I have noticed that over the years the citizens and elected officials of our county and cities have begun looking at the water situation in our valley. Acknowledging that water is a finite commodity, rules and regulations have been created to better curb our water use, even to the point of threats of fines and water shutoffs. I believe that most residents do not have a problem conserving water and see the need of a water use/conservation strategy.
Knowing that the citizens of the Wood River Valley are doing their part in supporting a water policy, I wonder why our elected officials are not doing their part. By this I refer to our growth policy and attitude. It appears to me that our city and county officials are actually encouraging population growth by allowing large housing tracts to be built. If you build them peope will come but where will the water come from?
With this thought in mind, and continued population growth, I have come up with what I will predict will be our future water regulations:
Lawn/plant watering allowed one day a week. If your grass/plants die, put in colored rock. Henderson, Nevada actually looks pretty good with all that gravel.
Flush toilets only once a day.
Each person is allowed only one shower or bath a week. It is recommended that two or more people shower at the same time to conserve water. If you live alone, go over to your neighbors.
Indoor plants are not allowed unless watered with used dishwater. Since urine is 95 percent water you are permitted to use it also.
Automatic dishwashers and clothes washing machines are not allowed since the water they use cannot be used to water plants or for bathing.
Anyone caught breaking any of these regulations will first get a warning, second time a fine, and the third time will be required to wash all of the cars of our city officials (with reclaimed water of course).
Rick Dressell
Hailey
