There Will Be Water

"There Will Be Water" is an article that inspired much thought. It basically deals with a man, Pickens, who is buying large portions of aquifer water (or groundwater) because he realizes the possible desperate need of water. As of now, he has possible buyers of his water. The biggest one, Dallas Texas. He hopes to run a 250 mile pipeline that will transfer wind energy and water to the arid, water consuming city of Dallas. The issue at hand is whether an individual has the rights to own water.

To look at an issue as complex as this, we must look at both polar sides. To say water is owned by no one, or owned by the land, is a wonderful thought. But if no one can own water, how can it be sold and distributed? It is a commodity that we as humans need massive amounts of. If no particular entity can own something as important as water, how can it be distributed to so many people at a low cost? If unowned, it would be impossible for water to be sent through pipelines, into millions of peoples faucets, showers, hoses and toilets.

Then whats the other side? Obviously, if one or few people own the majority of fresh water, they have great power. This power is not only economic, but environmental and humanitarian. There is a lot of money to be made with the distribution of large quantities of water to large industrial cities. If money is the number one priority, peoples well being may come at stake. Whether it be through loss of personal water source, (which is probable for the people in Roberts County) or a destruction of environment and habitat, if the monitoring of water as a moral issue is not closely watched, our future generations may face serious problems.

The most complicated part about this entire article is that Dallas is expected to be under strong water stress soon. Regardless, people will live in Dallas, and people need water. If the day comes when Dallas can no longer create enough fresh water for its people, an alternative will be necessary. And Pickens Idea might just be the one. I think the best way to handle this situation is to implement governmental laws that conserve ground water and aquifers for future use. They now have something that says he can only drain 50% of the water, when the aquifer only replenishes at a rate of .1%. Something must be done, and it is in humans. We must find a way to be less affluent and dependent on water.

This issue hits home because of the vast amount of water under Florida's aquifer. I am as well aware that we have had some drought problems lately, and soon the idea of aquifer drilling may arise. Our protection of our natural world is more important than our need to consume as many resources as possible. This essay has helped me better realize the importance of sustainability and our need for change.