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Show 6- 1142 DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR UNITED STATES INDIAN SERVICE Consolidated Ute Agency, Ignacio, Colorado, Dec. 1, 1923. The Honorable, The Commissioner of Indian Affairs. My dear Mr. Comissioner: I have the honor to advise that Mr. Simington informed me over the phone November 29th that all the water in Allen Canyon, Piute Canyon, and Douglas Mesa, had recently been filed upon according to notices published in Salt Lake papers. I immediately instructed him to file a protest to the state engineer in Salt Lake City, this has been done, and the protest sent by registered mail. As I understand the matter, it is optional with the state engineer whether he will reject or accept the filings after the receipt of our protest. If it appears the state engineer thinks that the greatest good can be accomplished by rejecting the applications of the white men, this will be done. On the other hand, if he decides that the white application should receive favorable consideration and he rejects the protest made on account of the Indians, all of our work and efforts towards improving the condition of the Indians in the Allen Canyon region will be lost. It would be impossihle for us to accomplish anything unless the water mentioned can be secured for the use of the Indians. I would respectfully request that the Office assist me in this matter in such a way that we will be assured of a favorable consideration of our protest between the state engineer of Salt Lake City. I expect to visit Douglas Mesa and Piute Canyon during the coming week, and make necessary preparations for the filing of any water around there. This water, of course, will be outside of the Allen Canyon district. I am convinced that we must take prompt and effective action in this matter if we are to secure the Allen Canyon water for the use of the Indians. Very respectfully, E. E. McKean, Superintendent |
