Posted on: Monday, October 8, 2001

Editorial
Changed world leaves changed idea at Makua

The threat of war has wonderfully focused the minds of opposing sides in the struggle over the use of Makua Valley for live-fire training.

The compromise reached last week allows the Army to resume training while at the same time requiring a comprehensive environmental impact statement.

In effect, both sides got much of what they wanted: The Army is able to resume vital training; the community group opposed to the training will get the study it wants. The belief is that the study will show serious adverse environmental and cultural effects.

Perhaps. But perhaps not. During the course of the next three years, community advocates will work closely with the Army. They will observe training maneuvers and will be allowed substantial access to the valley. The Army, meanwhile, will have time to achieve a deeper understanding of the community's concerns.

This interaction could produce interim adjustments that could result in even less impact on the valley. It could also reassure the community the military's driving need for training does not compromise its commitment to environmental and cultural stewardship.

The imperative of the terrorist attack on the United States has forced both sides to recognize the need for a compromise they heretofore were unwilling to accept.