Ragged Mountain plan too pricey

The Nature Conservancy is a fine organization that has done many good things for the community. It has taken a serious wrong turn, however, as backer of the $143 million dollar water plan that will involve flooding the Ragged Mountain Natural Area and pumping water uphill for several miles.

This plan will restore flow to the Moormans River, which is a fine goal. But the humongous cost of this project will be paid for by water rate increases in Charlottesville and the urban ring in Albemarle County. Most county residents (including those who will benefit most directly from the increased flow the Moormans) will not pay a dime.

This is especially problematic when we can meet virtually all of our long-term water needs by dredging the South Fork reservoir for an estimated $120 million less than the Nature Conservancy’s favored option.

Timothy D. Wilson
Charlottesville