The current debate over the environmental impact of Lake Powell continues to gather steam. Proposals range from lowering the lake, dismantling Glen Canyon Dam, diverting water around the structure to the more palatable ideas of effectively managing the flow of water to protect the Grand Canyon or leaving the storage system "as is." Much of the opposition to Lake Powell focuses on whether the Colorado River should have been dammed at all.

Suffice it to say, such discussion should have occurred more than a half-century ago and to further debate the wisdom of pouring five million cubic yards of concrete into the canyon is hindsight. Ironically, a few of the proponents for destroying the dam had the opportunity to oppose the project back so many decades ago. Lake Powell, for some, was a compromise.

Few visitors to the lake would ever dream of draining the spectacular 190-mile wonder which benefits millions of people, many of whom have never boated its clear blue waters, explored its mysterious canyons or fished from its sandy beaches. Lake Powell provides water storage, power generation and habitat for wildlife.

Draining the lake would create an economic and environmental cleanup nightmare. The destruction of Glen Canyon Dam would equally destroy the habitat for wildlife that have found a sanctuary. Rainbow Bridge--the largest natural bridge on earth and the "7th Wonder of the World"--is a national monument and would be rendered essentially inaccessible. Travelers from across the globe enjoy Lake Powell along with peregrine falcons, bald eagles, migrant songbirds, trout, tamarisk and native willows. It is an oasis for many.

One has to question the expenditure of resources on a proposal which surely will not come to pass. Perhaps the individuals and organizations bent on such a losing proposition would find greater success and support for the effective management of water flows from Glen Canyon Dam or the National Park Service's Lake Powell Pure program, a concerted effort to clean up the beaches. A unique opportunity exists to educate millions of visitors on the need to protect such rare places as the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Instead, they would be driven away, never to enjoy one of America's most scenic places.

For more information, call Friends of Lake Powell at 866-220-3946 or visit www.lakepowell.org

Dave Tate
Editor/Publisher
Lake Powell Magazine