Free Republic

Rally on rider is face-off of views; Sides press McCain to support their stance TUCSON -- The issue of the San Pedro River brought out rudeness, politeness and points of view Friday from people who want Fort Huachuca held accountable for water use off the installation and those who believe the installation is not responsible for water reduction in civilian communities. At issue was the amendment by U.S. Rep. Rick Renzi Jr., R-Ariz., that eliminates the fort's responsibility for water pumped off the post. The amendment was passed by the House in its Defense Appropriations Bill for 2004. On Friday,...

Environmentalists want Sen. John McCain to spend some of his political capital and stop legislation that limits Fort Huachuca's responsibility for water use surrounding the installation. Critics of the proposal say it will kill the San Pedro - Arizona's last undammed, free-flowing river. They say the fort's expansion and accompanying growth around Sierra Vista will deplete the groundwater that keeps the river running. But the measure's sponsor, Rep. Rick Renzi, R-Ariz., says it's unfair to hold the Army liable for water use beyond its direct control. He argues environmental regulations are threatening the fort's future. Activists have been targeting McCain...

Renzi's rider on fort creates dividing line: Debate lingers over the efforts to conserve water, save San PedroTricia Gerrodette of the Huachuca Audubon Society talks about the impact of U.S. Rep. Rick Renzi's amendment, which would exempt Fort Huachuca from responsibility for water use off the military installation. The Tuesday meeting was organized at the San Pedro House to discuss possible impacts that could occur if the amendment was passed. (Ed Honda-Herald/Review) SAN PEDRO RIVER -- Battle lines are being drawn as opponents to a rider to the 2004 Defense Appropriations Bill prepare to attack the idea of limiting Fort...