Water Supply

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Water is one of the most vital natural resources on Earth, and it is only natural that we find responsible ways to manage and ration the resources we have. Water management is the process of planning, developing, distributing, and managing the use of water resources. A good example of water resource management in the United States is the Colorado River and the all-American canal.

Water Supply and the Colorado River

The Colorado River and the all-American canal in the South-West of the USA provide excellent examples of a well-managed water resource. California, a neighbouring state to Arizona and Nevada, has a very high demand for water because of its high population and so-called ‘Californian lifestyle’.

California has tried to utilise the Colorado River as a water resource by building dams along the river. California is only entitled to 58.7% of the water from the Colorado River because the US Bureau of Reclamation, which is responsible for it, set a quota called an entitlement.

The principal water management strategy on the Colorado river was introduced in 1935 when the Hoover dam was built. It had three main reasons:

  • Water extraction for drinking water, industry, etc.
  • Hydroelectric Power (HEP)
  • Flood Protection

Since the construction of the Hoover Dam, 18 more dams were built in the Colorado river basin. Before the dams were built along the Colorado River, seasonal fluctuations were prevalent, mainly because of storms and snowmelt. Since the water management scheme began, fluctuations of the river have dramatically decreased, helping to reduce flooding in the area.

In terms of water supply, the Colorado River and the all-American canal in the South-West of the USA provide excellent examples of a well-managed water resource.

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Read more about the Water Balance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the concept of sustainability in relation to water supply?

Sustainability in water supply refers to managing water resources in a way that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own water needs. It involves balancing water availability, usage, and conservation to ensure long-term water security.

How does sustainable water management promote water conservation?

Sustainable water management promotes water conservation through various measures such as implementing efficient irrigation systems, reducing water loss in distribution networks, promoting water-saving practices in households and industries, and preserving natural water ecosystems.

Why is sustainable water supply important for ecosystems?

Sustainable water supply is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems. It ensures sufficient water flow in rivers, lakes, and wetlands, supports aquatic habitats and biodiversity, preserves ecosystem services, and helps sustain the natural balance of water-dependent ecosystems.

How can sustainable practices address water scarcity challenges?

Sustainable practices can address water scarcity challenges by improving water-use efficiency, implementing water recycling and reuse systems, practicing rainwater harvesting, promoting drought-resistant crops, and adopting integrated water resource management approaches that consider social, economic, and environmental factors.

What are the benefits of sustainable water supply for communities?

Sustainable water supply provides several benefits for communities, including improved access to clean and safe drinking water, reduced vulnerability to water scarcity and droughts, enhanced resilience to climate change impacts, protection of public health, and support for economic development and livelihoods that depend on water resources.

Cite/Link to This Article

  • "Water Supply". Geography Revision. Accessed on March 29, 2024. https://geography-revision.co.uk/gcse/sustainability/water-supply/.

  • "Water Supply". Geography Revision, https://geography-revision.co.uk/gcse/sustainability/water-supply/. Accessed 29 March, 2024.

  • Water Supply. Geography Revision. Retrieved from https://geography-revision.co.uk/gcse/sustainability/water-supply/.