Las Vegas taking our water

(UNEDITED) Sometime back you published a long rebuttal, by the Republican State Chairman, attacking an article written by the Democratic State Chairman, Wayne Holland, concerning the water plans of the city of Las Vegas. As is typical of such type "Republicans" he conveniently glossed over the real facts concerning this misappropriation of water by Las Vegas based Southern Nevada Water Authority whose chief operating officer is Patricia Mulroy.

I feel reasonable sure he doesn't read magazines such as "High Country News". There is an article, in the October 12, 2009 issue, written by a Matt Jenkins, concerning this fragile water system. The article is accompanied by a map which is based on a study on 2007 by the United States Geological Survey. There are also photographs of water "ponds" still now existing but which will probably disappear when Las Vegas starts pumping water.

A computer study, made by a former US Geological hydrologist, revealed any amount of pumping would have an effect, especially in the quantities Las Vegas is talking about. It is clear to me, from the map, that the pumping of water by Las Vegas would have an adverse effect on the people and farmers living in Millard County.

If he had really bothered to ascertain all of the facts then maybe he would have revised and delayed publishing his long article defending recent past and present Republican Governors of this state for actions taken in this water matter. But then maybe I shouldn't be so surprised at his take when I read and observe the actions of our state legislators and especially our two national Senators.

Calvin Hansen
North Ogden