I give a biased but, I hope, interesting report of what happened this past week in the OSE hearing on opposition to the transfer of water rights for use at Copper Flat Mine. PAWA and the Ladder Ranch presented their cases.
The State Engineer’s Hearing of the protests against the mine’s application to move leased water rights to their wells for use at Copper Flat Mine has now finished its first week. It has yielded some surprises as well as some really excellent research.
Research for a book about a man who spent time in many outdoor spaces means a lot of miles of travel, but every mile holds promise of new discoveries and insights into life. This story is about the beginning of an adventure I am still experiencing. Enjoy
A gleam in George Lotspeich's eye created the idea of Copper Flat Mine in the 1950s, and over the years, he was able to make millions with that idea, but not from mining copper. For over 70 years, it's been just that, an idea and not a mine.
Perspective is an interesting tool. How do we look at things? I spend a lot of time hiking up on wild ridges and find myself envious of the feathered soarers I watch in awe as they have fun with the skies. Cock your head to one side and observe?
Where does one go to escape the summer heat?
Can you imagine the terror wildlife experience when approaching a busy roadway? Deer and coyotes sense the danger but snakes, lizards, turtles and even tarantulas high-stepping their way do not. Can the Intruders become good neighbors? Please, be more observant of the wildlife that bring us joy in observation.
Today's intelligence: New Mexico agencies divided on how to deal with the reduced allotment of Rio Grande water that is a likely outcome of the upcoming settlement of Texas v. New Mexico and Colorado. Plus: the impact of this week's Supreme Court ruling on the Navajo Nation's fight to secure adequate water for its 170,000 enrolled members
Today's intelligence: arguments for and against the federal government's recent return of the wandering Mexican gray wolf dubbed Asha to her natal Arizona. Plus: a midterm assessment of the tenure of U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland
As I grow older I am amazed to find a month has passed and I have to think hard as to where it went. This article was originally intended for Earth Day but the story still applies even a month later.
Today's intelligence: a Taos-initiated court case seeks to restore access through a private property to public recreational lands and a closer look at Virgin Galactic's recent flight test.
A "collosal" expansion of Los Alamos National Laboratory's nuclear mission prompts New Mexico religious leader John C. Wester to speak out forcefully for nuclear disarmament. Plus: a closer look at the possible nullification of a new law aimed at preventing nuclear waste storage in the state
