Excerpted from The Tennessean
Four Articles from the Opinion Page, September 20, 2007

 

Management is key in area water supply By DORENE BOLZE

This summer's drought uncovered another crucial issue of Middle Tennessee's rapid growth —the need to modernize drinking water supply planning.

One key aspect to this, according to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), is to use large rivers, like the Cumberland, as the main sources of drinking water to support growing communities around the region that have outgrown their much smaller local sources, such as the Harpeth and the Red rivers. Programs to improve water use efficiency, especially for irrigation, are equally important. Read the rest of the article.

 

 

Community needs diversity of resources By JAY JOHNSON

As the Middle Tennessee area continues to grow, one of the many challenges to address is the relationship of infrastructure needs and everyone's desire to protect and sustain our environment.

Our community takes great pride in our high quality of life through strict standards on the type of development, the appearance of such development, and the impact development has on our environment. Read the rest of the article.

 

 

Weather exposes deficiencies in the water system By LARRY McELROY

Adverse weather conditions always point to and magnify deficiencies with either water supply or the water distribution system. The extremely dry weather conditions of 2006 and 2007 are no different.

Dry weather brings to the forefront the fact we have limitations of our water supply. The problems many have felt may not be solved for years. Read the rest of the article.

 

 

Drought isn't only factor in meeting water demand Today's Topic: Demand for water spurs debate Our View

Middle Tennessee communities are learning that growth issues don't start and end with building schools. Growth can affect infrastructure, and water distribution is a prime example.

The summer drought has caused great concern among several Midstate communities. But while a lack of rainfall might be expected by many residents to be the cause of water restrictions, the massive demand placed upon utility districts by the number of people moving into those areas has a lot to do with the problem, too. Read the rest of the article.