LAS VEGAS -- A proposed pipeline that would siphon billions of gallons of groundwater from rural Nevada and bring it to Las Vegas could have devastating effects on the environment,, according to a new Bureau of Land Management report.
Groups opposed to the pipeline argue it would be an environmental and economic setback for the valley. However, the Southern Nevada Water Authority contends it doesn't have any other option.
The 5,000-page report released Friday is now up for a 60-day review before the federal agency issues a final record of decision on Southern Nevada Water Authority's right of way application.
Groundwater from hundreds of rural springs and streams would feed the new pipeline and bringing as much as 84,000 acre feet of water annually into the Las Vegas valley. According to one plan in the report, groundwater levels in some valleys could be reduced by as much as 10 feet.
A local ecologist against the project said the drop in groundwater could kill plants and wildlife and impact water bills.
"It's definitely not a sustainable pumping," Ecologist Rob Mrowka said.
A recent $3 billion project to get more water from Lake Mead had a significant impact on water rates for businesses, including a slight increase for residental users.
Mrowka said it concerns him that the new pipeline project would cost more than five times what the Lake Mead project cost.
"When the public and businesses get that bill, it's going to be economic devastation," he said.
"It's our only option," said Zane Marshall, Southern Nevada Water Authority. "The question is, 'Can we afford not to build this project versus can we afford to build this project?'"
According to the Hobbs-Ong report, commissioned by the water authority, the cost to residents could be $90 a month in fees which doesnt' include the actual cost of the water used.
Mrowka said there's an alternative solution to fix the water problem and that would include containing population growth, reducing water consumption from 220 gallons -- on average -- to 190 gallons.
"I think our community must understand we can't conserve our way out of losing the Colorado River," he said.
The BLM has not issued a final decision on the project.
