Aqueducts and Irrigation

Photo courtesy USDA NRCS, http://photogallery.nrcs.usda.gov/Index.asp

"Water is the best of all things."

– Pindar, Olympian Odes

Water is among the most essential of all natural resources. All known life forms depend upon water for their survival. The human body, which is approximately 70% water by weight, cannot survive more than seven days without water.

In this site, two of humankind's most basic, yet most essential, technologies are examined: aqueducts and irrigation. First, their History is considered. Then, certain technical aspects of Aqueducts and Irrigation are discussed. The social impact of these technologies is considered, and Los Angeles is examined as an example of what aqueducts and irrigation can make possible. The author then shares an opinion.