Arkansas River’s Challenges: Pollution, Politics, and the Pursuit of Clean Water
The Arkansas River, flowing from Colorado’s Rocky Mountains through its southeastern plains, faces significant challenges as pollution and water scarcity threaten its existence. Despite being overshadowed by the famed Colorado River, recent political events have brought the Arkansas River Valley into the spotlight.
In December, a bipartisan bill to fund a $1.39 billion, 130-mile water pipeline was vetoed by then-President Donald Trump, sparking controversy. This Arkansas Valley Conduit aims to deliver clean water from Colorado’s Western Slope and Pueblo Reservoir to approximately 50,000 residents, replacing the contaminated local supply. The veto was perceived as political retaliation against Colorado politicians, such as Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert and Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, leading to criticism from Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper.
Despite the setback, project managers remain optimistic. Chris Woodka of the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District stated that construction continues, with adequate funding secured for several years. “Some (coverage) has been saying it’s the end of the project, which is totally false,” he clarified.
The situation is dire for valley residents, akin to those in western Kansas, who face rising living costs and dwindling social services. The lack of safe water exacerbates these challenges. Jack Goble, a local water conservancy manager, emphasized, “If you don’t have clean water, you really don’t have anything.”
The region’s water woes have deep historical roots. By the 1900s, settlers had diverted the river into numerous ditches, supporting agriculture but increasing salinity and reducing flow. Climate change and snow droughts further stress the river, while urban areas upstream continue to purchase local water rights, leaving the downstream flow diminished.
Critics decry this practice, known as “buy-and-dry,” for its harsh impact on the agricultural economy. Goble warned, “If you take all of that water out of an economy that completely depends on it, it just breaks a community.” Some cities are seeking more sustainable solutions to these disputes.
Salinity isn’t the only issue. Radium and uranium contamination is widespread, exacerbated by agricultural practices and fertilizer use. A Colorado Geological Survey study found excessive radioactivity in over 60% of sampled wells. To address this, towns like La Junta have installed filtration systems, though they produce contaminated wastewater.
The Arkansas River’s troubles extend beyond water quality, with historical pollution from industrial sites like the Lincoln Park/Cotter Superfund site posing additional risks. Local activists have long fought for accountability and remediation.
Jeri Fry, co-chair of Colorado Citizens Against Toxic Waste, reflected on the prolonged struggle: “It has taken us a lifetime. As the years have gone by, we have been the ones holding the memory.” Fry’s statement underscores the need for continued vigilance and action to protect the river and its communities.
“The only true solution is a new source.” – Bill Long
Original Story at www.hcn.org