John McCain has called for renegotiation “over time” of the Colorado River Compact and subsequently withdrawn that call after being rebuked by Democrats and Republicans alike, including notable Coloradans. This compact between seven Western states, including McCain’s home state of Arizona, assures each their share of the precious Colorado River. It received a new implementing agreement just last year to address issues arising as a result of drought, and the agreement seems to have improved the situation.

Coloradans should consider Barack Obama’s contrasting position on this Western water issue. Obama has a plan for better management of the water as it is currently distributed, including promoting water conservation by farms and other public and private organizations, helping local communities develop voluntary water-saving projects, and using market-based measures. This plan seeks to ease stress on the limited water supply without disturbing existing allocations under the compact.

Colorado water users, take note.

MACKENZIE GIBSON
Grand Junction

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