New England’s record summer drought, the worst in more than a decade, has the makings of a self-inflicted natural disaster (“Drought plan is all wet,’’ Yvonne Abraham, Metro, Aug. 28). Water is a critical natural resource, necessary to support all life, from humanity to wildlife and flora. Any disruption along the ecological chain will cause not only immediate but also far-reaching, destructive consequences for us all.

As world populations increase, and demand for limited supplies of critical natural resources such as food and water becomes more competitive, we must come together as one human race, and elect leaders with common sense, foresight, knowledge, and character to act on behalf of all people.

Instead of a disparate, disjointed, and uncoordinated hodgepodge of laws, rules, and regulations depending on where one lives or whether one’s water comes from a private well or the town water supply, we need a definitive, standardized, statewide public policy regarding equitable conservation, management, and distribution of this life-sustaining resource.

Girard J. Fortin

Burlington