The Texas League of Conservation Voters, a coalition of Texans committed to clean air, clean water, and access to public lands, water, fish and wildlife has recognized Rep. Pete Gallego as a 2007 “Legislative Champion” for his work on water issues.

“Rep. Gallego understands that water is the lifeblood of his district and this state, and that there is no issue more important or complex. He knows the facts, engaged in the process, and puts his nose to the grindstone to make sure things get done. His leadership and work on this issue set a high standard for all elected officials,” said TLCV Executive Director, Colin Leyden.

Ensuring that our rivers and streams maintain adequate “freshwater flows” for fish, wildlife and recreation is of critical importance to Texas’ economy and way of life. The mechanism for the state to purchase water rights to protect freshwater flows already exists in state law through the Texas Water Trust. Unfortunately, it has never been funded, and to date, the state has not purchased any water rights for “freshwater flows”.
Gallego amended Senate Bill 3 to give avid fishermen the option to donate money to the Texas Water Trust when they purchase their hunting or fishing license.

“Rep. Gallego’s amendment will give fishing and hunting enthusiast the opportunity to help ensure that our natural heritage is preserved, and hopefully, with individual Texans investing in the Water Trust, the state will decide to step up to the plate and provide funding as well,” said Leyden.

Gallego also passed legislation to protect Lake Amistad in Val Verde County from contamination. The reservoir is nationally known for excellent water-based recreation, especially boating and fishing, and is surrounded by a landscape rich in prehistoric rock art, as well as a variety of plant and animal life.  House Bill 3475, by Gallego, authorizes the county to control their own water supply and sewage system to better serve and protect Amistad Lake from existing faulty sewage tanks.

Part of protecting our state’s water is empowering local groundwater districts to monitor and manage their local communities. Gallego passed language necessary to bring the rest of Culberson County into the Culberson County Groundwater Conservation District in order to protect and preserve the County’s (and the State’s) ability to manage, protect, and preserve all aquifers that are located within the boundaries of Culberson County.

“Rep. Gallego’s record and commitment to protecting and preserving our natural resources speaks for itself. In the coming election year, we look forward to working with him and other like-minded elected officials and candidates to make sure conservation is a priority at the legislature,” said Leyden.

Texas League of Conservation Voters is a coalition of Texans committed to clean air, clean water, and access to public lands, water, fish and wildlife. TLCV works to preserve and enhance the quality of life of Texans by making conservation a top priority with Texas elected officials, political candidates, and voters.