IMUS GOES DRY

The state of New Mexico has rejected Don Imus’s request for rights to water for a ranch near Santa Fe that he bought to help seriously ill children. John Silver, the radio host’s attorney, applied last year to transfer water rights from land owned by George and Francis Gusler to Imus’s property. State engineer Tom Turney rejected the request, saying no valid water right exists at the Gusler land, which is near Imus’s ranch. Imus, who raised millions for his ranch, wouldn’t comment. He could appeal, take the issue to court, ask the state engineer’s office for a new appropriation of water rights in the area, buy existing rights elsewhere or seek a well permit.