Both entities seem to be earnest about fixing the problem as soon as possible. The impact on downstream fish and wildlife has been severe and all parties want to avoid a repeated incident.

One area that should be fairly easy to remedy is the lack of communication to Merrick County officials as well as residents of Chapman and Central City.

Merrick County officials are rightly concerned that landowners and residents be notified immediately of any water pollution event so they can keep pets and livestock away from the tainted water.

Mayor Hornady has rightfully demanded action from Swift and the city facilities to rectify the situation. We see no reason why she also would not want to communicate the situation to those impacted downstream from where the pollutants enter the water system. It is simply a matter of being good stewards and accepting the responsibility for incident.

Merrick officials have proposed an interlocal agreement to discuss the problem. We think a solution can be achieved faster than that.

We hope the city administrator can develop plans to notify Merrick County, Chapman and Central City officials immediately if such an episode happens again. Some Merrick County residents don't believe such cooperation is possible. It is up to the city administrator to prove them wrong.

Meanwhile, it is important to fix the problem immediately to guarantee that bad water does not enter the Wood River again.