REGAN: Climate claims undermined by local evidence

On Jan. 2, in a piece titled “A Convenient Lie,” Brent Regan shared his doubts about climate models and temperature records as predictors of climate change. We don’t need models or historical charts however, to see that Coeur d’Alene is warming. By just walking around our city and reading The Press, three things jump out.

First, looking at our ice-free Lake Coeur d’Alene, it amazes me that 100 years ago cars drove our lake’s ice! You could ice skate too, but not since the late 1980s. 

Second, the Spokane River went dry last summer! A Press article from September stated: “Climate change is reshaping this story in big ways. Winters are bringing less snow to the mountains and the snow that does fall melts earlier in the spring.” 

Third, The Press reported in the Jan. 10 article “Snow Drought grips North Idaho” that we’re again seeing more rain than snow, with high winter runoff when streams are usually at low flow.

“North Idaho has experienced three years of drought, and current conditions are making it highly likely there will be a fourth year of drought, which is the longest period of drought since the early 1900s.”

Mr. Regan is correct that our climate is complex, but it’s easy to see that Coeur d’Alene is warming. Shifting from fossil fuels to nuclear energy will fight climate change, but requires years to build and at high cost. Renewable energy and reducing use of fossil fuels in our homes and vehicles are quicker and cheaper options. 

At KEA, we welcome honest discussion to bring about workable solutions. Let’s work together to face the climate challenge as a strong, resilient community

DAVE MUISE, Kootenai Environmental Alliance

Coeur d’Alene