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"It's our natural resource, and one of the things that makes Michigan unique," said County Commission Chairman Dave Taylor. "If they dry up the Great Lakes, it's still only a temporary solution."

Commissioners were alerted to the possibility by Congresswoman Candice Miller who said water starved areas in the south and southwest areas of the country are calling for a national water policy.

In a guest column in The County Press, Miller said she read a newspaper article quoting New Mexico Governor and presidential candidate Bill Richardson saying he would bring states together to discuss how water rich northern states could help with water shortages in the Southwest, if he is elected.

"The National Water Commission has already been formed," Taylor said after the meeting. "Their goal is to steal our water and divert it to areas like Tennessee, New Mexico and Texas."

Overdeveloped states have created their own problems, and made no provision for water, County Commissioner Gary Roy said.

During discussion, commissioners said many of the southwest states made no provision for water and have uncontrolled growth. Commissioners said there is a strong possibility the Great Lakes wouldn't replenish from misuse.

"It's scary to look at Lake Mead (near Las Vegas)," County Commissioner Cheryl Clark said. "It's down and not coming back."

If Michigan lost its Great Lakes, it would lose everything, Taylor said.

"They could take it down so low that our shipping channels would be in danger," Taylor said. "It would also take our away our tourist business. That's one of our biggest industries in the state. Who would come to Michigan?"

Those that are interested in plentiful water should look to the state in another fashion, Taylor said.

"I would like the businesses to move back to Michigan where there is a ready supply of water, along with any other businesses that are hot and thirsty down there," Taylor said.

The resolution to oppose any entity or legislation to divert Great Lakes water was signed unanimously by all county commissioners and e-mailed to other counties and Gov. Jennifer Granholm.

It was presented to United States Sen. Debbie Stabenow at the Friday Economic Club of Lapeer County meeting.

"Folks should keep their hands off the Great Lakes," said Stabenow.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com