Dear Editor:

My 6-year-old keeps asking me: "When are they going to get those ugly machines out of the canal?" We would both love to know. I think they have been in the canal on a perpetual basis for the last 2 1/2 years. Do you know, are they permanent fixtures or will the job be completed at some point in my lifetime (or his)? Any insight would be appreciated.

Thanks for a great publication!

Sincerely,

Tom and Will Hutchinson

I responded to Tom and Will explaining that my understanding is the canal weeders are probably here to stay. The canal is the conduit for about 60% of Indianapolis' drinking water supply and it must be kept free enough of weeds to maintain the proper flow rate. In past years the boats would come and go, but this year the boats always seem to be in the canal. I think this is because of the drought that caused the weeds to grow faster due to the low water levels in the White River. Perhaps a spokesperson from Citizens can also respond to this letter. -Alan