In Colorado, drought conditions have put the pressure on managers, residents, and utilities to conserve as much water as possible. As the population continues to grow, water demand goes up, so residential, industrial, and agricultural activities are pressured to use less and less water.
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| Photo Credit: Jason Edwards @ National Geographic |
However, the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District General Manager reminded legislators and business leaders in Fort Collins this week that cutting off water for residential lawns could "jeopardize" a community's tree canopy. Parched trees is a growing concern for drought-prone communities instituting new water conservation measures. Tree kills can result from less water percolating down from lawns and gardens. Under-watered trees shed their leaves early, stop growth, and are more susceptible to disease.
This situation is indicative of the trade-offs communities have to make when allocating water resources. Where should the water go? Fracking or shade trees? Car-washes or swimming pools? Do shade trees belong in areas that are naturally arid?
Many community leaders and policymakers are mulling other water management strategies, like recycling municipal water for certain uses, and augmenting supply by building new reservoirs.
Source:
The Coloradoan
