422h 



Somehow we ruin our "pristine pure" water. In fact, as indicated in points 

 3 and 6 above, since no analysis is systematically made, we are not really 

 sure how "pristine" they are. 



11. The criteria for cost-benefit ratio on major projects needs examination. 



a.) Quality factors and esthetic considerations seem often to be neglected 

 or minimized. Edfro dam site good example: 



The quality of the waters of the South Fork of the Nooksack and its 

 value as domestic water have long been recognized. (See Exhibit 2 and 

 16) 



As the population of this area grows, the demand for water-based re- 

 creation will also increase. It is estimated, for example, that What- 

 com County had recreation days demand in 1965, was 3,302,000 and in 1975 

 will be 6,096,000. Whatcom, being the largest fresh-water lake, will 

 no doubt be heavi ly used. 



A preliminary land use plan for the Whatcom watershed is based on the 

 assumption of full development - which ultimately must cope with attend- 

 ant pollution problems and be consistant with good watershed management 

 practice. It therefore seems reasonable to assume that some time in the 

 future because we do not have a completely control led watershed, that 

 one might be needed. (Edfro Dam for example.) 



There is the possibility of at least developing and preserving for 

 future needs an excellent water supply, but interest seems to be wan- 

 ing in this matter. The City of Bellingham has suddenly and quietly 

 relinquished its water rights on the South Fork of the Nooksack (See 

 Exhibit 19) and the Corps of Engineers seems to give emphasis to re- 

 creational use of an impoundment on Edfro Creek as a means of economic 

 justification. (See Exhibit 20) 



We would consider it proper to encourage the development of policies 

 which would give emphasis to developing protected watersheds. This one 

 (if feasible for dam) would seem to be most ideal - even for smaller 

 commun ities. 



12. Leadership and data are needed. 



a.) Carr (Ref. 5) has pointed out that, "Most efforts to protect our dwindling 

 clean water reserves have been blocked by political self-interest..." 

 Navigation and recreation are two non-withdrawal uses of water which 

 have been established (Ref. 6) as contributing factors to water pollu- 

 tion. Strong leadership is needed to bring together all owners and users 

 of the watercourse. Many understandings need to be examined such as 

 the statement in a recent publication of the National Association of 

 Manufacturers entitled "Water in Industry" which says "Typhoid fever 

 cases are still the best measure of the efficiency of water treatment 

 facilities" (Ref. 7). As laymen, we are not at all sympathetic with this 

 archaic attitude in this day and age. 



