Western Water Wars

(3 of 3)

That's a question that could have a more authoritative answer in three years, when a team of federal and state hydrologists and geologists completes a large study of groundwater flow through the targeted region. By itself, collecting better data will not resolve the current conflict, but it's a start. The more scientists learn about Nevada's aquifer system, the more accurately they can model potential effects, and the more confidence the public in that state and elsewhere will have in the decisions the government agencies make. "When the water is gone, the future is gone," observes rancher Dean Baker. That's true not only for ranching families in Snake Valley but for families in the Las Vegas Valley as well.