Everyone who lives in, near or downwind of the Great Basin has a stake in what happens with this vast, beautiful and all-too-often ignored part of the United States. And every- one can play a role in limiting or stopping the environmental damage threatened by Las Vegas’ demand for groundwater to fuel urban growth.

In Clark County and Las Vegas, let your County Commissioners know that you oppose the "water grab."

You can call them at (702) 455-3500, write them at:

Federal and state elected officials in and from Nevada have a role to play as well. One of the best ways to get involved and stay involved is to sign up for information from PLAN and its allies on water and environmental issues.

To sign up:

Email PLAN Communications Director Launce Rake, or call him at (702) 791-1965 with your name, physical address and preferred email address, and phone number.

Launce will not only put you on the list to get frequent updates on water issues, he will tell you which of your elected representatives to contact and how best to contact them. Launce can also provide more information to pass on to or speakers to address friends, neighbors, church groups and organizations that want to learn more about this critical issue.

Other cities have greatly conserved water in part through price signals. In the fall of 2007, the Las Vegas Valley Water District, the sister agency of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, began a discussion on water conservation and price for metro Las Vegas. Contact the Clark County Commission and let officials know that you support significant conservation measures, including a price structure that discourages water waste and encourages sensible use.

Whether you live in rural areas of Nevada or in Las Vegas, you can make a difference.