Water Wars

The wars of the 21st Century will be fought over two issues: religion and natural resources. The conflict being played out in the Middle East over terrorism is a new chapter in the book of globalism. With signs pointing to Al-Qaeda being in retreat for the moment, other massive forces are moving in place to keep American interests focused on the Middle East for years to come.

Oil resources and the rise of religious nation states will frame much of our attention over the next decade. The November 3rd edition of The Economist magazine features a special section on the problem. Their article, “In God’s Name” is well worth the read. www.economist.com/specialreports

As oil shortages drive up the cost of gasoline at the pump, Americans will become experts in the new world of natural resources planning. However, one natural resource is already moving in a fast parallel track along side oil as being a threat to our national security. That natural resource is fresh water.

Already, water wars are being played out in Kentucky. The November 14, 2007 edition of the Lexington Herald-Leader newspaper describes the latest battle over water supply coming into Central Kentucky. A German company, Kentucky American Water, has proposed an overland route from the Ohio River through rural areas to supply Lexington with water. A second plan presented by Louisville Water Company, a public utility, is being championed by citizens of Lexington and surrounding communities. www.kentucky.com. Louisville Water’s plan is to run a pipeline down I-64.

We in west Kentucky are very blessed with abundant fresh water.. In fact we are so blessed that groups around the globe are beginning to notice just how much fresh water we have.

Sometime in the near future, a gallon of water could be more valuable then oil or gold.

How will we in West Kentucky plan for that day?