Sunday, March 22, 2009

World Water Day

Today is World Water Day (and frankly, this was the first I'd heard of it, too), so designated to help us think and act to promote awareness of the importance of clean water.  The Charity Water Institute funds freshwater projects in developing countries.  This video is about the Central African Republic.

Closer to home, I'm learning more about the attempt by well-meaning folks to use wastewater to irrigate crops and vineyards in Sonoma County.  One of the main problems is that the plan requires storing the wastewater directly above the Dry Creek Aquifer.  This aquifer is the source from which much of Sonoma and Marin Counties get their fresh water.   Adding a twist is the continuing removal of the gravel over the aquifer by commercial gravel companies.   If you've been following along in your study guides, you know that gravel is the way groundwater is purified on its way down to replenish the aquifer.

It is a tricky, complicated issue here, tainted with politics, greed and ambition.   Details to follow very soon.

Happy Water Day!