What percent of streams within National Forest System lands are quantified in the proposed Compact?
The U.S. Forest Service identified approximately 750 streams in these negotiations. However, more than 500 of these streams are located on National Forest System lands where the United States owns virtually all the lands (96% or more) and has significant control over resource development. The 77 streams in the Compact represent streams with varied ownership patterns. The instream flows created in the Compact are intended to be a representative sample of instream flow needs throughout National Forest System lands. The U.S. Forest Service may apply for additional instream flows under the state water reservation process available to the U.S. Forest Service through the Compact. The U.S. Forest Service has publicly stated that the agency will seek to work with interested groups and individuals in prioritizing streams to seek state water reservations to establish additional instream flows. It is important to remember that this Compact is part of a legal proceeding and is settlement of litiga
