In fact, the lower end of the Jordan just this year became officially "impaired" — exceeded officially sanctioned levels of dissolved solids primarily because of dissolved salts.

The amount of ammonia discharged by the Central Valley and South Valley water treatment plants is now being regulated, with amounts at their highest acceptable levels.

And more organic material (yard waste, garbage, pet waste, etc.) entering the Jordan through storm water runoff means more of the river's oxygen is being used up, leaving less for nourishment of natural flora and fauna.

While pretty much everyone agrees a study is needed, the real test will come when it's time to put cash on the barrel head. Ostler declined to speculate on how much such a comprehensive study would cost, but the expense would be significant.

---

E-mail: aedwards@desnews.com