Because We Live Here - The value of a compromise

By Lance Waldren

Pioneer Press

Fort Jones , CA

530-468-5355

mailto:pioneerp@sisqtel.net

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Page E9

There are two sides to every story.   There are also two ways of  dealing with confrontational issues.   The first is to draw your line in the sand and stand your ground.   It doesn't matter what the other side says or does,  your not listening and your not going to budge.  

Sometimes this works and is the only way you can live with the consequences.   The all or nothing mentality.

The other way is to try and understand what the other party really wants or needs.   Next stepping back and looking at the real differences.   Sometimes both goals can be achieved without selling out your side.   A simple give and take can usually settle the dispute if both parties are willing to be opened minded and work towards a solution.   The compromise.

I have seen both sides of this while trying to cover some of the issues confronting the Klamath Basin .  I have seen traditional adversaries working hard to confront real problems and come up with real solutions.   I have also seen the more traditional approach of all or nothing.   Certain groups that have drawn their lines in the sand and are no longer concerned about anything but getting their way.

When it comes to issues such as removing dams, water for farmers or agriculture on refuges, the all or nothing approach does not work.   It only ends in a court battle were nothing is ever solved.  

I have had the opportunity to interview and spend some time with people in the basin who are actually making a difference.   I would like to congratulate both Ron Cole and Dave Mauser of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  These two men are working in the reality of, this is the situation and how can I make it better.  

By taking this approach they have not only increased the habitat and numbers of species using the refuge but have developed a program, farmers and conservation groups from all over are coming to take a look at.

Take a drive through the refuge and look at the exciting things taking place there.   You will see flocks of birds, sand hill cranes, pelicans, deer in the alfalfa fields.   A huge abundance of wildlife.   You will also see a thriving agricultural industry.  The industry that keeps the communities in the basin healthy and strong.  

When you have finished your drive, stop at the Fish and Wildlife headquarters and thank these men for deciding to be innovative and compromising for what is best for the animals and the communities.

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