Use of Scarce Water Supply for Coal Slurry Operations

Number: 1977-29

WHEREAS, there is a proposal that coal be transported by slurry from Mesilla Walsenburg area, Colorado, to San Marcos, Texas; and

WHEREAS, the project would use scarce-supplies of water from underground aquifers; and

WHEREAS, removal of water from underground aquifers supplying the Rio Grande River and other similar areas will have adverse effects upon fish and wildlife and other values;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, in annual meeting March 24-27, 1977, in Washington, D.C., hereby recommends that the state, interstate, and federal agencies concerned and the U.S. Congress deny requests for the use of water in arid areas such as southeastern Colorado and New Mexico and elsewhere for the transportation of coal.