Editor:
When debating the Northern Integrated Supply Project, where is the discussion about innovating new technologies and habits by our population and industry? Instead we are willing to take a different radical measure, potentially killing a river, out of laziness and lack of motivation to learn new habits. This is pathetic, and it reflects a government talking out of both sides of its mouth.
Residents and industry in this region must adopt habits that reflect the realities of living in a dry climate with limited water. Our water-use habits are archaic, and our agricultural practices are the same (agriculture, at least, is working to change this). Longer term shifts in attitude and practices would address water needs much farther into the future and reflect innovative thinking, but there’s been no real discussion about this, and local government is clearly afraid to take a hard stance.
Damming the Poudre only shows that this area is not innovative, our government leaders are not innovative, and we would rather sacrifice what is precious to us based on outdated beliefs that there will always be more than enough for us to use at our will.
It is also untenable that the Army Corps of Engineers is being tapped for this solution. Their very existence reflects an unsustainable ethic that promotes wasteful use of resources, particularly water. They have not evolved, and it looks like we won’t either.
If you subscribe to the belief that “God will provide,” well, he did. Now it’s our turn to show gratitude by respecting a resource that was given to us. If you are not religious but you love this region, it’s time to take responsibility for your use of the very thing that enables you to live here in the first place.
Amy Filerman
Fort Collins
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1) “potentially killing a river” This is an ignorant, misleading, and propagandist statement. Due to existing water diversion for irrigation, the current river through Fort Collins down to its confluence with the South Platte has inadequate stream flow during all seasons, except spring. Water diversion and storage in the proposed Glade Reservoir will provide more consistent water volume and flow in lower water seasons, thus improving the river’s overall condition. For an example of this principle, take a look at the North Folk of the Platte River through Wyoming. This living example of safe and sound water conservation stands as a clear testament to the misguided. activist thinking.
2) “Damming the Poudre…” Again, the river is NOT dammed. Excess water which would otherwise flow downstream unused during spring runoff is diverted and retained. Flow is then increased in a four season. This is called conservation management.
Despite these plain facts, a minority seek to cram their misguided views down the majority’s throat. Their worldview does not comport with reality, now or ever.
If anyone thinks a water project of any size or type is possible without the Army Corp of Engineers they are uninformed of how water resource management works on the US. While I don’t like some Corp decisions, their permit process is required by law.