We are in a crisis situation. This is a situation of fairness now, to those who have been and who stand to be most devastated and affected by the loss of their wells. We will feel permanent repercussions if the purging of our aquifer doesn’t stop now.
Supervisors Hill and Gibson have both expressed their concern for North County, and have expressed their empathy and support for us overliers. We implore supervisors Arnold and Mecham to please give your constituents the peace of mind we deserve.
By adapting emergency measures now, establishing mandatory water measuring and recording systems for agricultural endeavors, and practicing deficit irrigation on all fronts, there may be water left to manage for now and the future. If not, Paso Robles will no longer be a viable end destination for tourism or a desirable place to reside.
The time is now!
This article appears in Aug 15-22, 2013.