iblv editorial:
Cracking down
State water officials take aim at overuse of private wells
Fri, Jun 5, 2009 (3 a.m.)
As Southern Nevada continues to struggle with an extended drought, the thought that many residents selfishly waste water is disturbing. While many responsible citizens do their part for conservation by converting their lawns to desert landscaping, others slurp water as though there is an endless supply.
That is why it was refreshing to read the In Business Las Vegas story by Stephanie Tavares last week, in which it was reported that the Nevada Water Resources Division is beginning to crack down on individuals who continue to draw groundwater from wells without the proper water rights.
Tavares reported that in 2005 alone, more than 500 Southern Nevada wells took more than their allotted share of water. Given the scarcity of groundwater in this part of the state, that is outrageous.
The division is certainly moving in the right direction by requiring owners of domestic wells in suburban areas to hook into municipal water systems that rely on the Colorado River.
Beginning next month the state will be able to fine water offenders up to $10,000 a day and require them to return up to 200 percent of the water they stole. Deputy State Engineer Bob Coachie, whose office oversees Nevada’s water supplies, said his preference is to get offenders into compliance before they are fined.
We believe that is a sound approach. Offenders should be given a reasonable opportunity to comply with water regulations. But it is reassuring to know that the state can use a heavy hammer if necessary.
- Most Read
- Discussed
- Most E-mailed
- CityCenter unveils Crystals high-end retail district
- Sarah Palin wasn’t a disaster, but Obama is
- Freeze warning issued for LV
- Fontainebleau lenders sue construction companies over liens
- Limo drivers’ suit over wages gets class action status
- Kruger may soon seek more disciplined shot selection
- CityCenter’s Mandarin Oriental makes Vegas debut
- AG says any Station Casinos trustee must be licensed by regulators
- Kimbo Slice not enjoying cutting weight for first time
- As national jobless rate improves, LV sees signs of trouble
Blogs
Politics: Ralston's Flash
Superintendents want state to immediately seek Race to Top funds
Top Chef: Las Vegas
The great Jennifer debate (1 Comment)
The Kats Report
From Eva Longoria Parker to a cluster of execs, crowd takes a shine to Crystals (2 Comments)
Elsewhere
Harry Reid's recipe for getting health-care deal done (8 Comments)
UNLV in at No. 11 in SI's college hoops power rankings (3 Comments)
Top Chef: Las Vegas
Top Chef Episode 13: A few good chefs
Gray Matter
Fight weekend in Las Vegas and Thanksgiving (3 Comments)
Calendar »
- 5 Sat
- 6 Sun
- 7 Mon
- 8 Tue
- 9 Wed
-
The Ultimate Fighter 10 Finale at the Pearl
The Pearl at the Palms | 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
-
Willie Nelson at Planet Hollywood Theatre for the Performing Arts
Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino | 9 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
-
Cash'd Out at Aliante Station
Aliante Station Casino and Hotel | 9 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
-
Brooks & Dunn at the Hilton
Las Vegas Hilton
-
Ron White performs at the Mirage
Terry Fator Theatre
The Sun
Locally owned and independent for more than 50 years.

Technorati












Post a comment
Commenting requires registration.
Comments are moderated by Las Vegas Sun editors. Our goal is not to limit the discussion, but rather to elevate it. Comments should be relevant and contain no abusive language. Full comments policy.