27 December 2024
World Water Series – Water Conservation in Western America
When people think of Western America or The Wild West, images of desert landscapes with cowboys and cacti often come to mind. But this vast region, home to over 70 million people across 13 states, faces a growing water crisis that requires immediate attention.
In this article, we will explore their pressing need for water conservation and the challenges the region faces in its dry climate.
Where Did Water Scarcity Begin?
Water scarcity in the American West is not a new issue. Historical records show that droughts have plagued the region since at least 800 A.D. Over time, a combination of population growth, poor water management, and climate change has further strained water supplies. As the demand for water has grown, the natural supply has not kept up, leading to severe water shortages across the region.
Early Solutions
Before European settlers arrived, the Hohokam people-built canals to irrigate their crops. Later, settlers constructed canals and dams to manage water and control floods. However, these projects often worsened the situation by restricting natural water flow. The 1922 Colorado River Compact allocated water unfairly and excluded Mexico. Even within the U.S states involved, allocations were overly optimistic, as they were based on inaccurate estimates of available water.
Unsustainable Water Practices
Agriculture is by far the largest consumer of water in America West. A problematic system for dividing water uses where water rights were often allocated on a “use it or lose it” basis encouraged farmers to grow water-intensive crops like alfalfa. Alfalfa, a crop used to feed livestock has a long growing season requiring a lot of water.
Harvesting of ground water is another major concern. With little restriction until recent years, has led to over-extraction, which is not only detrimental to rivers as they are interconnected but also causes significant environmental damage. Being slow to replenish, could take centuries for them to recover.
The Impact on Daily Living
Water overuse has severely affected communities, especially in Mexico. The Colorado River once flowed into Mexico and reached the Gulf of California, but its flow has dropped drastically. As a result, Mexican communities face severe water stress from no running water. Wetlands, marine ecosystems, bird life, and indigenous communities have all suffered.
In the U.S. many homes rely on dwindling well water from underground aquifers, forcing households to ration, recycle water or seek alternatives. Moreover, the drying up of groundwater had led to walls cracking, sink holes forming and infrastructure damage.
Steps Toward Conservation
Despite challenges, efforts to conserve water are underway. Western states have enacted laws limiting usage, cutting water consumption by 25% from 2002-2013 while the population grew by 34%. Conservation measures include banning lawns, conducting plumbing upgrades and restoring prairies. Farmers are also constantly upgrading equipment and installing technology that can monitor usage.
In 2014, a spring flood experiment restored water flow to Mexico. Communities celebrated and children enjoyed playing in the water. Whilst it only lasted 2 months it made a significant difference. Now a slower flow is allowed to continue, land is being restored and has generated employment and is bringing back animal life.
Secondary water supplies irrigate places like parks, schools, and cemeteries. Farmers are encouraged to fallow fields or switch to less water-intensive crops, though this impacts profits and local economies.
Looking Ahead
Conserving water in the American West is a collective effort by the government and its communities. While many regions still report high per-person water usage and agriculture is a high consumer, by working together and taking water scarcity seriously, it can make a difference.
Want to learn more about water conservation or explore how to reduce water usage for your home? Check out our other blogs or contact us at Orion Australia for more information if you are exploring water saving ideas like installing a new rainwater tank.
