Save the Confluence

Water here in the desert high country is sacred. You can never take it for granted. It is the life force. The dry arid landscape lays dormant until it's arrival. Either in the form of run-off, snow fall or a monsoon downpour the power that water has is far reaching. It is also fiercely fought for. Water rights here in the west are continually being challenged. The Colorado River is methodically being syphoned off and consumed. Farmers, cities, tribes, outfitters, tourists and developers are all clamouring to get a piece of the pie. These rivers and streams bring life and prosperity. They are also threatened. Threats of contamination, and extinction. Threats of containment and threats of development. Even today the war hasn't but begun and it's more relevant than ever to raise awareness. There are plenty of battles conservationists haven't won, and water will continue to be the most important battle to fight.



Uranium mining near the Grand Canyon and the proposed building of a tourist attraction at the Little Colorado and Colorado River confluence are but a few hot issues we're facing today. I previously thought that the development of the Confluence was but an internal affair to the Native Americans, and believed that I would have no voice on the matter. Based on the reaction toward snow making on the San Francisco Peaks, I never would have imagined the issue to have progressed at all. After all the area is also considered sacred by the Hopi Tribe. Historically matters such as this, (e.g. a proposed bridge over Grand Falls ) would require a unanimous decision to get it done. This project is being handled behind closed doors, and opponents are being escorted from the chambers by police. Another issue associated with the Confluence project are the borders between the Grand Canyon National Park and the area of the Confluence. There seems to be two official maps, dated more than twenty years apart. The border issue here will likely be resolved in court. The good news is if the National Park Service maintains the Confluence to within the park, the public will be able to weigh in on the decision making. Here is where you can help. There are petitions you can sign and have your voice heard: If you want to get involved follow these links for more information

Grand Canyon Trust Uranium Actions

Save The Confluence .com