In a recent meeting called by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife to discuss releasing water from Lake Avery into the White River, local rancher and water expert David Smith Sr. commented on the mesa (with all its ditches and their return flows) as “the best water storage we have.” Thanks to private pilot Kelly Sheridan, this photo showing the contrast of color north and south of the White River, looking west into Meeker, substantiates Mr. Smith’s comment.