By:  Doug Busselman, Executive Vice President

Over the past few week or so we’ve seen a couple of notable examples of how our tough economic times have brought to a center of attention the importance of moving forward with projects in order to get people back to work.  When the proposed wind farm near Reno was discussed at the planning commission level, the normal neighborhood theme of “Not In Our Backyard” surfaced and was duly reported in media accounts.  At the same time, another voice was heard...from “union workers” speaking out in encouragement, based on the importance such a development would be in getting people back to work.

A few days later, the proposed coal-fired, electrical power plant in White Pine County was in the news with the environmental community ranting about how the project shouldn’t be approved or goes forward.  Their points involved the usual evil of burning coal and the negative consequences this form of electrical generation has in the context of their belief in the scientific theory of man impacting the climate of the planet.

Again the news account shared the observation of union workers, speaking out in favor of approving the project on the basis of employment opportunities.

Although we might not always see eye-to-eye with organized labor organizations we are pleased to see them taking the vocal positions that they have taken on pro-development for these energy projects.

We may have found that the anti-crowd can be quieted when their obstruction stands in the way of bringing home a pay-check.

Nevada farmers and ranchers have numerous experiences of having their business enterprises harmed economically by those who squelch necessary advancements under the guise of their brand of environmental rationale.

The necessity of economic advancement can perhaps play an important role in establishing a new sense of priority in lifting us above the restrictive perspective of placing other things above human needs.  We certainly hope so.

Responsible development and interaction with our environment can take place with a balance that has not been accepted as an option when prosperity was more common-place.  It’s not a case of choosing expansion of our power generation over the environment.  We can have both, in spite of the nay-sayers who only can say “No” when it comes to new power plants or construction of necessary power transmission systems.

Hard times might not be as enjoyable, but it does bring into focus the things that really matter.