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The American West: A Thirsty Land

Ian Mitchell

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Published in Summary Analysis: Cadillac Desert By Marc Reisner: The American West And Its Disappearing Water

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Summary & Analysis: Cadillac Desert by Marc Reisner: The American West and Its Disappearing Water

by Elizabella Baker

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	36 pages

The American West is facing a water crisis. The Colorado River, which supplies water to millions of people, is drying up. And climate change is only making the problem worse.

The Colorado River is the lifeblood of the American West. It supplies water to 40 million people and 2 million acres of farmland in seven states and Mexico. But the river is drying up. In the past 20 years, the Colorado River has lost 20% of its flow.

The cause of the water crisis is a combination of factors. One factor is climate change. Climate change is causing the average temperature in the American West to rise, which is leading to increased evaporation and decreased snowpack. Snowpack is important because it stores water that is released slowly throughout the year.

Another factor contributing to the water crisis is the increasing demand for water. The population of the American West is growing, and as the population grows, so does the demand for water.

The water crisis in the American West is a serious problem. It is a problem that is only going to get worse as the climate continues to change.

The consequences of the water crisis are far-reaching. The water crisis is already leading to water shortages, crop failures, and economic losses. If the water crisis continues, it could lead to even more dire consequences, such as the displacement of people and the collapse of entire communities.

There are a number of things that can be done to address the water crisis in the American West. One is to reduce our water use. Another is to invest in water conservation measures, such as building new reservoirs and canals. We can also work to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, which will help to slow the pace of climate change.

The water crisis in the American West is a challenge, but it is a challenge that we can overcome. By working together, we can find ways to conserve water, reduce our water use, and adapt to the changing climate.

Summary & Analysis: Cadillac Desert by Marc Reisner: The American West and Its Disappearing Water

by Elizabella Baker

5 out of 5