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DRAFT other costs associated with the loss of this economy. A recent presentation by a West Slope county commissioner displays much of the emotional content that charges this issue: The fact of the matter is, that when water is diverted to the Eastern Slope, .it is lost for:ever to Western Colorado count ies. Without some form of substantial mitigation, the only consequences are negative ones from the Western Slope perspective. But when water goes down the Western Slope--even if it's [sic] ultimate destina- tion is California--the benefits, both present and potential, are considerable indeed: esthetically, there are the simple pleasures of babbling brook [sic]; recrea- tionally, the water support [sic] fisheries, wildlife, vegetation, boating, camping, snowmaking, and other activities. Growth- wise, so long as there is water in the streambed, the possibility exists for future storage--whether for municipal, industrial, recreational, or energy use. All things appear possible to Western Coloradoans while wa ter rema ins in the streambed, but when it is removed across the peaks, the optjons dwindle rapidly.6 Perspectives on area of origin protection can shift rapidly depending on the area being considered. In Colorado, some of those who oppose area of origin protection for the West Slope are strongly in. favor of protecting Colorado's share of Colorado River water as against lower basin' states. What is an area of origin, and, under what circumstances should such areas receive special consideration when transbasin diversions of waters from such areas are undertaken? As we will discuss below, the approaches that have been taken vary enormously--perhaps reflect- 6David Mott, "The West Side Story," Presentation at lOth Annual Water Workshop, Gunnison, Colorado, Aug. 1, 1985. 5