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Thus far the states' efforts have been as slow as Chinese water torture. The dimensions of the problem have been recognized, but no one is sure whether the shrinking aquifer is a federal, state or local issue, and no one wants the responsibility of deciding. Several states, including Oklahoma and Colorado, already have established policies limiting water use, but many say such efforts are too little too late. The Governors' group, due to meet again in late June, plans to recommend legislation to Congress by next fall, but thus far inaction is the order of the day. The afflicted states cannot even agree with one another, and unless they all march together, they will all parch separately. —By Richard Stengel.
Reported by Sam Allis/Lubbock and Richard Woodbury/ Denver