Letter to the Editor: Shell Canal Co. board member defends right to serve, vote

Dear editor and members of the Shell Canal Company:

This letter addresses concerns raised during recent Shell Canal Company meetings regarding the validity of my adjudicated water rights and my eligibility to serve on the Shell Canal Company board.

To confirm my water rights, I obtained letters from Jesse Frisbee, PELS of Eagle Engineering & Surveying, Inc., dated April 15, 2025, and Victoria Tardoni from the State Board of Control, dated April 18, 2025.

Victoria Tardoni’s letter states 21 acres under Permit No. 2084 Enl., Proof 39688, diverting from Shell Creek through the Shell Canal (Enl. McDonald Ditch) within Lot 3.

Jesse Frisbee’s letter states 40.32 acres in Permit No. 2084 Enl., proof No. 21011, diverting from Shell Creek through the Shell Canal (AKA Enl. McDonald Ditch) on the S1/2 of Lot No. 44. 

Additionally, it states that this property is currently over adjudicated which is also why there is a current petition for 34.3 acres filed with the State Board of Control to address this.

These letters, derived from public records, are available upon request and for members to view on the Shell Canal Company website (www.shellcanalcompany.com).

Regarding the April 10, 2025, newspaper article stating my absence from the “list of shareholders” on the company website, that list was dated Feb. 12, 2024. My request to transfer shares associated with my property was submitted after this date.

My board position was not initially sought. While I would much prefer to spend my limited free time with my dear wife and family, I accepted the nomination due to an urgent need for representation. At the Feb. 27, 2025, annual meeting, I was elected with 2,418 votes, fulfilling the responsibilities of a Board member.

I acknowledge concerns about increased Shell Canal Company assessment costs. Inflation is affecting many entities, leading to rate increases. As a property owner, I share these financial obligations. However, considering the value of the water rights and resulting irrigation capacity, the proposed assessment costs are reasonable and align with regional market rates.

Having verified my Shell Canal Company adjudicated water rights, I reaffirm my commitment to my board role. Inquiries can be directed to (307) 202-3003 or tomloewen@gmail.com.

Thomas Loewen

2822 Lane 33 1/2

Greybull