Planned development could harm lake

The splash of a hungry eagle grabbing a fish from Kelso Lake may soon be replaced by the sound of a front-end loader rearranging the wetlands that drain into Kelso.  Stimson Lumber, with the help of WH Pacific, plans to build Clagstone Meadows, a 1200 unit development north of Kelso Lake and Granite Lake.

A vital component of this development is the plan to expand tiny Beaver Lake, and increase overall water surface by approximately 20 times, providing more waterfront for this private, gated community.  They hope to get this water by damming the waters that feed Kelso Lake  waters the locals rely on for irrigation, cattle, domestic use and drinking water.  And what of Kelso Lake, Granite Lake, Little Round Lake and Hoodoo Creek?  Will cutting off their fresh waters improve nesting habitat or the fisheries that the public has enjoyed for generations?

Our hungry eagle better bring shears to cut the aquatic weeds that will soon be choking our drastically diminished stagnant lakes, which is all that will remain once their fresh water is cut off.

I hope our county, state and federal officials prevent this development from appropriating the water that belongs to all the people of Idaho.  The water that is vital to the lives of our neighborhood, our animals, our lakes and the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer.

Our eagle is fueled by hunger and a primordial urge.  The destruction of our waters and lakes can, at best, be fueled by apathy and misguided intent.

JANICE ABEL

Athol