208-776-5380
PAID BY COMMITTTEE TO
ELECT KEN ANDRUS
Water
Idaho water should remain in Idaho and be managed by Idaho. We now have the Nez Perce and Swan Falls disputes behind us. Water in Idaho is managed by the Idaho Department of Water Resources. They do a good job. It is important that we replenish the lowering aquifer. One third of Idaho's agriculture is a result of pumping. When there is surplus water it should be put back in the aquifer and not flow out of state through the Snake and Columbia rivers. Some legislative action may be necessary to augment this happening. It is not that complicated.
I supported legislation in the 2008 Legislative Session to study the hydrologic relationship between ground and surface water so the state can proceed to resolve the controversy between surface users and well pumpers. I also supported legislation to determine the feasibility of increasing water storage capacity in Idaho.
Energy
The energy crisis we are in could have been prevented. Our present Democratic led Congress refused to allow a vote on whether to allow further drilling off-shore and develop oil shale. We have oil resources but are not allowed to use them - so we continue to be energy dependent on foreign oil.
We need the energy and we need the jobs. There are pollution and air quality concerns. The normal process of permitting should be allowed to take place. We have environmental quality standards in place and qualified people to implement these standards. I am personally concerned about mercury pollution. Scientists tell us that all mercury can be removed. We should let the process move forward and let the professional and elected officials, with public input, weigh the hazards against the benefits. I am not a trained expert in this field and most legislators and private citizens are not either. Critical energy issues should not be resolved by emotion.
Nuclear energy should be considered. Presently the use of nuclear energy is limited by public fear. Nuclear scientists claim those fears are unwarranted. When safety is insured, increased use should occur. It would greatly help our current energy crisis.
I am presently serving on the legislative energy interim committee that recommended a comprehensive energy policy for the Sate of Idaho.
Wolves
Wolf numbers have increased dramatically since re-introduction in Idaho. The wolf population should now be managed by the state under Fish and Game supervision - which was the intent of the Federal Fish and Wildlife Service after sustainable numbers were achieved.