For the benefit of those who haven't been following this story, we'll provide these background stories and letters to the editor, just to add some historical perspective into what's fast developing into what we'll label the "Ogden Valley Water War":
- Water experts take jabs at each other over Summit's Hidden Lake Well
- Summit threatens Wolf Creek sewer district with eviction
- Summit showing its true colors
- Summit water exchange should be denied
This morning's editorial advocates the following proposed solution:
We think for the sake of the entire valley, a compromise should be reached that involves a direct transfer of water from Pineview to Powder Mountain. Yes, we are talking about a pipeline. But that doesn’t mean Summit should bear all the responsibility of paying for such a pipeline.We'll leave it up our gentle readers (especially those who reside in Ogden Valley) to explain whether this is a good idea (or not).
If Jones decides to grant the well application, it should be done on a temporary basis so that all the stakeholders could be brought together to discuss a central water distribution system that serves everyone. Forming a compact, similar to the states using Colorado River water may be the best solution, with one system in Ogden Valley to distribute the water all entities are entitled to.
The springs and streams would then be free to flow into the reservoir, or the watershed in Cache County.
We understand water distribution systems can be expensive, but we feel it is time for such a solution. Let the peace talks begin.
Don't let the cat get your tongues, O Gentle Ones.
And yes, we'll be keeping an "Eagle Eye" on this story as it develops.
