Water Water Everywhere: The Great Western Fallacy

For centuries, a persistent myth has plagued the American West: that its rivers are running dry and its communities are facing impending water scarcity. This fallacy, known as the "Great Western Fallacy," has influenced policy, investment, and public perception of the region's water resources.

Water Water Everywhere: The Great Western Fallacy

by Stephen Bull

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3494 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	377 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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In his groundbreaking book, "Water Water Everywhere," author and water expert Rick Johnson exposes the truth behind this misconception. Through meticulous research and compelling narratives, he demonstrates that the Western United States is not facing a water crisis but rather a crisis of water management.

Misguided Assumptions

The Great Western Fallacy stems from several misguided assumptions:

• The West is a naturally arid region. While it's true that some parts of the West are dry, much of the region receives significant precipitation. In fact, the Colorado River Basin, which serves millions of people in the Southwest, generates more runoff than the entire Eastern Seaboard.
• Population growth and climate change are causing a water shortage. While these factors can strain water supplies, they are not the primary drivers of water scarcity in the West. The vast majority of water is used for agriculture, which consumes 80% of available resources.
• The West must import water from other regions. This is an expensive and unsustainable solution that relies on finite water sources. Johnson argues that the West should focus on managing its own water resources more efficiently before considering interbasin transfers.

Water Abundance and Mismanagement

Johnson presents compelling evidence that the Western United States has ample water resources. He highlights innovative technologies, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, that can dramatically reduce water consumption. He also exposes the outdated infrastructure and inefficient water policies that contribute to water scarcity.

For example, Johnson describes how damming rivers has disrupted natural water cycles, leading to ecological imbalances and water shortages downstream. He also examines the legacy of federal water projects, which have subsidized agriculture and promoted unsustainable land-use practices.

The Way Forward

"Water Water Everywhere" offers a blueprint for overcoming the Great Western Fallacy and addressing the region's water challenges. Johnson calls for a holistic approach that prioritizes water conservation, sustainable land use, and modern irrigation techniques.

He proposes market-based solutions, such as water pricing and water trading, to encourage water efficiency. He also advocates for investment in research and development to advance water-saving technologies.

Johnson emphasizes the need for collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses, and communities. He believes that by working together, we can ensure a sustainable water future for the Western United States.

"Water Water Everywhere" is a timely and essential book that shatters the myth of water scarcity in the American West. By revealing the truth behind the Great Western Fallacy, Johnson empowers readers to make informed decisions about water management and environmental policy.

This groundbreaking work is a must-read for anyone concerned with water resources, the future of the West, and the sustainability of our planet. With its rigorous research, compelling narratives, and practical solutions, "Water Water Everywhere" is an indispensable guide to understanding and addressing the water challenges of the 21st century.

Water Water Everywhere: The Great Western Fallacy

by Stephen Bull

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3494 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	377 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE