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September’s finale has turned out to be one of the most colorful Autumns I ever remember. I believe such vibrant colors are an expression of their gratitude for the blessing of an exceptionally wet summer. And speaking of water, our little community of Oakley was also blessed with a miraculous new water source. As many know, we have been nearly out of water for years, but with the vision and courage of scientists, engineers, the city council, and the administration, everyone came together and spent an incredible amount of money to develop a new and much-needed water source. A well that was started in June was completed early this month after exploring a new frontier over two thousand feet below the surface. After a lifetime of helping communities develop water, this is likely my final project. And I could not be more pleased. We named this watery wonder the Cattail Well because Cattails mean water, peace, and prosperity. The well produces on its own artesian flow— 1,400 gallons per minute. With a pump, it will produce 2,500 gallons per minute. That is over 3 million gallons of water per day! Nearly four times as much water as the city has developed in the past. At one point, we thought this well may not pan out, but after much work, sweat, tears, and prayer, it far exceeded everyone’s expectations. See the picture below of the City Council and me taking our first drink! You need this visual to comprehend how much water I am talking about. Interestingly, the Weber Formation, which produces most all the water for the well, was also the formation that cursed mining development in Park City with expensive dewatering of the deep silver mines. One of those mines, the Ontario, I worked in for a short time in the 70s when I was young (see Silver Solitude poem below). Over time, one liability becomes another community asset! Like this bright autumn’s gratitude for water, I am also grateful for our new source of water. And such a deep blue treasure of cold sustenance also carries with it a joyous hope for a better and more vibrant future. Please enjoy the remains of your beautiful fall with a drink of water on me! And may you and your loved ones have continued peace and prosperity! Your friend—Doug
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