Statement of EDF’s David Festa on Mike Connor’s Confirmation as Deputy Secretary of the Department of the Interior

“Mike Connor is a visionary. He understands better than anyone that if we are going to meet human needs for food and water in the future, we need to manage our natural systems in ways that keep the environment healthy.

“Mike has shown how to work with farmers, cities and state leaders to move forward on addressing the West’s water challenges for the economy and the environment. His leadership at the Bureau of Reclamation extended across borders, most notably through his help in negotiating a binational water-sharing agreement with Mexico that provides benefits for all water users in the Colorado River Basin. We’re looking forward to him bringing those same skills to his new and larger portfolio at Interior.”

• David Festa, Vice President, West Coast and Land, Water, Wildlife at Environmental Defense Fund