Oregons Willamette Valley drinking Water Dwindling

greenspun.com : LUSENET : Grassroots Information Coordination Center (GICC) : One Thread

Drinking Water Dwindling In Willamette Valley Group Urges Better Cooperation SALEM, Posted 1:25 p.m. PDT April 2, 2000 -- The Willamette Valley is gradually running out of drinkable water.

The Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments met in Salem Saturday to encourage cities and counties to cooperate to better provide water in the future.

Officials said it's not that the valley doesn't get enough rain or snowmelt. The problem is rapid population growth putting pressure on water systems and supplies.

In some communities, including Salem, water systems are hard pressed to deliver water fast -- especially during peak summer usage.

The Willamette Valley population is expected to double to 4 million by 2050, but examples of water scarcity already are evident.

For example, Wilsonville and neighboring cities are eyeing the Willamette River for drinking water, something that was unthinkable in the 1970s when the river was polluted and the city smaller. But now it's a possibility because ground water supplies can't cover growing needs

http://www.koin.com/news/stories/news-20000402-202552.html

-- Martin Thompson (mthom1927@aol.com), April 03, 2000


Moderation questions? read the FAQ