman, as you know, snowmobiles are
appropriate in some of our parks and our plans are based off of
each case by case unit and looked at in that manner. I know
that some are also under litigation. I think there are some
dealing with Yellowstone and Tetons that are under litigation
and may be moving towards some type of settlement, but that is
as much as I know at this time, but I look forward to working
with you further as we better understand the roles of
snowmobiles in our national parks, but again right now, they
are being looked at on a case-by-case basis.
The Chairman. Let me ask you about a particular project or
program that I think has value that I have been urging more
resources for for several years, and that is the Youth
Conservation Corps. Back in, at the end of the 1970's, Youth
Conservation Corps received about $60 million a year, enrolled
about 32,000 young people each summer. We commit much less than
that now, a few percent of that now, and enroll very few young
people in the program.
I would be interested in knowing your thoughts about that
program and whether you would be willing to support higher
levels of funding for the Youth Conservation Corps and give
that a higher priority in the efforts of the Park Service?
Ms. Mainella. Mr. Chairman, the youth involvement in our
national parks is absolutely critical on all levels and the
Youth Conservation Corps I have had experience with in the
State of Florida as well and has done many beneficial efforts.
I don't know, not being familiar with the actual establishment
of the budget and hopefully I'll be working with you in the
future in that effort, what the funding levels, what they can
be and how we can move that forward, but I certainly believe
that the projects the Youth Conservation Corps are so
important, they parallel back to our Civilian Conservation
Corps, which is the start I know of our Florida State park
system and very instrumental in so many of our other both State
and national parks throughout this Nation.
The Chairman. Mr. Keys, let me ask you about what role, if
any, you think the Bureau of Reclamation can play in dealing
with the depletion of underground aquifers that, that in many
cases straddle State boundaries. One in particular that we have
a problem with in New Mexico is the Ogallala Aquifer, which of
course Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado and various other
States have problems with the depletion of that underground
aquifer. Do you believe that there is any role for the Bureau
of Reclamation in assisting with a solution to that problem?
Mr. Keys. Mr. Chairman, yes, there is. The Bureau of
Reclamation has a great body of expertise in dealing with
groundwater, both the monitoring of existing conditions, trying
to determine trends that are happening, and trying to solve any
problems there, and we would certainly work with the States
involved, and with the basin commissions that might be
involved, and see what could be done there, working closely
with you.
The Chairman. Let me ask, there is a lot written and stated
these days about the fact that the time for construction of
large water projects in the West is behind us, and that as a
general matter, the Bureau of Reclamation has to have a
different mission. How would you describe the mission of the
Bureau of Reclamation as you see it?
Mr. Keys. Mr. Chairman, the Bureau of Reclamation has a
great history of being the great collaborator, working with the
States, working with the tribes, working with the other Federal
and State agencies in the water resources problems that we
encounter. There have been several times in the Bureau's
history where we made shifts from the large projects to working
with water resources management. I think that is been done.
There may still be some large projects out there. I don't
think we should ever rule out that, but certainly we have a
role in managing the water that is there, providing the work
with the international community also. I think the Bureau has a
great future in helping our country manage those water
resources and how they are used, both for water and energy
generation.
The Chairman. Thank you. Ms. Bailey, let me just ask you,
the administration is evidently in the early stages of trying
to develop a policy that would be the administration's climate
change policy. Secretary Abraham indicated that to us at a
hearing we had a couple of weeks ago. What role do you expect
to play in this new position? What role would you expect to
play in the formulation of that policy, and what are your views
on that?
Ms. Bailey. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I believe that in my
position as Assistant Secretary of Energy for the International
Affairs this is where this comes up the most, that is the issue
of global climate change. I believe that my Department will
have an instrumental role in looking at the proposals, what is
put forward. I believe there is a cabinet level task force that
is working on looking at alternatives to the present proposal.
The President has said that the present proposal is not
something that he can support, and has been in discussions with
the other countries involved in the Kyoto, original Kyoto
protocol, so I would look to my role being supportive, being an
area where we would analyze the proposal, try and look at all
sides of the issue, and be able to advise the Secretary
accordingly.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. My time is up.
Senator Murkowski.
Senator Murkowski. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Let me comment
relative to concerns that have been expressed when we had
Governor Gray Davis here about overcharges and alleged price
spiking and so forth by various utility companies and there was
an identification of about 505 million that was in dispute, and
about 270-some-odd million of that was sales from BC Hydro, and
in your capacity, Ms. Bailey, relative to the international
aspect, can you tell us a little bit about how that works in
relationship to the authority of the Department of Energy to
oversee vis-a-vis FERC to set rates but when we are becoming so
dependent on foreign sources and not that Canada is necessarily
foreign in the sense of being a distant neighbor.
We still have a situation where you have a willing seller
and a willing buyer and this allegation of overcharging by BC
Hydro is part of the falderal associated with the allegations
but what's in your opinion the likelihood of collectibility
from a foreign source when they are saying here is the price of
our energy, take it or leave it?
Ms. Bailey. I think it is very difficult from the
standpoint of oversight and jurisdiction. I think these are the
issues that come up. FERC has limited jurisdiction from the
standpoint of--I believe BC hydro, there is a marketer that
FERC has jurisdiction over in the California area. Not being
there and not being intimately aware of all the issues in the
details, it is difficult for me to respond, so I think I will
say this.
I think it is very difficult when you talk in a sense of
refunds, knowing that probably BC Hydro and other generators in
that area have incurred accounts receivables in that area, so
it is very difficult to talk strictly about refunds without
also looking at probably what is due that generator. I think
FERC's actions last Monday in their order will help the Western
States greatly, and I know in their settlement process, they
are going to be addressing the issue of which you speak.
Without having further knowledge, intimate knowledge of the
situation, that is about all I think I can safely say.
Senator Murkowski. Thank you. With the international
aspects of your new position, why obviously, you will have an
opportunity to get in there. A little weather report from Mr.
Keys relative to your familiarity and background in the
Northwest and the reality that so much of it is dependent on
hydro and our understanding that levels are down 50 percent
from what they ordinarily are and the realization of what that
means, the balance of summer months where your run-off is
probably pretty much over for this year and you are still
required to maintain levels for the salmon on certain rivers.
Can you predict all things being equal, assuming we have a
normal summer and so forth, what we are likely to see in
October and November and perhaps December and January as a
consequence of our dependence on this source traditionally and
the realization that it might be half as much power as you
ordinarily would get. What are we looking at with California,
Oregon, Washington, Idaho? Anybody else. Maybe Colorado.
Montana, Wyoming, New Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska. We are okay.
Mr. Keys. Senator Murkowski, my crystal ball is no better
than anyone else's.
Senator Murkowski. You have more knowledge than anybody on
this panel, though.
Mr. Keys. But the crystal ball of how much water is coming
is pretty shallow at times. What I would tell you is that the
system was used to its maximum as I understand during this past
winter to help California and other areas out of a bind. That
greatly stressed the system. I understand with the current
water situation there, there is little help that can be
available into some of those areas during this fall.
Senator Murkowski. And? There is little help. So what
happens?
Mr. Keys. Well, sir, we generate power at our facilities.
First pull on that power is for the project purposes, and then
if there is some surplus power, we will send it to those areas
that need it.
Senator Murkowski. We'll say I am an aluminum company, and
I can make more money reselling my part than I can making
aluminum. Do you have any emergency authority to interrupt that
agreement and make that available direct for public consumption
as opposed to reselling?
Mr. Keys. Senator Murkowski, I don't have any objection to
that, but we don't market the power. Bonneville Power
Administration is in charge of those contracts. They market all
the power from Reclamation facilities.
Senator Murkowski. Well, from your comments, I appreciate
your caution, but clearly there is reason to be concerned. My
last question will be for Ms. Mainella, and it is concerning
one of the crown jewels in the Park Service, and that is
Glacier Bay National Park, and I understand you have been
there.
Ms. Mainella. I have, sir.
Senator Murkowski. And recognize there is a great demand
from Memorial Day to Labor Day and the way you see the park is
on the deck of a cruise ship and the foot print might be a
cigar thrown over the side, but it is very minor in
relationship to what you would have if you had other access.
The Park Service has had an eagerness to develop its own EPA
capability and monitoring as opposed to letting the Federal
agencies and the State agencies monitor.
We have always tried to initiate at least two ships a day
in there, figuring it was the best way to see the park. I think
we are down to 130 ships for a 90-day season. We should be at
180. There is great reluctance not to make this another
Yellowstone or Yosemite. In our point of view, they are
entirely different, and you know, the best way to see it is a
cruise ship. The public wants to come in.
Two a day seems to be reasonable but the Park Service is
just absolutely opposed to it for any reason conceivable that
they can possibly come up with, and they claim that they are
better off to establish their own monitoring, as opposed to
using the Federal agency monitoring capability that the EPA has
and the Coast Guard has and so forth.
And it seems to us an effort to build another bureaucracy
within the Park Service is totally unnecessary. I don't expect
you to have definitive views on this, but I would like you to
consider the merits that some of these parks have for visitors
to see, not necessarily for the enjoyment of the Park Service
personnel to manage. There has got to be a balance there and
with the very short season we have, it seems to us there is a
way to have a more reasonable approach and accommodate more of
our visitors. Any comments?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, I'll be glad to look further into
that. I was under the impression that the National Park Service
had been working on an agreement that had, where there were
more cruise boats coming in, but that it went around legal
concerns, lawsuits were filed and at this point, that their--
legal is taking a look at how to move forward from here.
Senator Murkowski. The environmentalists are very much
opposed to two a day. I can tell you that.
Ms. Mainella. I'll be glad to look into that further,
Senator.
The Chairman. Senator Akaka.
STATEMENT OF HON. DANIEL K. AKAKA, U.S. SENATOR
FROM HAWAII
Senator Akaka. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I would
like to add my welcome to the nominees, to congratulate all of
you for your outstanding credentials that you bring to this
hearing. I would also like to welcome your friends who have
joined you here today.
I have had the pleasure of meeting with Ms. Mainella, and I
look forward to hearing your comments. Mr. Keys, I know of your
experience with the Pacific West and I want to talk with you
some day about the water problems in Hawaii. We do have
droughts, too. And as you may know, last year, legislation was
enacted making Hawaii a reclamation State. And I'd like, Mr.
Chairman, to have my statement included in the record, my full
statement.
[The prepared statement of Senator Akaka follows:]
Prepared Statement of Hon. Daniel K. Akaka, U.S. Senator From Hawaii
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I would like to add my welcome to the
nominees and to congratulate them on the outstanding credentials they
bring to this hearing. I would like to welcome their families as well.
I have had the pleasure of meeting with Ms. Mainella, and I look
forward to hearing her comments today.
It is nice to see Mr. John Walton Keys, III, nominee for
Commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. Mr. Keys, with your
experience in the Pacific West, you may be aware that various areas
throughout Hawaii have been experiencing severe drought, affecting
farmers, ranchers, and residents on several islands. In addition, many
of Hawaii's irrigation systems which were developed to service sugar
cane fields are deteriorating and are not properly maintained to
provide water to Hawaii's farms and ranches. As you may know, last
year, legislation was enacted making Hawaii a reclamation state.
I look forward to working with you on the study of Hawaii's
reclamation needs and drought assistance planning. It is my hope that
some of Hawaii's water concerns will be resolved with the assistance of
the Bureau. Mr. Keys, I look forward to working with you and the Bureau
on these issues.
I would also like to welcome Ms. Vicky A. Bailey, the nominee for
the Assistant Secretary for International Affairs and Domestic Policy
in the Department of Energy. I look forward to working with Ms. Bailey
in developing appropriate policies to address our nation's energy
problems.
Senator Akaka. I have some questions for Ms. Mainella. My
first one since I have heard Senator Murkowski ask you whether
you have been to Glacier, is if confirmed, can we count on your
visit to our beautiful national parks in Hawaii?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, that is an easy yes, and would be
very pleased to do that. Yes, sir.
Senator Akaka. Over the last 10 years, I have been an
advocate for an increased recognition of diversity within the
National Park System. The previous administration made a major
commitment to reach out to diverse communities around the
country so that our parks and those who serve as stewards of
these places are truly reflective of our Nation.
I have initiated studies for Park Service units that tell
the story of Japanese-American internment camps, historic and
cultural trails and parks in Hawaii, as well as the story of
west coast immigration and the building and the peopling of
America. I believe that the interpretation of how America has
become a diverse Nation is important for us all.
My question to you is do you see this as an important issue
with regard to long-term preservation for our national parks
and if so, would you make this a priority under your
leadership?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, the cultural diversity is an
important part of our national parks and I know in Florida, it
was an emphasis that we placed heavily in our Florida State
park system. In fact, we had a cultural initiative underway in
Florida that reached out not only to our historic sites and
cultural sites but also to diverse groups, bringing them into
our parks and making sure that we had that diversity as best as
we could. I would look forward to working with you in that
effort. I think it is very critical, particularly in the 21st
century as we see our demographics continue to change, to work
more closely on our cultural diversity efforts in the national
park system.
Senator Akaka. During both Republican and Democratic
administrations, Congress authorized new parks to conserve our
natural and cultural heritage. In the 106th Congress, four new
units were created and several park expansions authorized,
including Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado and Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park. What is your view of the need to
continue adding nationally significant resources to our
national park system, and do you intend to place a limit on
recommending new units?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, the diversity, our opportunities for
diversity in our resources and being able to have those in our
national parks is so important to I think all of us here. At
this time, though, as you know, we are putting a great emphasis
on our park maintenance backlog and some of those particular
areas, so the administration has asked that we wait, or at
least recommend to you depending on what you choose to do, if
we can wait for at least maybe through this session of Congress
before we add new units.
Now, looking at expansions and looking at getting into
studies of those potential new units would be done on a case by
case basis, and again, your guidance, you folks make those
final determinations but I look forward to working with you but
I do know we do need to continue to also work on that
maintenance backlog. Thank you.
Senator Akaka. I believe that eliminating the backlog of
maintenance is important, but I also believe we must not
jeopardize funding for the every day management and
interpretive needs of the national parks. While visitorship is
growing, funding to provide a quality visitor experience is
shrinking. It has become clear that we cannot solely depend on
appropriated monies for the day-to-day needs of the Park
Service.
We need to discuss a variety of different ways to assist
the parks to raise monies. The national park stewardship bill
includes a provision to explore a mechanism called NAFIs, or
nonappropriated fund instrumentalities. In the past, the idea
of parks bonds has been considered. Also the recreational fee
demonstration program has been authorized as a pilot.
I believe we need to assess the successes and weaknesses of
this program, and to build on them where necessary, and I am
interested in your views on this pilot program. What are your
views and priorities for identifying mechanisms, including
recreational park and other fees for augmenting the funds for
national parks, and in addition, to increase appropriations,
would you look favorably on them as options, user fees or other
financial innovations?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, thank you for being interested in
not only the acquisition efforts, but also the operational
sides of our national parks, not only our maintenance backlog,
but the general every day operations. I know the people in the
field greatly would appreciate those concerns. Also, though, I
think that there is a lot of innovative funding. In fact, when
we won the gold medal award in Florida, I think it is partly
not only for our resource management and citizen involvement,
but also for innovative funding concepts and I think there is a
number of different ways, funding, working with our volunteers
and partner organizations that may be able to help us as well
as we instituted in Florida a Challenge Program where our
friends groups, where if they raised a certain amount of money
in the case of Florida with $60,000, then State of Florida
matched it with $40,000 and it had to be projects, though, that
were reflected in the unit management plan in our parks for
Florida.
It is been a real success story, and those kind of
innovative concepts--bonding is something Florida has used for
land acquisition. We have not done as much in our actual being
able to do facilities that way but it is certainly something I
am familiar with from other areas in the Nation working on it.
I would look forward to working with you a lot further in that
effort. Thank you.
Senator Akaka. Thank you very much for your responses.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have other questions that I would
like to submit.
The Chairman. We will have all those other questions
submitted for the record.
Senator Campbell.
Senator Burns. May I ask to submit questions. We have a
couple of questions that we want to submit both to Mr. Keys and
Ms. Mainella.
The Chairman. Those certainly will be included. Thank you.
STATEMENT OF HON. BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL,
U.S. SENATOR FROM COLORADO
Senator Campbell. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have a few
questions, too, but let me just make a couple of statements
beforehand. I think all three nominees are just eminently
qualified and certainly support all of them and I am somewhat
distressed that we have not been able to move some of them that
are already on the table. I would hope that we would move these
because I know there is a lot of important issues awaiting
them.
I was particularly interested in reading their backgrounds
and I had a nice talk yesterday in fact with Fran. I was
interested in your background and all the skills you bring, I
have to tell you that in dealing with bringing people together
and resolving disputes should hold you in good stead with
Congress as a playground counselor. The last 3 days, I think in
the eyes of many of the American people, that is what this
place has looked like, as you probably know.
Also I was interested in Senator Akaka's comments on
expanding cultural--and I think diversity too within the parks.
It is long overdue. But I think they have made great progress,
too. I mentioned to Fran yesterday, I just came back from
Senator Burns' State just a day before yesterday where we
commemorated the 125th anniversary of the so-called Custer
battle at the Little Bighorn National Monument. That is the
place where Custer found out the Indians really wanted to be
involved in diversity, and the Park Service up there is doing a
marvelous job. I mean, they have, I think the interpretive
center they have, the people they have working there.
They have done a terrific job and I think that its also
been reflected in the increase of people that are coming in the
gate. It is been going up 10 to 15 percent per year. Americans
want to know those stories and I just would encourage you to
pursue that as Senator Akaka has suggested. I think it is
really extremely important.
I had a couple of questions that I wanted to ask you about
water in a minute, but John Keys' background in the American
West, John, you know the markup of this committee. A lot of us
are from the West. A lot of us subscribed to Mark Twain's
statement years ago that whiskey was for drinking and water is
for fighting. You know, you have been out there. You know what
it is like.
Mr. Keys. Yes, sir.
Senator Campbell. In that 182 that you fly, I am sure you
are going to have lots of opportunity to get around to try and
put out some of those disputes. You were here, involved in some
of the battles we had on the, at the ongoing battle about the
Animas La Plata Water Project, so important to Senator
Bingaman's State and mine where nine agencies, two tribes, both
States all reached agreement in 1988 to revise what had been
passed the first time in 1968, even before you got here.
Well, we haven't turned a shovel of dirt since you have
been gone. We passed another bill in the year 2000 last year.
Still haven't done one single thing. And part of it I really do
believe is because in the past 10, 12 years the Bureau of
Reclamation has kind of gone soft. Every time they get a threat
of a lawsuit or any accusation or anything they just sort of
melt in the opposition's face which is primarily the
environmental community and they just go soft on us.
I would hope when you take over that position that you are
going to really take the leadership in getting that thing
built. It is long overdue. It is getting more expensive and
smaller all the time and there is no doubt in my mind that the
people that are opposed to that, they don't want an agreement.
They don't want a compromise. They want to kill the project. It
is as simple as that. That is come through to us over and over
and over. Those tribes have been waiting over 100 years, about
120 years in fact for water they are entitled to under the
treaties and under the law, too, and they have not got it yet.
I know you know the problem we faced out there, and I just
want to tell you I hope that you really take the leadership in
that and get the dirt moving. Let me say to either one of you,
I don't know who I should ask about national park status and I
thought we had it written pretty carefully dealing with water.
There was, there was no reserved right that was quantified, but
there was an implied right as there is with all the parks.
Well, now we have in those waning days in the Clinton
administration, a filing on water. It is in the State water
courts now. We have had over 385 letters of opposition and
complaint, and I just wanted to know if had you had a chance to
visit that since we talked about it?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, I have not had a chance to visit
that, but I promise you I will and we will get further
briefing. I just, I am aware now of the issue and we will
certainly look forward to working with you in the future in
that effort.
Senator Campbell. Well, as it is now, it is going to create
one heck of a mess, not only on people that believe they have a
priority right. There is some question about if more water is
released through the canyon, would it affect the flood plains
of the towns of Delta and Montrose. Would it effect the gold
medal fishing that is in the streams now. It is going to be
extremely complicated, but I'd certainly appreciate it if you
would deal with that.
Ms. Mainella. I will. Thank you.
Senator Campbell. Mr. Chairman, I really have no further
questions. I would like to submit some, though, in dealing
primarily with water and the parks, too, that could be answered
in writing if you could. Vicky, I have no questions for you but
I am sure you are going to do a terrific job.
The Chairman. Senator Craig.
Senator Craig. Mr. Chairman, thank you. Ms. Mainella, John,
Ms. Bailey, thank you all very much for your willingness to
serve the American people. It is gratifying to see people of
your integrity and quality come before us with a willingness to
serve. We hope that it won't be dashed by an inability to get
you into service.
I understand there was an alumni gathering last night of
those who might serve. Very frustrated because they would like
to have their children into school by August. They are in the
middle of selling houses and buying houses, and the Senate of
the United States seems to be ignoring them, and that is really
tragic. So I hope that you don't fall victim to that. Those who
live in the city and are choosing different services are okay.
Those who are in transition from homes outside of the city to
our Nation's Capital are finding tremendous personal
difficulties at this moment, and I hope that the Senate and our
new leadership understand that here and we can move forward.
Yvonne, it is nice to see you in the audience, immediate
past director of the State park system. I trust that you are
here in support of this fine lady. We don't have national parks
in Idaho, Ms. Mainella, but we have national monuments. In
fact, we have more national monuments today than we had a year
ago, and that in itself produces some problems.
While those monuments are loved and enjoyed, because of a
former President's decision to expand them without thorough
background and research, we are in some conflicts at the moment
that you and I and others will have to resolve. For example,
our colleague from Hawaii mentioned internment. We have an
internment site in Idaho that we want to recognize and set
apart for the American people and our heritage and culture to
understand.
Unfortunately, the declaration that produced it did not
produce any resources to allow it to be planned, organized, and
therefore administered. And that is a problem that we are going
to have to deal with once you designate or you recognize and
you anticipate an influx of citizens, it is tragic that you
don't provide for the management of those citizens in reference
to the potential damaging of a resource. That is a problem we
are going to have to deal with and one that I'll visit with you
about in the short term.
Another short-term problem in the expansion of the Craters
of the Moon National Monument, there we have done an
interesting overlay of conflict between the BLM and the Park
Service. Park Service through the monument system manages the
rocks, but the BLM manages the grass, except that the rocks and
the grass somewhat intermingle. There is a management plan
attempting to be devised at this moment, and that will be key
to some historic uses that Idahoans anticipate and our Nation
anticipates ought to go on, that are not traditional to the
culture of the Park Service, but are traditional to multiple
use management within the BLM, and those are some conflicts
that you and I must resolve, and I think this committee will
work with you to get resolved, because those are valuable
assets and resources, but we shouldn't create bureaucratic
nightmares that do not serve the public or the resource well.
They have been created, now we will have to resolve them.
John, you are a person who has solved a tremendous amount
of problems in your days in service to the Bureau of
Reclamation. We have a crisis in the West at this moment. It is
in the Klamath Basin of Oregon and California. A marvelous
reclamation program created by our government that provides
water for over 1,500 farm families and an entire area was shut
off this year by a court order in conflict over a fish that I
once considered a trash fish. The sucker.
Environmental groups filed suit. The water--courts acted.
The water was cut off and an entire region and economy are
collapsing as we speak. Trees are drying. Agriculture no longer
exists there this year, a community is questioning whether it
can survive. That is an issue that you will have to manage on
your watch. Those of us outside the Klamath Basin in the West
in Idaho are fearful that this kind of disease could creep
upstream and that the historic management of reclamation
programs might be totally superseded by a decision in the
courts to give a fish a priority, and shut off water to
thousands of citizens in my State.
Somehow, there has to be a balance. I have watched you help
create those balances over time as it relates to continuing to
manage reclamation projects for their original intent, but
spreading the water and sharing it with other uses and other
needs. What steps do you think you could take to avoid future
Klamath Basin crises?
Mr. Keys. Senator Craig, since I have been thinking about
this job for several months, I have tried to find out what
happened at Klamath, why it happened, and how it happened. I
have been successful in finding out what happened. But so far,
I don't know why it happened or how it happened. What I would
tell you is that yes, sir, there has to be a change and people
cannot afford nor can we afford the surprise that happened this
spring again. I think it would be disastrous to us as a people
and to my organization or to the Bureau of Reclamation should I
be confirmed as Commissioner.
I would promise to go to the people. I would promise to
work with the other agencies, with the States, both of the
States involved, and come up with a way that we can use that
water more than once as we have done in Idaho, and the
Northwest in the past.
That is about as specific as I can be right now on what we
will do, but you are absolutely right. It has to be solved
under my watch, and it will be probably the top priority when I
get on the job.
Senator Craig. Well thank you very much, John. Mr.
Chairman, I see the red light. Let me just mention in closing,
Arrow Rock Reservoir and how we manage some of the changes
there in light of fish versus users, or water for recreation
versus users. Ms. Bailey, the national engineering
environmental laboratory is in Idaho. You will play a key role
in the overall management of it. We look forward to working
with you in that, and I must say, Ms. Mainella, I am
appreciative of the fact that you will ask for at least a small
hiatus of time before we add any more additions to our park
system that we manage what we have well and we serve people
adequately who come to those so that we can protect the
resources of them without just the politics of adding more to
make it look nice on some public legislator's resume. Thank
you.
The Chairman. Senator Thomas.
Senator Thomas. Thank you, sir. I'll be very brief because
as you know, there is a vote pending. I congratulate all three
of you. I am glad you are here. I am certainly supportive,
certainly great backgrounds for doing this job. Very briefly,
Ms. Bailey, what would you say you are in there to be what, a
national policy?
Ms. Bailey. Yes.
Senator Thomas. We have no policy from the Department. What
will a national policy be?
Ms. Bailey. Well, the administration, the task force has
put out the National Energy Policy. Obviously, I have not been
there for all the internal discussions but I hope to play a
significant role in working with the other agencies and working
with Congress in order to put something forward in implementing
that policy.
Senator Thomas. So in your view, there will be a policy, a
national policy that comes from the Department?
Ms. Bailey. Yes, Senator.
Senator Thompson. Mr. Keys, again, very briefly, how do you
intend to work with the endangered species, with EPA to
accomplish the mission of the--of your agency?
Mr. Keys. Senator Thomas, I have been successful in the
past in accomplishing reclamation's goals, missions and so
forth, and at the same time accommodating all of the Federal
and State laws, rules, regulations that we have to operate
under. Without a specific, I will tell you that I think we can
do that.
Senator Thomas. Why does the Platte River study go on for
years and years and years?
Mr. Keys. Senator Thomas, I am not familiar with the Platte
River study.
Senator Thomas. Well, my point is, not you, you have not
been successful all the time in determining what the mission is
and then bringing in these other things which detract from that
mission and resolving them among the agencies.
Mr. Keys. Senator Thomas, again, I am not familiar with the
Platte situation but certainly I would go to the States. I
would go to the other agencies and find out what the problem is
and see if there is not some way to accommodate it. I just I
don't know the specifics and I would certainly be willing to
work with you on trying to find that out.
Senator Thomas. My point is, same with energy. We have an
Energy Department, but the fact is Interior and EPA have as
much to do with progressing as does the Department of Energy,
and the same is true with your Department. You talk about water
missions, but these other folks have equally as much--which
Senator Craig just talked about, so we need to work, of course,
with that.
I am very much interested in the parks, as you know, having
been chairman of that subcommittee. We have a bill that we
passed that has to do with employee training, that has to do
with research, more information on the resources, has to do
with concession management and prospectuses, has to do with
business plans. Do you think you will be able to work with us
to implement that law? There has been some movement, but we
have not done all the things that are required in the law.
Ms. Mainella. Senator, I look forward to working with you
on that, and I, as you and I talked yesterday, business plans
are very important. National Park and Conservation Association
has assisted us I believe in some of that effort and look
forward to working further on the business, business plan
concept and also we brought in I believe, National Park Service
brought in, some private sector help on our concession, tried
to move our concessions a little bit quicker so that that can
move along, and so hopefully when I see that report, if
confirmed, I will be ready to move forward and help you as much
as I can to make sure that that Act is properly completed.
Senator Thomas. That is good. I know it is not easy to make
movement in a large department. But I think number one, it is
the law, and number two, it has things in there that will make
it even better. We have one final comment. It has to do with
access. It is already been mentioned.
But one of the examples of access and the necessity of
access I think is the winter access to Yellowstone Park and
Grand Teton. And we had the Clinton administration decision
administratively where the Department moved in and made a
decision single-handedly right at the end of a study, and now
we have assurance from the manufacturers that there can be
changes in machines. You can manage them--they have not been
managed, and it seems clear that we can provide that access
without doing damage to the environment if we are willing to
make the changes necessary. What's your reaction to that?
Ms. Mainella. Senator, I guess I go back to the comments
earlier. I know that we in the national parks, if I would be
confirmed, would be looking at everything on a case-by-case
basis and also as technology changes by the industry, certainly
as we look at it on a case-by-case basis, certainly is going to
play in, and I do know that more specifically again on the
Yellowstone and I guess Tetons also there is a lawsuit
situation and we will just have to follow what comes out from
that particular guidance from the lawsuit, and if there is a
settlement.
Senator Thomas. Yes, well, you don't have to be guided by
the lawsuit entirely. You can also make some decisions in the
Department that have to do with management. You can divide
snowmobiles from cross country skiers. You can do some things
on size. I hope we don't manage our world just on lawsuits.
That will be a guide, of course, and you will be directed to do
that. So I appreciate your consideration. I think it is very
important that we have, if we are going to have these
facilities that the owners have access to enjoy those
facilities. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
The Chairman. Thank you very much. Let me thank all the
nominees for your testimony. I think you are well aware that
the committee is not fully constituted now and will not be
until we complete the organizing activity here in the Senate.
We hope that happens soon, and once it is completed, we will
try to act quickly on your nominations. Thank you very much.
The hearing is concluded.
[Whereupon, at 10:50 a.m., the hearing was adjourned.]
APPENDIXES
----------
Appendix I
Responses to Additional Questions
----------
July 3, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Dirksen Senate Office
Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: I want to thank you and Senator Murkowski for
the opportunity to appear before the Committee on Energy and Natural
Resources as the Assistant Secretary nominee for International Affairs
and Domestic Policy at the U.S. Department of Energy.
Enclosed for the record are the answers to the post hearing
questions submitted to me in writing by members of the committee.
Please let me know if I can be of any further assistance.
Sincerely,
Vicky Bailey.
[Enclosure.]
Responses of Vicky Bailey to Questions From Senator Bingaman
CLIMATE CHANGE
Question 1. Do you agree that climate change policy must play a
central role in any energy policy bill?
Answer. Yes, I would agree that climate change must be an important
consideration in any energy policy bill. I believe the Administration
is considering several policy options in this area. If confirmed as the
Assistant Secretary for Policy and International Affairs at the
Department of Energy, I would be ready to consider the options and
advice the Secretary accordingly. My consideration of the options would
follow an approach that (i) would be flexible to adjust to new
information as we learn more from science and build on it, (ii) would
be consistent with the long-term goal of stabilizing green house gas
concentrations in the atmosphere, and (iii) would be based on global
participation. I believe that we should pursue market based incentives
and spur technological innovations.
ELECTRICITY
Question 2. In your prepared statement, you say that ``consumers
must be assured that suppliers will not be able to take undue advantage
of developing or dysfunctional markets. Anticompetitive or other forms
of improper behavior must be detected and remedied; market rules must
be vigorously enforced''--How might the FERC's ability to detect and
remedy market abuses be strengthened? Will the Administration's
electricity bill propose anything in this regard?
Answer. FERC already possesses significant authority to detect and
remedy market abuses. FERC has authority to conduct investigations,
order refunds, set just and reasonable rates, rescind authority to
charge market-based rates, and impose cost-of-service rates. With
regard to transmission, FERC can order wheeling and enforce open access
transmission tariffs. This year, FERC has acted aggressively to
mitigate high electricity prices, ordering refunds, and imposing market
mitigation and monitoring. Final decisions have not been made on the
elements of the Administration's electricity bill, but one goal will be
to promote effective competition in wholesale power markets.
TRANSMISSION SITING
Question 3. What are your views on federal eminent domain for
transmission siting? Do you support the development and use of regional
authorities to site new transmission lines, either as an alternative
to, or a necessary first step before, the use of federal domain
authority?
Answer. The Administration believes it is important to expand the
strained transmission systems and remove bottlenecks. One reason the
transmission system is constrained is the siting process. Currently,
States site transmission facilities, even though the transmission grid
is North American in scope. Many State laws require that the benefits
of a transmission project accrue predominantly to the State providing
the siting authorization. However, the benefits of grid expansion are
often more diffused and are more regional in nature. Federal siting is
currently available to other interstate energy projects, such as
natural gas pipelines, oil pipelines, and hydropower projects.
Legislation providing for Federal transmission siting need not preempt
State siting, but could allow for Federal siting of facilities used for
transmission of electric energy in interstate commerce in certain
circumstances The concept of regional siting authorities is an
interesting one that might be successful in tackling the problem if
States were willing to voluntarily cede their authority to these
regional bodies.
______
June 28, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: Enclosed you will find my responses to the
written questions following my confirmation hearing before the Energy
and Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday, June 27, 2001.
If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.
Sincerely,
John W. Keys III,
Commissioner, Bureau of Reclamation, Designate.
[Enclosures.]
Responses of John Keys to Questions From Senator Bingaman
ENDANGERED SPECIES
Question 1. In your role as Regional Director for the Pacific
Northwest, you were heavily involved in issues relating to the
Endangered Species Act and water resources.
As Commissioner, will you commit to working with the Fish and
Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service so as to
effectuate the goals and requirements of that Act?
Answer. Yes, the Bureau of Reclamation will work cooperatively and
collaboratively with the Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Marine
Fisheries Service, Bureau of Reclamation contract holders, the States,
other water users, other stake holder organizations, and other interest
groups to effectuate the goals and requirements of the Endangered
Species Act and to meet other obligations of the involved projects
contracted water deliveries, power generation, minimum stream flows,
etc.
WATERSHED RESTORATION
Question 2. I understand that you have had substantial involvement
in several initiatives pertaining to watershed restoration. Please
describe your experience in this area. As Commissioner, would you
expect to pursue these types of watershed efforts throughout the West?
Answer. The mission of the Bureau of Reclamation is to manage,
develop, and protect water and related resources in an environmentally
and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public.
At the heart of Reclamation's program is the daily operation of
Reclamation's projects to provide irrigation and municipal and
industrial water supplies, hydroelectric power, flood control and
recreation and fish and wildlife benefits. Watersheds provide a
geographic context for local communities to address economic and
environmental goals. Reclamation is uniquely positioned and skilled to
address water resource issues and multiple water needs of the West.
Previously as Regional Director, I worked extensively with local
watershed groups to address water related issues within the Pacific
Northwest. Some of these restoration and improvement efforts were
associated with traditional Reclamation projects and others were
focused on threatened watersheds outside of those project areas.
Examples of those efforts associated with Reclamation projects are
Cascade Reservoir (Idaho) watershed and water quality improvement,
Henry's Fork (Idaho) river and watershed protection improvement,
Umatilla River Basin Project (Oregon), and the Yakima River Basin Water
Enhancement Project (Washington). Examples of those efforts that
focused on threatened watersheds outside of Reclamation project areas
are Lemhi River Basin watershed improvement program (Idaho), Deschutes
Resources Conservancy (Oregon), and Grande Ronde River watershed
improvement program (Oregon). Work in these areas focused on
replacement and consolidation of diversion structures, provisions for
fish passage, acquisition and provision of water for instream flows to
assist in protecting fish and wildlife resources, water conservation,
water quality improvement, etc. I understand that all of these programs
and projects are still in operation and have all been successful.
Yes, as Commissioner, I will pursue these types of watershed
efforts throughout the West. Reclamation's technical expertise and
partnering capabilities can help facilitate local communities to find
integrated solutions to complex water resources issues, and I will seek
innovative ways to encourage these cooperative efforts.
MIDDLE RIO GRANDE
Question 3. What do you believe is the solution to the difficult
set of issues that are presented in the Middle Rio Grande? How do you
propose to approach these issues?
Answer. Reclamation believes that the best opportunity for a long-
term solution to these complex issues is through continuation of the
Collaborative Program. This program, which began in January 2000, has
brought together the stakeholders of the basin and is actively working
toward creating an enduring process that will lead to effective
solutions. The Collaborative Program will likely require Congressional
legislation to provide the necessary authority and funding so that
solutions can be implemented.
Reclamation will continue to support the Collaborative Program and
work with the many other stakeholders to create workable solutions that
can be implemented with broad support and remain sustainable so that
the existing communities and their economies can continue to enjoy the
benefits of the Rio Grande, while protecting the Silvery Minnow and the
Southwest Willow Flycatcher.
WORKFORCE DIVERSITY
Question 4. As the head of the Bureau of Reclamation, what steps do
you plan to take to promote diversity in the work force?
Answer. I am advised that the Bureau of Reclamation is presently
engaged in many diversity efforts. If confirmed as the Commissioner of
Reclamation, I will commit myself to working toward a diverse and
representative work force.
TITLE XVI
Question 5. What are your views of the Title XVI water reclamation
and reuse program? Do you believe that additional projects should be
undertaken? What do you think is the role of wastewater recycling and
reuse in western water policy?
Answer. Water reclamation and reuse, or recycling, is an important
tool for water conservation and an effective and efficient means to
increase water supply availability and reliability for local water
users, particularly in the Western United States. This new water can
help reduce the use of imported water, and offer concurrent benefits
such as environmental and drought protection. The potential exists to
use this technique Westwide to increase the available water supply.
I understand there are currently about 25 projects authorized for
construction through the Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse program,
which enjoys strong state and local support. Reclamation has been
providing funding for 17 of these projects, and has also provided
funding for a number of additional feasibility studies for other
projects not yet authorized for construction. Given the existing demand
for funding for the currently authorized projects, and Reclamation's
limited budget for this program, the authorization of additional
projects would be a challenge to its resources. However, water
reclamation and reuse will most likely play an expanding role in
western water resources management, and Reclamation should try to
support these types of projects to the best of its ability.
SCIENCE PROGRAMS
Question 6. What is the status of the research and science programs
at the Bureau of Reclamation? What will be the focus of these programs
during your tenure?
Answer. Reclamation is confronting water management challenges of
the 21st Century by employing new knowledge and new technologies gained
through research. Reclamation's project activities and responsibilities
rely on the application of science and research to produce strong,
supportable water management decisions and flexible solutions for an
aging infrastructure.
The Science and Technology (S&T) Program is instrumental in
developing tools, technology, and skills that will assist Reclamation
in future activities. The Snake River Decision Support Systems and
Riverware are two examples of watershed and river system management
tools developed through the S&T Program. These elements are now used as
the tools and cutting edge technologies in completing complex impact
analysis and decision making in Reclamation.
Additional areas of attention include research in hydroelectric
infrastructure protection and enhancement, advanced water treatment,
desalination, and water purification.
PLATTE RIVER
Question 7. What is the status of work on the Platte River Program?
Please provide an update and time line for future action.
Answer. It is my understanding that on July 1, 1997 the states of
Wyoming, Nebraska, and Colorado, and the Department of the Interior
entered into a ``Cooperative Agreement for Platte River Research and
Other efforts Relating to Endangered Species Habitats Along the Central
Platte River, Nebraska.'' In the past three years, the partners in the
Cooperative Agreement have put together a general Water Action Plan to
provide the remaining water and a proposed process for acquiring and
managing the land. I have been informed that in December of 2000 the
Governors of the three States and the Secretary agreed to a three-year
extension of the Cooperative Agreement, to June 30, 2003, as well as
the following milestones:
Governance Committee determines proposed program--September
2001
Publication of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement--
January 2002
Publication of the Final Environmental Impact Statement and
Record of Decision--December 2002
Phase 1 program implementation to achieve the first
increment of river and habitat improvement--2003-16
PRIORITIES
Question 8. What will be your three highest priorities as
Commissioner?
Answer. (1) As Commissioner, I believe it is fundamental that
Reclamation operate and maintain its projects in a safe and reliable
manner that protects the health and safety of the public and its
employees. I would place great emphasis on operating and maintaining
projects to ensure continued delivery of water and power benefits to
the public consistent with environmental and other requirements, and to
honor state water rights, interstate compacts, and contracts with
Reclamation's users. As the single largest provider of water in the
West and second largest hydropower utility in the Nation, many
communities depend on Reclamation and I take this responsibility
seriously.
(2) As the West continues to grow rapidly, the competition for
scarce water resources is great and will continue to grow. Reclamation
has an important role to play. In the near term, Reclamation should be
responsive to drought issues that arise due to weather conditions and
work in partnership with states, tribes, water users, and others to
seek creative solutions to meeting immediate water needs and exercise
Reclamation authorities for emergency drought response if necessary. In
the longer term, I am committed to Reclamation playing an appropriate,
but important, role in meeting future water supply needs in partnership
with these interests. These solutions include improving operational
efficiency, assisting with water conservation measures and water
recycling, assist in contingency planning for drought, and in selected
cases increasing water supply.
(3) The Bureau of Reclamation has experienced a great loss in
technical capability in the last decade. In order for Reclamation to
address the complex water management issues in the West, it needs to
nurture its people and work to form the best team to address Western
water issues. I will seek to bring new energy into Reclamation by
recruiting young people who have the scientific, engineering, and
organizational expertise to help Reclamation enhance its effectiveness
in meeting the contemporary challenges in the West.
Responses of John Keys to Questions From Senator Domenici
Question. Several New Mexico communities have rights to San Juan
Chama water. However, many of these communities have not yet developed
these rights.
Working with the Bureau of Reclamation, would you help ensure that
communities are allowed to develop these very important water rights?
Answer. Yes.
Question. The Bureau of Reclamation's mission is to provide water
for irrigation and some municipal and industrial uses. With the current
water situation in New Mexico the activities of the Bureau of
Reclamation remain critically important.
Would you continue to promote traditional irrigation and municipal
and industrial uses, while encouraging the Bureau of Reclamation to
work in cooperation with other affected agencies and users?
Answer. Yes.
Question. This past July, Interior Solicitor Leshy issued an
opinion which allowed the Bureau of Reclamation to take over irrigation
works from two irrigation districts in New Mexico. The Bureau of
Reclamation later agreed not to take over the works of one of the
districts, but such assurances were not given for the other district.
Would you work to find other solutions to these issues, in
compliance with state water law, that do not involve a government
takeover of irrigation works?
Answer. As Commissioner I would work to find solutions that will
maintain the integrity of the Reclamation projects so that the water
users can continue to receive the benefits they provide. Central to
these successful solutions will be the need to assure compliance with
appropriate state and federal law. It is the desire of Reclamation to
continue to have the districts operate the projects. I believe that the
best solutions are likely found in the collaborative stakeholder
processes which can lead to sustainable project operation and
compliance with the law.
Question. You are aware that few issues are as contentious or
complex as those surrounding water in the West. New Mexico, in
particular, is a very arid state suffering from increased demands on
limited water supplies. The past year brought even greater challenges
to New Mexico's water situation due to endangered species issues on our
two main rivers. Western states in general continue to strive toward
the goal of assuring water availability for human consumption while
remaining in compliance with state water law, compact requirements and
the Endangered Species Act.
Will you work to help achieve long term solutions to problems
arising from limited water supplies, while protecting states rights,
interstate and international compact obligations and the preservation
of endangered species?
Answer. Yes.
Question. In helping to create and advance solutions to western
water issues, will you strive to be aware of the sensitivity of all
users and work to ensure fairness to all parties who may be affected by
agency decisions?
Answer. Yes.
Question. Communities must be allowed to continue development for
human use and provisions must be made to allow for future development
and growth. Are you willing to support water policies and programs that
will allow for this type of growth and development?
Answer. Yes.
Responses of John Keys to Questions From Senator Campbell
Question. Can the both of you commit to work together with the
other water users, power interests, and the water rights to finish the
Black Canyon water right quantification?
Answer. Yes, Bureau of Reclamation people and I will work closely
with the National Park Service Director and her people to finalize the
Gunnison River quantification of water for the Black Canyon of the
Gunnison National Park.
Question. Can the both of you commit to resolving this within the
next two years?
Answer. There are many actions, factors and parties that may affect
the schedule for resolving this issue. Bureau of Reclamation people and
I will cooperate fully with the National Park Service Director and her
people to expedite the issue's resolution.
Question. My next question is in regards to information sharing.
Could you provide me and the State of Colorado your justification for
quantifying this right you have filed and can you commit to me to
provide the proper and appropriate information to me and all of the
interested parties?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. Secretary Norton has made local participation mandatory
on decision making at the Department of Interior. So, can you commit to
seeing that all affected water users are allowed to participate in all
technical meetings to resolve this issue instead of mandating from
Washington?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. Can you commit to ensuring that any water right the
National Park Service pursues is consistent with the McCarran
Amendment, state water laws, interstate compacts and state court cases
that make up our water laws?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. Given the nationwide power crunch, are you willing to
subordinate their water right to the Aspinall Unit so as not to disrupt
power production?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. In the documents that the Park Service filed, how did it
quantify the impact on power production?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. Has the Park Service complied with the Bush
Administration's May 18 Executive Order that requires it to consider
power impacts before taking action? Please describe how the Service
intends to comply with this order.
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. The Park Service has stated that it intends to negotiate
Black Canyon water rights settlements with affected parties. Given that
over 300 parties have intervened in the Colorado court case, what
process does the Service plan to use to pursue those negotiations?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Question. Are you aware that the Western Area Power Administration
(WAPA) has serious concerns about the impact of those flows on
hydropower generation at the Colorado River Storage Project and that
WAPA says it did not have sufficient time to analyze the
recommendations before they were filed?
Answer. This question is most appropriately answered by Director of
the National Park Service--Designate Mainella. I refer you to her
answer to this question.
Responses of John Keys to Questions From Senator Burns
Question. Irrigators have repaid the Federal investment on some of
our state's older Reclamation projects and local irrigation districts
have successfully managed the Federal properties, some for over 50
years. In these cases, the Bureau has encouraged the transfer of title
to the districts, but there are conditions that do not make the
transfer feasible for them. (For instance, the Bureau's conditions for
Lower Yellowstone Reclamation Projects call for removal of the
community pumping units from the Pick-Sloan power system). What will
your position be on title transfers?
Answer. Transferring title to projects and facilities makes sense
and should be continued as it is an opportunity to move facilities from
Federal ownership to more appropriate local control into the hands of
those who know them, benefit from them, and in most cases have operated
them for years. At times, the system in place for title transfer is
cumbersome and takes a long time to accomplish. I will certainly work
with any constituent that is interested in title transfer and do all
that I c.qn to minimize the time required to accomplish those
transfers.
Question. Economic development is a requirement in our state for
our communities to survive. The Bureau of Reclamation has provided a
great service in developing water resources in the past like irrigation
and hydropower. But there is a lot more that can be done such as
additional irrigation projects, assistance in conservation measures to
extend the resource, rural domestic water systems, and modifications to
existing facilities to meet today's safety and environmental standards.
There is a backlog of projects that have been authorized and need
funding. Will you work with me to find a way to make sure the BOR is
able to reach these goals?
Answer. Yes, I would be glad to look into this issue and work with
you.
Question. The Bureau's Pick-Sloan Missouri River Program is a great
system with the purpose of fostering economic development by developing
the river's water resource. I understand that rural and municipal water
systems, and new irrigation concepts employing the use of the system's
hydropower resource is possible under this program. I also understand
that a great deal can be done with minimal impact on the basin's power
rates. Will you be receptive to promoting the intended use of the Pick-
Sloan program?
Answer. I agree that the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin program has been
a tremendous economic stimulus to the states in the Missouri River
Basin. I am also aware that only a small part of the development
envisioned under that program has been realized. I am receptive to
working with Congress, the Missouri River Basin states, and others to
explore avenues for making the intended benefits of the Pick-Sloan
program available to areas in need of assistance.
______
June 28, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: Enclosed you will find my responses to the
written questions following my confirmation hearing before the Energy
and Natural Resources Committee on Wednesday, June 27, 2001.
If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Frances P. Mainella,
Director, National Park Service, Designate.
[Enclosures.]
Responses of Frances Mainella to Questions From Senator Bingaman
Question. The National Park Service Organic Act of 1916 provides
that the purpose of national parks is to ``conserve the scenery and the
natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide
for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will
leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.'' One of
the major management challenges for the Park Service has been how to
properly balance the two legislative mandates of conservation and
recreation.
The current Park Service management policies interpret the Organic
Act to mean that ``when there is a conflict between conserving park
resources and values and providing for enjoyment of them, conservation
is to be predominant.''
Do you agree with this policy, that the conservation of park
resources and values is the primary mission of the National Park
Service?
Answer. It seems reasonable that the Park Service would not allow
activities that would deprive future generations of the ability to
enjoy park resources or values. I am advised that the courts have
consistently interpreted the Organic Act this way. Therefore, I would
agree that the resource is always the primary focus.
Question. The Park Service has published a rule eliminating
personal watercraft (commonly referred to as ``Jet Skis'') in many
parks. Do you support this proposal?
In your opinion, under what circumstances, if any, is motorized
recreation appropriate in national park areas? Is this an issue of
finding and implementing appropriate new technologies or are there
simply some uses that are incompatible with national parks?
Answer. I understand that the rule identifies 21 areas where some
Personal Water Craft (PWC) use may be permitted to continue through a
special rule. I am also advised that evaluations are underway at
several of these areas to determine whether to propose a special
regulation to allow PWC use to continue. These determinations are
appropriately made on a case-by-case basis. I will look forward to
reviewing any proposal that results from this process. Motorized
recreation should be evaluated on a case-by-case consistent with park
purposes, the protection of resources, and the quality of visitors
experience.
Question. Under the recreation fee demonstration Program, the
National Park Service is given very broad authority to charge whatever
visitor fees it deems appropriate. The revenues from these fees has
helped to address critical funding needs throughout the National Park
System. However, as a result of this, fees have significantly increased
at most parks, in many cases doubling. Are you concerned that as a
result of the push to generate increase revenues, larger segments of
our population will be excluded from using our national parks?
Answer. Charging fees is appropriate and the revenues are needed.
However, I certainly do not want to see fees exclude segments of
population from parks. At this point, I am advised that the NPS fee
programs do not appear to be having such an effect. I will watch the
impact of these fees closely to assure that this does not happen. I
understand the NPS has retained McKinsey and Company, an outside
consultant, to review the fee program, with the objective to optimize
revenues, keep fees from being confusing to public, and to assure that
monitoring occurs to track critical information, including whether the
program excludes segments of the population. I look forward to learning
more about this study and want to work closely with Congress on the fee
issue.
Question. New authority was provided by Congress last year to the
land management agencies to use youth conservation corps to complete
post fire rehabilitation and erosion control work as well as urban/
wildland interface hazardous fuel reduction work. From the information
we have received from the department to date, it appears that the Park
Service and other land management agencies have focused almost solely
on hiring new federal employees rather than developing new, or
expanding existing, cooperative agreements with youth corps to complete
some of the work.
What do you believe should be the appropriate balance between
hiring new federal employees and using partnerships with State, local,
tribal, or non-profit youth corps to conduct this type of work?
Answer. I understand that there is a greatly expanded wildland fire
program, particularly to deal with reduction of hazardous fuels near
communities at risk. The program is built on a partnership between the
Federal land management agencies, the states, and communities at risk.
NPS has been successful with partnerships and I support making use of
contracts and cooperative partnerships with youth groups and others to
the greatest extent possible consistent with safety and getting the job
done.
Question. Over the past few years, the National Park Service has
been using a portion of its Recreation Fee Demonstration Program funds
to engage youth in conducting service projects in the parks through
partnerships with non-profit and conservation corps pursuant to the
authority of the Public Land Corps Act of 1993. In FY2001 alone, the
Park Service used nearly $12 million in fee revenue and partner
matching funds to carry out 360 maintenance and restoration projects in
148 parks with 46 youth corps.
Given that reducing the backlog of maintenance in the parks is a
top priority of the current administration, and since funding the
Public Land Corps with a portion of Recreation Demonstration Program
funds is at the discretion of the Director, will you commit to continue
funding for the Public Land Corps?
Answer. I understand the Public Land Corps is an exciting new
addition to youth programs of the NPS. I support making use of this
program and similar ones such as the Youth Conservation Corps, the
Student Conservation Association, and others at every opportunity.
These programs engage the interest and energy and develop the skills of
our nation's youth in the conservation of our nation's treasures,
develop their work skills and ethic, and contribute enormously to
accomplishing critical work in the national parks.
Responses of Frances Mainella to Questions From Senator Domenici
Question. This past year was one of the worst fire seasons in over
50 years. In NM alone, there were over 1,000 fires consuming over
400,000 acres of land. With the arid conditions in much of the west,
fires will continue to pose a threat. Congress was successful this past
year in securing funding for Interior to help with efforts that will,
among other things, thin forest growth, increase fire fighting
capabilities and identify communities who are particularly at risk from
fires. The legislation specifically states that local businesses be
given priority for contracts and other ventures that will be needed to
carry out the intended efforts.
Are you willing to do what you can to protect western communities
from fire threats?
Answer. Yes. I have been informed that the National Park Service
(NPS) is actively engaged in implementing the National Fire Plan. Fuels
treatment projects that are associated with the wildland urban
interface are a high priority and many projects are currently being
implemented. In addition, planning has begun for projects that will be
implemented in future years.
Communities are participating in Firewise workshops throughout the
West. I understand the National Park Service is sponsoring many of the
workshops, or is participating with other agencies in conducting these
workshops.
I also have been told that the National Park Service is
aggressively hiring firefighting personnel for this upcoming wildfire
season and that Secretary Norton and the Oak Ridge Boys prepared a
series of public service announcements to recruit wildland
firefighters. The National Park Service hired a consulting firm to aid
in their recruitment efforts for firefighters.
If confirmed, I intend to affirm the direction that the Acting
Director of the National Park Service issued on June 18, 2001 asking
regional directors and park superintendents to ensure that NPS
employees and equipment are ready for another potentially difficult
fire season.
Question. Are you willing to help ensure that National Fire Plan
funds are used rationally and that local businesses within these
communities are given these priorities?
Answer. I understand that many geographic areas are conducting
collaborative meetings to prioritize wildland/urban interface projects
and where we have park units we are participating. Many of these
projects are using local labor sources to implement the projects. The
National Park Service is also exploring and utilizing contracting
capabilities for all phases of the project from planning to actual
implementation. I agree with this approach to utilize the capabilities
of the local businesses and if confirmed, I will continue these
endeavors.
I support the assistance the National Park Service is able to
provide through the Rural Fire Assistance program. I understand that
this program can provide money for training and equipment so that rural
fire departments can assist in the wildland firefighting efforts, where
appropriate.
Question. One of the worst fires last year was the Cerro Grande
fire near Los Alamos, New Mexico. This fire began as a controlled burn
by the National Park Service. Unfortunately, the fire raged out of
control and burned over 400 homes and businesses in the area. Many
reports and studies conducted as a result of this fire, concluded that
many of the park service policies were flawed.
Will you work to ensure that the Park Service has adequate, well-
defined policies so that disasters such as the Cerro Grande fire can be
avoided in the future?
Answer. I have been informed that the Acting Director for the
National Park Service (NPS), on May 30, 2001, gave authorization to
parks to implement new prescribed fire guidelines.
Additionally, a number of workshops for NPS employees have been
held to communicate the changes in prescribed burn policies, plans,
required analyses and practices.
In recent years, fire has been a concern in Florida as well. If
confirmed as Director, it will remain a personal priority of mine.
Question. National Park Service spending needs to be brought under
control. We need better accounting (the Denver Service Center has been
notorious for cost overruns, outrageous costs in construction, etc.).
Are you willing to do what is necessary to help control spending?
Answer. Yes. With respect to the construction program, I am
committed to the continued implementation of changes such as those that
were recommended in 1998 by the National Academy of Public
Administration (NAPA), following its independent review of the agency's
construction program.
Question. Local impact of fee structure at parks is also
problematic. Currently Carlsbad, NM has reported that the high costs at
Carlsbad Caverns is driving off tourism.
Will you study these local impacts and work to ensure that fee
structures are rational and designed to benefit the park and the
overall community?
Answer. I am unfamiliar with the situation at Carlsbad Cavern, but
will certainly look into it. I support a rational fee program that is
not confusing to the public, optimizes revenue without excluding
segments of the population, and does not have an undue impact on
adjacent communities.
Responses of Frances Mainella to Questions From Senator Akaka
Question. Over the last ten years I have been an advocate for
increased recognition of diversity within the national park system. The
previous Administration made a major commitment to reach out to diverse
communities around the country so that our parks, and those who serve
as stewards of these places, are truly reflective of our nation.
I have initiated studies for Park Service units that tell the story
of Japanese-American internment camps, historic and cultural trails and
parks in Hawaii, as well as the story of West Coast immigration, and a
bill on the Peopling of America. I believe that the interpretation of
how America has become a diverse nation is important to us all.
Do you see this as an important issue with regard to long-term
preservation for our national parks? If so, would you make this a
priority under your leadership?
Answer. Diversity in our parks is an important issue and I believe
it is crucial given the high regard in which the American people hold
our national parks. The broad sweep of America's panoramic history is a
remarkable story. I firmly believe that national parks should tell the
complete story about America. If confirmed, I will make this a
priority.
Question. How do you think the Park Service can foster a greater
appreciation of our national parks to a wider constituency and broaden
the identification and interpretation of new parks that tell the story
of all our peoples?
Answer. Americans care deeply about their national parks. We need
to continue to reach out to ensure that the National Park System
represents the diversity of our American culture.
Question. During both Republican and Democratic Administrations,
Congress authorized new parks to conserve our natural and cultural
heritage. In the 106th Congress, four new units were created and
several park expansions authorized, including Great Sand Dunes National
Park in Colorado and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. What is your view
of the need to continue adding nationally significant resources to our
national park system? Do you intend to place a limit on recommending
new units?
Answer. The National Park System has been growing and evolving from
the time the first national park was established at Yellowstone in
1872, and it will continue to do so for as long as long as our Nation
exists. However, at this particular moment, we have a serious backlog
of maintenance needs at existing park units, and the President has
rightly focused attention on addressing those needs rather than on
expanding the system. The Administration's policy of asking Congress to
defer action on the designation of new units is in effect for this
session of Congress.
Question. An important issue facing the national parks is what
types of access and amounts of access should be provided for motorized
vehicles, including SUVs, and snowmobiles, of course, but also
regarding personal watercraft. And as you know, the air tour Management
Act now requires the Park Service and the FAA to undertake planning for
flights over national parks.
What are your views regarding motorized access to national parks?
What about snowmobiles? Do you support the existing rule to
phaseout snowmobiles in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks?
Answer. I support the use and enjoyment of national parks
consistent with maintaining the conservation values for which the units
were created. Motorized recreational access must be evaluated on a
case-by-case basis.
I look forward to learning about snowmobile use and its impacts in
national parks and expect to focus quickly on the use of snowmobiles at
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Question. The National Parks Air Tour Management Act was passed
last April to help protect national parks from the noise and disruption
that can be caused by commercial air tours. The National Park Service
will cooperate with the Federal Aviation Administration to develop air
tour management plans in parks where air tours occur.
Right now, the program charged with developing air tour management
plans is scheduled to receive the same level of funding in FY 2002 as
it did in FY 2001, yet the office will have much greater
responsibilities. I am concerned whether the Park Service has the
resources needed to manage park visitorship whether on the ground or in
the air above the parks.
What are your thoughts on providing additional resources to this
office and on the priority for managing air tours over parks that need
it?
Answer. I recognize the need for air tour management plans for a
number of national parks. If confirmed, I will look into the program
and whether the level of funding is sufficient to move forward with
these plans.
Question. I believe that eliminating the backlog of maintenance is
important, but I also believe we must not jeopardize funding for the
everyday management and interpretive needs of national parks. While
visitorship is growing, funding to provide a quality visitor experience
is shrinking.
It has become clear that we cannot rely solely on appropriated
monies for the day-to-day needs of the Park Service. We need to discuss
a variety of different ways to assist the parks to raise monies.
The National Parks Stewardship bill includes a provision to explore
a mechanism called NAFIs or Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentalities. In
the past the idea of parks bonds has been considered. Also, the
Recreational Fee Demonstration Program has been authorized as a pilot.
I believe we need to assess the successes and weaknesses of this
program and to build on them where necessary, and I am interested in
your views on this pilot program.
Question. What are your views and priorities for identifying
mechanisms, including recreational and other fees, for augmenting funds
for national parks? In addition to increased appropriations, would you
look favorably on such options as increased user fees or other
financial innovations? How do you propose to ensure that the Park
Service has an adequate financial base to meet the basic infrastructure
demands and provide quality visitor facilities and interpretation?
Answer. I believe the Recreation Fee Demonstration Program has been
very beneficial for the National Park System, allowing parks to
accomplish a range of activities to improve parks and enhance the
experience for visitors that otherwise would not have occurred. I look
forward to working with the committee on the future of the fee program
to consider other means of generating funding that will help further
the NPS mission. Another relatively new development that I believe will
help parks with the funding they need is the development of business
plans, which NPS is piloting at some of the parks.
Question. Pu'uhonua o Honaunau as you know, the parks in Hawaii and
the Pacific are very important to me. I have introduced a bill to
authorize an expansion of Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical
Park, a premier cultural historical park on the Kona coast of Hawaii.
The park has the opportunity to acquire a parcel of land containing
significant archaeological and historical resources from a willing
seller and with widespread support of the community.
Would you be willing to share your views on expansions of existing
parks?
Answer. I believe the expansion should proceed, where appropriate,
to ensure the protection of important natural and cultural resources.
The Administration's policy with respect to park expansions is that it
will consider such proposals on a case-by-case basis, with a critical
eye toward the budgetary impacts of any addition. The Administration's
priority is to address the deferred maintenance backlog at existing
units, and for that reason it is taking a cautionary approach to
supporting proposals that would expand the responsibilities and
financial obligations of the National Park System at this time.
Question. As you may know, the highest funded priority on the
National Park Service's Land and Water Conservation Fund acquisition
for FY 2002 is for Kahuku Ranch, adjacent to Hawaii Volcanoes National
Park. I am pleased with this prioritization, and I hope I can count on
your support to see this purchase completed.
Answer. I understand that the President's proposed budget for
fiscal year 2002 included $4 million for acquisition of 18,600 acres of
the Kahuku Ranch. If these funds are ultimately included in the final
appropriations bill for the Department of the Interior, acquisition of
this important property could move forward, affording protection to its
diverse ecosystems.
Question. I am concerned about cultural interpretation--the ability
of the NPS to use histories, ethnographies, and the knowledge of elders
who are living in or near parks to assist in the interpretive materials
for the Park Service. There is a great deal of knowledge that can be
helpful in interpreting the historical, archaeological, and
ethnographic records of parks areas. I believe the Park Service can be
a bridge to people who can be resources for the park.
I would like to know your thoughts on the value of local knowledge
and also on the Park Service's ethnography program in support of
cultural interpretation.
Answer. Our national parks as well as public lands managed by other
Federal agencies and by State and local governments must not be thought
of as isolated preserves cut off from the communities surrounding them.
I believe that local knowledge is invaluable to the cultural
interpretation of these places. If confirmed, I look forward to
incorporating historical knowledge where such local knowledge is not
part of the existing interpretive programs.
Responses of Frances Mainella to Questions From Senator Graham
Question. What are some ways to address the current operations and
maintenance backlog in our national parks?
Answer. The President has made a commitment to spend $4.9 billion
over the next five years to eliminate the deferred maintenance backlog
in our national parks--$2.2 billion for facilities at parks, and $2.7
billion related to transportation needs. With Congress' support for
this initiative, we will make significant progress toward addressing
maintenance needs in the parks. As we make these investments, it will
also be necessary to invest in routine maintenance to avoid the need
for major rehabilitation costs in the future.
Question. How would you apply your positive experience with public-
private partnerships to the National Park Service?
Answer. Successful partnerships have been critical to the positive
experiences I've had in Florida. These same concepts should benefit the
National Parks. A partnership must be a win-win for all involved. The
public-private partnerships that have worked well include volunteers,
friends groups, concessions, Partnership-in-Parks and many others.
Volunteers help with projects and reduce our operation cost or allow us
to do a project that we could never afford. The friends groups being
non-profit organizations seek grants that benefit the park. I've worked
effectively with concessions for all my 12 years at Florida State
Parks. Recently we awarded the building and operating of 143 new cabins
to the private sector. The most unique is the partnership-in-parks
where through our friends groups they raise $60,000 or more then the
state matches with $40,000 (60-40 match). The project must be in the
management plan for the park. I would hope some of these concepts could
apply to the National Parks.
Question. Some park resources require more specialized care than
others. One example is the lighthouse at Biscayne National Park in
south Florida. The Vanishing Treasures Program is one way to insure
that these unique resources remain for the public. What are your
suggestions for protecting these resources?
Answer. I have been informed that the Boca Chita Lighthouse at
Biscayne National Park has been closed to the public for several months
while undergoing restoration and repair. The upgrades to handrails and
other components are nearly complete and the National Park Service is
now working with engineers to determine if it is structurally stable
enough to be reopened to the public. This is an example of the backlog
maintenance needs in the National Park Service that the President is
committed to resolving. If confirmed, I would support the President's
effort to make the maintenance backlog a priority. This would help the
NPS to preserve historic structures and improve visitor facilities.
While the Vanishing Treasures initiative is focused on prehistoric
and historic ruins in the American Southwest, there are other programs
that can assist with the preservation of historic resources throughout
our Nation. One example is the Save America's Treasures program, which
is proposed in the FY 2002 budget. Upon confirmation, I will try to
maximize the historic preservation efforts in the National Park
Service. In addition, we should continue to work to identify non-
Federal resources for these purposes.
Question. The National Park Service is most commonly associated
with its famous parks. However, the park service has an important
responsibility to protect and preserve some of our nation's most
historic places and artifacts. However, for a variety of reasons, this
preservation is not being carried out as it should be. As an historic
preservationist, do you have any ideas for improving the way the park
service carries out this duty?
Answer. The NPS has developed the Natural Resource Challenge. This
comprehensive strategy may provide us with better scientific data that
will enhance cultural preservation efforts. Also, NPS has a Vanishing
Treasures Program. I would hope, as we did in Florida, a cultural
initiative can be address in NPS. In Florida, we established a training
program and a legislative budget request for our historic sites to
better fund and care for these important areas. I will be interested,
if confirmed, in exploring similar efforts in the national parks and
better understanding what is already underway. As you know, I just
received the Senator Bob Williams award for making a difference in
historic preservation in the state of Florida.
Question. As you know, this years marks the first year of an
historic project to restore the Everglades. Everglades National Park is
the principle beneficiary of this project. If you are confirmed as
Director of the National Park Service, what steps will you take to
ensure that this restoration effort is effectively coordinated among
the Department of the Interior, Army Corps, and the State of Florida?
Answer. The Everglades restoration project is a model of an
effective cooperative partnership. I understand that representatives of
all the agencies involved in the effort meet frequently. In addition, I
understand that Park Service officials from the Everglades, the
Southeast Regional Office in Atlanta, and the Washington office have
met with Interior Secretary Norton's staff to bring them up to date on
the progress thus far. One of the continuing challenges is to make sure
that agency roles are clearly defined and that water is allocated
equitably to meet the park's needs as well as those of the South
Florida Water Management District. If confirmed, I will ensure that the
NPS will continue to actively participate in the coordination process.
Responses of Frances Mainella to Questions From Senator Campbell
Question. Can the both of you commit to work together with the
other water users, power interests, and the water rights to finish the
Black Canyon water right quantification?
Answer. Yes
Question. Can the both of you commit to resolving this within the
next two years?
Answer. I am told that resolving the water right is a complex issue
that is intertwined with other equally complex issues (endangered fish
species and Aspinall Unit Operations). I understand that NPS is making
a concerted effort to work with the other water interests in the basin
to develop an agreeable resolution of the water right quantification as
expeditiously as possible.
Question. My next question is in regards to information sharing.
Could you provide me and the State of Colorado your justification for
quantifying this right you have filed and can you commit to me to
provide the proper and appropriate information to me and all of the
interested parties?
Answer. As this water rights claim is now pending, decisions
involving the sharing of information fall within the purview of the
Department of Justice. However, I am told that the NPS and the
Department of Justice intend to work with the basin water interests to
negotiate a resolution of the quantification and understand that
sharing information will be necessary during the course of
negotiations.
Question. Secretary Norton has made local participation mandatory
on decision making at the Department of the Interior. So, can you
commit to seeing that all affected water users are allowed to
participate in all technical meetings and negotiations? That way
everyone is at the table to resolve this issue instead of mandating
from Washington.
Answer. It is my philosophy that the NPS must commit to work and
consult regularly with local interests. While I am not yet familiar
with the details of this issue, I will urge the Department of Justice
to involve representatives of affected water users in technical and
other meetings.
Question. Can you commit to ensuring that any water right the
National Park Service pursues is consistent with the McCarran
Amendment, state water laws, interstate compacts and state court cases
that make up our water laws?
Answer. Yes. I can commit that any water right the NPS pursues is
consistent with all applicable state and federal laws.
Question. Given the nationwide power crunch, are you willing to
subordinate their water right to the Aspinall Unit so as not to disrupt
power production?
Answer. As stated earlier, I am not familiar with the details
surrounding this matter. If confirmed, I am committed to a balanced
approach to resolving what I am advised is a complex issue.
Question. In the documents that the Park Service filed, how did it
quantify the impact to power production?
Answer. At this point, I am unable to comment adequately as I have
not yet had the opportunity to see or review the documents that the
Park Service filed in this matter.
Question. Has the Park Service complied with the Bush
Administration's May 18 Executive Order that requires it to consider
power impacts before taking action? Please describe how the Service
intends to comply with this order.
Answer. I am told that the NPS has not taken any action that would
affect power generation since the Bush Administration's May 18
Executive Order. As I indicated previously, the NPS will comply with
all applicable legal requirements.
Question. The Park Service stated that it intends to negotiate
Black Canyon water rights settlements with affected parties. Given that
over 300 parties have intervened in the Colorado court case, what
process does the Service plan to use to pursue those negotiations?
Answer. I understand that there have been meetings with water user
organizations to deal with the issue of the large number of parties. It
is anticipated that this will facilitate involvement of representatives
of affected water users in the negotiations.
Question. Are you aware that the Western Area Power Administration
(WAPA) has serious concerns about the impact of those flows on
hydropower generation at the Colorado River Storage Project and that
WAPA says it did not have sufficient time to analyze the
recommendations before they were filed?
Answer. I am told that the NPS is aware of WAPA's concerns.
Appendix II
Additional Material Submitted for the Record
----------
Governor of the State of Florida,
February 19, 2001.
Hon. Gale Norton,
Secretary, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, DC.
Dear Secretary Norton: It is with pleasure that I submit this
letter of recommendation for Fran P. Mainella, who is interested in
serving the administration as National Park Service Director.
Fran has served as the Director of Florida State Parks for the past
twelve years. As Director, Fran manages the administration of 153 state
parks, preserves, historic sites, recreation areas, wildlife parks and
trails consisting of over 500,000 acres. She has proven to be a
motivational leader, creative thinker, effective manager, and
accomplished director. As a result of Fran's hard work, perseverance,
and ability to lead a successful team of over 1,000 dedicated employees
in eight bureaus, Florida was voted as having ``America's Best State
Park System,'' receiving the 1999-2001 Gold Medal Award. Last year, the
National Recreation and Park Association's 2000 Kudo's Award also
recognized Florida's State Park System for Best Web Site and Best
Promotional Video.
In addition to her fine work with the State of Florida, Fran has
been an active member and leader with national associations including
her service as president of both the National Association of State Park
Directors and the National Recreation and Park Association.
While Fran's departure would prove to be a great loss for our
State, I was pleased to learn of her interest and willingness to serve
in your agency, as I am confident that she would serve with pride and
distinction. For your reference, I am enclosing a copy of Fran's
resume, letters of recommendation, and articles of interest.
Thank you and please do not hesitate to call with any questions,
Sincerely,
Jeb Bush.
______
Florida Congressional Delegation,
March 7, 2001.
Hon. Gale Norton,
Secretary, Department of Interior, Washington, DC.
Dear Secretary Norton: It is a great honor for the Florida
Congressional Delegation to support Fran P. Mainella. Director of
Florida State Parks, Florida Department of Environmental Protection,
for the position of National Park Service Director.
Under Fran's leadership during the last 12 years, the Florida State
Park system has worked tirelessly with State and county officials to
achieve the highest standard of excellence. As you are probably aware.
Florida State Parks rank as the second most desirable destination for
visitors to our state. Only visitors to Walt Disney resorts and theme
parks exceed the 16.5 million annual visitors to Florida State Parks.
Even with the high volume of visitors, our parks boast superior
resource management and service. Florida State Parks has won on the
best resource manager of the year 7 out of the last 8 years.
In a testament to her skills as a creative administrator, Fran has
brought a number of innovative funding ideas to the table. Florida
State Parks has become a leader in outsourcing services, working with
over 1900 partners to move the state park system forward. One example,
``Partnership-in-Parks'', funds the park system thru private dollars
matched with state dollars on a 60-40 basis. We know of no similar
program in any other state park system. Over $4 million worth of
projects are underway at a cost of only $1.6 million to the state. This
example of public/private cost sharing demonstrates Fran's ability to
broker positive relationships between the government and private sector
interests.
Fran has been able to connect local communities to the park system
by enlisting the support of the citizens that enjoy its services.
Volunteerism is at an all time high in Florida State Parks with over
837,000 hours donated in this past year, equaling over 400 full-time
employees for our system. Our Citizen Support Organizations (CSO),
volunteer friends groups who support our parks, have grown from 5 in
1989 to now currently 70 CSO's. This means that 1 out of every 3 people
visiting Florida State Parks is a volunteer. Additionally, our
visitation for state parks has grown 13.5% over the last year and 32%
since 1996, as has our revenue that has increased since 1996 by 32%.
While Florida has greatly benefited from her talents, Fran has also
shared her extensive experience and leadership skills with prominent
national organizations. She served as president of the National
Recreation and Park Association and president of the National
Association of State Park Directors. Recognized as one of the top
leaders in this nation for natural resource and park and recreation
efforts, Fran has testified on numerous occasions before U.S.
Congressional committees.
Our state takes great pride in its park system, and Fran's efforts
have consistently draw in praise and recognition from colleagues across
the nation, the most notable instance being Florida State Parks'
selection as the 1999-2001 Gold Medal Award recipient presented by the
National Recreation and Park Association and National Sporting Goods
Association. In addition, our outstanding visitor services, resource
management, innovative funding programs, and citizen involvement led to
Florida State Parks being named ``America's Best State Park System''.
We are proud of Fran's leadership and achievements on behalf of all
Floridians. She has demonstrated, her ability to manage the operations
of a large organization of over 1000 employees and 155 parks, and she
has steered our park system into a position of unparalled excellence.
Her knowledge and ``can do'' attitude would be a great asset to the
National Park System. We are pleased to join together in recommending
Fran P. Mainella for the position of National Park Service Director.
Sincerely,
Congressman Clay R. Shaw, Jr., District 22;
Congressman C.W. Bill Young, District 10;
Senator Bob Graham; Senator Bill Nelson;
Congressman Joe Scarborough District 1;
Congressman Allen Boyd, District 2;
Congresswoman Corrine Brown, District 3;
Congressman Ander Crenshaw, District 4;
Congresswoman Karen Thurman, District 5;
Congressman Cliff Stearns, District 6;
Congressman John L. Mica, District 7;
Congressman Ric Keller, District 8;
Congressman Michael Bilirakis, District 9;
Congressman Jim Davis, District 11;
Congressman Adam H. Putnam, District 12;
Congressman Dan Miller, District 13;
Congressman Porter Goss, District 14;
Congressman Dave J. Weldon, District 15;
Congressman Mark Foley, District 16;
Congresswoman Carrie P. Meek, District 17;
Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, District
18; Congressman Robert Wexler, District 19;
Congressman Peter R. Deutsch, District 20;
Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart, District
21; and Congressman Alcee L. Hastings,
District 23.
______
Sagamore Publishing,
Champaign, IL, June 5, 2001.
Dear Senator Bingaman: I would like to lend my support for Fran
Mainella for the appointment of Director for the National Park Service.
I have known Fran for over 30 years. She has a distinguished career in
the area of Parks, Recreation and Conservation. She has done an
outstanding job in the state of Florida in managing the natural
resources and conservation programs. She is highly recognized by her
peers for her dedication and energy for our field. Most recently she
was the Elected President of the National Recreation and Park
Association by her peers. I am in hopes that the committee will support
her nomination.
Sincerely,
Joseph J. Bannon, Ph.D.,
Publisher and CEO.
______
City of Albany, Oregon
Albany Parks & Recreation,
Albany, OR, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Bingaman: This letter is to express my strong support for
Fran Mainella's nomination for the Director of the National Park
Service. I know of no other person with the exceptional qualifications,
commitment and enthusiasm that Fran possesses.
I have worked with Fran for nine years on the Board of Trustees of
the National Recreation and Parks Association. Fran also served as
President of that organization at a time when we were raising funds to
build a new headquarters and had several other projects in progress. As
Director of Florida parks system, Fran continues to demonstrate
outstanding leadership qualities. She has a deep understanding of the
needs of parks and recreation and knows how to develop them
effectively. Fran has an exceptional ability to share her vision and
enthusiasm and to get people to work together.
I congratulate the National Park Service should Fran become their
new Director. They would be getting a great leader and a truly fine
person in Fran.
Sincerely,
Dave Clark,
Parks & Recreation Director.
______
City of Anaheim, California,
Community Services Department,
Anaheim, CA, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: I am writing this letter in support of
President George W. Bush's nomination of Fran Mainella as our next
National Park Service Director. I am a 32-year park and recreation
professional and currently employed as the Director of the Community
Services Department for the City of Anaheim, California. During my
career I have served as president of the California Park and Recreation
Society and of the National Recreation and Park Society in addition to
many other leadership positions. I have traveled internationally and,
in the course of my work and volunteer efforts, have had the
opportunity to work with the very best professionals in our field.
Without reservation, Fran Mainella is one of the highest regarded
park and recreation professionals in the nation. She has demonstrated
through her work in the State of Florida her unique ability to build
coalitions and build a nationally award-winning department. She is well
respected by environmental advocates and has a way of working with
people to create unique and lasting solutions to tough problems. She
has endless energy as demonstrated by her volunteer efforts with a
number of national organizations. She served as president of the
National Recreation and Park Association and of the National State
Recreation Liaison Officers organization. She has been active in her
state associations and has served in many different capacities as a
parks and recreation professional.
Fran Mainella's appointment to the National Park Service
directorship would benefit our nation and the Park Service because of
the energy, creativity, credibility and innovation that she would bring
to the job. I cannot think of an individual more deserving of this
appointment or more worthy of the challenge. I urge you and the members
of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to unanimously
recommend Fran Mainella to the full Senate as soon as it is reasonable
to do so.
Sincerely,
Christopher K. Jarvi,
Director.
______
City of Tampa,
Recreation Department,
Tampa, FL, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Bingaman: It is with great pleasure that I would like
to support the nomination of Fran Mainella for the Director of the
National Park Service.
I have known Fran for over fifteen (15) years and worked with her
when she was the Executive Director of the Florida Recreation and Park
Association. She has always served the profession with dedication and a
strong commitment to our cause. She is the ultimate leisure
professional.
I know she will bring the same enthusiasm and dedication to the
National Park Service as she has given to the Florida Department of
Recreation and Parks. I can think of no one who is more qualified to
serve in this position than Fran.
I urge you to support the confirmation of Fran Mainella as Director
of the National Park Service.
Sincerely,
Joe Abrahams,
Director.
______
Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association,
Northbrook, IL, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chair, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: I was thrilled to see that President George
W. Bush has nominated Fran Mainella to the post of the Director of the
National Park Service. I write to urge that your committee recommend
that her nomination be confirmed.
I know Fran well. She has an outstanding reputation as an
administrator, having guided the Florida Department of Natural
Resources for many years. She is fair and knowledgeable, and would
truly hold the conservation and park interests of our country as her
number one priority. Fran is acknowledged as a leader in the field of
parks and recreation, and served recently as President of the National
Recreation and Park Association. She is conversant in every aspect of
park planning and management, including accessibility for persons with
disabilities. I can think of no better candidate for this post.
As a former New Mexican, I can assure you that support for Fran
will be rewarded with good management, innovative service, and
thoughtful planning. I hope that your Committee agrees.
If I can answer any questions or provide any further information,
please contact me at 847/509-9400 or at [email protected]. Thank you
for your consideration.
Sincerely,
John N. McGovern,
Executive Director.
______
Lake County Forest Preserves,
Libertyville, IL, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Bingaman: I am respectfully requesting your approval
of the nomination of Fran Mainella for Director of the National Park
Service. Having known and worked with Ms. Mainella for the past seven
years, I am confident that she is the best possible choice for meeting
the many challenges faced by National Park Service.
Our service together as judges for the National Gold Medal Awards
selection committee has enabled me to see first-hand Fran's thorough
understanding of what it takes to lead a conservation, park and
recreation agency that provides excellent service to its visitors and
proper protection of its natural and historical resources. She has put
this knowledge to good use as director of the National Gold Medal
Award-winning Florida State Parks.
I also have served with Ms. Mainella on the board and committees of
the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. She has
the ability to work effectively with people of varied interests to
build the consensus needed to get things done. Additionally, Fran was
elected as President of the National Recreation and Park Association,
duties that she fulfilled with great distinction. That term of service
gave her the opportunity to learn about the varied needs and concerns
of people nationwide about access to parks and conservation of natural
resources.
As Executive Director of a 23,000-acre conservation, park and
recreation system in the northern suburbs of Chicago, and through my
previous experiences in California, Michigan and Virginia, I have met
few people as capable as Ms. Mainella. I know that she will make an
excellent Director of the National Park Service and will faithfully
fulfill the wishes of Congress and the dreams of the American people.
I would like to express my appreciation for your leadership in
ensuring that our nation's tremendous natural resources are preserved
and improved for the benefit of all citizens.
Sincerely,
Steven K. Messerli,
Executive Director.
______
Lake County Forest Preserves,
Environmental Education and Public Affairs,
Libertyville, IL, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Bingaman: I am writing in support of the nomination
of Fran Mainella for Director of the National Park Service. Ms.
Mainella is well-respected within the conservation, park and recreation
profession for her many accomplishments as director of the award-
winning Florida State Park system. She also has served a distinguished
term as President of the National Recreation and Park Association,
which gave her an overview of issues facing our parks and preserves
across the nation.
In my 20 years of professional experience with regional
conservation, park and recreation agencies; I have met many outstanding
park directors and visited the wonderful park systems they lead. Fran
Mainella and the Florida State Parks system she leads are among the
best. I am confident that Ms. Mainella's experience in serving the
diverse populations and protecting the diverse ecological communities
found in Florida will help her effectively meet the challenges facing
our National Park System.
Your leadership in protecting our nation's natural resource for the
benefit of current and future generations is truly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Andrew S. Kimmel,
Director.
______
Joliet Park District,
Joliet, IL, June 6, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: It is with great pleasure that I support the
nomination of Ms. Fran P. Mainella for the Director's position with the
National Park Service. Having known Fran for many years, she possesses
quality leadership and management skills required to administer the
National Park Service.
Together with her strong work ethic, she is a visionary, innovator
and can easily create collaborative environments that would be
beneficial to the future of the National Park Service.
Fran's leadership positions include being President of the National
Park and Recreation Association and the Board of Directors of the
American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. She is
regularly called upon to speak at nationally recognized conferences and
workshops.
Fran has a national reputation which will assist her in managing
the National Park Service.
Sincerely,
Ronald H. Dodd,
Executive Director.
______
Board of Park Commissioners,
Park District of Highland Park,
Highland Park, IL, June 6, 2001.
Senator Jeff Bingaman,
Chair, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: My name is Scott Chovanec and I am President
of the Board of Park Commissioners for the Park District of Highland
Park in Highland Park, Illinois.
I am writing to urge your support of Fran Mainella for the position
of Director of the National Park Service. Fran has been a supporter of
and involved in Parks and Recreation for many years. Fran has extensive
administrative and public affairs experience that she will use to
benefit the National Park Service. Please support her nomination. She
will be a great asset to the department.
Sincerely,
Scott A. Chovanec,
President.
______
City of North Miami Beach, Florida,
North Miami Beach, FL, June 7, 2001.
Hon. Bob Graham,
U.S. Senate, Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Graham: I am so pleased that President Bush has
nominated Fran Mainella for National Park Services Director, and I am
asking for your support in her confirmation.
For many years, I have known Fran in her capacity as Florida Park
Services Director. As you know, she has significantly improved the
State Park System. She is quite personable, and I have every confidence
that she will work well with Democrats and Republicans alike because
among her many attributes is a great knack for consensus building.
It would be a credit to our state to have her in a position of
national prominence. Your help would be truly appreciated.
Sincerely.
Jeffrey A. Mishcon,
Mayor.
______
National Society for Park Resources,
Ashburn, VA, June 7, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairperson, Energy Commission, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC.
Re: Recommendation for NPS Director Nominee, Fran Mainella
Dear Senator Bingaman: This letter is being sent unsolicited in
support and recommendation of Ms. Fran Mainella as President Bush's
nominee for the Director of the National Park Service.
I represent over one thousand members of the National Society for
Park Resources, a professional branch of the National Recreation and
Park Association. The members of the Society have requested that I
write a letter of support for Ms. Mainella. I have personally known and
worked with Ms. Mainella for over 14 years. Ms. Mainella is of
excellent character and possesses superb qualifications and impeccable
integrity. She has a ``can do'' attitude and the tenacity to get the
job done. Ms. Mainella has the innate ability to work with people of
all walks of life and varying opinions in bringing about consensus. Ms.
Mainella will serve the National Park Service and our country well.
I, along with all of the National Society for Park Resources
members support the nomination of Ms. Fran Mainella and urge you to
vote yes on her confirmation.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Jerry Hover, Ph.D. CPRP,
President.
______
Saint Louis County Parks,
Parks & Recreation,
Saint Louis, MO, June 7, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: I have been informed that Fran Mainella has
been nominated as the National Park Service Director.
Fran brings over thirty years of experience in the field of parks.
Her distinguished career most recently includes her administering the
Division of Recreation and Parks for the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection.
I would urge the Committee to give serious deliberation to Fran as
our next Park Service Director. She has proven to be a leader in the
field of Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services. As past
president of the National Recreation and Park Association, she traveled
the country meeting and serving the needs of our many members.
Thank you for your consideration of my request.
Sincerely,
Genie Zakrzewski, CPRP,
Director.
______
City of Largo, Florida,
Recreation and Parks Department,
Largo, FL, June 8, 2001.
Senator Bob Graham,
Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Graham: I am a recreation and parks professional in
the State of Florida and have had the wonderful experience of working
with Fran Mainella for over fifteen years. During 1987, I served as
President of the Florida Recreation and Park Association, and Fran
Mainella was the Executive Director of the association. Fran developed
a strong and vital foundation for the association which has continued
to grow with well over 1,300 members. As an active leader with the
State Legislature, Fran took the recreation and parks profession to a
more recognized role and asset to the state.
As Ms. Mainella moved to her next challenge, Director of the
Florida state park system, she displayed that same leadership and
professionalism to improve and enhance Florida state parks, and the
state parks received a gold medal. Fran has also been the President of
the National Recreation and Park Association. All of these
accomplishments and strengths can only benefit the national parks.
Fran's experience will benefit the citizens of the United States
through her leadership and direction. I strongly endorse Fran for the
position of the National Parks Service Director, and I know our
national parks and all of the national parks' employees will excel
under her leadership.
Sincerely,
Cathy B. Santa,
Director.
______
City of Dallas,
Fair Park,
Dallas, TX, June 11, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Mr. Bingaman: This letter is written in support of Fran Mainella as
she is considered for the position of National Park Service Director.
I have worked with Fran over the past 12 years through the National
Recreation and Park Association, American Academy for Park and
Recreation Administration and the National Symposium.
I have found her leadership and organizational skills to be some of
the best I have ever encountered. Fran is also an accomplished public
speaker and will be a credit to the National Park Service.
Eddie C. Hueston,
Executive General Manager.
______
East Bay Regional Park District,
Oakland, CA, June 13, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: On behalf of the East Bay Regional Park
District I wish to express support for the nomination of Fran Mainella
for the position of National Park Service Director. I have known Ms.
Mainella for many years through her participation in, and presidency of
the National Park and Recreation Association.
The District, a regional parks agency, operates 59 parks exceeding
90,000 acres of open space and 100 miles of inter-park regional trails,
in the highly urbanized San Francisco East Bay area. We know that Ms.
Mainella has a thorough understanding of the needs and values of parks
and recreation, reflected in part by her commitment to the Land and
Water Conservation Fund. She achieved no small feat in working her way
up from local parks in Lake Park and Tallahassee, Florida to become the
Director of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Her
career also includes service in the parks private sector as Executive
Director of the Florida Park and Recreation Association. This is a
candidate who is balanced, knowledgeable and professional based on the
broad spectrum of her 30 years of experience in the park and recreation
field.
We respectfully request your favorable consideration of her
nomination.
Sincerely,
Pat O'Brien,
General Manager.
______
William Penn Mott, Jr. Memorial Fund,
Orinda, CA, June 15, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate, Hart
Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: I am honored to write you in support of
President George Bush's nomination of Fran Mainella as our next
National Park Service Director.
I have known and worked with Fran Mainella on park programs and
issues for many years and I can recommend her without any reservation.
For 22 years I was General Manager of the highly regarded East Bay
Regional Park District (Alameda and Contra Costa Counties). When my
friend and mentor, the late Bill Mott served as National Park Service
Director, I was appointed by President Reagan and Mott to serve on the
President's Committee on Americans Outdoors and have since been a
consultant to many park agencies in this country, as well as Canada,
Denmark, New Zealand and Australia.
Fran Mainella has served with distinction as Director of the
Division of Recreation and Parks for the State of Florida. She has been
President of the National Recreation and Park Association as well as
the NRPA's Natural Resources Association. She is among the highly
regarded park and recreation and environmental leaders in the United
States. She is a proven administrator and is known for her ability to
work with people to create unique and lasting solutions to very
difficult problems. Her work in Florida helped her department win a
nationally award winning department.
Fran Mainella would serve the National Park Service with
distinction as its Director and would benefit both our nation and the
park service. She has boundless energy, credibility, creativity, and
innovation.
I know of no one more deserving of this appointment or more worthy
of the challenge. I urge you and your Committee to recommend her to the
full Senate as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Richard C. Trudeau,
Chairman.
______
Salisbury Parks & Recreation Department,
Salisbury, NC, June 21, 2001.
Senator Frank Murkowski,
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Murkowski: I would like to express my support for the
nomination of Fran Mainella as Director of the National Park Service.
Fran is a proven leader who brings extensive experience and a broad
understanding of the public Parks and Recreation field at the local,
state and national level.
I have served with Fran as a member of the National Recreation and
Park Association Board of Trustees, were Fran was elected President of
the Board. She provided leadership on the association's policy actions,
communications, education and membership service. During Fran's tenure
as Association President, NRPA designed and built a new National
Headquarters that now serves as a focal point for Parks and Recreation
professionals and citizens nationwide.
Under Fran's leadership the Florida Division of Parks and
Recreation was the 1999-2000 Gold Medal Award winner in the National
Sports Foundation's biennial competition for exemplary state recreation
and park agencies. She has also served as the Executive Director of the
Florida Recreation and Park Association.
Fran encourages excellence through hard work and dedication, and
will bring out the best in employees to sustain the National Park
Service. She is a professional who will provide solid leadership for
the National Park Service and I would highly recommend her confirmation
by your committee.
Sincerely,
Gail Elder White, CPRP,
Parks and Recreation Director,
______
Yuma Mesa Irrigation and Drainage District,
Yuma, AZ, June 26, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: The Yuma Mesa Irrigation and Drainage District
strongly supports the nomination of John Keys as Commissioner of the
Bureau of Reclamation, Department of the Interior.
The District has worked closely with the Bureau of Reclamation for
the last 60 years in the development and operation of our project in
the Yuma, Arizona area.
John Keys is well known and respected by project beneficiaries
along the Colorado River through his able management of the salinity
control projects authorized by Congress in the Salinity Control Act.
John's involvement and experience in the issues relating to water
and power are well recognized by constituents throughout the West and
his leadership capabilities will be extremely beneficial to the Bureau
of Reclamation and its associates.
John Keys is a very capable professional and the District strongly
supports his confirmation to the very important position of
Commissioner of Reclamation.
Sincerely,
Eldon Paulsen,
President.
______
Central Arizona Project Association,
Phoenix, AZ, June 26, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Hart Senate
Office Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Senator Bingaman: This is to express the strong support of the
Central Arizona Project Association (CAPA) for the confirmation of John
Keys as Commissioner of Reclamation.
The CAPA has been dealing with the Bureau of Reclamation for more
than 50 years in support of the largest project the Bureau has built,
the Central Arizona Project.
We have followed John's long and very productive career in the
Bureau of Reclamation for many years. His knowledge of western water,
power and people qualify him especially well for this important post.
John will bring strong leadership qualities to Reclamation that will
assist in strengthening its constituent relationships.
John Keys is a proven, energetic and imaginative professional and
citizen, deserving of our full support for the very important position
of the United States Commissioner of Reclamation. We strongly urge his
confirmation.
Sincerely,
N.W. ``Bill'' Plummer,
President.
______
American Society of Civil Engineers,
Washington, DC, June 26, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, Dirksen
Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: On behalf of the more than 123,000 members of
the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), I write to recommend
the confirmation of John W. Keys, III as Commissioner of the Bureau of
Reclamation (USBR).
Mr. Keys has 34 years of experience with the USBR. He enjoys an
outstanding reputation for integrity and for being able to develop
coalitions and mutually satisfying solutions to water challenges.
As Pacific Northwest regional director from 1986-1998, Mr. Keys
managed 24 irrigation projects, 61 major dams, 11 hydroelectric plants
and other facilities in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and portions of
Montana and Wyoming. He developed coalitions that improved management
of the Columbia River Basin, working closely with the Idaho
Legislature, irrigation districts, and other federal agencies to meet
Endangered Species Act water requirements for salmon in the Columbia
River system, Bull trout in Idaho, snails in the Snake River and
others. He worked on solutions among Yakima River Basin water interests
including fisheries, tribes, and farmers. In receiving Interior's
highest honor--The Distinguished Service Award--in 1995, Keys was
commended for maintaining open lines of communication and keeping
interest groups focused on solutions.
We believe Mr. Keys is superbly qualified to serve as Commissioner
of the Bureau of Reclamation, and we enthusiastically recommend his
confirmation to that position.
Thank you for your attention to our concerns and for your interest
in ASCE. If the Society can be of further assistance in this matter,
please do not hesitate to contact Brian Pallasch, Director, Government
Relations, at our Washington Office, 202-789-2200, or by e-mail at
[email protected].
Sincerely yours,
Robert W. Bein, P.E.,
President.
______
National Recreation and Park Association,
Ashburn, VA, June 26, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Bingaman,
Chairman, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, U.S. Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Chairman: It is my pleasure to support the nomination of
Fran Mainella to be director of the National Park Service. We urge the
Committee to report the nomination favorably and to recommend early
consideration by the Senate.
Ms. Mainella will bring a diversity of experience and high level of
expertise to the National Park Service. She has worked professionally
in public park and recreation systems at municipal and state levels,
and is well versed on the missions, roles, opportunities and challenges
that define the work of the director of the Service. Her leadership of
the Florida Division of Recreation and Parks and the State Outdoor
Recreation Liaison Officer make her fully aware of statutory objective
of the Land and Water Conservation Fund--to enhance the health of the
American people through resource-based recreation. She will be
especially sensitive to the park restoration objective of the Urban
Park and Recreation Recovery Program. The implementation of these
statutes has been delegated to the director of the National Park
Service and we believe she will assure their stewardship.
Ms. Mainella has had exceptional success in creating and sustaining
intergovernmental and public/private partnerships to extend the value
of recreation and park services available to Florida's citizens and
visitors. Similarly, she has fostered a significant increase in
volunteerism throughout the Florida State Park System and in other
area's.
Ms. Mainella is a natural leader with great energy. She has been
elected by her peers to leadership positions in several park and
recreation, public management and other organizations. She served the
National Recreation and Park Association as national president in 1997.
As a trustee she helped strengthen the Association's education in
training, communication, and public policy activities. She has been a
leader in our annual giving program.
It is my personal privilege to recommend the confirmation of Fran
Mainella to be the sixteenth director of the National Park Service.
Sincerely,
R. Dean Tice,
Executive Director.