New state BLM chief pledges cooperation

Thursday, Oct. 9, 1997 | 2:17 a.m.

But in the next breath of Wednesday's keynote address before the Nevada Water Resources Association annual conference here, Abbey said that if differences cannot be resolved, the courts will make the ultimate decision.

"Our intent is to continue to keep applying under state water law for water rights for our water management," Abbey said. "Where honest differences occur, as in Douglas County, we'll look to the courts to decide, but that's the exception instead of the norm."

Abbey was referring to a lawsuit filed by the BLM after Nevada Engineer Mike Turnipseed denied it permits to nine water rights applications the agency filed in Douglas County.

The BLM is claiming Turnipseed misinterpreted Nevada water law and unfairly discriminated against the federal government.

About 180 water experts from fields such as mining, agriculture and wildlife were in Elko for the three-day conference at Elko Convention Center.

Elko County Commissioner Tony Lesperance, a court certified water expert on several cases, said he was disappointed by Abbey's comments.

"Agriculture water uses were never mentioned once and neither was water for domestic animals," Lesperance said. "Give me a break."

Abbey said he tailored his speech around the theme of the conference, which has highlighted mining water uses and issues.

Currently acting state BLM director in Colorado, Abbey officially takes over his new Nevada job Sunday, succeeding Ann Morgan, who accepted a post in Washington, D.C.

Abbey has worked for the BLM in various positions in Arizona, Wyoming, Washington, D.C., Mississippi and Colorado.

Abbey said Nevada and the BLM need to deal with the extensive growth that has already occurred and will continue.

"Water planning in every western state is critical and water has been a front-burner issue since the settlers first arrived," Abbey said.