This is an important study that merits the attention
of all Southern Maryland residents. I want to draw your attention to the historical
and projected population graph shown. In particular, note the Charles
County population trend for the 60-year period, 1970 out to 2030. It is
essentially a straight line. There has been no decrease in the county’s growth
despite claims before the election that the growth rate was being decreased. Also
note how Charles growth will far exceed that of its two neighboring counties by
the year 2030. The demand for water alone will be excessive and go from the
present 13mgd of groundwater to 20mgd. Rather than using groundwater the county
is looking for alternate sources of water, including WSSC, as well as other
risky, expensive and degraded sources. Common sense would suggest that the
county decrease it projected growth rate and thus reduce its expected water
demand. A 50% reduction in growth for example, could reduce the water demand by
as much as 3-4mgd. But as we know, the county is hell-bent on continuing this
excessive growth rate. In this regard, the population curve for Calvert County
should be noted. In particular, note the change in slope in their growth projection.
In so doing, they have controlled their future water demand to only a slight
increase from its present 7mgd demand. I think Charles County needs to be
encouraged to do this!
---Art Krueger