www.watershedwatch.net

Although we speak different languages, wear different styles of clothes and follow many customs, all people share two very common needs: food and water. Food growing and a proper water supply of water are inseparable. Recent weather crises have resulted in floods moving water where it cannot be used and fires that have destroyed homes and land. Being able to direct adequate supplies of water for human and animal consumption as well as growing is essential to sustainable quality of life and limiting of conflict. Lack of food and water create human tragedies and serious refugee movements. Outside aid is required and distribution is often another problem. As usable water supplies are endangered by industrialization, pollutant dumping and environmentally unsound practices, populations become restive and the need to add potable water to a nation’s inventory becomes a part of national policy. Too often this leads to conflict with nations nearby that have these water supplies.

There are numerous ways to increase the water supply. Limiting and eliminating waste through environmentally sound practices and re-use are at the top of the list. Dewatering and removal of pollutants in a cost effective way is another. Replacement of toxic chemicals used in agriculture with organic ones is also important. The technology needed to expand the world water supply is available and cost effective. The United States leads in this technology and by employing it here we can set the standard for achievement. We also have a history of leading in innovation and invention. By using such techniques as dewatering that rescues existing bodies of water by debris and toxins removal, recycling and re-use methods, preservation of watersheds and other practical techniques we can influence other nations into water conservation and keep conflicts that arise from seizing another nation’s water resources to a minimum.