Contact Information
Phone 580.371.6446
FAX
603.506.0057
Mail
P. O. Box 891
Tishomingo, OK 73460
Email
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No Rush to Judgment
2003-07-14
Oklahoman Editorial
Given the emotions involved, it's best that a thorough and methodical study be
completed before any decision is made on whether to sell water from the
Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer to communities in central Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Water
Resources Board last week approved a study of the aquifer to determine how much
water could be taken from it without causing harm. Gov. Brad Henry had
previously signed a bill placing a moratorium on additional sales of water from
the aquifer until the study is completed.
A group called the Central Oklahoma Water Resource Authority wants to build an
88- mile pipeline to bring drinking water from the aquifer for the communities
it serves, mainly in Canadian County.
Much of south central Oklahoma depends on water from the aquifer, which also
supports lakes, rivers and streams. Some landowners have contracted to sell
aquifer water pumped from their land, pending approval from the Water Resources
Board. But others are concerned about the effects of selling large amounts of
water could have on their property, and on fish and wildlife in the region.
This study is expected to take several years and cost at least $5 million.
That's a long time and a lot of money, but in this case, a deliberate approach
is best -- the water isn't going anywhere. It's our hope the research provides
the kind of information that leads to a sound and fair solution for all parties.