Klamath Falls Herald and News

Letter to the Editor

October 20, 2010

   Can yet another letter add anything to the endless debate surrounding our natural resources? We hope so, for largely absent from the discussion is mention of how this plays into the larger picture taking shape in the world around the Klamath Basin.

   In a bizarre way the local election can be characterized by Ballot Measure 18-80: Where a yes vote means no.

   This once again illustrates the thinking of opponents of the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement and the hydro agreement, who seem to have their feet firmly planted in the last century.

   The ballot initiative is just another example of fear mongering and denial of a viable future for the Basin, driven by a small minority who have been resistant to change for decades.

   For example, when after three years of work as chair of the Senate Bill 1010 Committee, Oregon Department of Agriculture Water Quality Management Plan, I (Jim) suggested we finalize the document and get on with life. I was replaced by fellow committee member Tom Mallams.

   Remember not so long ago when organic agriculture was ridiculed locally as a prescription for economic disaster? Who’s making the money now with spuds, dairy, hay, grass-fed beef and the green brand of sustainability?  

   Having a meaningless ballot measure about whether or not we should be part of a discussion about our future seems to us a waste of time when events are moving on regardless, and there are real opportunities to embrace change and a positive future for the entire Klamath Basin.

   Remember the Beatles: “Yesterday’s Gone.”

   Jim and Stephanie Carpenter

   Klamath Falls