There's been some lengthly threads on the water subject before. Do a search here on Lake Powell and you'll probably find some good info on water usage vs supply re: Lake Powell and the Colorado River.
Personally I wouldn't put much weight behind someone writing for the LA rag belonging to the organization that would like to see the dam torn down. Just a thought. :idea:
Another consideration... These dams were built to supply water in times of drought as well as flood control. Historically you can see the pattern over decades. And there is no question we have been in the midst of drought conditions the past few years. It's a normal and repeating part of nature. There will be wet years and there will be dry years. Lake levels rise and fall accordingly over time. Burt can probably pull the year out of his head but Lake Mead was lower than it is now for a period of time between 10-20 years ago.